Hip-Hop's Forum

Wale doesn't lack focus on first studio release.

By: Chris Wallace (Writer: Hip-Hop’s Forum)

The rookie class has been impressive thus far.  Next up?  Wale.  With his release date being pushed back several times, the wait is finally over.  The DC native blows up on Attention Deficit; the first studio album of his young career.

After a slew of mixtapes that built up his buzz from a local to national scale (see Jay-Z tour), Mr. Folarin takes us on a journey of sounds and stories with visits from some Hip-Hop/R&B’s talented along the way.

From Gucci Mane’s swag, to the wholesome sound of Jazmine Sullivan, to the playful Chrisette Michelle, to a killer verse from J. Cole; Attention Deficit has all you could ask for.

When Wale hears a beat it’s almost as if he molds his voice to every detail in the music.  His vocals become an extension of the sound allowing his lyricism to shine as the focal point of each track.  Sonically it’s unique because of the way it all flows together like waves with Attention Deficit being his ocean.

This is one of the first reviews where I could talk about every song.  Many albums can be good overall. This one is impressive from start to finish.

“Mirrors” exhibits Wale teaming up with underground king, Bun-B.  The Texan hops on an upbeat joint and shines, showing us he can get the point across no matter what.  Mark Ronson supplies a great beat while both artists do such a great job it’s almost tough to keep up.

“Pretty Girls” brings in a new face to Wale’s resume, Gucci Mane.  Surprisingly with Gucci on the track, it stays classy and there’s no unnecessary “Burrs!” or “Gucci’s!” thrown in.

On “World Tour” we are introduced to the talented Jazmine Sullivan.  The song is a complete rush, and you continue to hear how Wale integrates his flow into the speed of the track.  Sullivan has a Mary J. Blige essence through her soulful and raspy vocals. Wale’s lyricism takes us on a ride:

Niggas more than life its more than life
but when you return home you ignored by the gorgeous wife
and she feel slighted and you dont want to fight with her cuz’ you tired
but now it’s back to the lab 45 messages right after you land
feet feel swollen you gone from the zanax and risking your life with the mic in your hand

The Neptunes put work in with “Let it Loose”.  From the diverse beat to Pharrell’s hook, the duo hits a homerun.  Granted — it’s pretty tough to screw up a Neptunes beat. Thankfully, Wale doesn’t.

If you’re looking for a female artist to follow please make it Chrisette Michelle.  She’s something else and her gospel background is evident on “Shades”, an interesting twist in the traditional rapper/singer mixture.

The song that built anticipation for the rapper’s debut, “Chillin”, fits well into the mix.  Folarin should thank those involved in putting this all together and getting it out to the masses so early.

If I had to pick a song I was disappointed with it would be “Contemplate” featuring Rihanna.  The song works but I would’ve left Rihanna’s vocals alone without added effects. Without question it would have left me overwhelmed if done a different way.

My favorite track, “Beautiful Bliss”, is perfect. DJ Green Lantern and Mark Ronson team up to give us a beat that is simple but does no distract us from Wale and J. Cole’s verses.  This is by far the best I have heard J. Cole and every time I hear something new from him I’m more impressed.  If putting in his whole verse wasn’t excessive I’d do it but here is just a small taste:

For that living large but mama I ain’t done yet
Sit back and watch your son rise
Kick back until yo’ son set
Forever I ain’t run yet and I never will
Nas told me life’s a bitch
Pac said fuck the world and I ain’t come yet
You up yet?

Some of the features I was unable to get to, K’naan — a rapper that really has caught my personal attention— and Marsha Ambrosius, former member of Floetry, both connect well with the DC rapper.

On Attention Deficit Wale is having fun.  His effortless skill is never lacking clarity, and the guests, whether rappers, singers, or producers, encompass a full body of work well worth the wait.

Give this a listen and if you don’t agree this is a breath of fresh air on planet Hip-Hop I’d be interested to hear why.

Thanks Wale Folarin.  You have our complete and undivided attention.