“Straight from the Woolwich republic”, Smiler follows up the re-introductory Gangsta, with one of the best songs to recently come out of the country, or at least one of his best, with the introspective Too Much To Ask..
Where many artists face a struggle in crafting a meaningful track, full of expression that is able to motivate the listener, Smiler has found the balance and then some. Too Much To Ask is a great indication to the direction he’s taking with his music, it’s art. It has a similar tempo and feel to his breakout single Enza, with a more current feel, and the honest portrayal he provides displays the growth with the content itself mirroring the man he is today.
“If it’s love, let it be real, is that too much to ask?..”
While he may have been quiet musically, working behind the scenes with his imprint and the acts signed, he appears not to have missed a step, if anything there’s improvement as he’s flawlessly delivers an abundance of quality lyricism. What I enjoyed most is the way the song only strengthens in substance as it continues, beyond the catchiness of the record, amongst the flexes, there is a lot of meaning. “This verse is for Cyntoia Brown, the likes of Tamir Rice, lost in the fight for freedom while they held him for dear life, theres a catalyst for every drama, also consequence and heavy karma, I take a breath for Eric Garner, feel me or deal with me, they won’t kill me or Emmett Till me..”, such revolutionism flows naturally, as he passionately rhymes from his heart and soul, more reason as to why Smiler is a true artist, capturing emotion and relevancy, executed with finesse.
Whilst the track has been doing well, it is disappointing that this track will be overlooked in comparison to many others, especially with it being so relatable and inspiring altogether. Smiler has certainly found his rhythm and with more music and projects to come, it’s certainly musically exciting times ahead.
“Through the pain and hardships I look above and laugh, ‘cos you give your toughest soldiers the biggest tasks..”
ONE Fáris 