Compton
by Dr. Dre
User Score
8.3

Universal acclaim- based on 275 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 237 out of 275
  2. Mixed: 21 out of 275
  3. Negative: 17 out of 275

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  1. TheDarkVillon
    Jan 11, 2016
    10
    Initially I was blown back by the difference in sound from 2001 and almost didn't listen to it. After getting over the fact hip hop has evolved massively in 16 years I gave it another go......Dre........You are still KING. My favorite of your works yet and cant stop listening to it. I challenge an Dre fan who criticizes this work to listen to it once a day for four days in a row and if itInitially I was blown back by the difference in sound from 2001 and almost didn't listen to it. After getting over the fact hip hop has evolved massively in 16 years I gave it another go......Dre........You are still KING. My favorite of your works yet and cant stop listening to it. I challenge an Dre fan who criticizes this work to listen to it once a day for four days in a row and if it doesn't start working its magic on you by then. It never will and I feel for you as this is AMAZING.....Nuff Said… Expand
  2. Army_of_One
    Jun 24, 2016
    9
    I'm glad Dr. Dre waited sixteen years to give this to us. I really am. Detox may finally be officially over, but with the release of Compton, that's no matter at all. In the decade and a half since 2001, Dre's sophomore solo effort, Hip-Hop has undeniably changed. The 90's where crammed to the rafters with hardcore rap - The Wu-Tang, Nas, just to name a few - but now, that isn't the case.I'm glad Dr. Dre waited sixteen years to give this to us. I really am. Detox may finally be officially over, but with the release of Compton, that's no matter at all. In the decade and a half since 2001, Dre's sophomore solo effort, Hip-Hop has undeniably changed. The 90's where crammed to the rafters with hardcore rap - The Wu-Tang, Nas, just to name a few - but now, that isn't the case. Newcomers have tried new things; you'd never have caught a rapper singing on his albums before 2008, but Kanye did it, and then so did Drake, which resulted in R&B and Hip-Hop merging into one untidy mess. The era that Dre first made music in has long gone, and Compton makes a clear point at why this is a good thing. (Don't worry, there's no sappy R&B here though)

    I didn't like The Chronic. I didn't like 2001, besides a few of the better songs I picked out of it. (And it always confuses me why he called it that when it came out in 1999, only two years prior to the album title. Sure, you can name your album anything you like, but if you're going to title it a year that hasn't yet arrived, why not call name it a year that won't come and pass in such a short space of time?) Because this album is so sonically departed from the last two, and the topics are more serious, (less about smoking weed every day, for starters) I can easily say I really like this album. The beats are modern and heavily layered. The verses feel energized - Dre has an entirely new, almost unrecognizable flow. If there's ever a time where you want to hear him spit poison from his bared fangs, look at "Genocide". The beat is perfect here - it captures the atmosphere violently, powerfully. The steadily lowering bass line feels like it's shuddering down your spine. Dre unleashes an unseen fury, backed up by the one and only Kendrick Lamar, who seems to be using his To Pimp A Butterfly voice with his good kid, m.A.A.d city subject matter. Could it get any better? Speaking of Kendrick, all of the features on Compton all live up to expectations, showcasing both new talent (Anderson .Paak, Justus, and King Mez, the newcomers who are all scattered across the writing credits of the entire 16 songs of the album) and old talent from Dre's time (Ice Cube comes through with a verse, and Snoop Dogg is angrier than we've heard him in a long time). Kendrick delivers three solid verses on three tracks ("Genocide", "Darkside/Gone", and "Deep Water") and Eminem can be found right on the back end of "Medicine Man".

    Here's the thing with Eminem - we've already mentioned that Hip-Hop has drastically changed since Dre's time. Eminem proves the point harder than most - on 2001 we heard his 1999 nasally, pipsqueak, but still very compelling flow that was to be found on The Slim Shady LP and a few other places, like the Sway & King Tech posse cut. Now, we have his Shady XV, 40-year-old angry shout, the rage slowly building up from a calmness that I hoped would last, but didn't.

    Dre claimed that the inspiration for the album came from watching "Straight Outta Compton" the 2015 bio-film titled after N.W.A.'s 1988 debut album. It seems cliche, but it works; the album talk of Compton street violence and N.W.A. comes out fresh and re-polished, even after so many years. You can tell Dre misses N.W.A., especially Eazy-E, who succumbed to AIDS in 1995 after the group had fallen apart. A twenty year old Eazy voice sample is used for a spectacular beat switch on Darkside/Gone; "Eazy-E, CPT, OG from the other side" brilliant. Two decades down and Eazy still kills it from the grave.
    Another reason I'm glad Dre waited so long for Compton is because it feels like it's also inspired by so many things since the 90's, musically and otherwise. In terms of the music inspirations, I was drawing comparisons between good kid, m.A.A.d city and this album. Not the impeccable, genius, personally narrative flow that GKMC has, but it feels musically inspired by Kendrick's masterpiece, which isn't surprising due to Kendrick's appearances on this album, Kendrick and Dre's outside affiliation, and the fact both albums are set in Compton, Los Angeles. The the beats on both "Genocide", and also "Satisfiction", remind me of Chance The Rapper's "Paranoia" in the way that the sound almost draws you completely into the realm of the artist, and makes the lyrics feel so much heavier, with a much harder punch. But atmospheric music all we get; lines like "I lie on the side of a one way street / Nowhere to go, death all I can see" definitely wouldn't fit on the celebratory horns of "Talk About It" which instead houses the lines "I said I want it all! / Damn, I'm too old, I forgot I got it all." Dre just bought California. 9.0/10    … Expand
  3. Jensen67
    May 23, 2017
    9
    2015 was a really good year for hip hop in my opinion, and this album did nothing but help it earn that sentiment from me. There are no bad songs on this in my opinion.

    Best songs: Deep Water / Issues / Loose Cannons
  4. echoaplhaecho
    Aug 7, 2015
    10
    Corrected with spelling mistakes:

    Well, I waited for this like you. I was expecting an next episode, it was all a dream. Yes the Kendricks tracks are cool however one thing I do know is this should have been as good as killer mike, ELP, Vince Staples and or 50 cent considering the time. This Album to me. as a consumer feels like Dre has delivered to the standard I expect, however if I    Corrected with spelling mistakes:

    Well, I waited for this like you. I was expecting an next episode, it was all a dream. Yes the Kendricks tracks are cool however one thing I do know is this should have been as good as killer mike, ELP, Vince Staples and or 50 cent considering the time. This Album to me. as a consumer feels like Dre has delivered to the standard I expect, however if I was to listen to new ATL and CA rap I don't see this as a tour de force. TBH and IMO Kendricks has already done this, yes I understand he is very much featured on this album.I was expecting however that Kendric would haven been influenced by Dre, I dont expect the other way round! Songs like "it's all on me" makes a difference but as rap exists ATM, its just a flash back ( good flash back). How it is now, we have to consider twerking, chippy non stop, SchoolboyQ and Geasy.

    I have longed for this album but as we all know 2002 was a long time ago

    Every song is down to a legend but its not new school and the track that bring us back to old school are suggestive (you may not agree).    … Expand
  5. TheKavehJ
    Aug 9, 2015
    10
    COMPTON by DR. DRE is perfect. One of the best rap albums I have ever heard, and one of the best albums I have ever heard. I didn't know music could be this good, but Dr Dre delivers.
  6. T-Racks
    Aug 8, 2015
    7
    With the album, Dre sounds reinvigorated and as if he's about to have a career resurgence when this is sadly his swan song. The production is varied and A1 , the mixing and mastering is incredibly crisp and the guest features do not waste their potential at all. Dre has a knack for mixing old school talent and new school talents, and he does this very well with this project (HonourableWith the album, Dre sounds reinvigorated and as if he's about to have a career resurgence when this is sadly his swan song. The production is varied and A1 , the mixing and mastering is incredibly crisp and the guest features do not waste their potential at all. Dre has a knack for mixing old school talent and new school talents, and he does this very well with this project (Honourable mention: Anderson .Paak). It is the most reflective, cohesive and introspective The doctor has ever been. Yes ,there arent any definitive West coast bangers like "Still D.R.E" or G Funk wildness of "nothing but a G thing". This is the work of a man who has matured enough to see his life events with different lenses and a man who was aware that no matter how much he worked on Detox, it would still not live up to the unreal hype. This is the work of somebody who is willing to embrace the old and the new and fuse it into something that's more fitting to his present situations, but without abandoning his roots: this album is still very West coast but more polished and gorgeously layered than his previous works. With that said, it is still his third best album in the trilogy. Is that a bad thing? No, it just means that the albums this album is competing with have had years to mature and have stood the test of time. However, all I can say for now to Dr Dre is, goodbye and thank you for the memories… Expand
  7. Twisty
    Aug 8, 2015
    8
    'Compton' is, obviously, far from the Old School gangsta vibes that characterized 'The Chronic' and '2001', but, somehow, as Dre has evolved continuosly along with the rap, being a producer of both New School and Old School, he has the ability to make here something, matter of fact, not different to whatever stuff other young producers make, but better done. I can definitely say that it'Compton' is, obviously, far from the Old School gangsta vibes that characterized 'The Chronic' and '2001', but, somehow, as Dre has evolved continuosly along with the rap, being a producer of both New School and Old School, he has the ability to make here something, matter of fact, not different to whatever stuff other young producers make, but better done. I can definitely say that it has been better written than produced. It has a strong start, being the first 5 tracks my favorite ones of the album. All featured artists seem to be inspired by the fact of working with a legend like Dr. Dre, and they spit amazing verses, although I don’t really dig at all the flows in most of the verses. Kendrick is the best collaborator in the album, as he appears in 3 songs making dope bars. Amazing Game and Snoop. Ice Cube doing his thing too. Em, as always, untouchable at his rhymes, but again using the same fast and hasty flow he has been using since Recovery, and that I can’t **** with. But I feel like Dre keeps the themes of the songs really simple considering he may have a lot of **** to talk about after 16 years, mostly rapping about how proud he is of everything he has done and how much money he has gain and talking less about the 90’s and his life itself. But actually 'Compton' serves as a good biography of himself, perfectly realized at the point of choosing the features, being mostly rappers and artists Dre has worked with thoughout his career, also being a big part of them born and raised in Compton, as it should be. I gotta admit that by looking at the collaborators and at the fact it’s been 16 years since Dre’s last album, I was expecting more of this one, but anyway, I find this to be a solid work and it accomplishes his function of being a good statement for Compton, and showing how this city has gave so much to the hip-hop, and still does.… Expand
  8. Abomb312
    Aug 7, 2015
    10
    amazing project solid beats and raw rapping all comes together to make one of the best albums in a minute Dre has mastered the sound of every generation a album filled with new talent and old the perfect blend of old school and new school Kendrick Lamar and Eminem deliver two of the best verses on the album solute DR D.R.E!
  9. Nebulous
    Aug 8, 2015
    9
    'Compton' delivers in all major categories - beats, lyrics and subject-matter. From the first listen I was hooked in and it truly feels like a soundtrack, or even a movie itself. The production reminds me of Kendrick Lamar's work (not surprising) and definitely has that good kid, m.A.A.d city (forgive me, I couldn't help the comparison) vibe to it across all levels. However it doesn't'Compton' delivers in all major categories - beats, lyrics and subject-matter. From the first listen I was hooked in and it truly feels like a soundtrack, or even a movie itself. The production reminds me of Kendrick Lamar's work (not surprising) and definitely has that good kid, m.A.A.d city (forgive me, I couldn't help the comparison) vibe to it across all levels. However it doesn't sound like a typical Dre album - there's no gangsta rap / G-funk sound like on 'Chronic' and '2001'. Luckily I didn't go into this album expecting that same sound Dre is renown for - it's 2015, times have changed in music. That doesn't change anything from the fact that the production is still top-notch and artistic. Despite this, I still would have wanted at least a couple signature Dre beats, which is why I resist from giving this album a 10 as a DR. DRE album. The closest song that comes to such a sound is 'Issues' featuring Ice Cube which still has that N.W.A. vibe to it regardless.

    As for the guest appearances, every single one delivers something to the album, especially artists such as King Mez, Marsha Ambrosius, Justus, Jon Connor and Anderson Paak. Eminem delivers, as does Kendrick whose verses get better and better as the album progresses.

    Don't go into this album expecting typical Dre beats and you'll be really impressed. Dre's sending off on a high, it really is, in his own words, a 'grand finale'.

    FAVOURITE TRACKS: 'Darkside / Gone', 'Genocide', 'Issues', 'Loose Cannons', 'Deep Water', 'Satisfaction', 'Talk About It'    … Expand
  10. kennythekoala
    Aug 14, 2015
    8
    Dark, gritty, funky, but rough around the edges.

    + Great Production + Kendrick's 3 verses add 2 points to this albums score. + collaboration with other artists are smooth and seamless and work great + Dre sounds powerful and obviously put a lot of work into this - Dre is overshadowed by his features - some hooks are hard to listen to, or just don't work - Feels more    Dark, gritty, funky, but rough around the edges.

    + Great Production

    + Kendrick's 3 verses add 2 points to this albums score.

    + collaboration with other artists are smooth and seamless and work great

    + Dre sounds powerful and obviously put a lot of work into this

    - Dre is overshadowed by his features

    - some hooks are hard to listen to, or just don't work

    - Feels more like a Compton rapper + Eminem album then a Dr Dre joint    … Expand
  11. nirvanafreak
    Aug 12, 2015
    6
    I mean Yh it's good and everything but it's very far from chronic and 2001 level. People say give it time and don't compare it to them but how can you not. If he makes us wait 16 years for the **** it can't just be solid even if he didn't spend all that time working on it. If the whole album was as good as genocide and deep water I think then it would be acceptable because those songs areI mean Yh it's good and everything but it's very far from chronic and 2001 level. People say give it time and don't compare it to them but how can you not. If he makes us wait 16 years for the **** it can't just be solid even if he didn't spend all that time working on it. If the whole album was as good as genocide and deep water I think then it would be acceptable because those songs are two of the best songs I've heard all year. Also, there seems to be a lack of Dre on the album, theres even 2 songs he's not even on. However, it's still a good record with plenty of lyrical throwbacks to spot, mostly great beats as dre is known for and sick features especially from Kendrick Lamar, King Mez and Xzibit (OH MY **** GOD ITS SO GOOD TO HEAR XZIBIT AGAIN). Eminem feature felt a bit unnecessary though and where is Hittman :'(… Expand
  12. razoredwardo
    Aug 10, 2015
    10
    Which other legend can find a way to balance old school hip-hop and modern day hip-hop!

    This is simply just what the Doctor Ordered! I mean Kendrick, Eminem, King Mez, Ice Cube, Snopp all just killed this.
  13. Myggdreper
    Aug 8, 2015
    10
    I'm gonna keep it short. The production is hard-hitting and feels grand - you immediately feel that this is something huge. And you should, this is after all Dre's final album. And even though it's hard-hitting and pretty loud, it still has the laid-back west coast sound Dre is famous for. I assume the use of auto-tune will get some criticism, but I love it. It's not used to hide or coverI'm gonna keep it short. The production is hard-hitting and feels grand - you immediately feel that this is something huge. And you should, this is after all Dre's final album. And even though it's hard-hitting and pretty loud, it still has the laid-back west coast sound Dre is famous for. I assume the use of auto-tune will get some criticism, but I love it. It's not used to hide or cover up a bad voice, rather it's just a tool to give the music a specific sound and feel. In short, the production is glorious. Which one of course expects from a Dre album.

    The lyrics is the weakest part of the album, but does not really matter. Dre's former work has never had groundbreaking bars and lines, but they are real, fosho. And if we count in the verses from the guest artists, like Eminem, Kendrick, Cube and even Snoop this the lyrics are with no doubt on par with all other rap these days.

    God damn, Dre still got it. It's his final album, and he actually sounds hungry! This may be his last album, but I don't think this is the last we've heard from the The Watcher of The Rap Game.    … Expand
  14. alexc9339
    Aug 9, 2015
    10
    The Doc pulled out all the stops on this one. The beats are absolutely incredible and the performances of his guests are downright jaw-dropping; from lesser known artists like Jon Connor and King Mez to Dre's usual suspects Eminem, Kendrick Lamar and not to mention nostalgic collaborators like Snoop Dogg, Ice Cube and even Xzibit. And that's not to take away from the Doc himself, his flowThe Doc pulled out all the stops on this one. The beats are absolutely incredible and the performances of his guests are downright jaw-dropping; from lesser known artists like Jon Connor and King Mez to Dre's usual suspects Eminem, Kendrick Lamar and not to mention nostalgic collaborators like Snoop Dogg, Ice Cube and even Xzibit. And that's not to take away from the Doc himself, his flow is a good as its ever been, if not, better. Overall this a immaculately crafted album that hits all the right ways in ways that we wanted and even in ways we didn't know we wanted. This is the empathic grand finale that I'm sure the Doc meant it to be. He does not disappoint.… Expand
  15. CauzaaH
    Aug 9, 2015
    9
    This album bangs so hard! Dear people stuck in the past: get out of its **** you might actually enjoy the music ;)

    Wouldn't have minded seeing Crooked I, Horseshoe G.A.N.G on there though tbh.
  16. lion-o
    Aug 20, 2015
    2
    I wanted RAP, what I got was an usher album. I will go back to listening to Tupac, at least he has an excuse for not delivering **** after 16 years. Dre should have just made an album of unreleased tracks from the 90s
  17. Kano1999
    Aug 8, 2015
    6
    Much has been said about the 16 years since Dre's last album. So far, nothing has been said about his age. Andre Young is fifty years old. He has apparently agonised over this record for years. For some time it became little more than a rumour, a figment of hip-hop's imagination, a dying wish from a lost age of rap. And then, all of a sudden it appears when least expected.

    Whatever form    Much has been said about the 16 years since Dre's last album. So far, nothing has been said about his age. Andre Young is fifty years old. He has apparently agonised over this record for years. For some time it became little more than a rumour, a figment of hip-hop's imagination, a dying wish from a lost age of rap. And then, all of a sudden it appears when least expected.

    Whatever form it took through the years, the finished product is sorely lacking. It sounds like exactly what it is; a middle-aged mans version of what he believes rap should sound like today; the disappointing thing being, it fits in alongside so many other uninspiring, bland releases from similar artists today. Where once Dre was a leader, an artist who could sculpt new classics out of old, those edges have been dulled and there is very little to get excited about on his last album release. He criticised 'Detox' as an album he didn't think lived up to his own expectations and as the creator, he owns the right to that criticism. But there was clarity in some of that work because he was still submerged within the industry enough to understand the standards that met the bar he had raised in the past.

    On 'Compton' he hits the sweetest spot with 'Genocide', a raw, abstract, hard hitting beat torn up by Kendrick, followed by 'It's All On Me' which hints at glories of old and then the soulful 'All In A Day's Work', led by honest vocals of Anderson. Mostly the album sounds nondescript, indistinctive, just like a musician who has been concentrating on several other projects outside of the music world for the best part of a decade and a half. Dre's lyrics speak of being done with the game, the weight of expectation hanging on his shoulders. A decade ago, maybe. In 2015, not so much. People gave up waiting and the scene evolved, for better or for worse. Dre's music is no longer a torch bearer inside the game, his name speaks of stone cold classics from the past, not of a man forging a way forward. That remains in the hands of the next generation as always. Ask a midteen about him and you'll be pointed back to his collaborations with Snoop.

    Sales of the album will be interesting to watch. After so long away the best thing to do would've been to remain prominent in the business world, rather than stepping back in time and falling into a bland middle ground. 'Compton' isn't a bad record, nor is it a good one. It just lingers in the worst kind of middle-ground unbefitting of a legend like Dr Dre. There will be a lot of hype and excitement surrounding this album as always on the net but once the dust settles and it fails to peak the imagination of the masses, it will go down as the weakest and most unimaginative of his releases.    … Expand
  18. chealy
    Aug 7, 2015
    10
    Fantastic album. Period.
    Beats are on point as are the messages and stories woven throughout this Compton based epic. By adding Anderson Paak to the tracks, Dr. Dre introduces an upcoming artist to the world and builds upon his history of introducing the music industry to new talents (Snoop on The Chronic and Hittman/Eminem on 2001).
  19. ILLmatic94
    Aug 10, 2015
    10
    This is a master-class in mastering and engineering, it's the best sounding album in years. Each track sounds dope ass hell, there's plenty more depth and content on this project than in The Chronic and Chronic 2001 combined, making it a great instalment in Dre's near perfect discography. The production is detailed and heavy and Dre's flow is better than ever before, all the features killThis is a master-class in mastering and engineering, it's the best sounding album in years. Each track sounds dope ass hell, there's plenty more depth and content on this project than in The Chronic and Chronic 2001 combined, making it a great instalment in Dre's near perfect discography. The production is detailed and heavy and Dre's flow is better than ever before, all the features kill it, great album that was worth the wait. 10/10, just a shame we didn't get Nate Dogg or a 2015 N.W.A posse cut but nonetheless, a well put together body of work that reached the near impossible expectations we all had.… Expand
  20. geedup
    Aug 23, 2015
    3
    You can try to annoint this as "the sh*t" because of Dre. And when I began listening to it, I was ready for some fire! But there is not one single outstanding track on this, as if it was a promo CD for Straight Otta Compton or something. He has K.Dot on it, and its "meh" and even Em appears on it, and his track is forgettable, Not sure what these people calling it a "10" are hearing-ifYou can try to annoint this as "the sh*t" because of Dre. And when I began listening to it, I was ready for some fire! But there is not one single outstanding track on this, as if it was a promo CD for Straight Otta Compton or something. He has K.Dot on it, and its "meh" and even Em appears on it, and his track is forgettable, Not sure what these people calling it a "10" are hearing-if they are hearing. Pass on this sh8t fo' sho'.… Expand
  21. Mcgillacuddy
    Feb 4, 2016
    10
    Okay, I already did a review for this album, but I want to do a longer one and rate the songs track by track. I'm an audiophile, so I mostly pay attention to rhythms, rap flow, and other aspects of a song rather than the lyrical content, but I've listened to this album many times so I can give each track reasonable judgement. Since I'm an audiophile, if a song has a sick rhythm andOkay, I already did a review for this album, but I want to do a longer one and rate the songs track by track. I'm an audiophile, so I mostly pay attention to rhythms, rap flow, and other aspects of a song rather than the lyrical content, but I've listened to this album many times so I can give each track reasonable judgement. Since I'm an audiophile, if a song has a sick rhythm and excellent rap flow, then you'll expect a perfect score from me, so don't rely on me on how much the album stays true to classic Dre content or whatever, because that's not me.

    Intro 9/10: A simple intro explaining what Compton has turned into. It also has great background rhythm, which leads nicely into the next track.

    Talk About It 10/10: A great start for the album. The rhythm is excellent and live, more like a club banger, but I think that's necessary for the start of a rap album. It needs to get the listener hyped.

    Genocide 9/10: Great beat and excellent verse from Kendrick Lamar, and it's actually one of the few songs on the album with an old school flow.

    It's All On Me 10/10: Another track with an old school flow, which I know is in retrospect of classic Dre content, which is its simplicity and verses. Sound excellent.

    All In A Day's Work 10/10: It utilizes a very intriguing performance from Anderson .Paak, and it sounds excellent. It deserves a perfect score from me.

    Darkside/Gone 8/10: Darkside sounds different. Very different. It's not the best sound but it still sounds good because it's unique. Gone is more simple. The tempo is low and the verses are a bit quick for the rhythm, but it was one the songs that drew my attention closer to the lyrics, and it sounds great. Not one of the better songs but still deserves a high score.

    Loose Cannons 6/10: The rhythm is a little bit sloppy and too ongoing. Some sounds could've been cut to make it more simple. Lyrics are okay and the ending skit was good. The reason I did like the ending skit was because of the realism in it, or maybe I just watch too many movies. Idk but I saw it fitting to put on a performance for the ears.

    Issues 10/10: Very good song. I love the rhythm and Ice Cube was very fired up on the track. I also love the chorus line from Dem Jointz. The ending with the shooting and cop chase sounds mixed with Dem Jointz singing kinda made me tear up. It sounded epic. LoL I know. I'm crazy, but I get goosebumps when songs do that.

    Deep Water 11/10: Yes I know I put one point over the score limit, but this is my highlight of the album. Deep Water is a crazy good song. The rhythm is insane and Kendrick Lamar's verse gave me goosebumps.

    One Shot One Kill 10/10: A fire track. Main reason is because the verses are easy flow with the rhythm, making the song quite fun.

    Just Another Day 9/10: IT'S MOTHERF**KIN GAME TIIIIIME!!!!! Yeah, I guess whenever you hear something like that at the beginning of a song, then you know it's gonna be fire. This track was all The Game. I found it quite awkward that his voice was autotuned higher in the mid-point of the song, though. I don't know if it was really the Game who did that voice but I can't find any proof of anyone else on the track, so I just pretend that someone else did it to keep it from feeling awkward. Still love the verses, though. A short but fire track.

    For the Love of Money 10/10: Old school flow, fire verses, and it all sounds incredible. That's pretty much all you need to know.

    Satisfiction 7/10: Didn't grab my attention as much as the other tracks on the album but still sounds decent. The rhythm is pretty old school but it still didn't feel hard enough.

    Animals 9/10: A lyrically intriguing song and another great performance from Anderson .Paak.

    Medicine Man 10/10: I know there are a lot of people who like and don't like this track. This is mostly due to the chorus line and Eminem's verse. The chorus can be too simplistic for some listeners but for me, lyrically it was good. "Doctor's orders, go f*ck yourself, take two a day set him on an overdose and kill yourself". That's just telling it like it is right there. Most people don't enjoy Eminem's content today, and I can understand that just by comparing his old music with his new, but since I AM an audiophile, I simply don't give a damn. I love his music, old and new, and Eminem explodes on Medicine Man.

    Talking to My Diary 10/10: Here we get to end with classic Dre style. An excellent, driving rhythm, a great performance from Dre, and an awesome ending instrumental. The perfect way to end an album.

    This album is not for everyone. If you're an old school rap purist, then Compton may be forgettable, but for me, a person who just likes good music, Compton was a masterpiece. What Dre did right was his mixture of rhythms and verses, which puts on a great performance. There's really only one track on the album that I can bypass, which is Loose Cannons, so Compton is a nearly perfect rap Album.
    9.5/10    … Expand
  22. dj_wet_dreamz
    Aug 11, 2015
    9
    This is a solid album. You can play it without skipping any tracks. Any album you can play without skipping is a classic. This is a classic. I'm not saying that every song is my favorite but the album goes together very well. No skipping = CLASSIC!!!!!!!!!!
  23. thepundit
    Aug 18, 2015
    3
    Dre isn't just your average producer in the history of Hip-Hop/Rap. The Chronic and 2001 were trailblazers for the West Coast rap scene. With those two albums Dr. Dre continued to reinvent the West Coast sound however this time round the sound was all too familiar, a sound that has already been done by other producers over the past couple of years and made the album underwhelming.Dre isn't just your average producer in the history of Hip-Hop/Rap. The Chronic and 2001 were trailblazers for the West Coast rap scene. With those two albums Dr. Dre continued to reinvent the West Coast sound however this time round the sound was all too familiar, a sound that has already been done by other producers over the past couple of years and made the album underwhelming. Lyrically it wasn't any better - Dre and his ghostwriters failed to deliver noteworthy rhymes and the young brigade of artists that featured on this album didn't help the cause. I still ask myself why Dre didn't open the first song on the album strongly instead opting for King Mez spitting a Future-ish rap. Maybe I am a tad too harsh however that was the bar that Dre set and for me the album failed on both fronts. Compton is an album that will descend in time after the current hype. It ain't no classic and now I understand why Dre himself canned the Detox project time after time.… Expand
  24. mazvi
    Aug 20, 2015
    6
    the album was good but was not what i expected from dr dre it sounded more like an deductive version of Good Kid mad city . the beats in songs like Its All On Me where the type of beats we where expecting from the legend . a modern beat with a touch of old school , but he failed to deliver in most of the songs. so my rating is bases on dr dre standard
  25. MetaCrap
    Aug 21, 2015
    0
    My review was deleted?

    Not going to bother writing it again.

    Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah
  26. milomakromallis
    Aug 8, 2015
    3
    A mediocre project that warrants few listens to accomplish full understanding. Dr. Dre is, as always, a moral blank who’s hardest efforts have forever created half decent projects with abhorrent lyrics; is back at it with a plucky list of guest stars who provide abysmal verse after abysmal verse. More so then anything, is how boring there contributions are, even Rap’s number one MC,A mediocre project that warrants few listens to accomplish full understanding. Dr. Dre is, as always, a moral blank who’s hardest efforts have forever created half decent projects with abhorrent lyrics; is back at it with a plucky list of guest stars who provide abysmal verse after abysmal verse. More so then anything, is how boring there contributions are, even Rap’s number one MC, Kendrick Lamar turns in his usual level verse making it interchangeable with many features of late. Its unbelievably uninspired considering his recent hot streak. Other A-lister Eminem continues his slow toilet flush of a descent with a tepid verse containing a rape line beyond desperate. The best production clearly comes from the hired help who obviously provide the meat to the beats whilst Dre slaps his name on to attain some credit he will not get with rapping. A poor project that sits nicely with Dr.Dre’s past abortions.… Expand
  27. dnyambi
    Aug 8, 2015
    10
    This is Dre delivering the kind of album people have been waiting for. The vibe is totally different from 2001 and Chronic but equally as powerful. Dre brings in a variety of features that fit in seamlessly with the amazing production by the man himself. Excellent from start to finish.
  28. SBMike1
    Aug 18, 2015
    7
    It's okay at best. Gets corny at times especially with the skits. But, Kendrick is a real bright spot throughout the album and leaves his mark on Compton.
  29. smsarmani
    Aug 12, 2015
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This should be included among the best albums of the 21st century.... absolutely marvelous with kdot,cube and xibit...
    kendrick killlleddddddd it as usual, Eminem .. ahhhhhh,

    the production is classic....    … Expand
  30. dspjones
    Aug 10, 2015
    9
    For those not old enough or familiar with Dre's early work, this may be a stretch for them. But for those who know and love his work, it's another classic CD. A+ work Dre.
  31. SirNilesIV
    Aug 10, 2015
    0
    I've only casually heard bits and pieces of this album, but can we pause right there, why do we care a single cent about Dr. "I just have everyone ghostwrite everything" Dre? Has he written(only allegedly) some good songs? Sure. "Express Yourself" is about as party as you get from any song out there and the Chronic is basically hip hop's Nevermind. But can this guy just give up the ghostI've only casually heard bits and pieces of this album, but can we pause right there, why do we care a single cent about Dr. "I just have everyone ghostwrite everything" Dre? Has he written(only allegedly) some good songs? Sure. "Express Yourself" is about as party as you get from any song out there and the Chronic is basically hip hop's Nevermind. But can this guy just give up the ghost and start doing what he would rather do? I imagine it's pretty much *anything* given how stagnant this album is. He probably likes chopping onions more than listening to this album. AND IT'S HIS.… Expand
  32. MikeyMo
    Aug 9, 2015
    6
    In a very short critique, "Compton" is a pretty good hip hop album but as a Dr. Dre album, I expect better. Dr. Dre is known as an innovative perfectionist, but most of all, Dr. Dre is a trend setter. Unfortunately, Dr. Dre follows more trends on this album then paving the way with his unique production style.

    It is almost hard to knock the production because it is so well made, but it    In a very short critique, "Compton" is a pretty good hip hop album but as a Dr. Dre album, I expect better. Dr. Dre is known as an innovative perfectionist, but most of all, Dr. Dre is a trend setter. Unfortunately, Dr. Dre follows more trends on this album then paving the way with his unique production style.

    It is almost hard to knock the production because it is so well made, but it is not necessarily ground breaking or innovative either. There is a lot going on in regards of the musical side of things which is quite a lot different the simple funky re-created samples we are used to. The best tracks are the ones that use the well established Dre formula of having a more repetitive simplistic beats ("One Shot One Kill" and "Just Another Day") instead of the bombastic instrumentals with a number of different sounds and beat changes.

    It is hard to knock the album because it is in fact well made, but between Dre changing his vocal frequency, uninteresting autotuned hooks, and trend following instrumentals instead of genre paving production makes this Dre's worst album.    … Expand
  33. WXYZ
    Aug 12, 2015
    10
    The last stand. A what a last stand it is. Great job, Dr. Dre, it has been an honor listening to you throughout all these years, through the thick and thin.

    Dr. Dre has managed to make an album where he sounds really hungry, and he decided to bring out some old school rappers such as Eminem, Snoop Dogg, Ice Cube, Xzibit, and even Kendrick! What's even more awesome, he appears on 3    The last stand. A what a last stand it is. Great job, Dr. Dre, it has been an honor listening to you throughout all these years, through the thick and thin.

    Dr. Dre has managed to make an album where he sounds really hungry, and he decided to bring out some old school rappers such as Eminem, Snoop Dogg, Ice Cube, Xzibit, and even Kendrick! What's even more awesome, he appears on 3 tracks usually doing what he does best. Eminem was also insane on Medicine Man.
    Don't compare this album to Dre's The Chronic or 2001, because this is something different. This is an album which talks his autobiography - about how Dre is proud for all he has done to the music industry, helped a lot of people, writing and producing, and did a lot of other good deeds in the past. Compton is easily Andre's third classic in 16 years. Even though it's his final album, I wish him a great future.

    P.S. Forget Kendrick Lamar's TPAB, this is the rap album of the year.    … Expand
  34. vgmkyle
    Aug 31, 2015
    9
    You've gotta know that this album is going to be quality from the start. Dre's beats are incredible, and synchronized well for the times. If Chronic was all Snoop, if 2001 was all Eminem -- Compton is definitely all Kendrick. His features scattered throughout vibe with Dre the best, but every track is meticulously produced.
  35. jaramillo_ge
    Feb 3, 2017
    8
    I like this album a lot, but one of the songs is kind of cheesy, darkside/gone. I hate that song. All of the other songs i like, like deep water, talk about it, and talking to my diary.
  36. SchroederRock
    Aug 17, 2015
    10
    An incredible album that may be worthy of being called a masterpiece. Compton fuses some modern production values with real rap, none of the top-40 garbage that relies on mindless lyrics over big beats. Every song is on point - nothing feels wasted or boring. Dre even brings back some of the little skits that he and Eminem used on several albums back in the 90s and early 2000s. GuestAn incredible album that may be worthy of being called a masterpiece. Compton fuses some modern production values with real rap, none of the top-40 garbage that relies on mindless lyrics over big beats. Every song is on point - nothing feels wasted or boring. Dre even brings back some of the little skits that he and Eminem used on several albums back in the 90s and early 2000s. Guest appearances abound, and they all are incredible, with the list including Kendrick Lamar, Xzibit, Eminem, Ice Cube, Snoop Dogg and several others. Compton will easily be Grammy-worthy and could stand as the most important album for rap/hip-hop for years to come. Topping an album this good may not be possible - Dre has made himself relevant again for both long-time fans and young listeners alike.… Expand
  37. ShaanP
    Aug 15, 2015
    9
    A fitting testament to an illustrious career in music and a reminiscent finish to an epic hip hop trilogy. Is this perfection? No. But should we have expected that. Certainly not. This is Dr. Dre simply doing what he loves and having fun while he does it. An album stuffed with production finesse which at times may seem overproduced but the technical beast that is Dre manages to mesh theseA fitting testament to an illustrious career in music and a reminiscent finish to an epic hip hop trilogy. Is this perfection? No. But should we have expected that. Certainly not. This is Dr. Dre simply doing what he loves and having fun while he does it. An album stuffed with production finesse which at times may seem overproduced but the technical beast that is Dre manages to mesh these elements seamlessly. The features throughout this project deliver their A games including a host of new up and coming artists like Anderson.Paak & Candica Pillay. There are experimental bangers for anyone keen on hearing what Detox may have offered, introspective and heartfelt numbers and a flurry of hard new age NWA style rawness (a fitting theme). The songwriting for Dr. Dre was very good despite Dre adopting others' flows and rhyme schemes rather than adapting his own. This album has a little something for everybody and any fan of the good Doc should not have any real problems with this album. If you did, then you forgot about Dre 16 years ago my friend. 2015 belongs to a small town named COMPTON.… Expand
  38. TimW001
    Dec 24, 2015
    7
    An album which has the classic and distinctive sound of Dr Dre. The album has many guests which feature great verses. Compton overall is a strong album with a few great tracks and a lot of pretty good to alright tracks.
  39. ben_zo77
    Nov 27, 2015
    8
    Compton wasn't what I expected, but it's a fantastic final album for Dre. I thought his last album would be similar to his first two, hopefully with newer versions of "The Next Episode", "The Watcher", etc. It truly is a soundtrack for the city of Compton, with the grandiose production and Compton-themed songs. It pains me to say this, but I thought Dre's rapping hurt several tracks. HisCompton wasn't what I expected, but it's a fantastic final album for Dre. I thought his last album would be similar to his first two, hopefully with newer versions of "The Next Episode", "The Watcher", etc. It truly is a soundtrack for the city of Compton, with the grandiose production and Compton-themed songs. It pains me to say this, but I thought Dre's rapping hurt several tracks. His artistic vision, influence, and experience make this project what it is, however. There are quite a few flaws stemming from the general clutter on the album, with so many features and differing styles. Regardless, Dre did what many fail to do: he ended his legendary rapping career with a great album. ~ 8.4/10
    Best track: "Just Another Day"
    Other notable tracks: "Genocide", "It's All On Me", "Deep Water", "One Shot One Kill", "Medicine Man" & "Talking To My Diary"    … Expand
  40. ToFewViews
    Sep 13, 2015
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Dre promised the world "Detox", but that was scrapped and many years later we were given "Compton". Based on the two singles released for "Detox" a couple years back, I'd say we should count ourselves lucky.

    "Compton" was inspired by the set of the "Straight Outta Compton", and **** am I excited to see that movie now that I've heard this. From the beginning of track 2 to the end of 16, this is a collection of great music with awesome features. It's old news that Dre may not completely write every word he spits himself, and I say who cares. Sure he's not an elite MC in that aspect, but **** does this guy have an eye for talent, new and old. Features such as King Mez, Anderson .Paak, Ice Cube, Xzibit, Snoop Dogg and obviously Eminem and Kendrick Lamer, and ther are several new names people are going to check or more after hearing them on this project.

    Deffinetly my favorite tracks are 9. Deep Water (feat. Kendrick Lamar, Justus & Anderson .Paak) and 15. Medicine Man (feat. Eminem, Candice Pillay & Anderson .Paak). Kendrick and Eminem just have such hard verses on there they quickly became my most played off the album. But the absolute best part of the album for me was hearing Dre brag in the line "I was getting money before the Internet, still got Eminem cheques I ain't opened yet" as soon as I heard that line the first time I just lost it.

    In conclusion this album has some serious beats, great verses and that Dr. Dre sound and production that brings them all together. I don't think "Compton" is something anyone saw coming especially for a 50 year old rapper, and then this guy turns around and does something even wilder. Dre is donating all of his artist royalties from this album to fund an Arts Center in Compton. Take that, those who blame everything on gangster rap. Anyways, "Compton" is one of the stronger albums of 2015, and if you're a rap fan, you'll find something you'll like on it. Hopefully this bodes well for "Straight Outta Compton".    … Expand
  41. R3QU13M
    Aug 27, 2015
    9
    Fantastic Album! A somewhat unanticipated departure from the long awaited Detox album, "Compton: A Soundtrack" is a pleasing amalgamation of Old-School hip hop sounds and ambitious new school beats all with the production quality you would expect from such a prolific figure in the music industry. Excellent!
  42. Urbanlistener
    Oct 6, 2015
    10
    Where was Dre for 16 years? He was taking his time to perfect the beat!Nowadays everybody wanna talk like they got something to say, but nothing comes out when they move their lips, just a bunch of gibberish and motherfu****s act like they forgot about Dre. Was true in 99 and is still true today. This album is whitout any doubt a more than satisfying return for him. His beats are craftedWhere was Dre for 16 years? He was taking his time to perfect the beat!Nowadays everybody wanna talk like they got something to say, but nothing comes out when they move their lips, just a bunch of gibberish and motherfu****s act like they forgot about Dre. Was true in 99 and is still true today. This album is whitout any doubt a more than satisfying return for him. His beats are crafted like a masterpiece, the invited artists all have their place and the album is coherent which is rare nowadays. The album will please both old school and new school hip hop fans with artists from all generations. Even if its new schoolish, it is not a fake swagger album like Young thug for example, it is high quality west coast hip hop. Nothing bad to say about it, perfect grade.… Expand
  43. TheDude-
    Aug 23, 2015
    10
    Compton is a fantastic album with extremely well written lyrics that are very catchy and of course seeing dr dre produced this the beat in every song is head bop inducing.
    10/10 buy this album if you are a fan of quality rap music.
  44. elxoro
    Aug 21, 2015
    10
    muy buen ultimo álbum de dr dre. hizo una buena despedida jhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhtgfr6edrtfgyhujolikujhytgfredfrtgyhjuhytgfredfrtgyhujhytgfrdghjgh
  45. ugura
    Sep 22, 2015
    10
    great album, good story, its comed fro dr.dre best producer, thx for your work dre

    he spend to much time on it, thtat why nice music and good lyrics
  46. GuigaSerra
    Oct 13, 2015
    10
    Great album, with great features, filled of talents, great songs, Snoop and Dre singing again together, with the music from the movie straight outta Compton, great lyrics about the life of Dre with the rest of the NWA integrants.
  47. lisiak
    Dec 20, 2015
    6
    I didn't suppose that he would give us an album in this year. Everyone waited for 'Detox', but we have got 'Compton'. It's interesing music, but I'm not a big fan of this album. :)
  48. Chrislex777
    Mar 22, 2016
    10
    I really like the way Dr. Dre diverse his sound with what is poppin' today. It shows his versatility as a producer and that's the main reason why i like this album so much!!!
  49. Mesmerize
    Aug 9, 2016
    8
    8.0
    zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
  50. raywithajay
    Jun 3, 2016
    8
    Compton has a unique style compared to Dre's classic g-funk records. Dre explores a more modern sound, with both eclectic and old school influences. Production in this album is excellent; it's amazing to see Dre adapt so well to modern hip-hop after not releasing a record in 16 years. He uses a wide variety of samples and production styles to create a refined yet gritty sound. While DreCompton has a unique style compared to Dre's classic g-funk records. Dre explores a more modern sound, with both eclectic and old school influences. Production in this album is excellent; it's amazing to see Dre adapt so well to modern hip-hop after not releasing a record in 16 years. He uses a wide variety of samples and production styles to create a refined yet gritty sound. While Dre features a lot of artists, this is his style. Dre's always been more of a producer than a rapper, but he allows featured artists to shine while not stealing his spotlight. However, his verses on this album are some of the best he's ever rapped. Since this album is supposed to be his final act, he touches on many subjects which he is able to rap wholeheartedly about. The variety in sound throughout the album contributes to its cohesiveness, rather than taking away from it. If you're just a hip-hop fan in general, I would highly recommend listening to this album… Expand
  51. FruitJuice
    Jul 18, 2017
    7
    good album.....................................................................................................................................................................
  52. ChunkDump
    Dec 29, 2020
    6
    I have a strong feeling that this isnt the true "Detox" album that we as fans overhyped/anticipated. he claims to have "renamed" the detox to "Compton" how creative. its so hard to follow up with his two masterpieces Chronic and Chronic 2001 (Not including all the NWA **** that dont count). he released "Kush" as part of the REAL Detox project but its been damn near 10 years since thatI have a strong feeling that this isnt the true "Detox" album that we as fans overhyped/anticipated. he claims to have "renamed" the detox to "Compton" how creative. its so hard to follow up with his two masterpieces Chronic and Chronic 2001 (Not including all the NWA **** that dont count). he released "Kush" as part of the REAL Detox project but its been damn near 10 years since that singles release. he might not ever drop it. dont hold your breath because somethings telling me Dre isnt either.… Expand
  53. Nnaemeka
    Aug 29, 2021
    10
    A solid one from the talented Compton producer. Very wonderful mixes and a reason for us to forget detox for now.
  54. JUXXXLIO
    Aug 22, 2022
    0
    When I listen to this crap the first thing I think of is the old people that blame ROCK for being repetitive. If you haven't heard this overrated album before; don't bother listening to it now.
  55. alexnigel117
    Aug 2, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Dr Dre directed an entire movie in this album what a maestro, 10/10 for production, beat selection, and storytelling. Dr Dre is a monster compared to himself in the 90s.… Expand

Awards & Rankings

89
#89 Best Album of 2015
27
#27 Most Discussed Album of 2015
65
#65 Most Shared Album of 2015

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
82

Universal acclaim - based on 36 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 33 out of 36
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 36
  3. Negative: 0 out of 36
  1. The Source
    Oct 20, 2015
    90
    Compton gives every indication that Dr. Dre is as potent now as he was in the 20th century's final decade. [#267, p.91]
  2. Uncut
    Sep 28, 2015
    70
    Compton is a solid reminder of both Dre's skills and the depth of his contacts book. [Nov 2015, p.75]
  3. Dusted Magazine
    Sep 9, 2015
    80
    There are innovative and fresh beats and voices, and the record rarely falters.
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