Jacob Plante’s Socially Awkward is an album that celebrates life’s messiness with a playful, yet deeply introspective twist. Known for his eclectic background in comedy, theatre, and literature, Plante brings his unique blend of humor and authenticity to the hip-hop world. His second studio album embraces everything "awkward" about life—bipolar disorder, personal struggles, and the quirks that make us who we are—while still delivering some seriously fun, high-energy tracks.

Musically, Socially Awkward combines old-school hip-hop vibes with modern beats, creating a sound that feels both fresh and nostalgic. Tracks like “Roller Coaster Toaster,” with its beat crafted by Dr. Jae Harmz, take on the chaotic nature of living with bipolar disorder, while “Hustle & Grind,” featuring Detroit’s own Kat Orlando, brings a soulful depth to the mix. A standout is “Grand Master Outback,” where Plante collaborates with Australia’s BadgerHunt. The track is a back-and-forth narrative about mania, with Plante trying to bring his partner back to reality. It’s both wild and captivating, with time-zone challenges adding extra grit to the collaboration.

Eszeay, a local Detroit artist, makes multiple appearances, adding an energetic spark to tracks like “Pasta Party” and “Baker’s Dozen.” These are pure fun, unfiltered hip-hop moments that showcase Plante’s playful side. But it’s the personal tracks like “Check the Pulse” and “Bipolar Underdog” that make Socially Awkward truly shine. Plante speaks openly about his mental health journey, turning what could be heavy topics into anthems of resilience and self-acceptance.

The album closes with a freestyle track, keeping things raw and in-the-moment, a fitting end to an album that’s as much about embracing the awkwardness of life as it is about finding joy in it. If you’re looking for something that’s both deep and fun, Socially Awkward is the perfect blend of playful beats and real talk.