Lupe Fiasco’s ninth studio album serves as a personal, empathetic look into his journey as a rapper. The title ‘Samurai’ translates to ‘service,’ and is also inspired by a proclamation that Amy Winehouse made at the end of her life: that she had been writing battle rap, and was a lyrical samurai. This seemingly odd choice of inspiration proves to be not only fun and whimsical, but heartfelt and imaginative. Though the album isn’t a straightforward narrative, or a biography of Winehouse, Fiasco pays homage to the late singer-songwriter through his always-innovative lyricism. Tracks across the album reflect Fiasco’s ever-strong commitment to justice, as well as critique of political establishments and timely commentary on the need for community through hardship.