Album Review: J. Cole - "Cole World: The Sideline Story"

By Hardcore Critic
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

No more delays, no more rumors, J. Cole has officially released his debut album, Cole World: The Sideline Story. As the first artist signed to Roc Nation, J. Cole had to come out strong. On his debut album, he does just that, as the album immediately drops into "Dollar and a Dream III."

The album opens with J. Cole speaking directly from the heart, which is rare in today's rap game. What the listener will hear is a rapper, new to the game, opening up about how he feels trying to enter the game. With everything against him, he is doing what he can to achieve his dreams. On each track, J. Cole opens up about what he wants out of life and the impact he wants to have on the rap game.

While J. Cole is obviously introducing himself to the game, he comes off with a veteran presence on the microphone. There are few rappers in the game, rookies or veterans, who have the skilled wordplay abilities J. Cole possess. One line, which will likely stick out on the album is "boy you can't out-smart me, I make you feel like the shit, but you can't out-fart." J. Cole has the ability to switch up his flow, as he does several times on his Cole World album.

Cole World: The Sideline Story is true lyricism at its best and it will redefine the way people think about the overall Southern hip hop scene. After listening to this album, critics will realize the South, just like every other region in hip hop, is diverse. Obviously, J. Cole draws inspiration from many of the legends in the game and the competition around him. Following the release of Cole World, J. Cole has separated himself as the best new artist in the game.

Easily, Cole World: The Sideline Story is the best album, so far, of 2011. A familiar voice, over the past few years, in the game delivering his first official offering. While the album is 2011's best-so far, J. Cole could have done without including "Lights Please" on the album. There is nothing wrong with the song, aside from the fact it was recorded and released in 2009. However, J. Cole has still put together a debut album better than albums from veterans released this year.

J. Cole's album is easily a classic and a must-have for hip hop fans.

Hip Hop Vibe's Rating: 9/10