Ken Carson's 'cartunez' Reinvigorates His Rage Formula with Needed Passion
This 13-track addendum to July's xperiment doesn't abandon Ken Carson's established approach but injects much-needed dynamism into it. The album features sprightly electronics, fluid and violent low end, and his flows as a rhythmic buoy, improving on the lackluster tracks of its predecessor. It's a fun, energetic follow-up that brings back the explosive energy that marked his earlier breakthrough.
The 2026 release, issued through Opium/Interscope, functions as a 13-track companion to July's xperiment. Critic Olivier Lafontant reviewed it on September 8, highlighting its dynamic production, including lil88's drum work on "9 bitches" and the carnival-like synths of "swag jack."
Carson's trajectory includes a pivotal 2022 Rolling Loud Miami sidestage set, followed by the acclaimed A Great Chaos in 2023. His recent output, including 2025's More Chaos and xperiment, had been uneven, making cartunez a return to the explosive energy of his earlier breakthrough.
This release could reinvigorate interest in the rage-rap subgenre, potentially influencing upcoming producers and artists who look to Opium's sound for inspiration. For listeners, the album may serve as a palate cleanser after a series of uneven projects, restoring enthusiasm for Carson's live performances and future work. Its success might also signal that quick follow-ups can effectively address creative stagnation, shaping how other artists in the scene approach album cycles.