
Reported live from the house Russell and Rick built:
1. “Pain & Torture”
When it comes to producers, Buckwild’s a name you can trust. And on this booming track, Jada talks greasier than a can of WD-40.
2. “Can’t Stop Me” Featuring Ayannna Irish
Not even the Ashford and Simpson-penned sample (Ross!) could get this track high enough on the charts.
3. “Who’s Real” Featuring Swizz Beatz and OJ Da Juiceman
Putting Jada and OJ on the same track is like mixing vodka and milk. Yuck.
4. “Grind Hard” Featuring Mary J Blige
It’s a 914 thing. The track has an electro bounce to it and meshes well with Mary’s vocals.
5. “Something Else” Featuring Young Jeezy
Dark and moody guitar strings back Jason and Jay. But honestly, it’s better suited for the Snowman with lines like: “See these blood diamonds, my chain African.” Yep, ignorance is bliss and I’m cheesing from ear to ear.
Wale, in this track, shows once again his ability to blend different genres. He doesn't limit himself to hip-hop, but enriches it with R&B nuances, creating a familiar sound. This fusion is not only an exercise in style, but serves to intensify the emotional impact of the song. And then there is his ability to rap. Wale is a master at playing with words, creating complex rhymes and modulating his voice to best express his emotions. In 'Blanco', his rap part is an explosion of words that intertwine with the melody, creating a hypnotic and relaxing effect. His ability to go from moments of pure energy to moments of deep introspection is what makes this track so engaging; it reminds me of when you would slow dance, hugging your woman.