Dougie Fir – “The Basement” (Album Review)

Dougie Fir is a rising mc from Missoula, Montana. Following up on his 2019 project “Wilderness”, he has just released his brand new album “The Basement“. With such a unique upbringing, will this young MC be able to leave his distinct mark on the rap game?

Lyrically, Dougie Fir is a powerful, profound, and tenacious rapper. The self-titled intro track,”The Basement”, introduces us to Fir’s world as he allows listeners to step into his unheard mind. Following this up, cuts like “The Hill Is Steep” and “Writer’s Block” continue to develop his character as he tells his story of what introduced him to hip hop and why he drifted towards the art form. “Mac Miller Time” was a touching tribute to the legendary Mac Miller, which shows him painfully lost without one of his idols. “F**k Write Now” was a definite standout as its interesting wordplay, rhyme schemes, and message will make listeners wow at its cleverness. Other tracks like “Microsode” and “Introspectrum” continue to display Dougi’s versatility and top tier pen game. Closing the record out, “Round This Way” shows off his Montana roots as he makes an enjoyable rap country crossover record. All in all, Dougie Fir shows that Montana has something to say in the ever growing house of hip hop!

Sonically, the production on this record is well crafted, unique, and fulfilling to the task, Dougie Fir set out to accomplish. We see hard-hitting boom-bap tracks like “The Basement” and “Writers Block” while we also see gloomier cuts like “The Hill Is Steep”. The touching Mac Miller speech on “Mac Miller Time” was a great addition as over the emotional backdrop; it forces the listener to think as he challenges their preconceived notions. “Numinous” was a standout as it’s spine chilling beat is early and sickening. Behind the boards, “The Basement” is one of the better produced underground albums I’ve heard in a while.

In conclusion, “The Basement” is a great coming out party for a gifted young mc. Dougie Sir has the lyrical ability, depth, and, most importantly, the skill to tie it all together into a cohesive body of work. Going forward, I’m sure this is just the beginning for this talented rapper, and if you want to stay posted with his future accomplishments, be sure to follow @douge_fir on Instagram!

Rating: 8/10

Highlights: Lyricism, Production, Content