Any true hip-hop head will tell you that this is more of a pop and R&B record than a hip-hop set. Admittedly the latter at the one-minute mark kind of sounds like it is revving up to quote Lionel Richie’s “All Night Long,” even though it is working a subtle dancehall vibe that comes to fruition with a mid-track momentary interruption.ĭrake has his eyes more on being a pop star than on being a great hip-hop artist. The emphasis on both “Still Here” and “Controlla” is on making catchy chants. Overall, it is evident that Drake is out to make semi-ambient, chilled party music with some emo edges. On “Faithful,” he takes a few too many spaces in his lyrics, reverting back to his old, minimalist style. (Also, didn’t he just say that he won’t “fade away?” Keep it consistent, man!) I’m sure in six years he will change his mind. On the latter he brags that he plans to retire at 35. “Weston Road Flows,” again finds him working a strong R&B groove. Get the Review of Drake's 'Nothing Was the Same' While “Hype” has an almost Kanye-like sense of self-satisfaction even as it denounces the fleeting flash, “Redemption” is all about finding peace with past relationships and “With You” is a fun, reggae-infused party groove.
His verse style may be occasionally clunky, but he has effectively cut out his own unique niche. Still, there is nice warmth to this record and he gets some decent lyrical energy going on “U With Me?” and he works a smooth groove with “Feel No Ways.” That being said, the write-up in the iTunes store (currently an Apple Music exclusive) talks up this album’s “immaculate vocal turns.” (Do vocals count as being “immaculate” when they are noticeably auto-tuned? Not in my book.) I just don’t fade away.” It’s good to have dreams.
Still a track like “9” shows some growth, in spite of his occasionally delusional declarations.
He’s noticeably upped his game, but as a lyricist, he still doesn’t earn the level of hype he often receives. He dropped another line that rhymed with that previous rhyme in the simplest of ways.
Admittedly the substance level is a bit higher on this set and he’s obviously put much more effort in maintaining a flow. He’s a performer who puts style over substance. One listen to the dramatically symphonic opening track, “Keep The Family Close,” and you know immediately that this is going to be a radically different effort than last year’s “If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late.” It is evident that this is also a better - and more dynamic - album.ĭrake’s best gift has always been setting moods.