Canadian rapper Aubrey Drake Graham’s second offering Take Care is something of a head-scratcher. Produced by long time collaborator Noah ‘40’ Shebib, the album’s sound is far more stripped back than much of the ‘hip pop’ offerings currently dominating the charts. Rather, this collection is reminiscent of the nu-soul movement (Drake moves from rap to a velvety soulful croon throughout). As such, it takes a few listens to really get into Take Care. And though it’s not without its charms, it’s not without its problems either…
All too often the album’s chilled out, hazy sound seems at odds with the 25 year-old’s frankly massive ego. Often referred to as a thoughtful and contemplative songwriter, Drake certainly doesn’t come across as a shy and retiring wallflower on Take Care. Case in point is ‘Shot For Me’ – smoky, minimalist beats conjure up balmy nights lit by candles and incense... but wait, what’s that you’re crooning, Drake? “Bitch, I’m the man/ Yeah I said It/ Bitch I’m the man/ Don’t you forget it.” There are disappointing moments too even on the more sincere tracks, despite the big-name collaborators (I’m looking at you André 3000). When it’s good, it’s very good – Drake is at his best on sublime key track ‘The Ride’, the unsettling ‘Marvin’s Room’, and the more up-tempo hook-laden ‘We’ll Be Fine’, featuring Birdman.
Definitely worth a listen, but prepare to be confused.