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Magic 2
by
Magic 2 Image
Metascore
71

Generally favorable reviews - based on 7 Critic Reviews What's this?

User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 16 Ratings

  • Summary: The latest full-length release from rapper Nas features guest appearances by 21 Savage and 50 Cent.
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Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 7
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 7
  3. Negative: 0 out of 7
  1. Clash Music
    Jul 28, 2023
    80
    Succinct, tightly wound, and often explosive, ‘Magic 2’ adds further ammunition to his remarkable late career high.
  2. RapReviews.com
    Sep 14, 2023
    80
    Sure, there are a few things that could be improved (that golden scrotum line for one – not even Roc Marciano could pull that one off), but I can’t imagine many Nas fans are upset with more of the same, when both Nas and Hit-Boy are on such a hot streak.
  3. AllMusic
    Feb 5, 2024
    80
    While not all of Magic 2 is this strong, there are several moments like this one ["One Mic, One Gun"] that can contend with the best of the King's Disease material.
  4. HipHopDX
    Jul 28, 2023
    76
    Magic 2 has a high floor as a rehashing of a proverbial tried and true formula of a Nas and Hit-Boy collaboration. It can still be magical, but you’re left with the sense that Hit could use a few new tricks.
  5. musicOMH.com
    Jul 28, 2023
    70
    The streaming era may have killed mixtape culture, but it’s best to come into Magic 2 expecting a more casual affair – Nas is mostly just flexing, surveying his legacy while adding to it.
  6. Pitchfork
    Jul 28, 2023
    65
    It’s the textbook definition of a low-stakes mid-career rap album, a place for one of the genre’s icons to show he’s still in decent fighting shape.
  7. The Wire
    Aug 8, 2023
    50
    If Magic 2 reveals that Nas can definitely still rap, it also continues his unfortunate run of uninspiring production choices. There are enjoyable moments, like the 50 Cent assisted “Office Hours”, the ominous string driven force of “Motion”, and the mesmerizing penmanship on “Slow It Down”, but overall the album falls short for an artist of Nas’s stature. [Sep 2023, p.68]
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User Reviews

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Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 8
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 8
  3. Negative: 2 out of 8
  1. vansere
    Aug 3, 2023
    10
    "Futuristic!" stands apart from Nas' previous albums. His lyrical prowess always there, seamlessly transitioning between flows and exploring"Futuristic!" stands apart from Nas' previous albums. His lyrical prowess always there, seamlessly transitioning between flows and exploring innovative beats. This is truly remarkable. Adding to it, Hitboy's production perfectly complements Nas' style. The album cover itself encapsulates this – a connection bridging the gap between a youthful Nas and his more seasoned self.
    The initial part of the album emanates a vibrant and youthful energy, embodying a contemporary and "hip" vibe. As the album progresses, a shift occurs, showcasing Nas at his most contemplative and enlightening state. The latter part reveals his unparalleled ability to impart wisdom and knowledge through his lyrics.    … Expand
  2. cakeKake12
    Aug 5, 2023
    10
    Great run Nas and Hit-Boy are on. It’s been a pleasure to watch and listen to these great pieces of work
  4. Momanp2001
    Aug 7, 2023
    10
    “Motion, Abracadabra, Office Hours, Slow it Down, Black Magic, Pistols on your Album Cover. Album is Fire
  5. Tinom
    Aug 2, 2023
    9
    This Album definitely took 4-5 listens to love, it grows on you.
    Slow it down, Motion & Pistols on your album cover are Nas at his best.
  6. Lajaleaa
    Aug 24, 2023
    8
    There is nothing great on here, but Nas has been who surprisingly has stayed on the quality side of Hip Hop for quite a while, which is notThere is nothing great on here, but Nas has been who surprisingly has stayed on the quality side of Hip Hop for quite a while, which is not something very easy to achieve, specially with a constancy as the one he has. The lyrics are clear, which I appreciate, they might not be heart-moving, but they are friendly enough to be listened constantly without getting annoyed. The production is also on point, with nothing too great to bring up, but carefully made enough to have very little flaws within its own concept. "Magic 2" is simply good enough in a year in which Hip Hop is lacking that genuine own personality without making it too popular.… Expand
  7. Hovdagoat
    Aug 2, 2023
    0
    Mid as usual. Just an average album while we wait for KD4. It has some good songs but, overall, not good enough in my opinion.
  8. user0857
    Aug 4, 2023
    0
    just bad. please retire Nas, I've had enough of this boring muuuuuuuuuuusic

See all 8 User Reviews

Awards & Rankings

52
#52 Most Discussed Album of 2023

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