Kid Cudi’s second album, “Man On The Moon II,” takes a closer look at the drugged and depressed superstar. Cudi, clearly unsatisfied with his career, openly sings about it in his17-track album.
The album begins and ends on a solemn note, focusing on the tales of a drug-addicted rap star who doesn’t know what to do with his life.
The muddy album production seems rushed, with muffled bass and vocals that sound like Cudi recorded the album in a cardboard box.
Even though Cudi recruited an all-star cast of guest artists for the album, including indie-pop singer St. Vincent, soul singer Cee-Lo Green and rap icon Mary J. Blige, their stellar talent don’t make up for Cudi’s subpar performance.
The album’s executive producer, Kanye West, performs on the album’s standout single “Erase Me,” which features a catchy chorus and electric guitar.
All of these artists contribute their own strengths to the album, but they aren’t enough to make Cudi sound strong.
Overall, Cudi’s sophomore album doesn’t live up to fans’ high expectations. On his website, the 26-year-old rapper said that he’s leaving the rap “game” after the release of this album. Which maybe isn’t such a bad idea.