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Pinned Review
Released in 2005, Be showcases Common at his best, combining introspective lyricism with soulful, minimalist production primarily handled by Kanye. After the experimental album of Electric Circus in 2002, Common needed a comeback and Kanye West is the main producer with 2 tracks produced by J dilla. The album has social commentary, and personal reflection, marking a high point in Common’s discography.
The album opens with Be (Intro), featuring a bassline and expressive keyboard work. ... read more
Recent Reviews
Nobody’s Smiling is another No I.D. full produced album. The album’s tone is dark and introspective, but parts of the project come across as inconsistent. The production by No I.D., with his signature style, lacks standout and memorable moments. It is monotonous at times, especially in the middle of the album, which makes it less enjoyable. Jhené Aiko and Vince Staples provide some of the most refreshing moments on the record. Standout tracks such as “Rewind That” ... read more
Entirely produced by No I.D., the same producer behind Common’s early work, The Dreamer / The Believer represents a strong comeback after Universal Mind Control, which was widely seen as a misstep. On this album, Common returns to his roots. The album’s thematic core revolves around resilience, spiritual awareness, and personal growth. Common opts for a restrained and consistent approach. No I.D. 's production characterized by warm samples, understated drums, and heavy use of ... read more
The 8th studio album by Common, Universal Mind Control, moves away from its predecessor’s soulful and jazz-influenced beats and shifts toward an experimental, futuristic sound that mixes electronic elements. The production, largely handled by The Neptunes, creates a style that feels more party-oriented and sexually themed on several songs. Most of the beats do not fully fit or connect with Common’s traditional style.
Stand out tracks:
Universal Mind Control (UMC)
The title track ... read more
Released in 2007, Finding Forever, the seventh studio album by Common, serves as a artistic continuation of his critically acclaimed 2005 project Be. The album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, marking the first and still only no. 1 album of his career. Kanye West once again plays a central role in the production identity of the project, reinforcing the soulful and accessible sound that revitalized Common’s mainstream presence.
Rather than pursuing the experimental direction he ... read more
Nas’s verses save the album. Many of these songs would be better with production that matches the level of the lyricism. When I compare these beats to the Hit-Boy hexalogy, the production here feels outdated, which only shows that Premier has been past his prime for years. I probably won’t go back to this album, but it does have a few highlights like Bouquet (To the Ladies), Sons, and Writers. The beat on NY State of Mind 3 is so bad that it doesn’t deserve the title at all, ... read more
About
I try to review everything I listen to.
100 – A masterpiece; among the greatest in its genre
90 – A classic; essential listening
80 – Great and memorable
70 – Good, but with some flaws
60 – Decent, but nothing special
50 – Mediocre; forgettable
Below 50 – Poor to terrible; not worth revisiting
100 – A masterpiece; among the greatest in its genre
90 – A classic; essential listening
80 – Great and memorable
70 – Good, but with some flaws
60 – Decent, but nothing special
50 – Mediocre; forgettable
Below 50 – Poor to terrible; not worth revisiting
Rating Distribution
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Member since December 9, 2023