The man who was dubbed the "Pump It Up" guy has entered a psychiatric ward. Why? Joe's candid lyrics, and ruminative testimonies has enabled him to be hip-hop's martyr. With the culture allergic to in depth lyricism, Joe has decided to play doctor, and proceed with the arduous task of trying to find the cure on Padded Rooms.
The intro titled "Now I Lay" finds an upgraded Joe Budden. With slicker flows, and seamless verses eligible for the New Testament, Budden shows he has reinvented himself for haters as Joe Budden 2.0. The precocious songwriter would also showcase his storytelling abilities on "In My Sleep" and "Exxxes". Joe's vivid imagination on "In My Sleep" provides a Vanilla Sky-esque outlook on life, while "Exxes" finds him in predictments with a female. Knowing Budden, this song has a deeper meaning which he leaves for the listeners to think about. Budden's honesty goes on a different level when he reveals his desire of having his son aborted on "I Couldn't Help It." While the lyrics are undeniably on par, Budden's biggest flaw has been, and remains, his lack of production. With lackluster production, Joe was better off using Soundclick beats to complete this album. The hook on "If I Gotta Go" is harsh on the ears, while "Adrenaline" sounds out of place in Joe's quest for a masterpiece.
Overall, Joe's second effort after 6 years shows a well-groomed lyricist capable of paddling in the streams off success. With stronger producers, Budden has the ability to be mentioned in the same breath as Jay-Z. For now, Joe can be looked upon as the Phantom with worn-out rims ready to be polished.
3.5/5.0
http://www.ballerstatus.com/article/reviews/2009/02/6403/
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