Hip-Hop / Rap / Experimental
8/10
It’s important, while listening to, or considering buying Universal Mind Control, to understand that it’s not a traditional Common LP. Every couple of years, Common likes to take a break from soul samples and street-poet lyrics to put out a more fun, electronic-influenced album. For some people, this change of pace might take a little while to get used to (be glad he isn’t using autotune and stop whining), but after a couple of listens, you’ll see that the artistic lyricism Common is known for is there, and Pharrell does a good job delivering beats that sound like a fusion of Techno, Hip Hop, and International music. If you’re already a fan of Common, it will be easy to see how Universal Mind Control sounds a lot like, and is based on the same innovative concept of Common’s previous album, Electric Circus. The biggest difference between the two is that the late DJ Dilla was Electric Circus’ executive producer, while Pharrell Williams is Universal Mind Control’s executive producer. Although not quite as good as Electric Circus, Universal Mind Control is still a solid album and I would recommend it to anybody who isn’t afraid to try something different.
Track List
1. “Universal Mind Control” *****/5
2. “Punch Drunk Love” *****/5
3. “Make My Day” ****/5
4. “Sex 4 Sugar” **/5
5. “Announcement” *****/5
6. “Gladiator” *****/5
7. “Change” ***/5
8. “Inhale” ****/5
9. “What A World” **/5
10. “Everywhere” ****/5
Why are you so mean to your mother? (Ms. or Mrs.?) Ortega is the bombest Spanish teacher ever!!! She is so awesome and really breaks down Spanish better than other lousy language teacher at this school. Plus she’s so naturally hilarious and warm to everyone!! I am gonna miss having her next year in Spanish 3):