Lupe Fiasco

Lupe Fiasco released his highly-anticipated, long-delayed concept album Food and Liquor last year to good reviews and solid support from both Kanye West and Jay-Z.

Hoping now to replicate that success, Lupe is about to release his sophomore effort, entitled The Cool.

The idea behind this album is somewhat different from the first. Where Food and Liquor was more eclectic-featuring metaphorical songs with topics ranging from a skateboarder ("Kick, Push") to what it's like to grow up fatherless ("He Say She Say")-Lupe's new album is a lot more streamlined.

Taking its name and inspiration from a track by the same name on the first album, The Cool builds upon the narrative lyricism and stylistic components of its namesake. Once again, Lupe breaks from the mold and explores a place in hip hop few artists dare to go to; he questions the societal impact of rap through his raw and compelling verses.

For instance, the track "Superstar," featuring Matthew Santos, is a taunting observation of the current, popularized superstar lifestyle, Lupe insists that since talent speaks for itself, the acting and the pretending prevalent in the music industry today is not necessary.

Although most of the tracks on the album are immediately recognizable as hip hop, "The Coolest" begins with a melodic piano intro instead. Even in this track, which is focused on Lupe's version of what his ideal life would be, he continues his social commentary on the negatives associated with what is commonly perceived as desirable in contemporary hip hop culture.

"Dumb It Down," track number 13 on The Cool, is a refutation of the most contemptuous of criticisms directed his way regarding his lyrical content. Under pressure to conform and simplify his songs, Lupe instead derisively rebels by reveling in his versatility through references spanning everything from Star Trek to David Blaine.

All in all, the combination of phenomenal lyrics and more accessible beats in The Cool will wow listeners and further propel a skyrocketing career.