The Dream “Love Vs Money”

The Dream captivates audiences once again with the release of his most anticipated sophomore album
entitled ‘Love vs. Money.’ After the huge success of ‘Love/Hate,’ fans have been patiently waiting for the quick return of the self proclaimed Radio Killa. To be honest, his nickname suits him quite well, practically every single he releases becomes a smash hit in a very short time period, case in point, his newest single ‘Rockin’ That Thang’ has become a huge success all over radio rotation, the clubs, and the charts. The record has done so well, there is even a remix featuring all of his Def Jam brethren, that song literally has Def Jam written all over it. Love vs. Money comes at a perfect time where his name is still in the spotlight as if he never stepped away from the scene. The album title describes a comparison between a common dilemma most women are torn with, the option of Love and Money.

When it comes to collaborations, it never fails that he works well with others. For the track ‘Walkin’ On the Moon’ he recruits Kanye West to assist him on the beat as well as the guest feature. This futuristic track provides listeners to visualize a space like environment. Kanye provides some down to earth lyrics to this joint.

This is the second time I’ve heard Mariah Carey and Dream on the same track and I must admit they make an entertaining duo. MC softens the track providing her excellent vocal talents to the song entitled ‘My Love.’ She sounds quite nice singing the lyrics that Dream has written exclusively for her. The beat adds that flare that brings out MC’s signature sound. The Dream has a hit on his hands with this track; I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s the next single.

Now he has never had a problem expressing personal situations in his lyrics and this time around he does just that. On both parts of ‘Love vs. Money,’ he narrates a story through his lyrics giving a powerful expression of anger through music. If you listen to the track closely, he is describing a certain person that took his girl from him. The intense beat adds the missing piece to his lyrical flow. ‘Love vs. Money’ part 1 and 2 exemplify his derivative behind the album’s title.

All in all, the album is a step up from his debut ‘Love/Hate’ whereas he has incorporated more themes and an improved sound. Either way you put it, The Dream has never released disappointing material, cop it and take a listen for yourself.

Notable Tracks: ‘Put It Down,’ Sweat It Out,’ ‘Take You Home 2 My Mama,’ and ‘Kelly’s 12 Play.’