1. “Kingdom Come” — Jay Z
First Thoughts: Meandering and unfocused.
Second Listen: “Oh My God” is a classic that belongs on his best-of reel.
2. “Talk a Good Game” — Kelly Rowland
First Thoughts: We were so HYPE for Ms. Kelly but found nothing to grab on to.
Second Listen: How did we miss “Red Wine?” Our bad!
3. “4” — Beyonce
First Thoughts: Aside from “Love on Top,” this was kind of a forgettable album.
Second Listen: Yeah, we sort of forgot how great “1+1” and “Schoolin’ Life” were.
4. “Beats, Rhymes and Life” — A Tribe Called Quest
First Thoughts: Way too much R&B and who is this other MC on the mic?
Second Listen: “Get a Hold” and “The Hop” could have been on any of their classic trilogy albums.