As in his three critically-acclaimed mixtapes, J.Cole hold his own when he delves into personal issues with a style and substance all his own. On "Dollar and a Dream III" he raps about his life's struggles, while still dreaming of success.
"Can't Get Enough" is a radio-friendly song that delivers a sultry beat with a catchy hook by R&B crooner Trey Songz. J.Cole delves into his obsession with everything women have to offer. "Lights Please" is a classic from his Warm Up mixtape, and one that is definitely album-worthy. Cole is trying to have an intellectual conversation with a girl, but all she wants to so is have sex. This was his first song that received radio-play and got the attention of Jay-Z, who eventually signed Cole to Roc Nation.
Speaking of Jay-Z, he gave his pupil an assist on the electronic-influenced beat of "Mr.Nice Watch". Cole has a swagger about him that is infectious as he exclaims "No more Mr.Nice Guy, hello Mr.Nice Watch", but the master gets the better of the student as Jay-Z outshines Cole on this one. "Cole World" is another song that finds Cole exhibiting his confidence as he says "Rappers show me love/I wonder what it could be/I think they scared of me/And they should be ". While not arrogant, Cole is certainly sure of his rhyming ability and believes very few rappers are on his level.
Without a doubt, "Lost Ones" is the breakout song of the album. In this dual-perspective offering, Cole presents a situation far too familiar in our world today. A young couple is arguing over the issue of abortion after the woman finds out she is pregnant. Cole makes valid points from both the man and woman's point-of-view, while not overstepping his boundaries. This has to be heard to be truly appreciated.
On "Nobody's Perfect", Cole is able to compose an infectious song while still breaking down issues and relationships. Missy Elliot helps out by delivering a great hook. "Breakdown" is another one of those moving songs that finds Cole getting very personal. His first verse deals with his longing to have a relationship with his estranged father. "But I want a father so bad, I can't help but breakdown," he says. His second verse deals with his mother's battle with drugs. Cole says "My mama tell you what addicted to that pipe feel like".
Cole World: The Sideline Story is a great album, but it isn't perfect. There a few songs on the album that have been featured on previous mixtapes. While they are good songs, some fans will still have a "Oh, I've already heard that song" type of reaction.
J.Cole's debut isn't flawless but is still a great album for a hip-hop genre that has been losing its essence. If Cole World: The Sideline Story is any indication of what's to come from J.Cole, his name will be heard loud and clear for many more years to come.
Rating: 8.5/10
The spacing on this post made it a little difficult to read. Other than that, I agree with your take on J. Cole.
ReplyDeleteSince the release of his mixtapes and now album, one can see that he has grown so much as an artist, however, I find his mixtapes to be much more appealing. Fortunately, he is still making a name for himself and working with well-known artists such as Jay-Z.
On top of that, he's a great performer. I had the chance to see him live with Big Sean back in February at CSULA. There, he performed a lot of tracks from Friday Night Lights. I also had an opportunity to see him at Club Nokia last Thursday, where he brought out Kendrick Lamar.
For those of you who haven't listened nor heard of Kendrick/K. Dot, he is a MUST-LISTEN-TO ARTIST! Check out Section 80 or EP. He's got to be one of my top listens. Now HE is a great performer live. He has a show this Saturday at Whiskey A Go-Go for those who are interested! :)
I am torn over whether or not I am happy with J. Cole's new album. I feel like his old songs such as "In the Morning" "Lights Please" were so catchy and different. Although I do enjoy a few songs off his new album I felt as though the album was a bit bland... Maybe it will grow on me!
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