L.E.S.

LES is distinct within Childish Gambino's early discography for its heavy reliance on a high-fidelity string sample that utilizes classic jazz functional harmony. While many hip-hop tracks use minor key loops for tension, LES uses a major key ii-V-I-vi progression, which gives the track its characteristic 'sophisticated' and 'mellow' atmosphere, mimicking the upscale indie/hipster environment described in the lyrics.

The song follows the narrator through a night in New York City's Lower East Side, where he interacts with the 'hipster' subculture. He describes the fashion, attitudes, and stereotypes of the scene while focusing on a specific romantic interest he meets amidst the irony-heavy atmosphere.

As a standout track from Childish Gambino's debut album 'Camp,' LES combines orchestral elegance with sharp social commentary. The song highlights Donald Glover's ability to blend cinematic production with conversational lyrics about urban romance and hipster identity.