Lupe Fiasco - Lasers

Wed 6th Apr, 2011 in Music Reviews

The back story to Lasers is a large and painful one. Basically, Fiasco’s plan for one grand final album was seriously compromised by his label, Atlantic, and after some heated exchanges, name changes and negotiations, we end up with Lasers; a significantly different version of the original vision. For this reason I can see why the artist isn’t happy, but from a listeners point of view I can’t see any reason for us not to be.

Lasers is full of catchy hooks, big production, and Lupe Fiasco in one of his most out-spoken and blunt forms. Take for example the opening lines of the second single Words I Never Said, “I really think the war on terror is a bunch of bullshit/Just a poor excuse for you to use up all your bullets” Fiasco is aiming straight and true, no holds barred. The first single, and one of the highlights, The Show Goes On, samples the well known Modest Mouse song Float On, and is a catchy, energetic number full of exciting instrumentation.

Nearly every song is a potential single, from the live favourite State Run Radio to closing album ballad Never Forget You which features guest vocals from John Legend. Despite the excellent production from well known artists such as The Neptunes the true highlight of the album is Lupe’s lyrical prowess – he’s on top of the game.