Vince Staples isn't amused. The 2015 XXL Freshman's stunning debut album, Summertime '06 (out this week on Def Jam) is cold, calculated, unflinching. Seagulls and gunshots and love songs sequenced for nihilism. Last night (July 1), the Long Beach native brought all that and more to the set of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, where he performed his lead single, the Future-sampling, Cam'ron-nodding "Senorita," and "Lift Me Up," his album's introductory track. The precocious Staples commanded the stage, exhibiting the presence and breath control of a more seasoned performer. Peep that set up top, or watch his Freshman freestyle right here.  In addition to his public appearances in support of Summertime, Staples held a short interview for fans on Reddit. We've compiled some of his better answers below:

What's your favorite album of 2015 so far (excluding your own)? Young Thug's Barter 6 and Kendrick Lamar's To Pimp a Butterfly.

How do you feel the two disks for Summertime ’06 should be viewed, separately? "Would have been too much for one disc thematically. Disc two is more self aware disc one is in a more blissful state and I appreciate you purchasing it means a lot to me."

What do you tell kids growing up in Long Beach/Compton who are currently in a similar situation you were in as a young kid? "Its not really much you can tell them once the cycle starts its a crazy thing, just have to give them guidance through it with examples and ways to escape."

What were some of your favorite albums when you were younger? "I honestly wasn't into albums a lot when I was younger the first one I really remember caring about was [Kanye West's] The College Dropout."

What do you think the best verse you've ever spit is? "'Plottin' by Aston Matthews."

 Whatdya think of ScHoolBoy Q? "He fat and ugly. Thats my n---a though he helped me with a lot and still does."

 

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