Dr. Dre released his third and final studio album, “Compton,” on Aug. 7, 16 years after his last album, “2001.” A compilation of everything that makes Dre, Dre, “Compton” is an ode to his hometown, reflects on his upbringing and features many of the rap artists he’s helped along the way.
“Compton” does its best to transport listeners to the city of Compton, beginning with a newscast-like introduction to the story of Compton’s potential glory and rapid downfall. Dre’s own sound and rugged voice complements the darkness of the album, but with enough flow to add a nice rhythmic and melodic touch.
As was the case with “2001,” Dre is not the only sound on the album. Other artists leave their imprints all over this project. Even new and relatively unknown artists including Anderson, Paak and King Mez get a chance to drop a verse or more. The album seamlessly combines the voices of those who will soon exit the industry with those who are taking over, and “Compton” becomes a compilation of rap from the grassroots up — fitting as Dr. Dre is known for making names out of previously unknown talent.
These new artists get a chance to shine in songs like the standout “For the Love of Money,” which provides an interesting blend of a very slowed down, hazy chorus contrasted with fast and aggressive rapping by Dre and newcomer Jon Connor. The rhythmic appeal of both verses along with the alternating “woos” and “yeahs” to end most lines result in a catchy song for a more mainstream audience.
Aside from just reflecting on the darkness of Compton, Dre does set aside songs to rap about his own path out of the city. “It’s All On Me” is the first personal reflection, wherein Dre drops bars about those who wanted a share of his success after he approached stardom. The upbeat chorus is necessary for an album featuring other songs such as “One Shot One Kill” and “Genocide,” whose names betray their dark themes.
Dre closes the album, and potentially his rap career, fittingly with the song “Talking to My Diary.” It contains potentially the most touching verse of the album as Dre raps to N.W.A., the ‘90s rap group that made him a star, in the second verse.
From start to finish, “Compton” serves as a comprehensive collection of Dr. Dre’s memories and experiences from years of DJing at neighborhood parties to today. The legacy he built lives on in all the artists whose careers he assisted, including those featured on “Compton.”
Dr. Dre has pledged his earnings from “Compton” to build a new creative arts center in the album’s namesake, Compton, California.
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