As rap and metal continue to merge, plenty of solid bands blend the two genres in unique and creative ways. From hip-hop-influenced acts like Ho99o9, Semetary, and Ghostmane, to the modern nu-metal stylings of bands like Tallah, Tetrarch, and Wargasm, there’s a lot to enjoy. However, Lil Pump’s recent attempt at “Pump Rock x Heavy Metal” misses the mark completely.

A Confusing Effort

Let’s be clear, we’re not bashing Lil Pump for trying to cross over into the rock and metal world. In fact, it should be encouraged and embraced as metal continues to grow and evolve. But “Pump Rock x Heavy Metal” is not a good effort.

The song starts out with a punk sound for about 30 seconds before changing completely in tone and production, leaving the listener confused. The chorus of “This that heavy metal shit, I got slits all on my wrist” is a lazy and outdated attempt at metal lyricism that harkens back to the ’80s. It begs the question, does Lil Pump actually understand what metal is all about, or is he just trying to use cliches to appeal to a new audience?

Questionable Production

The song’s drum beat sounds like a car door being slammed on a floor tom, and Lil Pump’s attempt at an old-school Korn flanger guitar line is heavy-handed. The “Blind” intro is also replicated awkwardly and unsatisfying. And while the song builds up to a breakdown around the 1:55 mark, it ultimately falls flat, lacking any real progression or forward momentum.

A Lackluster Effort

The comments on “Pump Rock x Heavy Metal” speak for themselves. Lil Pump’s attempt at metal is receiving criticism from all angles, and it’s not hard to see why. Hopefully, he’ll make a more solid effort in the future, but for now, this song falls short of the mark.

Check it out for yourself, but don’t expect too much from it. If you’re going to try to win over fans in a new genre, you need to make a stronger effort than this.