Music Reviews
On March 4, 2016 Kendrick Lamar decided
to release an unexpected album titled Untitled, which features the song Untitled that he
premiered on The Colbert Report. The album has 8 songs all which are titled
untitled followed by the numeric placement on the album. I think the Untitled
series is a pleasant follow up from his album Grammy winning album To Pimp a Butterfly,
personally I enjoy the Untitled album more. In Untitled Kendrick
sounds more like he's having fun while incorporating his political style. Untitled is an album that you can smoke, drink and
just ride to without feeling depressed. He borrows some of Drake's If you're reading feel towards the end of track 2
and he sounds good, but definitely is not something that I would like him to
continue. Untitled continues the Old school disco jazzy sound that Kendrick
presented to us on To Pimp a Butterfly. I like the album but I am looking forward to
Kendrick's next album, in hopes that it's not as commercial as To Pimp a Butterfly.
What a nice Valentine’s Day treat we received from Kanye West, with the release of his highly anticipated 8th album The Life of Pablo. After several name changes Kanye finally stuck with Pablo as such a fitting title for the album. As always the entire production on the album was incredible. Kanye painted murals of each instrument as feelings like they were scenes from an old time movie. If a movie was used to describe the album I would instantly envision an old time black & white movie. The Life of Pablo is a fusion of old College Dropout Kanye, MBDTF, and a dab of Yeezus all mixed into one. Honestly I haven't concluded my exact feelings towards the album. The intro "Ultra Beam" was uplifting, "No Parties" was incredible and as predicted the best song on the album, "Wolves" was great also, but it still feels like there's something missing in this album. Unlike all of his other masterpieces The Life of Pablo is missing those sequences of songs that not only flow together and feed off of each other but also that love factor. Usually on a Kanye album I'm expecting myself to absolutely love 3 or 4 songs, but the only song I crave is on Pablo is "No Parties". As for the subject matter, Kanye just doesn't sound happy, and the album is more personal, when I enjoy political Kanye. Overall I enjoyed the album, the intro which features Chance the Rapper screams church, and he’d be the perfect Christian rapper. The songs following the intro I would not consider gospel although Kanye said they would. Kanye stacked up on features for this album and I'd say that it definitely paid off. No, The Life of Pablo is not my favorite Kanye album, but at least as a whole it's better than Yeezus.
Songs
that made each album great!
The College
Dropout:
All Falls
Down, Through the Wire, Slow Jamz, Jesus Walks
Late
Registration:
Heard 'em
Say, Diamonds, Touch the Sky, Crack Music
Graduation:
THE WHOLE
ALBUM
808s
& Heartbreak:
Say You
Will, Heartless, Paranoid, Love Lockdown
My
Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy:
THE WHOLE
ALBUM
Watch The
Throne:
THE WHOLE
ALBUM
Yeezus:
New
Slaves, Black Skin Head, Bound 2, Blood on the Leaves
The Life
of Pablo:
30 hours,
No Parties, Wolves,
(Update)
After
continuously listening to the Life of Pablo, I've concluded that the album is
in fact in sync with each song, feeding off of every ending. The album is still
not my favorite from Kanye, but it's a great album. Kanye includes some
political matters from his perspective as an artist, and shows us he's still a
musical genius. “Facts” has even grown on me, being a song that I can only
listen to while I'm enjoying to the entire album. “Facts” is Yeezy's
"Ham" referencing the Watch the Throne single with Jay Z. The Life of
Pablo is the depth of Kanye's current state of mind and shows frustration and
happiness all in one.
Finally Willow Smith releases her debut
album Ardipithecus! Fans like me for
months and years were teasers with singles and EPs, but patiently waiting to
hear more than 3 or 4 songs at a time. Now the question is, did she deliever
and satisfies her audience hunger for her music? The answer is yes! She's
perfectly unique in my book, but with her neo-soul style you'll either really
enjoy her sound or instantly not. That's the pros and cons about being a unique
artist. The 15 track album has only one feature from an artist named Jabs, nice
job. Although I really wanted to hear another song with the singer SZA like on
her 3 Ep. However Ardipithecus gives us a nice neo-soul
pop alternative sound that is well balanced by Willow's voice. I enjoyed the
whole album honestly; my favorite songs are Waves of Nature, IDK, and
RandomSong. This is exciting for me because not only is willow touching on
topics that I discuss in my own writing, but she's only 15. So young with so
much left to grow, I'm excited to witness her grow as an artist and to see how
far she goes. We'll have a song together sometime in the future I'm sure of it,
Nice Job Willow I give the album an 8 of 10!
This is a new vibrant shadow sound for Cudi,
which the audience is not happy about. The alternative sound that the album
creates is unlike the other recorded albums that fans are used to hearing.
Speedin' Bullet to Heaven is Cudi's sixth studio album, originally titled Man on the Moon
3 until about 3 months prior to its release. Cudi announced the rename to
Speedin' Bullet to Heaven, with apologies to his fans via Twitter and prepared
them for the new sound. Cudi bolder states "SBTH isn't Hip Hop
its alternative, and sorry he's not the niggas you listen to on the radio."
In response to that statement I'll proudly say sorry Cudi this may not be a hip
hop album, but you'll always be classified as a part of hip hop. As for
Speedin' Bullet to Heaven, I'm an advid hip hop listener so no, this was nowhere near his Man on the Moon
duel, but I did enjoy some songs. I could easily relate to songs like
"the nothing," and Cudi's voice has always been perfect for the
alternative sound. As an alternative album I’d say Speedin' Bullet was
developed and organized nicely, the beats flow and Cudi accomplished not
sounding like hip hop. He also opened up his hip hop listeners ears to a new
sound of music. As for rating I'd give the album a 6 as an alternative album
not hip hop. This sound fits Cudi, but I rather hip hop Cudi.
SBTH is ALTERNATIVE, not HIP HOP/RAP like someone FORCEFULLY labeled it. You can make the change in your settings manually. Fixin this too
— The Chosen One (@KidCudi) December 4, 2015
Even though I made sure to let the world know early on the direction I was headed in, It can still be misleading seeing it labeled wrong.
— The Chosen One (@KidCudi) December 4, 2015
Somehow I've managed to adapt to the
current Lil Wayne. I've accepted the fact that the old Lil Wayne will never
come back, unless he's on a feature. He seems to have very solid features, but
as for his own projects well that's a completely different story. No Ceilings 2
is similar to No Ceilings because it contains songs that Wayne remade to fit
his character, alongside a couple of original pieces. However that's the only
similarity. No Ceilings to many is consider Wayne best mixtape with songs like
"I'm single" and "DOA," hands down classic, but No Ceilings
2 is the complete opposite. Yes, there are some good songs on No Ceilings 2
like "No Reason" which feature King Los, he snapped. Wayne's touch on
"Diamonds Dancing" was pretty nice also, but as for Hotline Bling,
Wayne please never do that again!!! Wayne's version of Hotline Bling sounds
more like a parody song. As for the complete mixtape, I didn't enjoy it; there
were more songs that didn't catch my ear than did. Seems like Lil Wayne really
wanted to be featured on Drake's & Future's What a Time to be Alive, and
some verses can be mistaken as shots towards Drake. No Ceilings 2 makes me
further question the current state of Drake's and Wayne's friendship. Overall
the mixtape was ok, I have to give it a 5 out of 10.
Lil Wayne - No Ceilings 2
Badu is back to remind you, But You
Caint Use My Phone as she titles her new mixtape the classic 1997 "Call
Tyrone" phrase. The mixtape features Andre 3000 and Drake who compliments
the tape nicely. Badu's remake of The Isley Brothers "Hello" that features
Former lover Andre 3000 is almost perfect. They keep the essence of the song,
but still deliver a unique touch to the song. Their voices match up perfectly
for the remake. I enjoyed the entire mixtape from start to finish, well except
for "U Don't Have to Call" which samples the hook of Usher's 2001 hit
single. I just didn't think her vocals fit the beat and the song kind of
annoyed me. Other than that I love the mixtape and can play it all day. But You
Caint Use My Phone is an updated Erykah Badu as you can clearly hear the
difference in comparison to her past material, but she still has her unique
sound to represent who she is. Overall I enjoyed the mixtape and rate it an 8
out of 10.
Tracklist:
01. Caint Use My
Phone Suite02. Hi
03. Cell U Lar Device
04. Phone Down
05. U Use To Call Me (feat. Drake)
06. Mr. Telephone Man
07. U Don’t Have To Call
08. Whats Yo Phone Number
09. Dial’afreaq
10. I’ll Call U Back
11. Hello (feat. André 3000)
Guess Who's Back? Yep, Bad Boy! Diddy decided to release an unexpected mixtape title MMM for all the Bad Boy fans. Saluting none other than the late Notorious B.I.G. Puff Daddy is making sure his legacy lives on in this tape. This star studded mixtape features Bad Boy's current roster; King Los, Lil Kim, and French Montana, but also artist like Future, Wiz Khalifa, Big Sean, Travis Scott and more. I enjoyed MMM because it brings out that classic New York sound that us 90s babies remember. My favorite is the "Facts" introduction, Oooh that was cold! Great way to introduce your legacy Puff, and yes I have to refer to you as Puff, because that's what this mixtape does, MMM brings me back. King Los is hands down the best MC on the tape, Big Sean second this time. Diddy still sucks at rapping, but he's Diddy. The only flaw I can hear in MMM is the hooks could've been a little more catchier, but other than that, MMM is solid. I give MMM an 7 out 10.Diddy - MMM
Young Thug - Slime Season 2
The streets are loving Young Thug's newest mixtape Slime Season 2. I guess you can say he delivered on his natural sound. No, it's not my cup of tea, but the beats are fitting for his voice, and he sounds like the Young Thug that first came out, which is a good thing for his fans. Nice job Thugga you lasted another year in the clubs with this one.
On time and ready is what the punk rock group 5 Seconds of Summer did with their sophomore album Sounds Good Feels Good. The 17 track album released on October 23 includes the hit singles "She's Kinda Hot" and "Hey Everybody," which also went #1 on Billboard charts. Fans wasted no time making the album trend worldwide, and I can't blame them. Sounds Good Feels Good is an appropriate title for the album, because it stirs up those exact emotions. I enjoyed the album! Audiences of all ages can enjoy the album, ranging in topics from depression to society's value of the monetary system. The message in this album is that it's okay to be yourself and keep working towards your dreams. If you thought their first self titled album, 5 Seconds of Summer was punk than you will definitely think this album is punk rock Sounds Good Feels Good reminds me of bands like Green Day a little bit, separating themselves from that boy band feel. I give the album 9 out of 10. 
All We Need is Raury with his debut album which endorses peace, unity, and happiness. Normally I'd wait a few days before reviewing a new album, in order to let the piece sink in and develop an open minded opinion, but no need for All We Need. Atlanta native Raury introduced his unique sound to us at the beginning of 2015 with a 6 track ep titled Indigo Child. Shorty after he made the XXL Freshmen Class of 2015 cover, really making a mark by having the best freestyle out of the class in my opinion. Today, October 16, 2015 Raury released his debut album All We Need.
If you like and
understand The Beatles or John Lennon then you should love Raury. He promotes
unity, peace, and fun, while addressing political issues that I agree are
important for everyone to know about. I personally wouldn't categorize Raury's
music as rap or hip hop; although after that Freshmen freestyle and songs like
"Forbidden Knowledge" proves he can be consider a rapper.
Unless I'm interpreting
the title of the album wrong, I believe All We Need is reinstating John
Lennon's phrase "All We Need Is Love," but instead is saying All We
Need are the things he's addressing in the album, which are;
Peace.Love.Unity.Knowledge and Freedom. I think that's it, but anyways I
enjoyed the album a lot, and from a technical perspective the instruments were in
unison. The strings on the guitar matched the presence, words, and feelings of
the entire album. I rate the album 9 out of 10 for pure innovation.
More music from an upcoming female rapper named Li Li Nicols. The song samples El Debarge "I Like," and although she puts her own unique twist on the song, Li Li Nicols managed to keep its smooth sound. DAG is an acronym for dreams.ambition.goals, the title of the single and upcoming mixtape. Such a demanding voice from such a small person. Tell us what you think?
Ty Dolla $ign - Airplane Mode
Is
this a taste of Free TC, the
title of Ty Dolla $ign's debut album, which is set to release about a month
from now. This past Monday Ty released a 10 track mixtape titled Airplane
Mode, which features producers Mike Will Made It,
Sonny Digital and Others. I enjoyed the mixtape, it sets a nice fall mood, and
gives you that classic RnB sound. With songs like "Violent" you
instantly want to party. This is a feel good mixtape, I rate it a 7 out of 10.
After carefully reviewing rapper The Game newest album The
Documentary 2, I've concluded that The Game is a living advertisement. The
Documentary 2 is the follow up album for Game's classic debut album The
Documentary, released in 2005. The Documentary was an instant classic with
songs like "Hate or Love It," and during that time period Game was
considered "the savior" for West Coast rappers. To make a long story
short, The Documentary was great! Now as for The Doc Two, well Game I
appreciate the lyrical efforts throughout the album. The lyrics were intricate and described the
images you wanted to portray on the album. Now hear me out, yes the songs
sound good, and yes The Game displayed some lyricism, but how many features
should be on an album in order for us to consider the album collaboration or
compilation album? The Documentary 2 track list includes 19 songs (including
intro & skit) and of the 19 songs 13 (excluding intro & skit) of them contains
features from one or more artist, and if they're not singing the hook that's
ridiculous to me. The Documentary 2 to me lacks creativity, innovation and
individuality, and seems as if Game wanted to be Kendrick and Drake when he
should be The Game. Not even counting the number of duplicate bars or similar
bars that were quoted from previous hip hop songs or artist. To top this off the whole album gives you a Good Kid M.a.a.d City vibe, which not a bad thing just unoriginal. 
I understand that
we as artist pay homage to our idols and stuff but Game you over did it this
time. The number of other artist mentioned in this album is ridiculous, he
shouted out everyone and their momma. Below I've compiled a list of all the
songs and the Artist mentioned inside of those songs from Game. There is not
one song that didn't mention another artist or used their line, like come on!
To me that show lack of concept and creativity, to repetitively mention
established artist, especially if they're not reciprocating the favor. As for
the quality of songs they're good and well orchestrated, I could hear how
someone else would be able to enjoy and relate to the album, just not me. I'd
rather listen to all of the people he named and quoted, making me rate the
album a 5 out of 10.
Here's the List
On Me "What a Day, What A Day" Ice Cube - a good day
K.Dot
Dr. Dre
Erykah Badu
TDE
French Montana
No Limit/C-Murder
Step up
Mystikal
Mob Deep
Iggy Azaliea
Plies
Karreuche
Don't Trip
Tony Toni Tone
NWA
Standing on a Ferrais
Peyton Manning
Kanye West
Craig Mack
Jay Z
Trey Songz
R. Kelly
French Montana
Khole Kardashian
Dollar and a Dream
Kanye West
Andre 300
Lupe Fiasco
Ab Soul
Tupac
50 Cent
Mary J Blidge
Kendrick
Biggie
Big Pun
Dr. Dre
Made in America
Rich Porter
Kim Porter
Steph Curry
Michael Jordan
Raekwon
Dr. Dre
Nas
Tupac
Eazy E
Mac Dre
Tha Jacka
JT the Bigga Figga
Biggie
50 Cent
Hashtag
Luniz
Circles
Rihanna
Kanye
Dr. Dre
Dedicated
Future
Nicki Minaj
Meek Mill
BG
Lil Wayne
Turk
Bitch you ain't shit
"Bitches ain't shit but hoes and sluts" snoop
Joseline Hernandez
Stevie J
Drake
Summertime
Missy Eliot
Tupac
Biggie
Michael Jordan
"Give me a trap queen" Fetty Wap
Mula
Kanye
50 Cent
Eazy E
LL Cool J
The Doc 2
Dr. De
Future
Magic Johnson
Suge Knight
Diddy
Bruce Lee
Rihanna
Karreuche
Chris Brown
Tupac
Lauryn Hill
Wu Tang Clan
MC Hammer
Ja Rule
Rakim
Eminem
New York, New York
Rick Ross
Magic Johnson
Kanye
Obama
100
40
Black
OB
Biggie
Diddy
Hush
Lil Wayne
Bird man
Lil Snupe
Meek Mill
Tupac
Biggie
Drake
Pimp C
Just another day
Eazy E
NWA
Steph Curry
Allen Iverson
Faith Evans
Mary J Blidge
Dr. Dre
Amber Rose
Suge Knight
Nate Dogg
LA
Dr. Dre
Jay Z
Fetty Wap
Well the judgement is in about Fetty Wap self-titled album. With the hit song "Trap Queen" as the lead single Fetty Wap instantly went viral, making him a part of the 2015 XXL Freshmen Class. After several covers of the hit song were made audiences began anticipating more music from the freshmen. Critics thought Fetty would be a one hit wonder with the classic song, but he proved us wrong with the follow up single "My Way" which features Drake on the radio version. "All I Gotta Do is Put My Mind to This Sh**" is what Fetty did with this album. Fetty Wap delivers his unique sound nicely and with song like "Trap Luv" "679" and "Whateva" makes the album very catchy. However I dislike that the album has so many features from the rapper Monty. No offense, but honestly Monty sucks as a rapper, I tried to give him a shot but every time his part comes on I just want to skip it, and I really disliked that. Also the album has too many tracks in my opinion, although several songs from this album were on the mixtape sooo I "guess" he gets a pass, but I prefer an album to have no more than 14 songs, but that's just me. Other than that, Fetty Wap was great if you enjoy his style, because the songs were definitely catchy, but for me the album was just okay. My rating is 6 of 10.
2. “How We Do Things” feat. Monty
3. “679” feat. Monty
4. “Jugg” feat. Monty
5. “Trap Luv”
6. “I Wonder”
7. “Again”
8. “My Way” feat. Monty
9. “Time” feat. Monty
10. “Boomin”
11. “RGF Island”
12. “D.A.M.”
13. “No Days Off” feat. Monty
14. “I’m Straight”
15. “Couple Bands”
16. “Rock My Chain” feat. M80
17. “Rewind” feat. Monty
18. “Let It Bang”
19. “For My Team” feat. Monty
20. “Whateva” feat. Monty
21. “Trap Queen (Remix)” feat. Gradur
What A Time To Be ALive
"What a time to be alive" is the title of Drake's
& Future's collaborative project, that Drake recently confirmed via Instagram.
The two rappers have been hinting about the collaboration over the past week
via social medial, and like everyone else we've been keeping our eye out.
. Drake
recently shared the artwork for the project on Instagram, captioning it "WHAT A TIME TO BE ALIVE” will be available at 8pm EST, Sunday
on ITunes. So stay tuned for the review!
The internet went crazy after the release of What a Time to Be Alive, Drake and Future collaboration project. After thoroughly listening to the new Drake & Future album What a Time to Be Alive, I've concluded that this is the best club banger album of the year. Yes, I agree with the audience. Now comparing What a Time to be Alive to Watch The Throne is a far stretch, but I will say Future and Drake delivered on their expectations. This is the stripper and drugs anthem! As for all of the conscious lyric listening people like myself, this is not the album for you, nor should you expect it to be. What A Time To Be Alive gives fans what they want for the clubs and banging car rides, like turn all the way up for this album, songs like; Diamonds Dancing, JumpMan, and Big Rings is what the fans yearn for. These songs also seem to be the fan favorites. Of course Drake doesn't leave his true comeback season fans hanging as he ends the tape with my personal favorite 30 For 30 Freestyle. 
This album stirred up a lot of reaction (of course) with Future taking shots at both Ciara and Meek Mill saying "you're only a battle rapper," and Drake pouring out his soul about the Young Money "family" that has split. Artist Kid Cudi tweeted shortly after the release of the album "people are so comfortable with mediocre," and to some extent I agree. There were flaws in the tape, for one the introduction could've been an actual intro. Digital Dash sounds like just another song on the album, when an intro in my perspective should be in dept and describe what it is your about to listen to and why, not just another skip-able song. The songs are songs that wouldn't have taken much time to produce and could've been more in dept, but it's Future & Drake so of course you're getting nothing but radio hits. So with that being said they delivered the hits as they should and congrats 9 out of 10.
Dirty Sprite 2
 |
| Released: July 17, 2015 |
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 https://t.co/sOWw4KWlYE
— Janay . (@TrappJesuss) July 17, 2015
18th Dynasty
After thoroughly listening to Tyga's new album, I'm still confused. The beats were dope, the cover art dope, Tyga's flow dope, but the lyrics and story line are all over the place. I'm all for lyricism, but they have to be in-sync that's what makes an album good, to be able to flow and build from one song to the next. The album seems like he's talking about and/or to someone, are you talking to your family, drake, the audience? I'm just confused. Overall the album is okay nothing spectacular, but not terrible either. I can definitely play songs like God Talk and Pure Luxury in the car as I ride. I rate the album a 5 out of 10. Dreams Worth More Than Money
Dreams worth more than money is the second studio album from rapper Meek Mill released on June 29, 2015. The album features Chris brown, Drake, the Weekend, Future, Rick Ross, Diddy, and of course girlfriend Nicki Minaj on 2 songs. Meek seems to have calmed down his usual turnt hype voice on this album oppose to his debut album "Dreams and Nightmares" maybe girlfriend Nicki Minaj have something to do with that, but his tone was definitely different. Nicki features on 2 songs "Bad for You" and the leading single "All Eyes on You" which also features Chris Brown. The three of them recently performed the single at the BET Awards show where Meek and Nicki paraded their relationship. The song describes their relationship and it's problems being a Hollywood couple. As for the album Dreams Worth More Than Money, I give it a 6 out of 10, the songs were well developed, extremely consistent, and the production is incredible, but I just didn't feel like Meek was being Meek. The lyrics on the album wasn't complicated very straightforward and Idk about Meek trying to harmonize, naw stick to straight rapping. As a follow up album from Dreams and Nightmares I think the album did its job dodging the "sophomore slum," but I just wish the album had more of a Meek fill.Wildheart
Sexy, Sexy, Sexy! is all I can say about Miguel's Wildheart. The RnB sensation shakes things up on this third album, with hot explicit sexy lyrics to match the cover art. Coffee as the lead single sets the tone of the entire album, that paints vivid pictures of passion between lovers. The instrumentals used on the album are very Miguel like, meaning you hear the strings and bass that coincides with Miguel's voice. I enjoyed Wildheart, because I can feel the passion, and I rate the album a 9 out of 10. The cover art is also immaculate! Good Job Miguel, keep the hits coming!
At.Long.Last.A$AP
Well isn't this a surprise, A$AP Rocky decided to release his
sophomore album Monday night. If anyone else was wondering where TF A$AP has
been, now we know, making a good ass album. I'm sure my readers by now can tell
that I'm a picky music listener. I only enjoy good music that has noticeable
work and effort inside of the music. A$AP long story short you delivered. I've
only listened to the album once so after a few more times I'm sure I'll update
this post, but as for now ALLA is dopeness! The collaborations with Joe Fox give
ALLA a nice in sync sound. ALLA also features the artist: Miguel, Lil Wayne,
Future, Schoolboy Q, M.I.A., and more. Yes, the album
has a lot of features, but all of the features are needed to build this sound.
A$AP also delivers of course with his flow and content on the album. The Holy
Ghost intro is so far my favorite off of ALLA, setting the tone for the album.
A$AP has yet to disappoint his true audience with his music. 5/5 A$AP keep
hustlin! Remember My Name
Mr. Ice Cream Man
Unexpected new music from Guwop is the talk of the internet. Although
Guwop is currently incarcerated he still has remained somewhat relevant in the
music streetz. Honestly I am not a fan of Gucci's music, and never was, but
Guwop has my respect. Back in 2006 I never expected this Atlanta movement that
Brick Squad took over with to last over 3 years, and the movement definitely
has made a legendary place in hip-hop. With the guidance of Deb (Waka Flocka
mom), Brick Squad dominated Atlanta, making the Atlanta turn up
"sound" a type of culture, whether you like it or not, this is true.
As for the new mixtape King Gucci, I think it's a good tape for Guwop. King
Gucci has all of the right features such as: migos, fetty wap, pee wee long
way, Riff Raff etc... Those are good features because those artists are relevant to the ATL
sound lane with the exception of Young Thug. I also like how he used more
producers making the beats and overall sound slightly different oppose to the
other mixtapes. Once again this is not my preferred style of music but I can
hear others who enjoy the style liking this mixtape. DJ Scream & DJ Drama was
the perfect choice for the DJ's also. Good Job Guwop!
Cherry Bomb
Cherry
Bomb is the fourth album for rapper, Tyler The Creator. Although the odd future
camp has been M.I.A from the hip hop industry, they definitely understand how
to remain relevant. As for the album I think it’s passable as a solid fourth
album. The fourth albums are supposed to be more relaxed and less intense
because as an artist this is the time to vacate, after all the years of long
sleepless nights. Cherry Bomb is not a classic, but it's Tyler, and I give the
album a 7 out of 10.
Barter VI
Young
Thug just took to his Instagram a little while ago to reveal the
release date and artwork for his highly anticipated Carter
VI album.
Going shirtless in front of a red backdrop, while the words
Carter VI are coming from... for the cover, Thugger also wrote the caption
“4/17”, indicating that the project will be dropping in only 10 days from now
on the 17th. Am I the only one who finds this cover art sightly disrespectful?
Yes, I could be over analyzing the art work, but placing the name right there
seems like this is yet another shot at Lil Wayne, saying "F U" and
"Suck this." However that's only my opinion. We're anxious to hear
the Carter VI with all the Cash Money controversy going on, we will finally hear
Thugger's invovlement hopefully.
Stay tuned for the tracklist and review for the Cater VI
Thugger version lol.
(Update) Due to legal manners Young Thug has changed the
name of the Carter VI to the Barter VI. I think that's a dumb ass name, but hey
I guess you have to do what you gotta do. I would've chosen to switch around
the name like; the six carter, six C, the arter, something like that, but I
guess.
Barter 6 Review
After all
of the controversy generated by the original title of the album, here is the Barter 6. Thugger displays his
usual sound followed by catchy hooks. I can definitely hear the album being
played in every club in Atlanta as well as throughout the US. Most of the
production was by London on da track, an Atlanta favorite. I'm sure that
Thugger satisfied all of his fans with the Barter
6, by not conforming to any other sound. As for me, this is not
particularly my choice of music with the exception of a few of Thugger past
hits such as: Stoner and Life Style. However I did enjoy the "With
That" and "Check" from the Barter
6 and for that reason I give
the album a solid 6.
The Conscious Truth
 |
| Amethyst |
For those of you interested in actually knowing about these
crystals, which seem to be popping up over the web, here you are. Amethyst is
the birth stone for the zodiac sign Aquarius. Crystals are used for several
purposes to benefit the mind and body. Crystallization is a metaphysics that
are scientifically proven to help relieve stress off of the brain and
body. These beautiful healing crystals are
also known for bringing clarity of the mind to the owner. Amethyst in particular means
spiritual growth and protection. By wearing
or using Amethyst crystals, you can become more in tune with your own feelings
and get to know your inner self on a much deeper level. It is a gemstone which
can bring you calmness, inner peace and is thought to heighten your
natural intuition.
 |
| Citrine |
Amethysts are known for their ability to reduce addictive traits.
The name amethyst is derived from the ancient Greek word “amethustos”, which
translates to “not drunk”. Goblets made of amethyst or in the color
purple were used to hinder inebriation. Today, amethysts are used in
alternative healing practices for reducing addiction to alcohol, drugs, sex,
shopping and a number of other afflictions. Amethyst healing properties can
relieve pain and swelling throughout the body by calming the nervous system.
Amethyst is well known for having a positive affect against insomnia and
nightmares. By placing an amethyst crystal under your bed, you can dispel
nightmares and encourage lucid dreaming. For those of you, who think I'm crazy
right now, please be open to my thoughts and expression. I do not own the stone
Amethyst, but I do own other crystals such as; clear quartz, citrine,
black tourmaline, and tiger's eye. With my person experience with the
crystals I found accuracy with everything stated. However what
you believe in your mind is your destiny.
Trend or Awareness
I'm
not sure if Tinashe is conscious or simply promoting the conscious trend, but I
thought I'd speak on the mixtape. I enjoyed the RnB natural sound that she
gives us on the tape, and the features balanced the Amethyst out. I am not a
fan of Tinashe, but not because I don't enjoy her music, but because I never
really gave her a chance. I've heard great reviews about her debut album Aquarius,
and I listened to like one song off of the tape. So I decided to test her out with
Amethyst, because the name caught my attention, and I see a lot of potential.
No this is not the greatest or even the most memorable tape of all time, but
it’s a nice continuance to a growing career. I rate the tape 4 of 5! Overall I enjoyed the songs on Amethyst.
To Pimp A Butterfly (5/5)
To Pimp a Butterfly is set to release on March 23, 2015. The
lead single being "i" gave fans controversial feelings on what to
expect from the album. Kendrick also revealed that To Pimp a Butterfly will
also have "u," serving as a counter part to the single "i."
Curiosities continue, but from the looks and sounds of the title, songs, and
cover art of To Pimp a
Butterfly, I am expecting the more political side of King Kendrick. The
Fader revealed that there is also a fake track-list being spread around.
Rolling Stones has already announced Kdot as their next cover feature. L!ve
is excited about To Pimp A
Butterfly, stay tuned for the review! (updated)Track list
1. “Wesley’s Theory”2. “For Free? (Interlude)”
3. “King Kunta”
4. “Institutionalized”
5. “These Walls”
6. “U”
7. “Alright”
8. “For Sale? (Interlude)”
9. “Momma”
10. “Hood Politics”
11. “How Much a Dollar Cost”
12. “Complexion”
13. “The Blacker the Berry”
14. “You Ain’t Gotta Lie (Momma Said)”
15. “i”
16. “Mortal Man”
Album Review
The
highly anticipated To Pimp a Butterfly, released online Tuesday March 17, 2015
has exceeded expectations. Streamed online over 9.6 million times, music lovers
field their ears and social media's with Kendrick Lamar's recent album, fans
like Christopher Hemmingway, saying "the most artistic hip hop album I've
heard in a few years." To Pimp a Butterfly received raved reviews from the
major papers across the board, and Live L!ve doesn't disagree. What To Pimp a
Butterfly created was a symphony, synchronizing electro funk, the early 80s R&B
soul and rap. As predicated Kendrick Lamar took a risk by elevating his style
in such a unique manner.
I admit that I too needed time to adjust to the sounds
of the album, but even that doesn't discredit the lyricism and inspirational
impact To Pimp a Butterfly has had on music. In songs like complexion, which
features North Carolina rapper Rapsody, the two MCs voice their frustration
with racial discrimination, the most spoken about problem in our society. Side
note; Rapsody absolutely snapped on this song, like who said us female rappers
can't have bars like the guys! From Wesley’s Theory to Mortal Man, Kendrick was
a poet on To Pimp a Butterfly. The album is a classic, great job Kendrick, hell
of a way to validate the claim as king of hip hop, and solidify you as an icon.
The
New York Times: To Pimp a Butterfly is bigger than any
minor intra-rapper friction. An album that asks questions as big as this one
does, and that will be heard by so many, is a huge taunt to Mr. Lamar’s
peers—it’s a dare to ride along, a dare to be different, a dare to be great.
USA Today: Like Kanye West’s monumental Yeezus in
2013, Lamar has made something that feels truly genre-shattering with Butterfly—further
cementing his status as not only one of the most innovative rappers, but artists,
of the moment. 4/4
Los Angeles Times: Lamar’s third studio album is a realm
away from his breakout 2012 album good
kid, m.A.A.d city, equally rich and way, way further gone.
Entertainment Weekly: Kendrick grabs the Best Rapper Alive title by the balls on Butterfly. It’s always satisfying to see superstars reach so high.
New York Daily News: It’s an album meant to be lived with for a long time, making it one of the few recent hip-hop that’s built to last. 5/5
TIME: Lamar wants nothing less than greatness,
and To
Pimp a Butterfly is yet another step forward on that path.
Chicago Tribune: What’s lacking, if anything, is the potential bounty of singles yielded by good kid, but To Pimp… is designed more as a one-sit continuous listen than a collection of radio-ready hits. 4/4
ABC News: To
Pimp a Butterfly is a sobering work made with love and endless sonic
imagination. It is an incredibly important record that at the same time isn’t
afraid to offend. Its aims are above its mere music. It’s a brutally honest,
necessary work anchored in social awareness.
Play No Games
.jpg) |
| Released February 24, 2015 |
Track list to Dark Sky Paradise
| 1. | Dark Sky (Skyscrapers) | ||||
| 2. | Blessings | ||||
| 3. | All Your Fault | ||||
| 4. | I Don't Fuck with You | ||||
| 5. | Play No Games | ||||
| 6. | Paradise | ||||
| 7. | Win Some, Lose Some | ||||
| 8. | Stay Down | ||||
| 9. | I Know | ||||
| 10. | Deep | ||||
| 11. | One Man Can Change the World | ||||
| 12. | Outro |
Drake Legends
Drake dropped an
unexpected mixtape, how interesting because I recently was talking to a friend
saying that "Drake have been ghost for a minute." So, I guess we
shared telepathy, Drake. As for the mixtape of course there are great songs and
the beats are hard as hell, but Drake I wish you would go back to the bars.
Drake As for my rating I give it 8 out of 10. Drake talks subliminally about
certain rappers and of course the females in his life. Drake also expresses his
current situation and feelings about being the leader in the music industry,
the ups and downs. My favorite song on the tape is 6pm in New York, and that
doesn't surprise me. Drake proved in this song that he's choosing this new
style, because in 6pm he showed the old Drake. Also addressing the problems
with label mate Tyga, with that dope beat and flow, is what makes this song my
favorite. Any time Drake writes a song with a time and a city on it, fans
already know that the song will be one to remember. My all time favorite is
still 9am in Dallas, that's forever a classic. Drake is a solidified legend,
but I just want to hear the metaphors, the entendres, the A1 similes etc...
"The lack of effort got me rapping different" Drake himself knows
that he's not putting out his best work, as I quote those very words from
NWTS.
There were debates
if this was in fact an album, but Drake solidified "if you're reading this,"
as a mixtape via twitter. The culture and hip hop genre is shifting and I am
sure Drake not only knows this, but as one of the causes of the development. It’s
official that this is only the beginning of the Toronto era. With all of the
ongoing controversy inside of the Cash Money label, fans like myself, question
if this mixtape is the last project released under the Young Money/Cash Money
label. However Drake is his own verb and genre. This gives fans, like myself
anticipation for the album 6 God.
(Updated) After
further review of the Drake's "if you're read this it’s too late," I
still believe Drake could be more lyrical. However Drake song writing skills
are the Picasso of hip hop songs still. The way songs like Legends are
organized to express his growth. Drake's mixtape is quite the perfect
balance of tempo for the beginning and ending of a new season. I can foresee
the change in this era soon to come.
Lyrically the
order is
5am in Toronto
> 6 pm in New York > 9 am in Dallas
B4.Da.$$
.jpg)
Brooklyn
native Joey BadA$$ celebrated his 20th birthday with the release of his debut
album B4.Da.$$ on January 20, 2015. The highly anticipated independent artist
meets all expectations with the album, expressing his upbringing and societal
value of the dollar bill. Joey has definitely brought back that legendary New
York sound in songs like "Hazeus View" and the single "Christ
Conscious." Audiences have given mixed reviews, some saying he has
"sold out," while others are calling the album a classic. I understand
both views, being that Joey is known to have classic lyricism like in his
classic mixtape 1999. B4.Da.$$ doesn't show his true lyricism, however the
album is a great album, proving that Joey can develop music far beyond just
bars. I would not say Joey has "sold out." Good job Joey hell of a
way to bring the New Year in!#B4DAMONEY is available now! iTunes: http://po.st/b4damoney Amazon: http://amzn.to/17bOJo9
Track list
|
2014 Forest Hill Drive
Roc Nation's J.
Cole announced his upcoming surprise album release via twitter on Nov. 16, 204.
Tweeting the cover art, the name, and the release date...
My new album. 2014 Forest Hills Drive. 12/9 http://t.co/gjLq6iB4qo http://t.co/nhyCgP9LE9
— J. Cole (@JColeNC) November 17, 2014
J. Cole once called the savior of hip hop has yet to deliver a platinum album to his fans. His debut album Cole World was a disappointment to his fans that knew him from mixtapes like Friday Night Lights. The sophomore album Born Sinner deemed once again worthy by his fans, but still not platinum or a classic. So in my opinion this is the finally straw J. Cole you have to give your true fans that classic album. Drake has Take Care, Kendrick has Section 80, and now you need a classic to officially claim you’re thrown. I believe in Cole, don't let us down again.
Alongside of the album J. Cole has a fan
contest that will give you a chance to meet Cole and go to the album listening
at his Fayetteville home. Good Luck
(Updated Review)
J. Cole gives his fans exactly what they were craving for, and receives his first platinum album. This is the J. Cole that we fell in love with, minus the harmonizing he used on 2014 Forest Hill. Cole of course discusses with us very relate able topics in a sequence that keeps you listening in songs like "Wet Dreamz." While having inspirational and club bangers with songs like the single "Apparently" and "A Tale of 2 Cities." Good Job Cole, in keeping your fans happy and anxious for your next album. 2014 Forest Hill Drive 8 out of 10.
(Updated Review)
J. Cole gives his fans exactly what they were craving for, and receives his first platinum album. This is the J. Cole that we fell in love with, minus the harmonizing he used on 2014 Forest Hill. Cole of course discusses with us very relate able topics in a sequence that keeps you listening in songs like "Wet Dreamz." While having inspirational and club bangers with songs like the single "Apparently" and "A Tale of 2 Cities." Good Job Cole, in keeping your fans happy and anxious for your next album. 2014 Forest Hill Drive 8 out of 10.
#1 Digital Album on BillBoard
 |
| Released: March 3, 2014 |
Rick Ross Mastermind
Rick Ross latest album Mastermind might finally solidify him as a Top contender in the Hip Hop industry. Peaking at #1 on Billboard digital albums, over Pharrell, Lea Michele, Schoolboy Q, Soundtrack, Lorde and more! Released on March 3, 2014, the album features some of Hip Hop's heavy hitters such as; Jay-Z, Jeezy, The Weeknd, Kanye West, Big Sean, Meek Mill, Lil Wayne, French Montana, Diddy, and more. Could this be Ricky Rozay first platinum album and/or Grammy? Leading with the hit single "Devil is a Lie" featuring Jay-Z, Rick Ross has topped the digital album charts on Billboard. This will be the first time for the rapper to do this. It's amazing that he's charted over Pharrell's GIRL, especially with all the attention being on Pharrell lately.
Rick Ross has always been that guy in hip hop who does just enough to stay relevant, but not enough to give him the Top MC credit or sales to match. Yes, Rick Ross does not have a Platinum album, he's a gold man. However this is not a bad thing, gold albums allow you to maintain a consistent fan base. Mastermind would be Rick Ross 6th studio album, and by the looks of it, this will be the album to finally get him to cross over. I enjoyed Mastermind overall the album has great production, and a solid delivery from the rapper. Congratulations to Rick Ross!
Track list for Mastermind
| 1. | "Intro" | |||
| 2. | "Rich Is Gangsta" | |||
| 3. | "Drug Dealer's Dream" | |||
| 4. | "Shots Fired" | |||
| 5. | "Nobody" (featuring French Montana) | |||
| 6. | "The Devil Is a Lie" (featuring Jay-Z) | |||
| 7. | "Mafia Music III" (featuring Sizzla and Mavado) | |||
| 8. | "War Ready" (featuring Jeezy) | |||
| 9. | "What a Shame" (featuring French Montana) | |||
| 10. | "Supreme" | |||
| 11. | "BLK & WHT" | |||
| 12. | "Dope Bitch" (Skit) | |||
| 13. | "In Vein" (featuring The Weeknd) | |||
| 14. | "Sanctified" (featuring Kanye West and Big Sean) | |||
| 15. | "Walkin' on Air" (featuring Meek Mill) | |||
| 16. | "Thug Cry" (featuring Lil Wayne) |
Rick Ross ft. (Jay-Z) - Devil is a Lie
Good Kid M.a.a.D City
I'm not gonna lie to you, Kendrick's my favorite artist right now. He my nigga and all, but I expected Section 80 to shit on GKMC prior to its release, ya bish. I didn't expect a flop from Kendrick, just didn't expect God to personally tell us, "I'm gonna bless you niggas with this masterpiece". But he did. This album offers a range and variety of songs to fans of different hip-hop genres. For the niggas who don't care about lyrics, and just want to ride..."Money Trees", "Swimming Pools", "Backseat Freestyle", "Bitch, Don't Kill My Vibe", and maybe "The Recipe" is for you. You can even turn on the first half of "m.A.A.d City". Those are songs that you can blast as loudly as you please in your car without getting self-conscious. Shyne may disagree, but who cares? (See video on the right). If you're one of those people that call yourself a "hip-hop head" and enjoy lyricism, turn on "Real" and the Pharell-produced "Good Kid" as Kendrick drops lyrical bombshells in his bars. If you want to hear solid story-telling (disregarding the fact that the whole album is a story), "The Art of Peer "Sing About Me, I'm Dying of Thirst" would be an ideal song for you as he tells multiple stories of people in his life in Compton. The versatility in this album makes it unrivaled by many of the albums of 2012 AND 2011. It is nearly impossible to dislike, whether you listen to Future, or Mos Def. It's definitely a must that you cop this album. Support good music.
Overall, Kendrick dropped a jewel. This, to me, is the album of the year so far. If J. Cole got nominated for a Grammy with "Cole World: The Sideline Story", I'm sure we will see Compton's savior stumbling over words at his Grammy acceptance speech. It's only a matter of time. Hip-Hop isn't dead. Stop being nostalgic. Good hip-hop is back on the rise in full effect.
Good Kid, m.A.A.d City: 4.5 out of 5
Follow the L!ve Page@LiveLiLiBlog
Follow the L!ve Page
-@CjayTheGreat
the music reviews are awesome! But sometimes it seem a little bias #justsayimg
ReplyDeleteGreat Review I thought.
ReplyDelete