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THE AUDITORIUM VOL. 1
HIP-HOP
COMMON & PETE ROCK
8.5/10
Reviewed By: Jewels Alexandria
(3 Minute Read)
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Common and Pete Rock have just released a not so common album to hear these days. And for the younger generation out there, these two are iconic figures in hip hop who are proving age does not define music. Common’s sultry voice over Pete Rock’s classic Hip Hop beats is the combination needed right in the middle of summer. With all that has been going on this year, it is great to see Hip Hop is doing its thing this year. It is being said this album is almost has good as Common’s classic 2005 Be album. Primarily and executively produced my mega producer/rapper, Kanye West. I would not go as far to say that, but it is a damn good album and hip hop at that. An album I did not know I was waiting for.
Let’s start with production. Pete Rock’s production is just as good as Kanye and I could not help but think of J. Dilla throughout the entire project. It also made me think it would be great if they were to release an instrumental album to vibe out to the beats alone. The Auditorium Vol. 1 is ideal for a car ride around your city. And for you Hip Hop fans out there or those of you who enjoy a good freestyle with friends, an instrumental album would be great. It would also give us the chance to hear each instrument used in the songs. Another aspect about production is everything does not have to be so turnt up. I feel consumers today are so wrapped up in Mustard or Metro type beats they have forgotten how to relax. Or to appreciate sampling from a different view. Or simply value hip hop. Some samples used on the album include, Aretha Franklin, DeLa Soul, Marvin Gaye, Curtis Mayfield, even Malcom X. So many beautiful samples taken to shine light on those before us with a wonderful hip hop finish.
Lyrically, Common will always have it. There were times on the project where I Used to Love H.E.R came out. Hip Hop is constantly changing and Common was able to capture that particular change with the classic hit. And he is doing the same with songs like Stellar and So Many People. But being sure to keep up with the times. He expresses his frustration yet love for the art still. His love for women, Chicago and hip hop are all still present. And as always, he uses his words for teaching of black excellence, love and paying homage to those before us and to come. His story telling is top notch and his comforting soulful voice compliments the beats and lyrics. In world full of 2 minute songs, Common is not afraid to give us three verse songs at four minutes long or longer. A craft I feel has lost its touch in this microwave generation.
This review was written a lot quicker than I normally would. So, I do not believe I am able to fully digest every aspect of the album like I would like to. But due to the nature of this particular style of music, I found it important to get it out there before it blows over. Although my true hip hop fans out there will continue to appreciate this album and pay close attention as it ages. Which I feel will age well. Just need a little more time to appreciate what this album is attempting to convey.
Favorites:
Dreamin’
Chi-Town Do it
This Man
We’re On Our Way
So Many People
Everything’s So Grand
Now And Then
July 16, 2024