The Off-Season
by J. Cole
Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 10 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 10
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 10
  3. Negative: 0 out of 10
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  1. New Musical Express (NME)
    May 18, 2021
    60
    Non-conforming, ‘The Off-Season’ is a little bit off in places and its steadiness can be one-note, but it’s still a strong piece technically. You might not play this album every day, but it would still be a strong record for J. Cole to end on.

Awards & Rankings

37
#37 Most Discussed Album of 2021

User Reviews

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User Score
8.1

Universal acclaim- based on 158 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 136 out of 158
  2. Mixed: 12 out of 158
  3. Negative: 10 out of 158
  1. Jarrett
    May 19, 2021
    10
    Man idk what album these critics are listening to. This is a classic rap album from top to bottom. And I’m not even the biggest Cole fan.Man idk what album these critics are listening to. This is a classic rap album from top to bottom. And I’m not even the biggest Cole fan. Just giving credit where it is absolutely due. The raping is phenomenal. Best I’ve heard on a commercial rap project since DAMN. Production is modern yet still fees nostalgic. Very difficult balance but they pulled it off. Track list is short and sweet which keeps the album focused and concise. There is literally not one skip on this project. There is literally something here for everyone. If you not feeling this you don’t know hip-hop, period. These publications need to stop letting journalists who are not Hip-Hop enthusiasts. It’s damaging to the culture.… Full Review »
  2. OmgitsMario
    May 18, 2021
    10
    This was a 12/12 honestly. KOD got boring quick, but I can tell this easily has replayability up and down the tracklist. The punchlines andThis was a 12/12 honestly. KOD got boring quick, but I can tell this easily has replayability up and down the tracklist. The punchlines and different flows throughout the album and the switch ups even mid-song just show Cole’s pen game has never been better. This solidifies his standing as one of the rap GOATs, alongside Kendrick.… Full Review »
  3. AUtiger314
    May 24, 2021
    10
    The most exciting and consistent J Cole album I have ever heard, he’s never been at a higher level. Absolutely incredible display of lyricalThe most exciting and consistent J Cole album I have ever heard, he’s never been at a higher level. Absolutely incredible display of lyrical dexterity over perhaps the best production he’s had in his career to date.… Full Review »
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