Review: Common – Universal Mind Control
Common approached his eighth album from a different direction, calling on the eccentric sounds of the Neptunes to produce the majority of the album. With Common’s lyrics backed by the Neptunes presenting a sound that is only right for the new year to come. “Universal Mind Control” is the 2008 version of Afrika Bambaataa’s classic, “Planet Rock” which sets the tone for this album, followed by “Punch Drunk Love” featuring Kanye West. Cee-Lo offers his unique voice on “Make My Day” backed by the spacious beat from the Neptunes, and “Sex 4 Suga” offers a more electro sound that’s not really my taste but works great for his new music surrounding.
Getting deeper into his new offering, “Announcement” is one of my favorite joints off the album, Common spits his infamous raw flow with Pharrell deilvering a few bars. “Changes” positive message is a tribute to our President, Barack Obama while one can “Inhale” that ‘kush’ to the smooth drums and 8-bit sounds from this track.
The album ends with “Everywhere” featuring Martina Topley-Bird’s autotune verse on the hook, which is perfect for this track. As a result, the album is a solid project from the Chicago native, making this album worth the spend, cop it!
Release Date: December 9, 2008
Available now at Amazon
Also available now at Zune MarketPlace for 99 cents!
Rating: 4/5
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