Vince Staples does not know the meaning of “time off.” Following a series of mixtapes, EP, and even his 2015 debut double album, Staples has returned with “Prima Donna.” One would think this might leave the work sounding shoddy or worn down, but instead it again shows him in peak form. “Prima Donna” is a potent shot of his trademark brand of nihilistic swagger.

The EP starts off with “Let It Shine”, which is simply Staples singing “This Little Light of Mine” before being interrupted by a gunshot. The mood only gets darker from there, from the overwhelming depression and guilt of “Smile” to the brutal tonal whiplash of the title track. While he has never exactly been known for his optimism, lines like “Buy a million dollar home and blow my dome to paint the kitchen” are jarring even by Staples’ standards.

Indeed, many of the lyrics refer to or deal with suicide, hinting at an especially dark mental state for Staples. However, these lines are contrasted with traditional rap braggadocio making for an especially interesting trip. The production on the album backs up the theme, building off of delirious samples along with bringing in some heavily distorted guitar to cut through the track.

The true standout song on the EP, however, is the closing number “Big Time.” With sparse production provided by James Blake, Vince Staples takes the opportunity to cover the song in bounding flows, stretching and bending his voice in ways that he has rarely tried before. Listening to this EP, it can be easy to see where the acclaim for Staples comes from. He is, without a doubt, one of the most idiosyncratic and talented rappers working today.