Drake – Take Care (Album Review)

“Take Care” might be a classic album…


TOP 5

 

5. CAMERAS-GOOD ONES GO

While the standout tracks on this album are quite evident, numerous filler tracks create a division in people’s top 5 choices. In my view, ‘Cameras’ is the finest example of a filler track.

In this song, Drake employs his signature robot-like voice, signaling that he’s about to deliver exceptional lyrics. He maintains a monotone, unaffected tone while rapping with a dismissive attitude. To me, this song stands as one of the remaining authentic heartbreak tracks by Drake.

The chorus sends shivers down my spine, featuring a vocalist reminiscent of classic teenage R&B singers who sang out of fear of parental punishment.

 

 

4. SHOT FOR ME

There was a period when Drake stood alone in his ability to create a song like this—a track that excels in both the realms of rap and R&B.

“Shot For Me” is a suave track by Drake, where he seizes the opportunity to serenade his lady with an irresistibly catchy sound. In terms of content, Drake maintains his signature cockiness, reminding his woman that he played a role in shaping her identity, reiterating the “I’m famous now, just as I predicted” theme.

Isn’t it amusing how in the R&B segments of this song, Drake exudes extreme confidence, while in the rap section, his tone becomes somewhat more tender and sentimental? That is definitely f–kin backwards.

 

 

3. TAKE CARE

Remove the context of Drake and Rihanna’s stardom, along with the perception that this song aims to exploit their contrived relationship, and you’ll realize this is, in fact, a flawless song! Yes, it’ll make the birds in the trap croak, but when you decide to make a track that is easy on the ears, you’ll come up with this.

The song resembles a kind of duet between the two artists, intertwining their emotions through each line. The passion exuded by both artists is palpable, and as listeners, we can only hope this intensity doesn’t escalate into a pillow fight.

I appreciate the shifts in emotion within this song. It’s as if every aspect of the track exudes a sense of theatricality.

 

 

2. CREW LOVE

Upon hearing this song, you could sense that The Weeknd and Drake were on the cusp of industry domination. I had an immediate intuition that this collaboration would be a precious gem, one we’d likely treasure; it’s an exceptional record to bid us farewell.

I’ve always perceived this song as more of The Weeknd’s featuring Drake. Why, you ask? Well, firstly, he establishes the ambiance, immediately captivating listeners with his ballad-esque introduction. The first time I heard his part, I was genuinely taken aback by how he seamlessly melded a tender tone with rapper-like lyrics—a blend I hadn’t encountered since Montell Jordan’s heyday.

Drake, in a calculated move, grants The Weeknd the artistic freedom to shine on this track, merely stepping in to infuse it with his rap essence. His approach remains consistently nuanced; he comes across like the guy who introduces his potential girlfriend to his group of friends at the club.

 

 

1. MARVINS ROOM-BURIED ALIVE

“Marvin’s Room” might be the best R&B song by a rapper ever!

In this song, Drake remarkably transforms from a fierce rapper into a vulnerable, almost despondent R&B singer. While I deeply appreciate this aspect of the track, it’s not what elevates it to classic status for me. What truly makes it a classic is its enchanting melody: so familiar, as if you’ve encountered it before.
 
Throughout the song, Drake traverses a spectrum of emotions in his verses, relentlessly pursuing an indifferent and seemingly uninterested girl. He employs a blend of gloominess, a hint of aggression, and even an ill-advised confrontation with her current, presumably dark-skinned boyfriend. It’s reminiscent of those nights at the club when you’re left hanging by the uninterested crowd, prompting a drunken, inebriated call to your ex!
 

This track by Drake remains distinctive, regardless of whether us tougher individuals appreciate it or not. It unveils a sensitive facet that we, as individuals projecting a tough exterior, may not always be willing to reveal.


SONG BY SONG BREAKDOWN

1. OVER MY DEAD BODY (5/5)
2. SHOT FOR ME (5/5)
3. HEADLINES (4.5/5)
4. CREW LOVE (5/5)
5. TAKE CARE (5/5)
6. MARVINS ROOM-BURIED ALIVE (5/5)
7. UNDERGROUND KINGS (4.5/5)
8. WE’LL BE FINE (4.5/5)
9. MAKE ME PROUD (4/5)
10. LORD KNOWS (4.5/5)
11. CAMERAS-GOOD ONES-GO (5/5)
12. DOING IT WRONG (4/5)
13. THE REAL HER (4/5)
14. LOOK WHAT YOU’VE DONE (4.5/5)
15. HYFR (HELL YEAH F–KING RIGHT) (5/5)
16. PRACTICE (4/5)
17. THE RIDE (5/5)


 

OVERALL RATING

(A-) (90%)

 

Among all of Drake’s releases, this album strikes the best Rap and R&B balance for me. He showcases his singing prowess across a spectrum of genres including pop, soul, and R&B. While not claiming he’s a modern-day Luther, he crafts R&B tracks that hold genuine meaning.

Drake doesn’t neglect his rap persona on this album, delivering songs like “Underground Kings” and “We’ll Be Fine” that could rival any favorite rapper’s bars.

Honestly, I’m unsure why this album doesn’t receive more acclaim from hip-hop enthusiasts everywhere. Lyrically, Drake shines at his peak, and he crafts some of the most dynamic R&B tunes in recent years. I genuinely believe this unique Drake album won’t come around again, especially considering his recent associations with trappers.


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This Post Has 2 Comments

  1. Anonymous

    True. Music always sounds better when singer makes it about the things they really care and understand, not just following the market and the crowd. Let's check out the dates of the Drake Uk tour 2017, and let's hear if he learned his lesson.

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