by Shakeil Greeley

Created on: December 27, 2007   Last Updated: September 22, 2008

Lupe Fiasco is one of the best young rappers in the business today. His first album, although didn't move large numbers, was a great work of critically-acclaimed art. How does his sophomore album stand up to his previous album?

First off, don't look at this album as a rap or hip hop album, because this is is years ahead of 90% of any Hip Hop out right now, and 100% better than anything you will hear on the radio. It is different, an experiment almost. The Cool is truly something that your ears will probably not be accustomed to.

One more thing before we get to the actual review, is the concept driving the album, the trinity of The Game, The Streets, and The Cool, the three macabre characters that Lupe created to fuel the album. But don't be expecting to hear him blatantly saying each character's name in each song, but do look for subtle mentions of the names or their characteristics. However, this concept, though interesting, only is apparent on a few tracks, so don't worry to much about it.

"The Cool" starts of with Lupe's sister, saying a few lines of poetry, a nice intro, no beat or anything, so I don't really consider it a song

Next we have a short interlude dedicated to Lupe's parter, Chilly, who was recently sentenced to 44 years in prison. The beat is solid and I was hoping it was a full son when I listened to it, however, as it is also an interlude, I wont give it a rating and move on.

"Go Go Gadget Flow" is a great song. The production is solid and fits Lupe's flow very well, creating a very satisfying package. The hook is extremely catchy, and there is definitely radio potential. The lyrics are solid as well.
8.75/10

"The Coolest" is lyrically, one of the best songs Lupe has ever done in his career. His flow is smooth, the element of story telling that is incorporated into the song is mind-blowing too. The beat feels right at home with Lupe's lyrics and flow, the piano and violins providing great background support. My only problem with the song is the hook, which is said about 16 time before the song starts. This isn't that big of a problem, but it does bring the song's over-all
score.
9/10

"Superstar" is the album's main single, which was a very smart move by Lupe. Matthew Santos sings a great hook, setting the stage for Lupe, who delivers a fantastic lyrical package. The production is perfect for the song as well, making it one of the best songs on the album.
10/10

"Paris, Tokyo" brings you to a whole other place in Lupe's mind. The whole song just feels relaxed

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