Kid Cudi- Man on the Moon III: The Warrior

       I won't lie, I'm not that familiar with Cudi's discography. I didn't grow up listening to his stuff and the first time I have heared of him was after the release of Speedin Bullet 2 Heaven, which is probably the worst possible way to find out about Kid Cudi. Although maybe hearing him only at his worst made me enjoy this record more than I would have otherwise.

        The record starts out very strong with Tequila Shots, not the catchiest track on the project but an excellent tone-setter. Instrumentation has this mysterious and cosmic quality to it that is going to be a constant over most of the running time. This consistent vibe helps elivate some tracks that otherwise would sound like straight-up filler. There are a few of those, especially on the first leg of the album. I was expecting it though, it's really dificult to avoid those oon a record of this size. There's only one truly awful track on the record though. It's not great when majority of the listeners can unanimously point out the worst moment on an album and after reading a bunch of reviews and comments about MOTM III it's definitelly a case here. Elsie's Baby Boy fails in all fronts, as a key moment in the albums narrative, it sounds out of place stylistically and the House of the Rising Sun sample is simply afwul. Luckily that's all when it comes t negatives, there were quite a few tracks I found entertaining. The Void is a clear standout with an infectious refrain and its cinematic outro. Following Lovin' Me with Phoebe Bridgers is just as good, it brings a nice instrumental change, subtly snicking into some indie rock elements int the background. Also their vocals work suprisingly well together. The Pale Moonlight matches the quality of the previous cuts, really utilizing those classic Cudi hums to their full potential. The album finishes on a high note as well with Lord I Know.

         Despite a few boring spots and one awful track, Man on the Moon III is a very memorable listen with a consistant sound that feels quite cinematic. I might not love every single idea Cudi presents on this project but the highlights can be serious contenders for the best songs of the year.

RATING: 6.5/10