Wale – It’s Complicated EP (Review)

Anyone else in favor of Wale making the full transition to rap crooner? I mean seriously, The DMV native has been dropping more relationship knowledge than the love guru himself lately, putting dudes on game to how the anatomy of a woman’s mind works. In his newest tape, “It’s Complicated,” he gives us four more tracks that aim to teach us the ins and outs of how to deal with a relationship when you enter that mature stage of your life.

TOP 4

1. IT’s COMPLICATED (4.5/5)

“It’s Complicated” straddles the line between poetry, rapping, and simple conversation. It doesn’t have any explosive elements to it, just a basic instrumental that plays as the perfect platform for Wale to open up to his puzzled lover. I like the track for its authenticity, and appreciate it for its soothing vibes.

Why am I in the mood to do hip hop Yoga as I listen to this song?

2. BLACK BONNIE (5/5)

“Black Bonnie” is a lot more musical than “It’s Complicated,” as it has Wale spitting a lot more consistently. You will love his flow on the track, as he switches between anxious and confident, stumbling between lines, but ultimately catching himself, finishing his bars flawlessly. It’s a very unorthodox style, but based off the topic at hand, I think it fits perfectly.

Jacques completes this song with his R&B magic, perfectly setting the mood through these passionate vocals and effective harmonizing.

3. EFFORTLESS (5/5)

It’s a little more of a sunnier day on “Effortless,” as Wale hooks us up with this colorful/funky tune that shines brighter than Kevin Willis’ forehead.

I don’t mean to diminish the work that Wale did on this song, but whoever that is on the chorus is the real MVP of this song. They set the tone of the track wonderfully, drawing in both male and female listeners (Cause I can’t tell which gender they are) with this hypnotizing sound that literally makes you feel like you’re floating away. Wale compliments this mysterious person well, sounding like a n—a that is trying to explain to his parents why his current girlfriend is the one.

4. LET IT GO (4.5/5)

Unlike “Effortless,” I can tell that’s a girl on the hook, and she clearly sounds like she’s been angrily waiting at the door for Wale to come home. No need to worry, our hero handles the situation like a pro, easing his ladies mind with some slick ass words. To be quite honest with you, I would’ve handled the situation the same exact way — Talk about your flaws, and let her know the ways you can do better next time. Wise minds think a like.

OVERALL RATING

(9/10)

Ya’ll must’ve forgot that Wale’s award winning/Grammy nominated records were “Bad” and “Lotus Flower Bomb,” respectively. He is probably at his best when he makes records like these, which is why I think so highly of this EP. For the first time, I don’t hear Wale trying to be something he’s not for a full body of work (Granted, it’s 4 songs); I only see a 30 something year old bachelor giving us his take honest thoughts when it comes to dealing with relationships. It really results in beautiful music, despite the fact the fellas in the bando might croak listening to it.

Let’s be real: Less of a singing Wale is a good Wale. I have no doubt that he can architect the perfect love song, but vocal-wise, I simply do not believe he’s talented enough to create something great. In this project, he leaves those duties to the others, dipping his toes into the water when appropriate.

Is Wale finally starting to get it, guys?