Album Review: Drake – Thank Me Later

Artist: Drake
Album: Thank Me Later
Release Date: 06.15.10

Dear Drake,

I get it. You have made it to new heights in hip-hop, and the people who criticize your persona are “haters.” I also understand that you have earned more money than your naysayers, who probably want you to fall to the bottom just as quickly as you ascended to the top. Again, I get it. But here’s what I can’t fathom: When I listen to Thank Me Later, I hear definite talent, so why do I feel like you are holding back?

It is apparent that you study hip-hop history and have an affinity for the pioneers. On “Show Me A Good Time,” for example, you referenced your upbringing as an underground emcee and paid homage to the legendary J-Dilla and A Tribe Called Quest. On “Fancy,” you, T.I. and Swizz Beatz recorded an empowering song about independent women. Unfortunately, sir, those songs are so few and far between that they drown in the musical abyss that is Thank Me Later — an album that begins as an impressive debut for such a highly touted artist, but ultimately suffers from moments of tedium and arrogance.

Now Drake, before you and your supporters call for my resignation, please allow me to explain. When I listen to your product, I can truly tell that your heart is in the right place. If you decided to create an “underground” album, I believe the finished product would be very respectable. You are like Jay-Z in that regard. Over the years, Mr. Carter has proven his ability to create albums that own the Billboard charts and the streets. His release of the classic Reasonable Doubt in 1996, followed by In My Lifetime, Vol. 1 a year later is an example of such a feat. I see the same great potential in you, and clearly corporate America sees the same thing. I mean, you did have an endorsement deal with Sprite months before Thank Me Later was set for release. And I truly respect your willingness to sing on a track, and not just rely on rapping to get your point across. Your debut album, however, doesn’t have a clear identity and seems to teeter unevenly between hip-hop and somber pop music.

For instance, Thank Me Later begins with “Fireworks,” a very honest record in which you discuss your estranged relationship with your father, your parents’ divorce, and your respect for Lil’ Wayne. Then you follow that song with “Karaoke,” which is extremely underwhelming because of its lackluster production and lyrical incoherence. The energy picks up slightly on “The Resistance,” where you address the people who claim you’ve changed because of your success. Then there’s “Up All Night,” featuring Nicki Minaj, which finds you both waxing poetic about the amount of money in your respective bank accounts. On “Unforgettable,” you and Young Jeezy do a good job of communicating your promise to stay the same in the face of success.

All told, Drake, I hope you and your fans don’t take these words as “hate.” Then again, I’m certain someone will do just that. I see a solid career for you, but Thank Me Later does not properly showcase the talent that I think is living within you. While there are some definite highlights on this album, and you’ll definitely do some solid numbers, it lacks soul. So, to follow up on your request, I can’t thank you now, but I’m sure I’ll thank you later.

Sincerely,

Marcus J. Moore

Sound-Savvy rates Thank Me Later with 3 out of 5 platinum headphones.