Now that the album has officially been out for awhile (and not just because it was leaked), I guess it’s time for a review. Happy to see Mr. Drake back: big fan.
I really liked Thank Me Later so I figured his latest release Take Care would have big shoes to fill. Result? It fills them, but in a different way. Take Care is mellow and deeper in it’s sentiments. You get the feeling that he’s got some more experience under his belt and as such is wiser and possibly a little more jaded too. Actually significantly more jaded. Whereas on his first album you got the sense he was ridin’ the fame wave, on his latest effort you get the feeling that he still may be ridin’ that wave but this time with both eyes open and a set of reins.
If you’re thinking that with mellow, deep, and jaded you might hear some more straight up rap, don’t hold your breath. He continues with the singing/rapping mix to the point where his rapper cred waivers a bit and leaves you thinking he’s an R&B/Hip Hop star with the ability to rap.
Like most albums these days, expect plenty of collaborations: Chantal Kreviazuk (apparently on “Over My Dead Body” even though I totally don’t hear the resemblance), The Weekend, Rihanna, Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj Rick Ross, Stevie Wonder, Birdman, and Andre 3000.
There’s a few standouts worth mentioning such as “Headlines” (an upbeat ode to his own fame), “Crew Love” (featuring a sick intro by The Weekend……”This ain’t no fuckin’ singalong, so girl what you singing for”…love that line, makes me laugh), “Take Care” (a reggae beat with steal drums, quick rhymes, and featuring Ms.Rhi Rhi), “Underground Kings” (a badass beat, rhyme solid classic), and “Make Me Proud” (featuring his “wife” Nicki Minaj ).
Overall, it’s a good album. I would have preferred a few more upbeat tracks instead of a few songs emo-esque, sad-ish tracks that still do nothing for me after hearing them a ton but I suppose they make other people happy.
Rating: 7/10
Label: Republic
Favourites: Crew Love, Underground Kings
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