Getting the Neptunes to produce his eighth album has proved to be something of a masterstroke for Common. Granted, it doesn’t quite plumb the usual lyrical insights we’ve come to expect from the Chicago rapper, but it does feature some quality, ass shaking moments. Outright pop is the order of the day on catchy tracks like ‘Sex 4 Suga’, which is simple but brutally effective, while ‘What A World’ offers more of a pause for thought. The Neptunes’ production is typically lean, with lots of complementary synth lines and drum wig-outs to complement, while guests Cee-Lo and in particular Martina Topley-Bird supply their own brand of magic. This is Common’s pop album – and it’s impressively vital stuff.
5 Out Of 5
Reviewed By: Ben Hogwood
