Released April 15, LAYERS marks a turning point in ROYCE's career. Not only is the 17-track project the first to be released via his Bad Half Entertainment imprint but is his first solo album in nearly six years. Layers is Bad Half's first release through their worldwide Label Services deal with INgrooves Music Group.
"Layers is 100 percent Royce 5'9", he told Complex prior to dropping the album. "I love rapping and creating music with Marshall, Slaughterhouse, and Premier because they all inspire me creatively in different ways but I haven't released a solo album in five years and Layers is the beginning of new chapters in my life now."
Using his signature irreverence to tackle topics both personal and worldly - with songs ranging from autobiographical to anecdotal to political - ROYCE fearlessly opens himself up to fans and critics alike. And while this may be his most vulnerable release, it doesn't stop Royce from claiming his position in the Rap pantheon while thumbing his nose at doubters on songs like "Pray," which LAYERS collaborator Pusha T tweeted is one of his favorites. Even Pusha's appearance on the project alongside Rick Ross on the title track is a sign of Royce's dedication to stretching his creative muscle.
His efforts are paying off: critics are praising the autobiographical album, with Vibe calling the album, "One explosive Hip-Hop project," XXL gives Layers an XL rating and states "Six albums deep on the solo tip, Royce's introspective side clearly shines through on Layers," while DJ Booth says the album is "theatrical, daring and adventurous."
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