Review by: Robin 'Oodie' Cooper
Staying within the roots and passion of his music, DC native Wale reintroduces the world to his ambitious state of mind. For most, the journey has been one worth following. Before reaching mainstream status, Wale’s beginnings consisted of local go-go influenced radio hits that earned him recognition and popularity throughout his hometown. Go-go, which is the DMV’s (DC, Maryland, Virginia) unique style of music still plays a major role and can be heard throughout mixtapes that highlight the start of Wale’s 2005 music career. Working with artists such as Amy Winehouse, Talib Kweli, Chrisette Michele and a variety of other well-known artists, Wale was well on his way before the existence of his first studio album.
After releasing a hand-full of mixtapes, Attention Deficit, Wale’s first studio album was released Nov. 10th, 2009 under Interscope Records. The first single “Chillin” featuring Lady Gaga created a buzz and was followed by the go-go influenced club track “Pretty Girls” featuring Atlanta rapper, Gucci Mane. Ranking in at 21 on the Billboard 200, the album only sold 28,000 copies the first week. August 3rd of the following year, Wale teamed up with DJ Omega to give us the More About Nothing mixtape. A mixtape that exceeded his debut album’s sales with 100,000+ downloads in 90 minutes. Wale vents about the success of his career, or lack thereof, while giving exerts from the t.v. sitcom Seinfield.
Early 2011, Wale announced his addition to Rick Ross’s Maybach Music Group, leaving behind ROC Nation. On the road to Ambition, Wale released yet another mixtape that buzzed the net. The Eleven One Eleven Theory, released August 17th via internet, was just one of many projects Wale engaged in. With tracks such as “Bait” & “That Way” circulating the airwaves and VBlogs documenting the progression of the upcoming LP, the anticipation grew.
With expectations already surrounding the awaited LP, it’s safe to say that Ambition may be one of 2011 best hip-hop albums. The cocky yet intellectual rapper wastes no time in the introduction song of Ambition. “Don’t Hold Your Applause” creates a vibe that lets you know that it’s Wale’s time. Serving witty lyrics over a mellow beat and addicting background vocals from an unknown female artist, Wale makes it quite clear that he has every right to brag. The LP’s first single “Lotus Flower Bomb” features r&b newbie Miguel. Of course, Wale gets the attention of the ladies as he taps into his poetic side using lines of metaphors to express his admiration towards a love interest. Wale outlines his success and all of its advantages in the DJ Toomp produced track “No Days Off”. The LP titled track “Ambition” features label mates Rick Ross & Meek Mill. “DC or Nothing” proves Wale will never forsake his beginnings as he gives you the realities of his hometown. Kid Cudi, Lloyd, and Ne-Yo along with several more artists are also featured.
Ambition exceeds expectations and puts Wale within the mix with today’s hottest lyricists. 11-1-11, get your copy!
OFFICIAL IVY LEAGUE GRADE: A+
Check out full album track previews of Ambition x Wale:
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