By Ismar Junuzovic – Entertainment Editor

2015 is set to be among the greatest years in history for hip-hop releases. Only a few weeks ago, fans were greeted with projects from Big Sean and Drake, and later this year, there will be projects from the likes of Action Bronson and “Earl Sweatshirt.”

One young man has finally returned with his sophomore debut on a major record label. The man is Kendrick Lamar. Many consider Lamar the most gifted rapper of the modern era. He burst onto the scene with his 2012 release “good kid m.A.A.d. city,” which stunned listeners through its unique concept of each song presenting itself as a chapter in an overall story.

His latest album, which is titled “To Pimp a Butterfly,” is different from his previous album in almost every aspect. It also is Kendrick’s most ambitious sounds he’s ever put out for various reasons. The production has a much more of a jazz and soul influence dialed in through each song. There are no radio-friendly songs on the album, which comes as somewhat of a surprise considering Lamar’s last album had songs like “Swimming Pools” and “Money Trees.”

Lamar sounds much more mature now. He’s tackling issues on these songs that most rappers today would stray away from in fear of damaging commercial appeal. He’s giving his insight on social issues such as race and police brutality but doing so in a manner that doesn’t at all contradict the music. It is still extremely enjoyable especially due to the fact that he is providing actual substance to each song. The song “King Kunta,” which comes in towards the beginning of the album, seems extremely minimalistic at first with barebones production but still manages to have a funk-like, upbeat groove to it. Other standout tracks include “Momma,” “These Walls,” and “Mortal Man,” which ends the album in a stunning way. The entire album feels perfectly polished and each song has its own place.

It can already easily be argued that Kendrick Lamar is the greatest rapper alive today. On this album, he put forth a project that will make listeners truly think instead of aiming for a more mainstream appeal. All music fans will soon look at “To Pimp a Butterfly” as not just one of the greatest great hip-hop albums of all time, but also a triumphant masterpiece that will be celebrated for years to come.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars