In fact, the flair that is championed on most Common albums is absent, leaving a vapid display of good ideas with unenthused delivery. This nonchalance has placed Universal Mind Control’s release, regardless of its intentions, in poor form, doing little for progressing Common’s ability.

That Brave on the whole is almost unapologetically poor isn't surprising--Jenny's never made a viable Album of the Year. But never before has the fly-girl-cum-cover girl been so listless. [Dec 2007, p.107]

Contrary to the disc's title, however, Foxx grinds out by-the-numbers do-me anthems. [Mar 2006, p.188]

But even with all the emo-passion, nearly half of this album is lukewarm.

While it's no surprise that Destiny Fulfilled showcases advanced production values, the songwriting and vocal abilities are just as impressive. [Jan 2005, p.81]

L.L. still has a few tricks up his sleeve. [May 2006, p.135]

Grown feels more like an extended elevator ride than a true adult movement. [Sep 2005, p.236]

[He] sounds stuck in a rut. [June 2004, p.152]

Clever turns of phrase, the reason you go to Banks in the first place, are in lesser supply on Apple, replaced with boilerplate declarations of supremacy. [Oct 2006, p.148]

Sounds like a watered-down Pearl Jam spiked with a drum machine and a couple of extra synths. [Feb 2002, p.123]

Her ten tracks are disposable, and redeemed only by Prince’s extraordinary production ear.

Too often these songs either sound recycled or just uninspired.

Eminem complements [Trice's] sinister outlook with equally gloomy production. [Aug 2006, p.140]

The music... is tacky and overproduced.... The songwriting here far outstrips Lopez's previous albums, though. [May 2007, p.116]

Classic Mariah--for better or worse. [Feb 2003, p.137]

On his sophomore effort, iSoujaBoyTellem (Interscope), the YouTube legend attempts to sound all grown up, but for the most part, sticks to his rather unusual brand of hip-hop for the Google generation.

Generally, Chingy is blank, as flat as tap water. [Oct 2006, p.150]

While P's rhyme schemes haven't changed much, he has improved his musical backdrops significantly. [Feb 2002, p.121]