I really like how Cole is evolving as an artist.
Musically, this album is sensational. He is turning into a mix of Kanye West and Jay-Z, with a fair amount of Pac and a tolerable amount of Drake influence. I love it.
Lyrically, it was impressive at some points, and the complete opposite at other times. Same goes for his punchline-game. Some are really witty, others just make me cringe and are completely redundant. But of course I have to give it a few more spins before I can judge it on that aspect.
Conceptually, I was expecting more. It was solid, but I expected more. Two or three tracks too many about relationships, sleeping around and cheating for me. Could have done without that imo. But then again, it's only understandable, because it's these tracks that will consolidate his female fanbase and also make more girls listen to/buy the album.
At the end of the day, I see myself really enjoying the album for what it is, it already blows H:TS, Carter IV (lol) and maybe even WTT out of the water on the second listen.
A definite must-buy to me, and I rarely ever buy albums
