Thursday, September 15, 2011

Wale – The Eleven One Elven Theory Mixtape (2011) – Review

Wale – The Eleven One Elven Theory
Earlier this year we got a taste of Wale as a part of his MMG team (Self Made, Vol. 1). With The Eleven One Eleven Theory we get to hear what to expect from his new solo album Ambition (due November 1, 2011), and it is really good – unlike Self Made (which featured mostly street bangers), this mixtape has a lot more sole and hip hop appeal. Wale’s first album (Attention Deficit) was fantastic, but it greatly undersold. Thus, Ambition is his shot at redemption and validation. Wale brings a lot of energy and lyrical skill to this mixtape, but the mixing and production quality is a bit lacking at times (which is the case with mixtapes in general) and two of the best tracks Chain Music and Bait are expected to be on his upcoming album – both of which hold it back. Tone P does however does provide decent tracks. What stands out the most though is Wale’s drive and rhyming, which is maybe the most important aspect in hip hop. I think this mixtape is solid and a good indication of what we can expect on Ambition (I just hope the production is a bit better – which it should be), an album I am highly anticipating. 3/5

Editor’s Song Picks:
1)      The Podium – Featuring Black Cobain, Tre of UCB & Tone P, produced by Tone P
2)      Varsity Blues – Produced by Tone P
3)      Barry Sanders – Produced by DJ Toomp

Available on Digital Download

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