West Coast hip-hop is back, but on his new album, Ice Cube is still stuck in the past
Following a short time away, Compton’s legend Ice Cube is back with another big one, Man Up. But does it land?
The West Coast rapper has been working in the shadows for his new album, a surprise announcement few were expecting. His last project, Man Down, was critically panned despite a huge marketing campaign.
Review and Verdict
He’s got something to say, but who hasn’t? Cube articulates his thoughts and ideas to a constructive degree — though he falters on many accounts and lacks panache.
The former technique he was known for? That’s long gone, in fact, his style hasn’t evolved since his early career, and we’re still getting his early 1990s best. Depending on who you ask, that could be a good thing.
READ MORE: ‘Before Hip-Hop’: Ice Cube Reveals Toxic History on New Single
However, considering the vast resources and time he has at his disposal, it’s hard to believe we have arrived to — yet again — an average body of work.
Man Up isn’t built for a contemporary world — it’s nostalgic, fun — but lacks bite for the modern game. It’s an enjoyable listen, but that’s not enough.
Leave a Reply