Creating music is an all-encompassing process from start to finish. From the initial concept to the final mixing and mastering every element is considered. And if any of those elements are neglected it becomes glaringly obvious. Kid Cudi's sophomore album seems to lack none of the components that it takes to build a beautiful musical landscape. Hip Hop has always been heavily based on lyrical content that reflected current events and social conditions. But Mr. Cudi takes traditional Hip Hop to a whole new level by not only adding clever rhymes and lyrical content but also adding solid melodies, beautiful driving instrumentals, and a compelling story line. His collaborations for all intents and purposes are flawless and innovative. Heavy hitters like Mary J. Blige, Chip tha Ripper, Kanye West, Ratatat, Cee-lo, Cage, St. Vincent, GLC, and Nicole Wray are the featured artists. Cudi gets some help on the production end from Kanye West, No I.D., the Neptunes, Ratatat, and Jim Jonsin. From start to finish the album is a head banger. The Achilles heal of the LP is the striking similarity to the first album. It is however aptly named “Man on the Moon 2: Legend of Mr. Rager” and lives up to it’s name. So upon first spin the album might seem a little redundant. But the about a quarter of a way through the second listen the album comes alive. Tracks like “Mojo so Dope” and “Lost in the Mood” offering commentaries about consumerism and drug culture. Cudi’s rhyme scheme, subject matter, and style along with his mixture of genres are what make the album. The ebb and flow of the album doesn’t give any credence to a specific style or genre which revolutionizes rap music all together. Kid Cudi is opening the door to a world never before discovered in music with his honest exploration of himself and his reality.
