Attention Deficit

About

With his wit and old-school rhyme influences, Wale resembles his contemporaries Kid Cudi and Lupe Fiasco, both of whom embrace innovation and tradition with equal regard. Still, <i>Attention Deficit</i> is less insular than <i>The Cool</i> or <i>Man On the Moon</i>. Even though Wale is interested in changing rap, he is a rapper to the core, and for all its dazzling sonic detours, his major- label debut is ultimately a showcase of rhyme skills. He has the swiftness and enthusiasm of a rookie, and his boasts in “Triumph” are marvelous: “Me against you the movie of the year / ‘Cause you slum dawg and I'm the millionaire / Their buzz internet and mines in her net / Should know I'm winnin’ that Chanel fitted cap.” The cross-genre appeal of <i>Attention Deficit</i> is confirmed by its guest list. Southern street-rap heroes Bun B and Gucci Mane appear alongside the pop stars Pharrell and Lady GaGa and modern-day divas Chrisette Michele and Jazmine Sullivan. Best of all, “Pretty Girls,” “Prescription” and “Shades” seamlessly incorporate the go-go rhythms of Wale’s native D.C., a nice hometown touch.

via Apple Music