I was upset to hear about Atlantic's stranglehold on Lupe Fiasco and his upcoming album "Lasers". I read articles about the execs telling Lupe to "not be so deep" on this album, and Lupe's feelings of being held hostage by his label. One thing that impresses me so much about his style is his deepness. Whether he's expressing himself politically, emotionally, or philosophically, everything he says comes from his heart and is a part of who he is and what he believes in. I feel this is a rare trait to find in popular musicians today. If you find yourself listening to the radio you are bombarded with songs representing the image of today. Thoughtless, mind-dulling lyrics accompanied by "no-talent ass clowns" (thank you "Office Space") attempting to play their instruments. Don't get me wrong, I very much enjoy some artists and songs that fall under these same guidelines. Songs about drinking, making money, showing said money off, and doing all sorts of drugs while dancing until the sun comes up. However there is only so much music I can handle that falls into that category and more often than not I need something to get my mind working and to remind me that there are people out there who are not only incredibly talented, but possess real feelings, real morals, and a greater sense of humanity. Lupe Fiasco is one of those people.
I was mildly skeptical about this album just because of the ill feelings between Lupe and Atlantic, and what effects that could have had on the quality of the work. Despite being stifled, Lupe Fiasco has delivered another amazing album and deserves a congratulations. He stuck true to sound and quality that has kept me listening to his previous releases for five years now. The power, and imagery delivered in songs like "Words I Never Said" and "All Black Everything" are tracks that I expect/hope to hear from him. These are songs that are about truths, or situations, that are shoved in your ears and you are forced to consider. Lyrically, Lupe can be a little abrasive, but that's only to the people who want to believe that everything is perfect in this World and that Americans can do no wrong. Taking a side step from the lyrical content, I would like to mention the production value of "Lasers". It's awesome! There are sounds that are similar to some of the greatest hip hop artists and producers today, such as, Kanye, Jay-Z and Kid Cudi. I don't think Lupe is ripping them off at all, his style is still very unique to him. I do feel like he, or someone he worked with took some notes from other great artists to help make this album.
There are very few negative things to be said about "Lasers". I'm not a huge fan of the track "I Don't Wanna Care Right Now" because of the club like feel of the song and the auto tuning on the hook. But that's just a matter of personal taste. As a whole "Lasers" is a very solid album and was well worth the wait. I only expect more and more great things from Lupe Fiasco and I'm anxious for what his future has to offer us.
Audio Retrospect http://www.audioretrospect.com
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