B.o.B. has to be one of
the most interesting specimens in Hip-Hop. Entering the game with
conscious lyrics and unique vibes, the ATLien soared to new heights last
year with explosive mainstream success off his debut album- which
showed an array of sides to the rapper. With this taken into
consideration, fans know to expect an eclectic sound and something
outside of the box on his sophomore LP, Strange Clouds. The question is, how strange will this be?
The intro, “Bombs Away” features actor Morgan Freeman
for dialogue on the track. The first piece of strange is encountered,
though the feature goes well with the cinematic production that Bobby
Ray utilizes to flex his straight rap skills (“I am in drive, y’all are in park/ Look at my shot, look at the arc/ Look at the crowd as soon as I start”). Each song takes on its own personality, and makes for an adventurous ride. “Ray Bands” sounds like a T.I. influenced, but ultimately B.o.B.-stamped, boastful track.
Tip makes an actual appearance on “Arena” alongside Chris Brown, and B.o.B. shows some of his best lines (“Flow dumb, but I’m so smart/ I compose art, call me Mozart”). Standout “So Good” is where B.o.B. sounds the most comfortable; with ambitious production, catchy chorus work, and no features. The entire album
is filled with big name artists that can cramp B.o.B’s style at times,
and this sounds like he’s stretching out his musical arms for a breath
of fresh air.
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