Joe Stevens - 3/29/2010

"We live in a world where it's more okay to follow than to lead... being a leader in this age is being a threat... a voice who spoke of vulnerabilities and other human emotions and issues never before heard before so vividly and honest. " These just a few quotations at the ending of In My Dreams, the opening track of the spectacular debut album from the Cleveland born rapper, KiD CuDi. Man on the Moon represents the evolution of a music genre that some would call ageing and repetitive, an incredible debut album which shows maturity in its lyrics that you would only expect from a veteran musician. KiD CuDi doesn't follow the routine formula for a rap album, he speaks his real feelings, however vulnerable they may make him appear at times, and due to this creates a real sense of emotion in the listener which many modern rap albums struggle to succeed at.

It's funny to think that a little over a year ago "A Kid Named Cudi" (his first mixtape) dropped and became an instant hit all over the USA. After being discovered by Kanye West and instantly signing with his label "GOOD music" he sent shockwaves through the music industry with his classic Day 'N' Nite filling clubs all over the world. Those looking for an album filled with dance hits such as the Crookers hit remix of Day 'N' Nite will be surprised to find an album that has its fair share of more subdued, serious and truthful songs. These are the songs that really cause Man on the Moon to stand out from the eternal stream of rap albums that swarm the music industry every year. KiD CuDi uses Man on the Moon as a vessel of discovery for the listener, showing his fantastic ear for great melodies and exceptional taste in beats. Anyone who has listened to KiD CuDi's mentor Kanye West's "808's & Heartbreak" will be familiar with CuDi's style of electro beats, strings and samples along with guest producers such as Emile, Ratatat and MGMT.

The album is split into 5 acts and a total of 15 tracks, all coming together to create a storyline excellently narrated by fellow rapper Common. These short narrative sequences offer a deeper insight into the mind of this intriguing musician, producing a connection between the listener and himself however different and far apart their lives may be, a very impressive feat for a young and developing musician such as himself. With Man on the Moon, KiD CuDi solidifies his place as one of the most revolutionary rappers/musicians to grace the genre and industry this decade, producing his own artistic masterpiece merging emo rap vocals, melodies, beats and electric samples to seamlessly create an outstanding debut album that deserves true recognition in the often routine and bland progression of today's music industry.

Man on the Moon truly is a modern classic, and I for one cannot wait to see KiD CuDi develop even further throughout his career. CuDi is a well needed breath of fresh air and truly deserves to be supported so that his creative and refreshing music can continue to spread and inspire music lovers and musicians all over the world.