The Moon Man is back with a surprising sophomore album to say the least. No one expected Kid Cudi to announce that MOTM II: The Legend of Mr. Rager would be a rock album. At least Lil’ Wayne stuck to rap for a decade before his own rock experiment, Rebirth.
There’s some consistency in Mr. Rager’s message, as themes of isolation and escape from End of the Day reoccur. Only this time he enlists a few guest artists (Kanye West, St. Vincent) to help his “lonely stoner” thoughts materialize. The 17-track release is a darker, brooding glimpse into the life of an introspective artist who is easy to relate to.
While the opening track, “Erase Me,” is the most radio-friendly with its light pop rock pulse, “Marijuana,” is the strongest piece on the album, thanks to a piano-driven down-tempo groove and huge guitar riffs. The contrast between the heavily claustrophobic “The End” and the weak rhyming in the playful “All Along” prove that this album is unclassifiable: it represents the spectrum of Kid Cudi’s highs and lows.
Mr. Rager has something to offer to Kid Cudi fans, but those expecting the spatial, dreamy qualities of the first album will be disappointed. Overall, the album misses the mark when compared to its precursor, which was far more poetic and cohesive. Perhaps Cudi should focus less on pushing boundaries and more on finding his voice.
