Therapy Session - NF

Album Review: Therapy Session by NF

1. Album Overview

• Release Date: April 22, 2016

• Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap

• Label: Capitol CMG Label Group, Capitol Records

• Runtime: 14 Songs, 58 Minutes

Following the success of Mansion, NF’s sophomore album Therapy Session amplifies his emotional intensity, tackling fame, grief, faith, and inner struggles. The project solidifies his ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level, offering raw vulnerability and unflinching honesty. With aggressive beats, heartfelt storytelling, and a desire to reach those who feel unseen, Therapy Session positions NF as a unique force in modern rap.

Score: 89/100 (Outstanding)

2. Technical Mastery

• Production Quality: The album features NF’s signature cinematic sound, incorporating strings, pianos, and booming basslines. Tracks like “Intro 2” and “Therapy Session” showcase polished, high-energy production, while songs like “How Could You Leave Us” strip it back for emotional impact.
  Score: 90/100 (Outstanding)

• Lyricism: NF's lyrics dive deep into personal and societal issues. His poetic storytelling and intricate wordplay shine on tracks like “Real” and “Statement,” blending introspection with a sharp edge.
  Score: 92/100 (Exceptional)

• Vocal Performance: NF’s delivery is powerful, switching seamlessly between rapid-fire rapping and emotional singing. His ability to embody both rage and vulnerability in songs like “Oh Lord” and “How Could You Leave Us” elevates the album.
  Score: 88/100 (Excellent)

3. Artistic Depth

• Themes: Therapy Session centers around NF’s struggles with fame, personal grief, and the pressure of being a role model. The album feels like an open diary, with tracks like “How Could You Leave Us” exploring the pain of losing his mother to addiction and “Lost in the Moment” grappling with existential uncertainty.
  Score: 95/100 (Legendary)

• Emotional Impact: This album hits hard emotionally, particularly with the raw anguish of “How Could You Leave Us,” which many listeners cite as one of NF’s most impactful tracks. The honesty and passion throughout make it a cathartic experience for fans.
  Score: 94/100 (Legendary)

4. Audience Appeal

• Accessibility: NF’s ability to tell deeply personal stories while keeping his lyrics clean makes his music accessible to a wide audience. His focus on real-life struggles resonates especially with listeners seeking solace in music.
  Score: 90/100 (Outstanding)

• Replay Value: The album’s intricate production and emotional depth ensure it stays fresh on repeat listens. Tracks like “Real” and “Grindin’ (feat. Marty)” provide high-energy moments, while others like “How Could You Leave Us” invite deep reflection.
  Score: 88/100 (Excellent)

5. Standout Moments

• Best Tracks:

  • Therapy Session: A hard-hitting opener addressing NF’s relationship with his fans and their shared struggles.

  • How Could You Leave Us: A gut-wrenching ballad mourning his mother’s death and its lingering impact on his life.

  • Real: A fiery anthem asserting NF’s authenticity and place in the rap game.

  • Oh Lord: A questioning, faith-driven track reflecting on humanity’s relationship with God.

• Notable Lyrics:
  “I’ve been through hell in my life, though / But I know where heaven is.” (Therapy Session)
  “You ever think that you would write me letters? / You know, I’m gonna be famous and write these songs about you.” (How Could You Leave Us)

6. Final Verdict

Therapy Session is a masterclass in blending artistry with emotional honesty. NF uses this album as a platform to unpack his grief and pain, offering fans both raw vulnerability and moments of empowerment. With cinematic production, impeccable lyricism, and unparalleled emotional depth, Therapy Session is a standout in NF’s discography and the broader hip-hop landscape.

Overall Score: 91/100 (Outstanding)
Rating: A deeply moving album that is both thought-provoking and soul-stirring. Perfect for fans seeking music that speaks to the heart.