This review only covers the six tracks released on For All The Dogs Scary Hours Edition as we’ve already reviewed Drake’s For All The Dogs album.
In a surprising move just weeks after the drop of his eighth album, “For All the Dogs,” Drake hits us with a surprise project that shakes off the toxic sludge he’s been wading through lately. Enter “Scary Hours 3,” a revelation that sheds light on the Canadian rapper’s hardened veneer while attempting to explain the reasons behind it. If you’re pining for the “old Drake,” well, tough luck. The perpetually jilted softboy is a relic of the past.
Drake’s grievances on “For All the Dogs” were laser-focused on women, leaving fans wondering if they’d ever see a return to his puppyish, boy-next-door persona. “Scary Hours 3” isn’t a return to that, but it does level the playing field, with Drake both praising the women in his life and throwing shade at the men.
Drake – For All The Dogs, Album Review
On “Red,” Drake drops a bombshell, acknowledging Taylor Swift as the only one worthy of delaying his album. The same space sees him calling out Kanye West, revealing the head games played during supposed truces. Meanwhile, on “The Shoe Fits,” Drake serves up some of his best bars in years over sumptuous, woozy beats. The narrative shifts to women searching for a Cinderella story, and for once, Drake doesn’t blame them for seeking something better than their jealous loser boyfriends.
“Stories About My Brother” showcases Drake in deep, introspective mode, championing a ride-or-die while reflecting on his own flaws. He acknowledges his jaded outlook but insists it’s for a reason. “Wick Man” takes a vulnerable turn, as Drake wrestles with faith and doubt in the aftermath of the death of his friend, Nadia Ntuli. It’s a poignant moment that reveals a different side of the rapper.
Kendrick Lamar – Mr. Morale, Album Review
EP closer “You Broke My Heart” ties everything together, emphasizing that Drake isn’t cold; he’s hurt. The Australian production duo FNZ and frequent collaborator Vinylz create a sonic landscape that blends orchestral-style flourishes with stuttery trap beats. Against this backdrop, Drake’s auto-tuned howl delivers a powerful message about feelings he couldn’t shake and disrespect he shouldn’t have taken. The bridge descends into catharsis with a repeated refrain of “F*** my ex.”
In this six-track EP, Drake opens up more than he has in years, providing a glimpse into the layers beneath the hardened exterior. With “Scary Hours 3,” Drake proves that he’s not just an artist; he’s a storyteller weaving his narrative through intricate beats and introspective verses.
