THE FORCE

11年振り、待望のニュー・アルバム!

Eminem, Snoop Dogg, Rick Ross, Nas, Busta Rhymesなどのレジェンド・アーティストが多数参加!

Hip-hop legend LL Cool J reaffirms his legacy on his 14th studio album, and his first in over ten years, The FORCE. For many rappers this far into their trajectory, when albums start coming once every decade or so, the returns are diminished and expectations are low. LL defies this unfortunate trend with an album of sure-footed flows, unexpectedly varying thematic material, and warm, mellow instrumentals that complement the relaxed rhyme styles. There are no trap or drill beats here, but theres also a refreshing turn away from by-the-numbers boom-bap nostalgia. "Praise Him," which features a cameo from Nas, is an electric blur of pushy four-on-the-floor percussion and neo-soul atmospheres, setting up an unlikely but captivating background for quick rhymes about coming up in hard times in New York back in the day. Dazzling synth parts balance out LLs ruthless, speedy flows on richly musical tunes like "Passion," and funky bass makes the celebratory "Basquiat Energy" move. Multiple superstar guests swing by to make The FORCE all the more impactful. Snoop Dogg offers up an intense hook on the militant opener, "Spirit of Cyrus"; Saweetie contributes a verse to "Proclivities," a standout track that somehow flips a Gary Numan sample into something sensual and playful (similarly, "Huey in the Chair" is built around a Can sample); and elsewhere throughout The FORCE, LL Cool J is joined by Eminem, Busta Rhymes, Rick Ross, Fat Joe, and others. Its a powerful and often unpredictable set that reminds us that even though its been a while since his last album, LL Cool Js track record has far more hits than misses. ~ TiVo Staff