LL Cool J - The Force ALBUM REVIEW

Summary

In this review, Anthony Fantano discusses LL Cool J's album 'The Force,' the rapper's first full-length release in 11 years. He explores LL's impact on hip-hop, noting his early commercial success and enduring influence. The album is seen as a blend of nostalgia and modernity, with production by Q-Tip giving it an old-school feel. Fantano praises LL's lyrical exploration of themes like police brutality and Black culture, though some tracks feel weaker. Collaborations with artists like Eminem and Nas are highlighted, and the album is considered a solid late-career effort.

Takeaways

• 🎤 LL Cool J returns with *The Force*, his first full-length album in 11 years, marking his 14th overall release.
• 🏆 LL Cool J's impact on hip-hop is massive, and while his recent career leaned into acting, he remains a significant figure in the music industry.
• 🕶️ The album's vibe feels nostalgic and celebrates LL's artistic roots, but it doesn't strictly sound like a throwback to his earlier work.
• 🎧 Q-Tip of A Tribe Called Quest produced much of the album, giving it a jazzy boom-bap flavor, a sound LL Cool J wasn’t associated with in his earlier career.
• 🎵 Tracks like 'Spirit of Cyrus' explore heavier themes such as police brutality, showcasing LL's ability to delve into social commentary.
• 🖤 'Black Code' celebrates African American culture through LL's perspective, paying homage to Black experiences, music, and everyday life.
• 💥 Some tracks fall flat, like 'Passion' with its weak chorus and 'Proclivities,' which features awkward, flirty lyrics.
• 👐 Notable collaborations include tracks with Busta Rhymes, Nas, and Eminem, where LL keeps up with these lyrical heavyweights, particularly on 'Murdergram Duh' with Eminem.
• ⚡ The album's closer, 'The Vow,' humorously exaggerates LL's origin story, adding a quirky touch to the end of the project.
• 👍 While not groundbreaking, *The Force* exceeds expectations for a late-career album, showcasing LL’s freedom from commercial pressures and his unique blend of old and new styles.

Q & A

Who is the artist being reviewed in the transcript?

The artist being reviewed is LL Cool J.

What is the title of LL Cool J's new album mentioned in the review?

The title of LL Cool J's new album is 'The Force.'

How long has it been since LL Cool J released a full-length album?

It has been 11 years since LL Cool J released a full-length album.

Who contributed to producing the majority of the beats on 'The Force'?

Q-Tip from A Tribe Called Quest contributed to producing the majority of the beats on 'The Force.'

What are some of the themes LL Cool J explores in 'The Force'?

Some of the themes explored include police brutality, lawlessness, Black culture, and reflections on LL Cool J's career and personal growth.

How does the reviewer describe LL Cool J's role in the entertainment industry beyond music?

The reviewer describes LL Cool J as having transitioned into a 'Music Industry veteran' status, with roles in acting that have often overshadowed his current music output.

What sound does the album 'The Force' predominantly feature?

'The Force' predominantly features a mix of old-school boom bap, jazz rap, and soul chops, with experimental synths and beats provided by Q-Tip.

Which track on 'The Force' features Eminem, and how is it described?

The track featuring Eminem is 'Murdergram,' which is described as having relentless energy and lyrical fireworks, with both artists pushing each other to perform at their best.

What are some of the album's high points according to the reviewer?

High points include the tracks 'Spirit of Cyrus,' 'Run It Back,' 'Huey In The Chair' with Busta Rhymes, and 'Praise Him' featuring Nas.

What critique does the reviewer offer regarding certain parts of the album?

The reviewer mentions that the album's midpoint is a mixed bag, with weak filler choruses and forgettable tracks like 'Passion' and 'Seductive Proclivities.'