Kid Ink - Full Speed ALBUM REVIEW

One thing I always like to keep track of in music is the progress of these new artists. Sometimes I'll listen to their debut and it could be average or not that good. But I feel like they have to potential to get better as an artist and actually look forward to their future projects. One of those artists is Kid Ink. Last year I listened to and reviewed his debut My Own Lane and it was a barely average project overall. But in listening to his music, I can tell he has the talent and the potential to get better not just as a MC but just as an artist. Despite his huge mainstream sound. Well now it's time to find out. Here's his sophomore album Full Speed. After listening, I'm left feeling the same way about this album that I did the last album. Not much progress has been made. Same generic lyrical content (money, cars, women, fame etc.), nothing original or creative and predictable guest features. Production may be the only thing he stepped up a bit from the last album and that's just barely. All this album gives you is a bunch of pushes for radio singles. Which is what the last album did. Anyway here's the break down:

1. What It Feels Like

So this with a two minute intro that's pretty much all beat no lyrics (a lot of these songs are that). The beat is done by The Pioneer group and it's not that bad. Trap-like drums with some background horns. Trumpets it sounds like. It gives the album a god energetic start. Of course, lyrically he's not talking about anything worth quoting so we'll leave it at that.

2. Faster

Here's now the second song in a row saved by the production. DJ Dahi does a good job here with the hard drums and thundering bass. This sounds like something that would be perfect for an action movie. It just has that kinda adrenaline rush feel. In fact, WWE recently used this as the theme song for their pay per view Fast Lane. Anyway, you know he's not bringing anything to the table lyrically: "know I got that loud and you niggas sound quiet". Good beat. Boring lyrics.

3. Dolo (featuring R. Kelly)

This song just sounds like his typical radio stuff. Generic songs for the girls with a R&B feature. The beat in comparison to the previous ones is rather boring and sounds rushed. R. Kelly's hook is okay but his verse was horrible. When he does that half singing/half rap thing it sounds a mess. At least lately it has. Weak song overall.

4. Body Language (featuring Usher and Tinashe)

So here's the first single that by now you all should be familiar with. Not really feeling this either. It just seems like all his songs for the chicks are just so boring and lame. But that's a problem a large number of rappers have. Usher and Tinashe's features on here weren't that bad however despite Tinashe barely being heard. They sound a lot better on this than Kid Ink does. You can't be a rapper and let the R&B feature out shine you on your own song. That's bad.

5. Hotel (featuring Chris Brown)

Apparently Chris Brown is his favorite person to collaborate with. He was like on three of his songs from the last album. Anyway this is the second single and the third song in a row for the chicks. Not feeling this one either. First off, his flow on here is totally stolen. I hear a lot of Big Sean mimicking here. Chris Brown wasn't as bad as Kid Ink was but still nothing great. Weak song.

6. Cool Back

Okay now we're back to the nice production. This has that slow, deep bass sound that the west coast has popularized these last few years. Props to C.P. Dubb on the production. Now like the last song, he's flow jacking again. I hear some Tyga on this one. Which is ironic because this sounds a bit similar to "Rack City". Overall I can vibe to the beat but the lyrics of course is just...nah. 

7. Be Real (featuring Dej Loaf)

This is the only song that I actually pressed the repeat button on. First of all this surprisingly is only one of two DJ Mustard beats on this album. I just knew he would be all over this album like the last one. It's one of his better beats. Then Dej Loaf's hook is kinda dope and very catchy. She's really growing on me. Her voice and sound is so unique. Kid Ink just did not do this beat just (as was the case on a lot of these songs). I just see this as Dej Loaf featuring Kid Ink instead of the other way around. I believe this is the new single so that's cool because people will definitely love this.

8. Every City We Go (featuring Migos)

Y'all know me. Once I saw "featuring Migos" I immediately expected the worst. Honestly it's not as bad but still nothing great. This is actually the one song where Kid Ink isn't getting out shined by the guest feature. His verse was superior in comparison to the dudes from Migos rapping about absolutely nothing. But overall this song is forgettable. Lazy hook and terrible lyrics.

9. Round Here

Key Wane has been killing it lately on the production. He got another here with this heavy bass, distorted sounding beat. It almost sounds too hard core for a mainstream radio/club rapper like Kid Ink. Once again to no surprise, he's not talking about anything important. I kinda laughed at the hook when he says "niggas round here call me Deebo". So you're the Deebo of the block Kid Ink? Yeah...okay. 

10. About Mine (featuring Trey Songz)

Wow...is this even Kid Ink's song? Trey Songz is literally all over this. First of all this is the second DJ Mustard beat and this one was cool but not as cool as the last. I think what it is is the hook. Trey's hook is so all over the place and extra that it over powers the song itself (especially how hilariously weird he sounds when he says "bullshit"). But this is another song I think a lot of people would like because of the catchiness. Wouldn't be surprised if this on on Trey Songz next album too.

11. Blunted

Here's yet another throwaway song for me. The beat is very generic and it seem like the producer REO put no effort into this beat. Simple trap drums and bass. Now you see the tile. Even on a simple song about smoking he can barely stay on topic because he loves talking about his swag so much. Yeah...this is forgettable.

12. Like A Hott Boy (featuring Young Thug and Bricc Baby Shitro)

Well, this is just like the Migos track. The moment I see Young Thug's name anywhere I panic. Now the beat is done alright by Metro Boomin. Kid Ink himself does the beat justice (believe it or not) and sounds good on it. But...this is probably because of who's on this track with him. Young Thug verse I wish was recorded on mute. It actually sounds like he's mimicking Lil Wayne with his flow which would be insult to injury considering recent events. That's another story. I've never heard of Bricc Baby Shitro but he only had like six or eight bars and said nothing. Good beat. Horrible rapping.

In closing, I thought Full Speed was nothing more than an average project. It seems he only got better in the beat selection department. Everything else is your typical generic radio rap. I give this a final grade of a C. While the production is getting better, Kid Ink still needs to progress more as an artist. Yeah I understand he's targeting radio and mainstream appeal which is fine. But he still to me needs to find his true identity. A lot of his flows sound copied, his lyrics really need work, and he needs to try an expand his content to more than just the usual money/girls/cars/fame stuff. If come this time next year he drops album number three, I'll be definitely checking for all of this. End. 

Lyrics: C-

Production: B-

Collaboration: B-

Originality: D-

Concept(s): E

Final Grade: C

CREDITS

Executive Producers

Brian Collins

DJ Ill Will

J. Grand

Lead Artist

Brian Collins

Production

Jonathan King

Julio Santiago

Dacoury Natche

Nicholas Balding

Mark Kragen

Mikkel Eriksen

Tor Erik Hermansen

Magnus Hoiberg

Matthew Featherstone

Christopher Featherstone

Justin Featherstone

William Featherstone

Christopher P. Washington

Dijon McFarlane

Julian Gramma

Nicholas Audino

Lewis Hughes

Daouda Leonard

Ned Cameron

Dwane Weir

David Doman

Ramon Owen

Leland Wayne

Gary Hill

Ben Diehl

Peter Wade Keusch

Josh Werner

Collaboration

Robert Kelly

Usher Raymond

Tinashe Kachingwe

Christopher Brown

Deja Trimble

Quavious Marshall

Kirshnik Ball

Kiari Cephus

Tremaine Neverson

Jefferey Williams

Zihirr Mitchell

Richard Baker

Matthew Allen

Maurice Simmonds

Label

Tha Alumni Music Group/88 Classic/RCA Records

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Ne-Yo - Non-Fiction ALBUM REVIEW

Only eight years in the game and Ne-Yo already has a better resume than most singers who been in it longer. Numerous number one hits, top selling albums, awards etc. But even with all of this success, why does it still seem like Ne-Yo is underrated in the R&B world? Whenever most people bring up the conversation of R&B's top dogs he always forgotten. I don't understand. Nonetheless, Ne-Yo's achievements speak for itself. He is one of music's top singers and songwriters. I always admired his knack for being able to pretty much make any kind of record for any occasion. So because of that, I'm kinda eager to see what Ne-Yo has up his sleeve this time around. This is his sixth album Non-Fiction. Now the last album I heard from Ne-Yo was believe it or not his second album Because Of You. Which happens to be my favorite album from him. So because of that I really didn't know what to expect here. This album I thought was alright at best. It's alright as far as sound, but very dope in concept. The album tells a story in sequential order about a girl he meets, gets involved with, drama follows and they break up. This is something I've never seen Ne-Yo do and he did it quite well. Production was was for the most part weak to average. A lot of the same synthy drum/bass filled beats we're used to hearing on radio now. So I'm gonna touch more on the album's concept during this review more so than the music itself. Here's the break down:

1. Run (featuring Schoolboy Q)

So we begin right off the back with some uptempo hip hop fusion. I really like the production here. The "thump" that the bass gives is dope. Props to Key Wane on the production. Of course with such a strong hip hop sound like this, he had to throw an MC on it. Schoolboy drops a few okay bars. Just to give it more flavor. Nothing serious. But this was cool overall. Nice intro track. 

2. Integrity (featuring Charisse Mills)

Here the albums pace instantly slows down. On this song, Ne-Yo sings about approaching this amazingly attractive woman at the club. Whispering something nice in her ear and what not. Then she tells him how she knows his game and how he done gave that same look and approach to a bunch of other woman. Politely turning him down. Her name is Integrity, which apparently she's full of. I'm sure there's a large number of men have come across a woman like this. It also seems Ne-Yo likes these types. He often talks about these strong, intelligent women with high standards (see "Ms. Independent"). But this was a okay slow jam overall.

3. One More (featuring T.I.)

Some of the best songs on this album are the ones with rap guest features. This is one. I like this mid-tempo production with the nice assortment of trap-like drums. Props to Glass John on the production. Here he's offering to buy "one more drink to a girl he just met at the club. Saying that she's looks stressed and she deserves it. T.I.'s verse was alright for what it was. Nothing too crazy. Song is good overall. Nice production.

4. Who's Taking You Home

It was at this point of the album where I started to realize that these songs are telling a story in sequential order. Now after buying her another drink on the previous song, he's now asking who's taking her home because she obviously too drunk to drive. The production is sped up with a heavy dance/pop sound. Something Ne-Yo has dabbled in plenty of times and does on this album. That sound is not really my thing but many should like it here.

5. Time Of Our Lives (featuring Pitbull)

After the huge success Ne-Yo and Pitbull had with their hit "Give Me Everything", they had to get back together for another one. This song pretty much has the same sound. That uptempo,  crossover pop/hip hop/dance fusion. Now in this part of the story, Ne-Yo is pretty much enjoying the remainder of his time in the club before the club let's out. One last turn up. I don't know if this can be as big as "Give Me Everything", but I can see it becoming popular.

6. Coming With You

Man I really like the sound of this track. Stargate, the producer, gets all the credit here. It has this old school techno/dance sound that really sounds dope. In fact, the tempo and drum patterns sound a lot like the classic Crystal Waters hit "Gypsy Woman" (which was also sampled by T.I. on "Why You Wanna"). Now in continuation with the story, it seems at this point he's told the girl he's coming home with her and now they're back at her/his place (not sure) having some...fun. But anyway this song is cool. Love the old school feel.

7. Good Morning

The title should tell you what happens next. It's the next morning and he's fixing her breakfast in bed and just making her feel comfortable and loved before she has to leave for work. The production here sounds alot like...today. Mainstream today. Lots of bass and very synthy. Average song overall.

8. Make It Easy

Majority of the beats on here are either okay, average or bad. This was bad to me. It just sounded so basic and plain compared to everything else. Sounds like it was probably a throw away beat that probably wasn't gonna be used in the first place. As far as this story goes, it sounds like he's telling her what he's expecting out of this new relationship. As well as asking her what she wants. Not feeling this song though. Mostly because of the production.

9. Money Can't Buy (featuring Jeezy)

Two of my favorite beats on this album were both singles. Here's the first one. It's a more relaxed tempo beat but still has enough energy to groove to in the club. Props to DJ Montay. Jeezy's guest verse was probably the best on the album. It was hard trying to figure out what's happening here in the story however. My assumption is he still talking with her but now complimenting her saying she has traits money can't buy. But that's just my assumption though.

10. Religious

Now here we get a very interesting artist/producer collaboration. Ne-Yo gets David Banner for this very interesting production. Filled with plenty of drums, snares and background horns. Not your typical David Banner beat. Now it sounds like he's thanking God for finding her and sharing how blessed he is to find her. I guess if a woman is that perfect she can make a man become very religious. But overall this song is alright.

11. She Knows (featuring Juicy J)

Now here is my second favorite beat and also the second single. In fact, this might the best and most livest song on the album. Huge props to Dr. Luke for this extremely catchy and infectious beat. I even thought Juicy J's verse was tolerable with this beat. Now because this song is so catchy and because I've heard it so many times on the radio, it's hard to see where this ties in into the story. Honestly it doesn't matter because this song you listen to just for the fun sound. Dope song.

12. She Said I'm Hood Tho (featuring Candice)

Uh oh...now the story gets interesting. Here Ne-Yo is introduced to a new girl name Temptation. Yeah...you can probably guess what happens next. He's had a few drinks and now telling this new girl that he's feeling her and such. Needless to say things is bout to get messy. Anyway this production is another synthy production. Heavy bass with background tambourines and trap-like drums. Nothing special. 

13. Story Time

...and it just got messy. Now here Ne-Yo finds out that his main girl (Integrity) just found out about the new girl (Temptation). He's now asking her about bringing in the new girl for a possible threesome. Of course, she's not down with that and it leads to an argument. Most women, unless they freak level is high, aren't into that stuff anyway so hearing this isn't a surprise. The beat is really soft and slow and filled with string instruments. It fits the mood of the song well.

14. Congratulations

So this story ends with him apparently breaking up with her and moving on. But, he runs into an old girlfriend and finds out she's involved with someone else now. He feels some kind of way now despite him feeling happy for her and congratulating her. He realized he made a mistake. The song sounds very loud and triumphant. Which could again represent him moving on with life. Hoping to find someone else. Nice way to end this album and story.

Overall, I thought Non-Fiction was a  fairly decent project from Ne-Yo. However, it was great in concept. For that alone many will relate to this album and find it enjoyable. I give it a final grade of a C+. Regardless where critics may rank him, Ne-Yo continues to be one of musics most consistent singers, songwriters and straight up hit makers. He's also one of very few that can successfully crossover into other genre's and make chart topping hits. For this I'll always be a fan. He is definitely one of R&B's top dog...and there's nothing fiction about that. It's fact. End.

Lyrics: B

Production: C-

Collaboration: C+

Originality: B-

Concept(s): B+

Final Grade: B-

CREDITS

Executive Producers

Reynell Hay

Ethipoia Habtemariam

Lead Artist

Shaffer Smith

Production

Dwane Weir II

Darhyl Camper, Jr.

John Glass

David Guetta

Giorgio Tuinfort

Lukasz Gottwald

Henry Walter

Mikkel Eriksen

Tor Erik Hermansen

Levell Crump

Shea Taylor

Montay Humphrey

Jesse Wilson

Jerry Duplessis

Stephan Moccio

Collaboration

Quincy Hanley

Charisse Mills

Clifford Harris, Jr.

Armando Perez

Jay Jenkins

Jordan Houston

Candice Hillebrand

Label

Compound/Motown Records

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Jazmine Sullivan - Reality Show ALBUM REVIEW

It always does my heart good to see some artists put together impressive starts to their career and dodge becoming one hit wonders. Especially with singers because it occurs way too often with rappers. Jazmine Sullivan is one of those whom I'm glad it happened to. When I first heard her in 2008, I knew she wouldn't be a one year wonder and that she'd be around for a while. Her vocals and her words made her a instant stand out. I got a little thing for the female singers with raspy voices and hers is as raspy as it gets. I love it. Her addicting singles also kept her around longer. Most notably "Bust Your Windows", which became the national anthem for fed up women all over the country. With each song and album she releases, she seems to progress more and more. Which gives a bit of anticipation for this. Her third album Reality Show. Now her last album was her 2010 sophomore album Love Me Back. So she's been on a little hiatus these last four years. I had hope that she didn't loose her touch during that time. She didn't. This was an exceptional album from Jazmine Sullivan. What stands out the most on this album is her choice of topics. All the stories and messages she delivers on here are great. This is something she has been good at since day one. Production overall was decent at best. It had it's good points and it had it's bad points. But it's her words that make this album what it is. Dope. Here's the break down:

1. Dumb (featuring Meek Mill)

Here is the first song and single from this album. A very strong one too. The production is filled with a ton of dope percussion. Lots of drums and snares. Props to Key Wane (who handled most of the production) and Salaam Remi here. Topic wise she's just talking about her man underestimating her intelligence. How he's dumb for thinking that she doesn't suspect cheating but she can clearly see it because he's making it obvious. Sounds messy. This song features the albums only guest appearance in Meek Mill. He really didn't do much for the song honestly. I guess a hot beat like this she just had to get a rapper on it. Great single and great way to make a come back after not hearing a single from her since 2010. 

2. Mascara

This is third single and honestly I'm glad she made this a single. The song has a message that truly needs to be heard. She's basically talking about the mindset of these young females today. How they go out of their way just to look appealing to the public. Tons of make-up (which the hook mostly talks about), fake body parts, dressing half naked and so on. All just to get attention from men and to get likes/followers on Instagram and Facebook. Only to find out that they really don't live the glamorous life they portray. This is something that I personally am tired of seeing and I'm glad someone addressed it. Especially in the manner that Jazmine addressed it here. A song that truly needed to be heard.

3. Brand New

Here's a song that has a topic than I know many will relate to. In a nut shell, she's talking about how fast people switch up and change once they acquire new fame and money. In this case, from a relationship stand point. How a guy she's dating is an inspiring rapper, but then he finally gets a record deal, starts getting some money and a little bit of fame. Now all of a sudden he doesn't have much time for her and he's always around groupies. I agree with this song so much because money truly does change people and turn into someone you thought they could never become. Production was decent here. I did like how it started out with the saxophone and piano giving it a jazz feel. Then it gets into the uptempo modern day mainstream sound. It's a cool song overall. Not bad.

4. Silver Lining

Jazmine shows off another talent of hers here. Story telling. She tells the story of a single parent that's struggling and is desperate to do anything to provide for their kids. That includes committing a crime like robbery to get money. I've heard many stories like this on the news and it's always sad to hear. You just gotta have faith in God to pull you through tough times and things will come together eventually. You shouldn't have to resort to extreme measures to provide for loved ones. The beat is another piano assisted production. Although it's decent, probably would have preferred a much more calmer and mellow production to match the story being told. Still a decent song nonetheless.

5. #HoodLove

Every dude, thug dude to be specific, would love nothing more than to have a down ass ride or die chick by his side right? That's what this talks about. How she's gonna be by his side through every situation no matter what it is. Even if it's something illegal. Sounds to me like not only does she like these thug types, but she likes a controlling guy. Especially when she starts talking about doing whatever he says. But anyway, the beat is pretty cool. It has this kinda...acoustic indie sound with the drums. Which is a little strange considering the songs content. But this song is cool overall. I like it.

6. Let It Burn

Now here we get a little change of pace topic wise. It sounds like Jaz just fell in love. Like madly in love with this guy and she can't stop thinking about him. She has a few lines here talking about "there's no running when it's your turn", "there's no use in tryin", "you can't get away from love". This gives me the impression that the guy may not be as interested as her and she's just being obsessed and/or a stalker. Boy I'm glad I don't know what that's like. But I'm sure someone does and will definitely relate to this.

7. Veins

Continuing the theme from the previous song, this one talks about the love being so strong that it's like a drug. An addiction that you just can't get rid of. What really sets the stage for this is the little intro of this song which sounds like a clip for either a movie or a TV show (probably TV show considering the album title and theme). Where it sounds like someone is being interviewed about their drug addiction and how when they first pushed it (needle) in their veins it gave them a hug that they never experienced. It wouldn't go. That's basically what Jaz is comparing her emotions too. I know it sounds extremely crazy but there really do act like addicts when it comes to love. It's a strong emotion especially for women and they really can't let it go once it's put in their veins.

8. Forever Don't Last

The second single from the album. I first want to point out the production. Again you hear that acoustic sound this time from strings. Guitars and banjos. Now the topic. You know when you're in love and you tell your partner that you wanna be with them forever, after you already been with them for a very long time? Well, sometimes "forever" isn't what you think it will be. She talks about how when the relationship starts everything is good. You're having fun, you're going out a lot and just enjoying being with each other. Then years later you start growing apart and things just ain't what they used to be. This is so true. Unless you have that strong of a bond with your partner, this is how most relationships end up years and years down the road. Make sure they are "the one" for real before you hit them with "forever".

9. Stupid Girl

Production wise, this is probably the catchiest song on the whole album. It has a big uptempo sound with a whole assortment of instrumentation. The sound it so bold that it sounds like a live performance. Also, she puts an interesting switch on her voice that makes her and the song sound old school. Now what she's talking about is kind along the lines of what "Mascara" was talking about. About how these girls be so in love with their partner, that they just let them treat them wrong and they do nothing about it. How they just walk all over them, cheat on them, yell at them and so on. While she does nothing because she's too in love. I'm sure there are a number of women in this situation right now and if you are then welp, you're exactly what the title of this song says. 

10. Stanley

First off, big props to Da Internz for this awesome production. It's a electric uptempo flash dance type of beat. Sounds like 80's pop/dance music. It's very catchy and it alone makes this single worthy. She's seems to be singing about a guy she's with named Stanley who apparently doesn't acknowledge all the good she does for him. She cooks, she cleans, buys him things, pleasures him when he wants it but he doesn't show any kind of appreciation for it all. I don't know how many females are going through this too but if you are then...that's kinda messed up. You might fall in the category with the girls being talked about on the previous song. But overall, this is one of my favorites on the album. Dope.

11. Masterpiece (Mona Lisa)

If you're someone that deals with self-esteem issues, then this song may lift your spirits and boost your confidence a bit. Here she sing about dealing with esteem issues of her own but now appreciating her true beauty. Giving herself confidence by comparing herself to a work of art (hence the song title). This song is a message to all those who deal with this issue. She tells you to just appreciate who you are. Love yourself and recognize that you are beautiful and a work of art in your own eyes. Regardless of what others think. I also like the religious feel this song gives off with the production as well as the very soft piano break down at the end. Great song with a great message.

12. If You Dare

So she closes out the album with a very energetic song. Another uptempo dancy sounding song. It sounds like she maybe talking to someone (or a group of people). Telling them to basically get out and enjoy life. Don't let bad things that happen bring you down or make you weak. Go out have fun. Meet people, laugh, sing, dance, party do it all. You should be living life right and living it high as the hook says. Once again, another positive message and a good way to close this album.

In closing, this was definitely a impressive third album from Jazmine Sullivan. All the messages, all the stories and all the emotion makes this a great listen. The first good R&B album of 2015. I give this a final grade of a B+. What I forgot to mention earlier was the meaning behind this albums title. Reality shows today, the black ones specifically, depict a lot of what Jazmine Sullivan talked about on this. Sometimes in very negative ways. I think many people, especially young women can learn a lot from not only those shows but what Jazmine had to say hear. Always make the right decisions. Stay away from negativity and negative people especially. Most importantly, choose the people you wanna be with wisely. Other than that, just enjoy life. You don't want it to turn into one big messy reality show. End.

Lyrics: B+

Production: B-

Collaboration: D-

Originality: B+

Concept(s): A-

Final Grade: B+

CREDITS

Executive Producer

Jazmine Sullivan

Lead Artist

Jazmine Sullivan

Production

Salaam Remi
Dwane Weir II
Dacoury Natche
Charles Harmon
Matt Wong
Joe Gallagher
Dan Thomas
Marcos Palacios
Ernest Clark
Micah J. Foxx
Anthony Bell

Collaboration

Robert Williams

Label

RCA Records

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Lupe Fiasco - Tetsuo & Youth ALBUM REVIEW

It's been something special these last eight years watching over Lupe Fiasco's career. He went from that unknown MC featured on Kanye's "Touch The Sky", to that hip skateboarder with that cool "Kick, Push" song, to what he is today. One of the most intelligent, lyrically complex, and very over-opinionated MC's in the game. He an artist that has certainly be way ahead of his time since day one. Today though, Lupe seems to be surrounded by controversy. Beef with his label Atlantic Records, his well documented political debates on CNN and other news networks, and most notably his dislike for President Obama. Despite it, Lupe still manages to put out quality lyrical hip hop without dumbing any of it down. He hasn't changed anything. His impressive catalog is what leads to the anticipation of this. His fifth album Tetsuo & Youth. Personally I believe his first two albums are classics. His 2006 debut Food & Liquor and his 2007 sophomore album The Cool (which most fans like the best). But many felt let down a bit by his last two project. 2011's Lasers and 2012's Food & Liquor II. Both albums, while still having dope lyrical content, saw Lupe venturing off into a more mainstream sound. That didn't sit well with fans. Whether it's because of his feud with the label or not, it's had me just a tad bit worried about this project. Just a tad. Well I'm happy to say I can breathe a sigh of relief. This album was way better than I could have ever imagined. Everything from his concepts, his stories, the outstanding production and of course his word bending, mind boggling lyrics. I haven't heard all of those components come together this perfectly since The Cool. One big thing I noticed here in comparison to his last two albums, Lupe sounds much more relaxed and focused. The reason may be because this is his last album on Atlantic and he sounds happy to be leaving. Also happy because Atlantic finally let him do what he wanted with this album since they would be parting ways after this. Whatever the case, this is the Lupe Fiasco we have been wanting for quite a while now. Now, let's being the breakdown:

1. Summer (interlude)

This begins with the first of four cool interludes on this album. Each representing a different season of the year. On here you just hear the kids ("youth") enjoying the summer. The sounds of swimming pools and everything else associated with summer. That's pretty much it.

2. Mural

Man oh man....I'm still trying to get my brain together after hearing this eight minute long lyrical slaying. I kid you not, this could lyrically be the best song Lupe Fiasco has ever done. Literally every single line was an over-your-head, thought provoking, word playing bar. It's been a while since I actually had to keep hitting the rewind button after every line to catch what a rapper is saying. I would quote some stuff but I don't want this to be super long. This song is perfectly tiled. A mural is a large painting on a wall and these words certainly paints large visuals in your head. I mean...I'm just at a complete lost for words here. You just gotta listen to it.

3. Blur My Hands (featuring Guy Sebastian)

Now of course, when you dealing with Lupe and his words, it's really hard to break down what he could possibly be talking about. So I'm going off assumption on all of these tracks. Starting here. Based on some of his words, specifically the ones at the end of the first verse, sounds like he's rebelling towards certain groups of people and being an asshole. When I think of "blurred hands" I think of obscene gestures. Middle fingers. Which could be what he's saying to said people. Anyway, the beat is well done. Loved the background organs. Props to S1 and VohnBeats. Dope song overall.

4. Dots & Lines

...and here is the song that explains what I was describing in the intrograph. It about Lupe showing his happiness and joy for finally leaving Atlantic Records. After years of constant disagreement with them. The answer is right in the title. The "dotted line" is what you sign on the contract to join on leave labels. I like the catchiness of not only the hook but the beat as well. It had some good instrumentation especially with the guitars in the beginning. Nice song.

5. Fall (interlude)

The second seasonal interlude. You hear the sounds of the youth playing around in leaves ans well as other sounds associated with the fall.

6. Prisoner 1 & 2 (featuring Ayesha Jaco)

Here we get a two for one deal. Two songs in one. The first part has a very cool beat filled with violins and pianos. The second part has a more faster, energetic beat with a..."electric" sound sort of speak. While both parts are totally different in sound, they both speak on the same thing. He speaks about the high population of blacks in prison today, racial profiling and police brutality which is a huge issue right now. Also, seeing himself as a prisoner in the music industry (specifically within his label). I feel like there's more to it than that but that's really all I got from these songs. Both were awesome.

7. Body Of Work (featuring Troi and Terrace Martin)

Here's another song that went over my head in concept. The title doesn't mean what you think it might mean. He talking about the drug game, specifically drug trafficking. How some drug lords (especially the foreign ones) often use a woman and her body to transport drugs in and out of the country. The woman has a "body of work" as in body full of work. Work being drugs. It's just another brilliant play on words by Lupe. The production, while it wasn't bad, kinda feels flat in comparison to the rest. But still this song concept wise is brilliant.

8. Little Death (featuring Nikki Jean)

I listened to this song specifically countless times and it seems like there's a lot going on here. It seems like each verse is talking about something different. I can't quite make out what the second verse is talking about but I can sure tell the first one revolves around sex while the third verse revolves around the corrupt justice system. But it's Nikki Jean's hook that makes this song connect more. All three hooks are different in words. Corresponding to the verse it follows. Based on what she's saying, she seems to be playing the role of some evil entity or dark angel. The devil perhaps? I'm not sure. Also, she mentions the words "la petite mort" which after looking it up is actually french for...little death. So this just Lupe once again playing with the listeners mind with such intricate concepts brilliant word play. Another awesome concept.

9. No Scratches (featuring Nikki Jean)

Even on a love song Lupe is still bending words and concepts. He's talking about getting out of a relationship before things get too crazy or before you get too attached. One of the two. He's uses the metaphor of a car crash to represent it. Getting out of the car (relationship) with "no scratches" before it hits a wall and permanently does damage to both of them. I like how he and Nikki Jean sings this song duet style on the hook. So it sounds like both the male and female are agreeing to separate before things get messy. Dope.

10. Winter (interlude)

The third of the seasonal interludes. You hear the youth enjoying the winter. You can hear wind, the sound of snow shoveling and well as everything else that goes with winter.

11. Chopper (featuring Billy Blue, Buk, Trouble, Trae The Truth, Fam-Lay and Glasses Malone)

Now I love posse cuts like this just as much as the next person, but man this was incredibly long. First off this is an interesting selection of rappers to feature on here. A lot of them we haven't heard from in a long time. But apart of me feels like Lupe chose rappers who really do carry these choppers and who actually live that life. I mean let's face it, he could have put a large number of other rappers on here that talk about the same stuff but he chose ones that he believes really live that life. I must say they all were dope on here. Hard to choose a favorite verse. The production is definitely one of my favorites on the album. Big props to DJ Dahi for that. Dope song and a definite trunk banger.

12. Deliver (featuring Ty Dolla $ign)

This is the official first single and again, is more brain testing word play. The hook really tells the story of the whole song. It has two meanings. He's stating how most pizza delivery drivers won't deliver to certain neighborhoods due to the high risk of crime. The other meaning is that "pizza man" is a play on words that also says "peace of man". Lupe is saying that because of all the violence and crime in that neighborhood, there is no more peace around here and it doesn't come here no more. It all depends on how you listen to it what you interpret from it. MoeZart does a okay job here with the production. Filled with plenty of keys and bells. Thought Ty Dolla $ign is credited, you only hear him doing background vocals on the hook. Another great concept.

13. Madonna (And The Other Mothers In The Hood) (featuring Nikki Jean)

No. This song has nothing to do with THAT Madonna. The Madonna Lupe is talking about "Ma Donna" which is Italian for "my lady". There's been plenty of religion talk on this album up to this point and it's more on this song. It sounds as if he's comparing black mothers in the ghettos to the Virgin Mary. They fear that their child will fall victim to gang violence and/or police brutality. Just as Mary feared for Jesus's crucifixion. While great in concept, the song itself is probably the weakest on the album for me. It could be the production which I was feeling as much as the others. But I gotta say, Nikki Jean has been killing it on this whole album. Great concept, okay song.

14. Adoration Of The Magi (featuring Crystal Torres)

Here some more religious talk. Now I'm sure you all are familiar with the story of Mary and Joseph and the three wise men and all of that. Well that's kinda what this is. If my memory is correct, the title represents the religious art work of Christ. The "Magi" are who you know as the three wise men. The song just revolves completely around the birth of Christ and the art work inspired from it (art seems to be the biggest theme of this album. Even when you look at the cover). I also found out that he released this song in Austrailia on January 6th which there, is a christian holiday that celebrates Jesus appearing to the wise men. Just a fun fact. Another cool concept and song as well.

15. They.Resurrect.Over.New. (featuring Ab-Soul and Troi)

This one I had a hard time figuring out it's concept. What I can see is that the title is an acronym for TRON. Which was a popular video game that released in 1982 (Lupe's birth year). Now I wanna think this is video game and/or futuristic themed (especially when the hook says "proceed to the next level"), but I'm not entirely sure. Nonetheless, this song is still dope. Ab-Soul had the best guest verse of any on this album. I love when those two collaborate. I'm definitely  gonna have to do some more research to find the meaning behind this song.

16. Spring (interlude)

We end it with the final seasonal interlude. The youth are enjoying the spring. You hear birds chirping as well as other people out enjoying the weather. All things relating to spring.

Overall, this album was just simply amazing. I would still have to put The Cool number one, but this is close second. Every concept, every thought provoking line, Lupe Fiasco shows why he is one of hip hop's most wise and intelligent lyricists. I give this a final grade of an A. At this rate, Lupe Fiasco is seriously approaching legend status. There's not many other MC's at this age with quite the discography he has. They say for some rappers, you need a certain level of intellect to understand their words and their music. I sometimes hate hearing that because not everybody listens to music for that reason. But for someone like Lupe, you can help but to try and understand it because of how he delivers. Regardless if it gives you a massive headache. I'm glad the drama with his label is now over and he can move on and keep giving us product like this. Hip hop needs it. End.

Lyrics: A+

Production: B+

Collaboration: B

Originality: A

Concept(s): A+

Final Grade: A

CREDITS

Executive Producer

Wasalu Jaco

Lead Artist

Wasalu Jaco

Production

Kyle Davidson

Chris Paultre

Larry Griffin Jr.

Mark London

Simon Morel

Maurice Thomas

Dacoury Natche

Marcus Stephens

Collaboration

Guy Sebastian

Ayesha Jaco

Terrace Martin

Nicholle Leary

Pedritho Dorsonne

Jeffrey Robinson

Mariel Orr

Frazier Thompson

Nathaniel Johnson

Charles Penniman

Tyrone Griffin

Crystal Torres

Herbert Stevens

Label

1st & 15th/Atlantic Records

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Sorry 4 The Wait 2

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