2014 Forest Hills Drive
by J. Cole
User Score
8.3

Universal acclaim- based on 613 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 532 out of 613
  2. Mixed: 47 out of 613
  3. Negative: 34 out of 613
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  1. RegenT_A_1300
    Dec 23, 2022
    8
    worse than 4 your eyez only xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo bad asf overrated xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxxo
  2. daytonatabooywr
    Dec 20, 2022
    9
    guevfyisrhyesrhfbuserilhifehrsfgbreysfbgyreyfgbesyfgbyresfbgeryfgerygbagfeweg
  3. Jackson889
    Sep 2, 2022
    6
    Decent mixtape, far from bad but nothing special. Great intro but everything else is decent.
  4. garfield7081
    Mar 25, 2022
    8
    very enjoyable album with some of the best production in modern rap

    best song: g.o.m.d.

    worst song: st. tropez
  5. Johnsmtih
    Dec 3, 2021
    10
    Timeless project one of coles many albums that show he is one of this generations best
  6. JohnBasco
    May 26, 2021
    10
    Definition of a classic. No rapper has ever evoked emotion as genuinely as Cole does on this project
  7. hdcooper
    Apr 11, 2021
    7
    An easily accessible record from Cole; however, it does seem to come across as shallow at moments.

    7.7/10
  8. Hendo250
    Apr 6, 2021
    8
    this album is a 8 this album is a 8 this album is a 8 this album is a 8 this album is a 8
  9. Stoney_Bob
    Mar 25, 2021
    10
    This is just one of the greatest albums ever, J. Cole really shows his struggles and reflects on his youth through out this Album. J. Cole has great lyrics and flow on all the songs. The beats complement the mood of the song very well. It's really hard to top an album like this.

    Favs: Love yourz, Fire squad, January 28th, No Role Modelz least fav (but is still love it): Note to    This is just one of the greatest albums ever, J. Cole really shows his struggles and reflects on his youth through out this Album. J. Cole has great lyrics and flow on all the songs. The beats complement the mood of the song very well. It's really hard to top an album like this.

    Favs:
    Love yourz, Fire squad, January 28th, No Role Modelz

    least fav (but is still love it):
    Note to self

    10/10    … Expand
  10. EZR
    Jun 5, 2020
    10
    Album changed my life



    Made me a Cole fan
    ................................................................................
  11. Ryan_9
    Feb 2, 2020
    10
    An imperfect masterpiece. 2014fhd is sonically pleasing and itʼs overwhelmingly honest. But since Iʼm a big cole fan and Iʼm a little biased, itʼs perfect for me. He has a few corny bars here and there but they donʼt really ruin any song for me and I like his voice so I donʼt really mind his singing. What I like about him the most is that he puts his heart into what he says and you donʼtAn imperfect masterpiece. 2014fhd is sonically pleasing and itʼs overwhelmingly honest. But since Iʼm a big cole fan and Iʼm a little biased, itʼs perfect for me. He has a few corny bars here and there but they donʼt really ruin any song for me and I like his voice so I donʼt really mind his singing. What I like about him the most is that he puts his heart into what he says and you donʼt hear that nowadays. He can convey a heartwarming/nostalgic feeling but that requires a connection between the listener and the artist. With all that being said I believe he can do much better. He has the potential of making one of the greatest albums ever imo. Looking forward to his next album. Cole world no blanket!… Expand
  12. Kyle_Peake
    Jan 28, 2020
    10
    Really great with the theme of Cole's life from the early days of Forest Hills Drive through to his days of becoming a celebrity and reflecting on the past. Also like how the love theme is present throughout.
  13. Ivmena
    Jan 24, 2020
    10
    This album is a masterpiece, every song has deep meaning and delivery is amazing also this album has the best Intro ever and you can't change my mind. MASTERPIECE
  14. Shaymooose
    Aug 17, 2019
    8
    This is THE adolescence album. Imma be playing this from now through college.

    Best Tracks:Wet Dreamz, No Role Modelz, Intro, Love Yourz, January 28th, ’03 Adolescence, Hello, Apparently, A Tale of 2 Citiez, Fire Squad, St. Tropez, G.O.M.D.
    Worst Tracks:Note to Self
  15. fifi3
    Jul 28, 2019
    9
    A masterpiece of an album. The concept takes you on a journey that helps you feel a connection to the artist. The lyrics are soulful and relatable. The tracklist is airtight with plenty of repayable tracks. This is undoubtedly Cole's best album and a classic of the decade.
  16. erve
    May 28, 2019
    10
    Every song is good. Worth listening to over and over again. You will not be disappointed
  17. nereed678
    May 23, 2019
    5
    Although coming through with a few notably good cuts, the majority of this album is cliché and unimpressive. With the right producer and someone hanging around telling him to cut out the cringier lines Cole could craft a truly good rap album
  18. Connorcox1997
    Jan 29, 2019
    10
    2014 Forest Hills Drive is not just another rap album, its art. When I first listen to his album the first time I thought it was decent. However when I listen to the album a couple more times, I fell in love with it. 2014 Forest Hills Drive by J Cole make one of the greatest albums of his career, and one of the best albums of 2014. This album is a must listen.
  19. C_dot
    Dec 3, 2018
    9
    A true entertainment album. The lyrics are good but not great, but the production is elite and Cole's rapping is perfect.
  20. DamonAubergine
    Oct 26, 2018
    10
    2014 Forest Hills Drive is a masterpiece from an artist that has changed the rap game. No features, no guest voculs, only vague samples. This is what makes this album so impressive, that such a young artist had the confidence in himself to deliver without any help, and he 100% did.

    From 'No Role Modelz' to 'Wet Dreams' and 'Hello' to 'A Tale of 2 Citiez', almost every track hooks you in    2014 Forest Hills Drive is a masterpiece from an artist that has changed the rap game. No features, no guest voculs, only vague samples. This is what makes this album so impressive, that such a young artist had the confidence in himself to deliver without any help, and he 100% did.

    From 'No Role Modelz' to 'Wet Dreams' and 'Hello' to 'A Tale of 2 Citiez', almost every track hooks you in with its inquisitive beats and sometimes emotional lyrics. This is a non-stop listen album that should go down as one of the best Hip Hop albums of this decade.    … Expand
  21. kams
    Jun 30, 2018
    10
    Thats a classic album. J. Cole delivered some fire on this one. Great production and the lyrics are on point. Album contains songs that everybody can relate to.
  22. dell221
    Apr 24, 2018
    9
    this is his second best album no hits no real standouts to me I just like every song. the ontro is really good. love this album hope he can make something just as good in the future
  23. skaylez
    Mar 25, 2018
    9
    J.coles story telling skills are un real. every track is unique only one forgettable track : st tropez
  24. frnky
    Jan 30, 2018
    9
    The first classic that J.Cole has in my opinion is definitely this album, his third. 2014 Forest Hill Drive introduced me to J.Cole as a storyteller MC. Painted vivid pictures that made me understand why people make the Nas comparison.
  25. jackwells99
    Sep 4, 2017
    10
    His best work to date. Delivered through Incredible production and a signature flow that is hard to compare to any other artist in the game. Very real and raw lyrics make this album a hip-hop classic.
  26. FruitJuice
    Jul 18, 2017
    7
    good album..........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
  27. Jensen67
    May 23, 2017
    9
    This is a truly great album to just sit back and chill while listening to. There are some hard hitting songs and also some softer songs that greatly even the album out. I don't dislike any of the songs.

    Best songs: No Role Modelz / St. Tropez / Fire Squad
  28. shaangsingh
    Mar 6, 2017
    10
    Easily the best album of all time. I refuse to give anything else close to this project. From now on, I base my albums from 1 to 10, where the only way it can be a 10 is if it somehow beats this album. Cole is the greatest of all time. Hands down
  29. bilbo95
    Dec 15, 2016
    10
    Incredible album that truly expresses the story of J Cole. Give it time, multiple listens, and enjoy the art. Certainly one of my all time favorite albums
  30. zoooweemama
    Dec 5, 2016
    3
    2014 Forest Hills Drive is an album that has a very narrow concept, very dry stories, and flat out overrated. When I first heard of this albums by my peers, it was almost as if this had been a life changing album for them, an instant classic. Many praised J Cole for "not rapping about the same thing those other rappers do". As I started to listen to this album, I was greatly impressed by2014 Forest Hills Drive is an album that has a very narrow concept, very dry stories, and flat out overrated. When I first heard of this albums by my peers, it was almost as if this had been a life changing album for them, an instant classic. Many praised J Cole for "not rapping about the same thing those other rappers do". As I started to listen to this album, I was greatly impressed by the choice of samples that Cole chose to use, very soulful and lush samples. But that was as far as this album went. An album that sounds like it is full of fillers, this album has no replay value. Although it sold very well, that does not legitimize the quality of the music being sold.… Expand
  31. jamoha98
    Nov 17, 2016
    10
    Like a reviewer in the comments, I also made an account to write a review in defense of this album. I do not know what album the reviewers were listening to, but this was clearly not the same J. Cole. One "critic" labeled J. Cole as indecisive. However that is completely false, this would be an apt description of J. Cole before this album, except this album changed this trait. Cole touchesLike a reviewer in the comments, I also made an account to write a review in defense of this album. I do not know what album the reviewers were listening to, but this was clearly not the same J. Cole. One "critic" labeled J. Cole as indecisive. However that is completely false, this would be an apt description of J. Cole before this album, except this album changed this trait. Cole touches on very real and important subjects such as the position of the black community in January 28th, being grateful for what you have in Love Yourz, addressing the falseness of the modern age with No Role Modelz, and finally him battling himself in Tale of 2 Citiez. J. Cole takes on a trip through his own real experiences and he does it in a masterful and entertaining manner. His songs are not to the point of denseness and meaning of a Kendrick Lamar, yet it is easier to enjoy his songs because of this. Additionally, these songs are fun, the beats are mastered excellently, and his rapping skills maybe only surpassed by a hand few in the game. This is hip hop at its finest in the new era where most rappers rap about the same shallow objects. 2014 Forest Hills Drive is a gem in the modern day of hip hop and should be appreciated as such.… Expand
  32. aidanhicks101
    Oct 8, 2016
    10
    If J. Cole knows anything, its how to tell a story from beginning to end. Such a masterpiece. This is not just one of my most favorite albums of all time, but it changed who I was as a person. It should me the reality of life, and I have no idea how he will be able to top himself after this. Hopefully he continues with this sound and what he is doing because things will only get better from here.
  33. mrgarcia
    Mar 9, 2016
    4
    The album was dull and boring. Its an album that would be forgotten quickly. If cole does collab with kendrick, imma feel bad for him because Kendrick is just going to keep outshining him on every track.
  34. KSortin
    Dec 2, 2015
    10
    I literally made an account just because the critic score was so wide off it's unbelievable. This album is timeless, every track is on point. I'm dumbfounded by MetaCritic's "critics." You guys are clearly suffering from a lack of education on hip-hop and are the reason great artwork like this doesn't get the deserved recognition. The lyricism has it's blow-my-mind-away moments and withI literally made an account just because the critic score was so wide off it's unbelievable. This album is timeless, every track is on point. I'm dumbfounded by MetaCritic's "critics." You guys are clearly suffering from a lack of education on hip-hop and are the reason great artwork like this doesn't get the deserved recognition. The lyricism has it's blow-my-mind-away moments and with the calming, resonating and nostalgia-based records there's also those crazy excitable this-man-going-in records. It's 2015 and this album is still the best from then until today - Dec 12.… Expand
  35. gibsona1020
    Oct 13, 2015
    9
    Before this album, I was what you could say, the opposite of a J Cole fan. I thought he was highly overrated and was not only chasing hits but producing weak hits. This was true about me until 2014 forest hills drive was released. I was astounded at Cole's ability to tell stories about his childhood like he never had before. The stories might not be hardcore, but they were true andBefore this album, I was what you could say, the opposite of a J Cole fan. I thought he was highly overrated and was not only chasing hits but producing weak hits. This was true about me until 2014 forest hills drive was released. I was astounded at Cole's ability to tell stories about his childhood like he never had before. The stories might not be hardcore, but they were true and relatable. Songs like 03' Adolescence and Wet Dreamz are examples. This time he was able to produce catchy songs with contagious beats and hard hitting lyrics. Examples can be seen in G.O.M.D. and Role Modelz. Another thing about the album is worth noting is that during some songs such as Love Yourz Cole tries to express some messages. In this case Cole explains that the only way people will be happy is if thy love what they have. 2014 Forest Hill Drive is an album that fires on all cylinders. Best album of 2014.… Expand
  36. mc_ryn
    Sep 27, 2015
    9
    I don't understand the lack of critical acclaim for this album. J Cole has created a classic, production and lyrically wise. The underlying message of his upbringing is awe aspiring, story telling flow is godly. The album is great all through. People need to listen carefully, but yes this is all opinion so my statement is invalid. I just really liked it I guess.
    Worst track/s: St. Tropez    I don't understand the lack of critical acclaim for this album. J Cole has created a classic, production and lyrically wise. The underlying message of his upbringing is awe aspiring, story telling flow is godly. The album is great all through. People need to listen carefully, but yes this is all opinion so my statement is invalid. I just really liked it I guess.
    Worst track/s: St. Tropez
    Best tracks: Every single other one.    … Expand
  37. Mannhorse
    Sep 26, 2015
    5
    Has a lot of good tracks like Wet Dreamz, January 28th, and 03 Adolescence. However, a lot of the production is too simplistic and/or generic, and the overlong last track overstays its welcome.
  38. raymaxxp
    Aug 17, 2015
    9
    My heart sinks a bit deeper every time I read a mixed-to-negative review of this album, written by a professional critic. I really do not understand the lack of support for this fella. He is everyone's go-to emotional rapper that stands out in the ever-growing crowd of obnoxious, pretentious, and boastful "MC's" in the game. Jermaine Cole is something else.

    Regarding the album, "2014    My heart sinks a bit deeper every time I read a mixed-to-negative review of this album, written by a professional critic. I really do not understand the lack of support for this fella. He is everyone's go-to emotional rapper that stands out in the ever-growing crowd of obnoxious, pretentious, and boastful "MC's" in the game. Jermaine Cole is something else.

    Regarding the album, "2014 Forest Hills Drive" contains a beautiful collection of stories about growing up and keeping your head cool when you're in hell that never-stopping superficial pursuit of fame, money and orgasms can be. I especially enjoy the variety of sounds that this album offers, from "St. Tropez" and its chill vibe, to aggressive tribal beat of "G.O.M.D.". The instrumentals rarely feel boring or underutilized and are in good balance with everything else going on. The LP contains a good number of thought-provoking tunes, amazing bangers, and emotional rides.

    I got the feeling like J Cole is wearing his heart on the sleeve because of how emotionally bare lyrics are written. I feel like I actually got a chance to get to know Jermaine and his struggles. And that's beautiful and, sort of, the point of artistry.

    J Cole is someone who should be the voice of the generation, but unfortunately, that's not the case.    … Expand
  39. MrMusic828
    Aug 8, 2015
    7
    J. Cole's third and best album contains some of the most noteworthy tracks he's ever done. The honesty coming across on tracks like "'03 Adolescence" and "Hello" makes the album feel very open and intimate. Cole is a solid lyricist, and the beats on songs like "A Tale Of 2 Citiez" and "G.O.M.D." bring the tracks to highs that the North Carolina MC hasn't reached before. It's far from theJ. Cole's third and best album contains some of the most noteworthy tracks he's ever done. The honesty coming across on tracks like "'03 Adolescence" and "Hello" makes the album feel very open and intimate. Cole is a solid lyricist, and the beats on songs like "A Tale Of 2 Citiez" and "G.O.M.D." bring the tracks to highs that the North Carolina MC hasn't reached before. It's far from the best rap album of 2014, but it is by no means a throwaway.… Expand
  40. kristi_b10
    Aug 5, 2015
    10
    This was the best album of 2014. J. Cole is underrated because he's not on the same page as everyone else. He does own thing and try to be as regular as possible. He stays true to himself. He does not let the media interfere in his personal life. He's very humble as well and this album shows it. I love every song on here. He put his all in it. I give it a 10/10.
  41. keve16
    Jul 3, 2015
    9
    8.5/10................................................................................................................................................
  42. philosophorse
    Jun 21, 2015
    6
    J. Cole is a very good rapper and a very real one, too. 2014 Forest Hills Drive feels a bit shallow though, and it is impossible to listen to it more than twice. The last song is very self-indulgent and overly long. The album doesn't have a real story or concept too. Wet Dreamz is heinous.
  43. milomakromallis
    May 27, 2015
    1
    J Cole is a poor MC with zero originality or creativity. The production is a safe venture into the norm that represents basically nothing. His rap ability is so bland and has so few surprises that he becomes a great boredom to listen too.
  44. MNIMN
    Apr 18, 2015
    10
    Cole stepped up everything on here 10 fold from his previous album Born Sinner. He took all the criticisms he got from that album and made sure they weren't present here. This album gives you everything you can ask for from a rap album: Raw lyrics (Fire Squad), fantastic story telling, a great mix of up-beat bangers (Tale of 2 Citiez, G.O.M.D), focused and relatable story telling (WetCole stepped up everything on here 10 fold from his previous album Born Sinner. He took all the criticisms he got from that album and made sure they weren't present here. This album gives you everything you can ask for from a rap album: Raw lyrics (Fire Squad), fantastic story telling, a great mix of up-beat bangers (Tale of 2 Citiez, G.O.M.D), focused and relatable story telling (Wet Dreamz & 03 Adolescence), emotion and an important message in the latter few tracks. Cole's has gotten a lot of slack for his production on his previous two LP's, but here he diversities it perfectly - from one track to the next it's completely different and on first listen you really don't know what to expect next. Easily the album of 2014, and arguably even the best rap album since Kendrick's Good Kid m.A.A.d City for me. Now 4 months later it is still in constant rotation despite a ton of new rap albums being released in 2015.… Expand
  45. swagkonyjohnson
    Apr 3, 2015
    7
    In my opinion, this is Cole's best album, but I can understand some of the criticism this has gotten because, honestly, this could've been better. I like that there are no features and how personal he gets on the album. However, it seems like every time he does something so right he turns around and does something questionable, whether it be something corny or incorporating too muchIn my opinion, this is Cole's best album, but I can understand some of the criticism this has gotten because, honestly, this could've been better. I like that there are no features and how personal he gets on the album. However, it seems like every time he does something so right he turns around and does something questionable, whether it be something corny or incorporating too much singing (he's not a great singer). Also, the production on this album, in my opinion, overall was underwhelming. But this isn't a bad album at all; I like this album, but I can't help but wonder what it could've been… Expand
  46. CristianBernal
    Mar 23, 2015
    7
    J Cole's theme was a calm narrative based on his life which gave this album a varying opinion from track to track. It could start off with J Cole narrating political movements and transition to him talking about women. The lyricism on this album can go anywhere from great, to mediocre between tracks. Eventually the simple and smooth beats all began to blend after just a few listens.
    This    J Cole's theme was a calm narrative based on his life which gave this album a varying opinion from track to track. It could start off with J Cole narrating political movements and transition to him talking about women. The lyricism on this album can go anywhere from great, to mediocre between tracks. Eventually the simple and smooth beats all began to blend after just a few listens.
    This album was an easy listen and one which you're not quite finished with after just one listen. Many of these songs can be radio singles, but they all mostly seem to be in some kind of midway point in which they're too "conscious rap" for the radio but too pop to be "conscious rap."
    Overall a good album, but not one of those albums which is a complete standout from any other.
    7/10    … Expand
  47. AbdulIb
    Mar 21, 2015
    6
    J. Cole is Staying true to his origin and takes you through an experience of appreciating Self Love and love for family not fame but by doing this in skill level of rapping on this project lacks the means of detailing how it will connect to others.
  48. michaeljrmj
    Mar 20, 2015
    10
    This is a album of greatness matched with heart. Cole has always been true to the game, but with this one I feel he really shows what he can do when given a beat, some samples, and a few hiccups from the past, present, and future. Each songs gives a significant sound and story that resonates itself with the combination of the album.
  49. HaydenCairns
    Mar 18, 2015
    9
    In my opinion, this is the closest J. Cole can get to making a masterpiece without doing it. I'm the biggest Cole fan on the planet and I still think he has a little more to give. With all that being said this is his best work since Friday Night Lights and I think it's his first album that he got to write all by himself without having a record company breathing down his neck pressuring himIn my opinion, this is the closest J. Cole can get to making a masterpiece without doing it. I'm the biggest Cole fan on the planet and I still think he has a little more to give. With all that being said this is his best work since Friday Night Lights and I think it's his first album that he got to write all by himself without having a record company breathing down his neck pressuring him to create a "radio" album. Wet Dreams, GOMD, A Tale of Two Cities, Love Yours and 03' Adolescence are all better songs than ninety five percent rappers on the planet today could've made. The way he explains the different parts of his life with every song is absolutely incredible. The production, lyrics and overall artistry are top notch and with this album he solidifies himself as a top three rapper on the planet currently in their prime in my opinion. Look for his next album to be an absolute classic.… Expand
  50. homer4president
    Mar 11, 2015
    7
    I am a diehard J Cole fan, I have been for a very long time. I think this really was his most personal album and that says a lot. Cole's storytelling ability sets him apart from every other rapper, no one else does that anymore and that makes him pretty damn authentic. I have to admit though, I didn't really like the beats/flow in most of the songs but my favorite songs are No RoleI am a diehard J Cole fan, I have been for a very long time. I think this really was his most personal album and that says a lot. Cole's storytelling ability sets him apart from every other rapper, no one else does that anymore and that makes him pretty damn authentic. I have to admit though, I didn't really like the beats/flow in most of the songs but my favorite songs are No Role Modelz, G.O.M.D. and Love Yourz. In my opinion, I still think Cole's best album is Sideline Story.… Expand
  51. emlugo123
    Mar 10, 2015
    7
    This is a good album not great and I am a big fan but J. Cole set the standards high and this one didn't meet my standards for a Cole album. The singing...really? I was somewhat disappointed , there were like 3 or 4 songs worth listening to that are pure gold, the others are alright. Cole could have done better, its nothing like his last two albums but its still a good album.
  52. splash_money24
    Feb 14, 2015
    10
    Don't understand why the critics gave the album such a low score. Songs like "Apparently", "No Role Modelz", and "Wet Dreamz" are songs that I think everyone can relate too. "GOMD" and "Fire Squad" and "St Tropez" were some great songs too and I love what he did with the last song on the album, "Note To Self" thanking everyone who has gotten him where he is. J. Cole is one of the bestDon't understand why the critics gave the album such a low score. Songs like "Apparently", "No Role Modelz", and "Wet Dreamz" are songs that I think everyone can relate too. "GOMD" and "Fire Squad" and "St Tropez" were some great songs too and I love what he did with the last song on the album, "Note To Self" thanking everyone who has gotten him where he is. J. Cole is one of the best story tellers in today's rap. I can listen to Forest Hills Drive everyday without getting tired of the same songs. People who actually like real hip-hop know that J. Cole has real talent. He's in my top 3 for today's rap/hip-hop artist. He's shown excellent growth since his last album Born Sinner. I think why so many people hated the album was that not all the songs were great. I love J. Cole's openness, that's something I admire about him. When I first heard the album I thought it was straight garbage, but after listening to it another time I grew to love it and become a huge fan of J. Cole. I feel like he has his head on right, not worrying about money, sex, and fame but more family, truth, and "true mohterf****** love." If I were to chose the best song on the track it would be "Apparently" Closing in on the final tracks of the project, Cole reflects on the wrong decisions he’s made in life and tries to correct them now knowing how much the people believe in him and look up to him.… Expand
  53. BrandonTrotter
    Jan 16, 2015
    7
    J. Cole has a ton of great moments a improvement from the last album as he has evolved as an artist but should have put it out in 2015, and the production was just ridiculous and it shows that J. Cole has also improved as a producer too.
  54. coleworldohyeah
    Jan 10, 2015
    10
    Mr. Cole has progressed so much since releasing his mixtape, The Come Up, in 2007. He always finds a way to connect to listeners each project he has released. His melodies are better than ever and the production on this is easy on the ears. A must hear album for music lovers.
  55. Niko7
    Jan 8, 2015
    10
    I just don't get it the critics speak poorly of the album while the users praise it. I bet most of the people reviewing these album listen to each track once, if they even listened to the whole thing. They give this a 68 and give rae sremmurd something higher what the **** is that. I haven't heard their whole album, but the 3 or four singles that were released weren't good. They weren'tI just don't get it the critics speak poorly of the album while the users praise it. I bet most of the people reviewing these album listen to each track once, if they even listened to the whole thing. They give this a 68 and give rae sremmurd something higher what the **** is that. I haven't heard their whole album, but the 3 or four singles that were released weren't good. They weren't terrible, but I wouldn't want to listen to anything they say more than once, unless it is for the beat. A lot of the critics wrote really short reviews because they probably have not listened to much of the album, and the ones that did complain about the eminem and maclemmore line, calling him insensitive. Get the **** over it and lets not forget he is half white and even if he wasn't it doesn't matter he did say anything wrong just the truth.… Expand
  56. Turtlejump
    Jan 7, 2015
    10
    Honestly one of the most heart warming and beautiful rap albums out there. Songs such as "Wet Dreamz", "No Role Models" and "Fire Squad" talk about classic hip hop topics such as sex, relationships and the competition in the rap game. But treats the topic in a different way, a more humble way talking about it in a true sense without boasting or turning the topic into satire.
    I don't think    Honestly one of the most heart warming and beautiful rap albums out there. Songs such as "Wet Dreamz", "No Role Models" and "Fire Squad" talk about classic hip hop topics such as sex, relationships and the competition in the rap game. But treats the topic in a different way, a more humble way talking about it in a true sense without boasting or turning the topic into satire.
    I don't think this album will let Nas down.    … Expand
  57. HipHopCertified
    Jan 3, 2015
    6
    In my opinion there is only a very select club of artists who could release an album without any promotion or lead-up singles and still expect to sell well. I never would have guessed J. Cole would be one of those artists. Yet, here we are with Forest Hills Drive 2014. It sold 375,000 copies in its first week and also broke some records on Spotify.

    When J Cole dropped his first album I    In my opinion there is only a very select club of artists who could release an album without any promotion or lead-up singles and still expect to sell well. I never would have guessed J. Cole would be one of those artists. Yet, here we are with Forest Hills Drive 2014. It sold 375,000 copies in its first week and also broke some records on Spotify.

    When J Cole dropped his first album I thought he did a pretty good job of launching himself into the scene. It looked like he had it figured out who he wanted to be on that first album. I was curious about how he would develop as an artist. Perhaps Born Sinner didn’t really bring that much of a development (though I did like the album).

    Though I admit that J. Cole as a conflicted individual remains interesting. Forest Hills Drive doesn’t bring any change unfortunately. On the album J Cole is just doing more of that which he had already been doing. Just not as good. I just don’t really feel the passion of Cole here. The minor changes that are here, aren’t ones that I like.

    Cole singing his hooks shouldn’t be, because he really can’t sing. Then there is also the name dropping. Cole already had a penchant for it on his previous releases, but he takes it up a notch on this one. This way he starts to turn into the new Game. J. Cole has shown some real potential in the past, but I really feel Forest Hills Drive is a step back for him as an emcee. Mostly because doesn’t seem to be able to make any step forward.

    Forest Hills Drive is for the most part produced by J. Cole himself, though he did get some outside help for some of the tracks as well. When I listened to the album the first time I thought it started pretty good with some nice beats. Slow and atmospheric. It doesn’t take long before a lot of the production starts to sound the same though. Along the way there are even some really uninspired beats. I couldn’t find any beats that I really thought were great. Perhaps if I would listen to it as a standalone track, but as an album there is just too much that sounds the same.

    Too be honest I find Forest Hills Drive 2014 to be an uninspiring affair. It sounds for weird as Cole’s drive was what made him good on Cole World and Born Sinner. That drive seems to be gone though. This isn’t a bad album, but there isn’t anything that really stands out to me for good reasons and J Cole should be capable of more.

    3/5

    Hiphopcertified.com    … Expand
  58. bsosajr
    Dec 30, 2014
    6
    J. Cole's new "2014 Forest Hills Drive" LP surprised me with no singles and features. However, I feel like were given the same old bland Cole. The first half of the album goes strong with "January 28th", "Wet Dreamz", "03' Adolescense", and "Fire Squad." Once the second half of the album hits, we get annoying and corny songs such as "St. Tropez", "G.O.M.D", and "Hello." It's hard not toJ. Cole's new "2014 Forest Hills Drive" LP surprised me with no singles and features. However, I feel like were given the same old bland Cole. The first half of the album goes strong with "January 28th", "Wet Dreamz", "03' Adolescense", and "Fire Squad." Once the second half of the album hits, we get annoying and corny songs such as "St. Tropez", "G.O.M.D", and "Hello." It's hard not to like Cole, he's one of the purest and realest rappers of this new era of hip hop. "2014 Forest Hills Drive" has its moments, but it felt rushed, corny, and plain out boring compared to his hunger on "The Warm Up", and his refreshing radio hit "Work Out."… Expand
  59. junodaisy
    Dec 25, 2014
    10
    Do not trust the reviews on this album by "professional critics." This album showcases J. Cole's storytelling over superb production. He sings on a few tracks, which is an acquired taste. But I think he makes it work. There are absolutely no gimmicks here. This is substance over style. Cole just pours out his heart on these tracks and the end result is impressive. This album is well worthDo not trust the reviews on this album by "professional critics." This album showcases J. Cole's storytelling over superb production. He sings on a few tracks, which is an acquired taste. But I think he makes it work. There are absolutely no gimmicks here. This is substance over style. Cole just pours out his heart on these tracks and the end result is impressive. This album is well worth your money.… Expand
  60. Tersivwz
    Dec 24, 2014
    7
    The nodz J makez in this album are more in the meta than born sinner. The zs and the picture at his childhood home are cool okay, don't complain. He can be a fan and a rapper too. I do find this album a bit diluted and not really like that deep, and it isn't made up for in the production. I kept waiting for the next song to start, which isn't good. It is not a bad album though. It's smoothThe nodz J makez in this album are more in the meta than born sinner. The zs and the picture at his childhood home are cool okay, don't complain. He can be a fan and a rapper too. I do find this album a bit diluted and not really like that deep, and it isn't made up for in the production. I kept waiting for the next song to start, which isn't good. It is not a bad album though. It's smooth and spacey. Best track iz GOMD .… Expand
  61. samyradwan
    Dec 21, 2014
    10
    AOTY Jermaine Cole has shown excellent growth as an artist with this brilliant LP. I'm proud to call myself a fan of his, and I'm anticipating his next body of work. Shout Cope Fam.
  62. mone06
    Dec 18, 2014
    10
    I'm going to keep this simple. Best album of 2014. A Definite must buy. J. Cole saved hip hop. If you're a fan of hip-hop and tired of listening to the non sense on the radio this is the album for you. I've listened to this non stop for over a week now and cannot name one bad song on the album. Whats really impressive is that this album is great with no features at all. If your a hip-hopI'm going to keep this simple. Best album of 2014. A Definite must buy. J. Cole saved hip hop. If you're a fan of hip-hop and tired of listening to the non sense on the radio this is the album for you. I've listened to this non stop for over a week now and cannot name one bad song on the album. Whats really impressive is that this album is great with no features at all. If your a hip-hop fanatic and you don't own this, shame on you. This is up there with reasonable doubt and illmatic… Expand
  63. Enforcer122
    Dec 18, 2014
    8
    Heartfelt, passionate music from an outstanding artist. I'm the type of dude to listen to slipknot, metallica, bring me the horizon, so for me to listen to rap it has to be good, and it really is good. The songs apparently and fire squad, are instant classics. The one slight problem I had was it often felt samey, similar lyrics and song styles all throughout the album. But apart from that,Heartfelt, passionate music from an outstanding artist. I'm the type of dude to listen to slipknot, metallica, bring me the horizon, so for me to listen to rap it has to be good, and it really is good. The songs apparently and fire squad, are instant classics. The one slight problem I had was it often felt samey, similar lyrics and song styles all throughout the album. But apart from that, it's one of the best albums I've heard this year.… Expand
  64. Bretro96
    Dec 17, 2014
    8
    J. Cole is helping bring back more complex rap & hip-hop, than what is common today in the world of hip hop. It is one the best hip hop albums of the year and most of the tracks are good.
  65. MrLahey
    Dec 16, 2014
    0
    really boring album. cole isn't interesting or entertaining. same boring beats, really bad lyrics, no engery, no charima from bole he's bland and tasteless like rice cake or a piece of bread
  66. AlexB
    Dec 16, 2014
    10
    Great album, with a solid story behind it. I am happy for Cole because this album will put him on the top of the charts this year, he is projected to sell 300k+ of copies in the first week. Remember, these numbers were made without solid promotion and singles. Cole's delivery on the album is top notch, his mentality is changed, he's no longer doubtful, he feels more confident throughoutGreat album, with a solid story behind it. I am happy for Cole because this album will put him on the top of the charts this year, he is projected to sell 300k+ of copies in the first week. Remember, these numbers were made without solid promotion and singles. Cole's delivery on the album is top notch, his mentality is changed, he's no longer doubtful, he feels more confident throughout this album. Overall, this album has a refreshing sound, good production, everything about this album is solid. I'm disappointed with the critic reviews, I feel that some of them gave Cole much lower ratings compared to what this album deserved.… Expand
  67. ben_zo77
    Dec 15, 2014
    8
    First off, I'm proud of J. Cole. This album is a significant artistic departure from his past work, and that's a good thing. It's undoubtedly his best album, but it's far from a classic. His words, the vibes, and the concept all initially made me believe this was Cole's Blueprint, Illmatic, or MBDTF. Also, the transitions from childhood to Hollywood Cole to realization as to what'sFirst off, I'm proud of J. Cole. This album is a significant artistic departure from his past work, and that's a good thing. It's undoubtedly his best album, but it's far from a classic. His words, the vibes, and the concept all initially made me believe this was Cole's Blueprint, Illmatic, or MBDTF. Also, the transitions from childhood to Hollywood Cole to realization as to what's important are perfect. After repeated listens, however, many songs were just a little bit off to me. One professional reviewer commented something along the lines of: the album is dressed like a classic, but the tailoring is off. I agree. Cole made two huge, crippling mistakes: singing his own hooks and rushing the album to make it by the end of 2014. The fact he made the album he did with no features is quite remarkable, but I think he badly needed the sonic departure of using GOOD singers on the hooks. No rapper features is bold by itself and Cole could succeed in a big way by continuing to do this, but it's just naive of him to use his poor singing voice on the hooks. Regarding rushing the album, I felt throughout listening to it that it sounded slightly off and low-quality at times. J. Cole wants to be a Nas who affects people as much as Pac did. He's getting closer, but he's not there yet. DISCLAIMER: it's a complex album and I'll reevaluate my opinions in a couple months and I have my eyes on several songs that I need to figuratively digest lyrically and sonically. A couple songs could be rated higher with time (Hello?) and a couple songs could be rated lower (GOMD?) Overall, this is my first impression of 2014 Forest Hills Drive and I liked what I heard. ~ 8.2/10
    Tracks:
    "January 28th": good lyricism, couple bad production choices, pretty bad hook, nice comment at the end crowning himself the God of rap (4/5)
    "Wet Dreamz": such incredible storytelling.. this song is a showcase of Cole's technical rapping skills. Also, this hook is one of the few in the album that is exceptional simply because he goes from repeating that he's a virgin and then suddenly the hook tells you at the end that she's also a virgin. Love Yourz is my favorite to listen to, but this song is the best song on this album. (5/5)
    "03' Adolescence": again, it just felt a little off.. and the hook is sooooo bad with Cole's singing. loved the lyrics though, certain lines really hit me emotionally (4/5)
    "A Tale Of 2 Citiez": Whew, what a beat although I felt like it wasn't really suitable for Cole. I would love to hear an artist with an intense flow like ScHoolboy Q or Pac (RIP) on the instrumental. Regardless, this song is awesome and the "ugh, nice watch, run it" line combined with the production and the subsequent "hands in the air" chant is tooo hype (5/5)
    "Fire Squad": this song tries too hard and half of it is irrelevant lyrically.. Don't get me wrong though, it's hype and it goes well with the cocky run-up to becoming Hollywood Cole along with the concept of the album. People overreacted over him name-dropping Macklemore, JT and Eminem: it was far from a diss and was completely true. I loved the Iggy diss, though (4/5)
    "St. Tropez": nice interlude between the cocky, on-the-come-up Cole and Hollywood Cole (4/5)
    "G. O. M. D.": the best production on the album.. sonically clever and impressive, it's like 5 songs in one.. The track shows Hollywood Cole's attitude. I loved the last verse. My first impression was that I loved the song although it's a lot to digest lyrically and production-wise (5/5)
    "No Role Modelz": most likely song to get big on the radio.. loved Cole's flow on this. Also, the George W. Bush sample was hilarious (5/5)
    "Hello": Like many, this is my least-favorite track. I can't decide whether I kinda like it or hate it. It's incredibly ambitious, but it fails sonically and I didn't like the repeated hello's. I have to say, though, I found the themes of regret and accepting the past to be relatable (3/5)
    "Apparently": a great song.. lyrically and thematically sound (5/5)
    "Love Yourz": I loved the raw emotion Cole clearly put into this song. Honestly, I didn't like the hook and the production could've definitely been better with more work and fine-tuning (again, the album was rushed). This song hit me and many others deep, though and it's a perfect ending to Cole's journey from childhood to cocky Cole to Hollywood Cole and back home to 2014 Forest Hills Drive (5/5)    … Expand
  68. batoto
    Dec 15, 2014
    10
    I haven't enjoyed any of J.Cole new music since his mixtape days, however upon my first listening of this album I genuinely remembered why I thought of him as one of the best upcoming rappers back in 2009. Forest Hills Drive really sounds amazing and it's such a cohesive blend of different types of beats and song productions. The album really immerses the listener into a state of mind andI haven't enjoyed any of J.Cole new music since his mixtape days, however upon my first listening of this album I genuinely remembered why I thought of him as one of the best upcoming rappers back in 2009. Forest Hills Drive really sounds amazing and it's such a cohesive blend of different types of beats and song productions. The album really immerses the listener into a state of mind and tells a great story with a great message, which artist "don't sing about no mo". It's also a shame it's been so misunderstood by critics. The only reason I created this account was to give this album the score it deserves, which is a 10, and to hopefully encourage people to give it a try. You won't regret it.… Expand
  69. hip_hop_head
    Dec 13, 2014
    10
    Can anyone honestly remember the last time we heard a hip-hop album laced with so much raw emotion driven by real meaning? Not to compare the two, but the visions Cole paints thru music evokes sentiments eerily similar to Pac. J. Cole finally did what I've hoped he'd done since his debut: expand his production. He's a top-notch producer himself, but he was doing himself a disservice by notCan anyone honestly remember the last time we heard a hip-hop album laced with so much raw emotion driven by real meaning? Not to compare the two, but the visions Cole paints thru music evokes sentiments eerily similar to Pac. J. Cole finally did what I've hoped he'd done since his debut: expand his production. He's a top-notch producer himself, but he was doing himself a disservice by not showing how hard his bars could go on practically anything. Albeit, he sacrificed some of his pure, raw, lyrical ability, but he did so in lieu of becoming a better artist who can craft beautiful, melodic songs.

    This is a concept album which makes the track list coherent and easy to follow, as we see the first couple of songs talk about growing up in the Ville, and life as an adolescent in general (certainly everyone found themselves reminiscing nostalgically about trying to get the pretty girl in math class in high school), and it transitions to him "on his way, about to get paid" in Hollywood. When he's finally there, he realizes its not all its built up to be, so he comes home where his happiness was all along. This is truly the product of a man who's achieved self-actualization, something we rarely ever see, especially in the music industry filled with false happiness inundated by hedonism to the thousandth degree.

    The best part is, Cole doesn't care what we think about the album, because he's found out how to make himself happy, and can do nothing more than hope we're right there with him. Surely, after vicariously going through Cole's journey, its safe to say that those who truly search for meaning in music are with him.
    The album has all the makings to be a classic, but only time will tell. I don't think this is a 10, more of a 9.0-9.3, but I'm giving it a 10 because I believe the time will come years from now that critics realized they were way off with their 6's and 7's. #coleworld    … Expand
  70. pittsports87
    Dec 13, 2014
    10
    This is by far Jermaine's best album to date and rivals his 2 classic mixtapes, The Warm Up and Friday Night Lights. The album features amazing production from himself, Vinylz, !llmind, and others. His sharp storytelling is evident all over the album and he is finally becoming the rapper everyone expected him to be. This is the best album released in rap music in a long time and isThis is by far Jermaine's best album to date and rivals his 2 classic mixtapes, The Warm Up and Friday Night Lights. The album features amazing production from himself, Vinylz, !llmind, and others. His sharp storytelling is evident all over the album and he is finally becoming the rapper everyone expected him to be. This is the best album released in rap music in a long time and is exactly what the game needed.… Expand
  71. His-Dudeness
    Dec 13, 2014
    9
    Not without its flaws Forest Hills Drive shows a Cole that has finally recovered the artistic control lacking in his previous two outings to hit us with the realest Hip Hop album of 2014.
  72. Spangle
    Dec 12, 2014
    4
    There is no rap artist out there now who I want to love more than J. Cole. He seems like a great guy who is very open, which I love in a rapper. For example, I love guys like Drake, 808's Kanye, and Kid Cudi. I have no problem with rappers being a bit "soft" to get stuff off their chest, but damn does he struggle when he does this. He cannot sing to save his life and whenever he has someThere is no rap artist out there now who I want to love more than J. Cole. He seems like a great guy who is very open, which I love in a rapper. For example, I love guys like Drake, 808's Kanye, and Kid Cudi. I have no problem with rappers being a bit "soft" to get stuff off their chest, but damn does he struggle when he does this. He cannot sing to save his life and whenever he has some great, personal bars, he always follows them up with something incredibly corny. For example, the track "Wet Dreamz" is very personal and I appreciate his openness on it, but it just comes off as corny and I cannot help but laugh at the thought he decided to put it on his album. The track and "St. Tropez", "Hello", and "Note to Self", are undoubtedly the worst ones here, largely thanks to the singing on those latter three. He cannot sing, yet decides to basically just sing on all three of them. Whose decision was that? Who told him he could sing? If anybody ever complimented his singing, they were lying. The beats are also just ok here. None of them are overly interesting, aside from on the four tracks that really stood out to me, "A Tale of 2 Citiez", "Fire Squad", "GOMD", and "No Role Modelz", where the beats are all very good. Otherwise, this one is a classic Cole release. Cole shows flashes of potential to drop a classic album one day, but gets bogged down in nods to legends, terrible hooks, his singing, mediocre beats, corny lyrics, and a general lullaby-type feeling. While I liked Cole World and Born Sinner when they first dropped, I eventually came to not really like either of them for the same reasons I did not enjoy this release. I was really hoping this one would be the Cole album that i would like when it drops and then continue to like for the foreseeable future, but that is sadly not the case. As I write this, the disappointment I feel is immense, as I just really want to like Cole, but I just cannot.… Collapse
  73. Diablos21
    Dec 12, 2014
    10
    I've been a fan of this man's work since The Come Up and it's nice to see his progression from rapper, to artist. Didn't too much care for his last two albums, they seemed lacking in certain areas and I chalked it up as him losing steam and figured he'd never be able to return to the form he showcased in his mixtape days but it's nice to see that I was proven wrong in my assessment. ThisI've been a fan of this man's work since The Come Up and it's nice to see his progression from rapper, to artist. Didn't too much care for his last two albums, they seemed lacking in certain areas and I chalked it up as him losing steam and figured he'd never be able to return to the form he showcased in his mixtape days but it's nice to see that I was proven wrong in my assessment. This record reveals that he's only improving and is a great step in the right direction for Cole. I'll even go so far as to say that it is his best project since Friday Night Lights and is 2014's Album of the Year… Expand
  74. go_rilla84
    Dec 12, 2014
    8
    Although it doesn't reach the heights of Kendrick's "Good Kidd M.A.D.D. City" it certainly moves in a more progressive direction than J Cole's previous album "Born Sinner". Some of my favourite tracks on Forest Hills Drive include the soulful "Apparently", the relateable "Wet Dreamz" and the social satire piece "No Role Modelz".

    Although J Cole has found it somewhat difficult to rise    Although it doesn't reach the heights of Kendrick's "Good Kidd M.A.D.D. City" it certainly moves in a more progressive direction than J Cole's previous album "Born Sinner". Some of my favourite tracks on Forest Hills Drive include the soulful "Apparently", the relateable "Wet Dreamz" and the social satire piece "No Role Modelz".

    Although J Cole has found it somewhat difficult to rise above the field of talented rappers in the game, the absolute strength of his art in my view, is his production skills and relatable subject matter. Wet Dreamz for example puts you in the shoes of an adolescent teen who is about to lose his virginity. For those who recall their first moment and the faux bravado they showed to try and beat the nerves of the moment, it is a highly entertaining track and one that might draw some embarrassment for how close for comfort the subject matter is.

    Some critics have highlighted the lack of featured guests on this album, but if you understand the overall theme of this album(J Cole revising his childhood struggles and experiences) it would seem almost inappropriate to have had guests contribute to the conversation.

    This is a solid album, and although the general theme is a well-trodden path, it is a trip you won't be disappointed with.    … Expand
  75. danhildy
    Dec 11, 2014
    10
    J Cole has definitely shown his growth as an artist on this album. He really seems to be at peace with himself by the end of the album and it is an incredible journey he takes the listener on. Every track is packed with emotion. For me, it's unlike anything I've ever heard before and not in a bad way. I've never heard so much emotion in any hip hop album. He isn't afraid to say what heJ Cole has definitely shown his growth as an artist on this album. He really seems to be at peace with himself by the end of the album and it is an incredible journey he takes the listener on. Every track is packed with emotion. For me, it's unlike anything I've ever heard before and not in a bad way. I've never heard so much emotion in any hip hop album. He isn't afraid to say what he really feels giving this album a raw, soulful vibe. Many critic ratings don't do this album justice. The thing about this album is it doesn't fit into the nice little box that we call mainstream music. People and critics that call this album "trash" or "lacking" don't understand true art. Props to J Cole for not tailoring this album for radio hits and trusting his loyal fan base to give this album the praise it deserves.… Expand
  76. TheJmsJose
    Dec 11, 2014
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Jermaine Cole brings this beautiful album to us, speaking of his rise to fame and its outcomes, current issues, and truly finding himself after all he has been through. After listening to Born Sinner, I was immediately hooked onto Cole and what he could do. He studies rap like no one else and loves what he does, so its only normal for him to make things the way he wants to, as he said in his outro, "If you are influenced by the world, then let the world be influenced by you". This is what exactly Cole attempted to do, as well as changing the state of rap and telling his story while he is at it. Throughout the first third of the album we see Jermaine thinking and reflecting his adolescence and his first time, accompanied by a beautiful intro. The story then goes one to Cole's love life and how some women cannot be saved. He mocks party songs in, "GOMD," and realized that his rise to fame has changed him. Fire Squad is a story of itself. Overall this album does not lack a thing except singles.
    That is not necessarily a bad thing either, Cole's message of happiness over money shows as he does not need influence from others to make a classic. This is a modern rap classic.
    Last but not least, a rebuttal to some of the people that rate this badly because he name checked Eminem. First of all, you must be idiotic and dumb to not see that Cole wasn't dissing Eminem, as he was simply letting out his frustrations with the game. If you look at the numbers, and even some of Eminem's own lines, you can see that J. Cole has a lot of back-up when he made his statement. It was more of a call out to rappers, to gain their hunger back, and to make classics. You can see this in the outro as well, as he talks to Drake and Kendrick through there.
    Though different, this album definitely delivers a deep message that some mainstream brainwashed ears cannot handle, and that is okay. But to call this a bad project would be a sin.    … Expand
  77. shivanimshah
    Dec 11, 2014
    6
    I've been an avid Cole fan since the 2009, but I can't front, I'm really disappointed with this album. Its a good album, but I am by no means blown away. Why has Cole simplified his lyrics so much? We have become accustomed to his clever wordplay and 2014FHD massively lacked in this. I fell in love with Cole's music due to his story telling ability- FHD only has 2 tracks that tell a story-I've been an avid Cole fan since the 2009, but I can't front, I'm really disappointed with this album. Its a good album, but I am by no means blown away. Why has Cole simplified his lyrics so much? We have become accustomed to his clever wordplay and 2014FHD massively lacked in this. I fell in love with Cole's music due to his story telling ability- FHD only has 2 tracks that tell a story- Wet Dreamz and '03 Ad. Love Yourz saved me from rating this album as 4/10, as that song is truly heartfelt and the only emotion provoking song on this album.

    I disagree with a lot of people who say this reminds them of a Friday Night Lights Cole. The FNL Cole was HUNGRY, you can't mistake the passion and determination in his voice. For me, the 2014FHD Cole is complacent. Cole is in a different place in his life right now and you can't fake that hunger. But could also be due to the lack of the competition in the rap game in 2014 perhaps (?). Who knows.

    I think the production is better on this album than his previous ones, and his decision to work with other producers was definitely a good one.

    Finally the singing- I liked it on the Intro and A Tale of 2 Citiez, but after that it was overkill. Jermaine- Hire some professional singers please!!    … Expand
  78. gobinadesh
    Dec 10, 2014
    10
    Do you wanna, do you wanna...be happy? Whole album feels directly from the heart. J. Cole put together an amazing blend of tracks. Please release this on vinyl!!
  79. admir91
    Dec 10, 2014
    10
    Amazing Album by far one of the best in the past few years. Cole is the new leader of the new school. The story he tells from beginning to end is as good as it gets. Only other rapper that has released anything even worth mentioning this year is Logic with under pressure which was a great album in it of itself.
  80. Rengle
    Dec 9, 2014
    8
    This album is amazing in it's own right. It flip-flops between Cole's life today and his younger years, which he does rather well. While it's not going to go down in the hall of fame, it's defiantly his best album to date. Some of the more exceptional tracks include Wet Dreamz, A Tale of 2 Citiez, No Role Modelz, and Note to Self. The tracks are very original - although there are some poorThis album is amazing in it's own right. It flip-flops between Cole's life today and his younger years, which he does rather well. While it's not going to go down in the hall of fame, it's defiantly his best album to date. Some of the more exceptional tracks include Wet Dreamz, A Tale of 2 Citiez, No Role Modelz, and Note to Self. The tracks are very original - although there are some poor decisions production wise on some of the tracks - and are fairly catchy. I would defiantly recommend it to fans of Childish Gambino and Drake.… Expand
  81. geedup
    Dec 9, 2014
    7
    The long awaited drop from J Cole is this album. Mix tapes and guest appearances made this CD very anticipated and in most cases seems to live up to the hype. I like Cole's delivery and certain lycrical talent, but after 6 or so tracks-despite the somewhat varried content- I found myself wanting to hear more. Something different, as if all the tracks sound the same. Certainly no bangars onThe long awaited drop from J Cole is this album. Mix tapes and guest appearances made this CD very anticipated and in most cases seems to live up to the hype. I like Cole's delivery and certain lycrical talent, but after 6 or so tracks-despite the somewhat varried content- I found myself wanting to hear more. Something different, as if all the tracks sound the same. Certainly no bangars on this CD, but some real talk. Which is certainly missing from the game.… Expand
  82. Brooklyn23
    Dec 9, 2014
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is a great concept album and goes into depth about Cole's rise to fame. I expected the last 15 minutes to be a song but I can't hate on someone shouting out and thanking his peers and mentors. Real rap is back.… Expand
  83. Higashi
    Dec 9, 2014
    10
    Greaet album from top to bottom. Very cohesive, very foretelling, and very fun in a lot of parts. However the lack of features from his Dreamville cohorts Bas and Omen was felt. Cole's no Bas, but this will do
  84. ChefJooce
    Dec 9, 2014
    9
    finally jole came through with a classic album so he doesn't have to go back to the post office. can finally get yucky to cole CRINE. might change to a 6/10 if he doesn't sell at least 300k

    **** fiji and hov
  85. GiGiDaGroovyGod
    Dec 9, 2014
    9
    I clicked on this album with no expectations. J. Cole has continually disappointed me since his mix-tape days but that certainly was not the case here. I enjoyed this album so thoroughly I had to make a metacritic account so I had somewhere to preach how much I love this album. I loved every song on this album apart from track 10 "Hello." Cole is utterly and completely honest through thisI clicked on this album with no expectations. J. Cole has continually disappointed me since his mix-tape days but that certainly was not the case here. I enjoyed this album so thoroughly I had to make a metacritic account so I had somewhere to preach how much I love this album. I loved every song on this album apart from track 10 "Hello." Cole is utterly and completely honest through this entire LP; I feel as though I know the man after finishing this album. He blends deep storytelling with poignant lyricism. He rides boombastic instrumentals that sound beautiful in your car. He really hit his mark with this album. The only downfall of this album is that at times he is melodramatic but it isn't a bad thing because it feels like he is truly expressing Jermaine Lamarr Cole. Listen to this album!… Expand
  86. Bleat0124
    Dec 9, 2014
    5
    Ok, that was better than the intellectual miscarriage that was Born Sinner. The involvement of other producers helped. All crimes are forgiven; J Cole can go back to making his way up the ladder of rap history. Good!
  87. ZaeDilla
    Dec 9, 2014
    10
    Jermaine Cole has shown excellent growth as an artist with this brilliant LP. I'm proud to call myself a fan of his, and I'm anticipating his next body of work. Shout Cope Fam.

Awards & Rankings

12
#12 Most Discussed Album of 2014
7
#7 Most Shared Album of 2014

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
67

Generally favorable reviews - based on 17 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 17
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 17
  3. Negative: 0 out of 17
  1. Uncut
    Feb 3, 2015
    60
    You long for a bit more of the ardour of "Fine Squad." [Mar 2015, p.73]
  2. Rolling Stone
    Jan 5, 2015
    60
    He speaks some incisive truths about class, race ("Fire Squad") and relationships ("Wet Dreamz"), but those insights are too often undercut by crass humor. The production falls short, too, with dull beats to match his languid flow.
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  3. NOW Magazine
    Dec 18, 2014
    60
    Consistent, yes, but not the king yet.
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