Mixed reviews followed Drake’s newest album, If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late, which dropped last month on February 13th. A surprise release, it was an early (and much welcomed) Valentine’s Day present for Drake fans everywhere. And just like a box of chocolates, nobody was really sure what this album was or what flavor it was going to be.
Originally set as a free-release mixtape, Cash Money Records only allowed Drake’s newest work as a traditional paid album drop.
It’s easy to see how the album was intended to be free-release because its overall tone of chill reflections and personal rants are a pure extension of the artist. Nothing at all in this album was commercialized, made into a pop hit, or meant to dominate the top ten song spots on iTunes. But that’s why new listeners and true Drake fans are loving it. It was produced by the artist as a form of almost unforgiving self-reflection. Drake stayed with his signature mark of emotional openness that we love so much of and kept up a vibe of reduced and mellow beats that first made a few appearances on tracks with his previous album, “Nothing Was the Same.”
The success on iTunes, however, was overnight, as soon-to-be popular pump up tracks like “Energy” and “Legend” literally started from the top. The album has been dubbed by many as a great workout playlist, relaxed (but not boring) driving music, or something to listen to when you’re chilling in your room.
The top highlights of the album are “Energy,” which features a standoffish tone and confidence boosting lyrics, “6PM in New York,” where Drake lets off some steam about his fame-ridden life, and “Know Yourself,” with it’s chill beat and assertive attitude.
Overall, this is Drake’s most artistic album yet, and everyone is sure to find a song they relate to, whether it’s for mood music or a confidence catalyst.