(ThyBlackMan.com) The stars are aligning for Wale’s sophomore album, Ambition, to be a showcase of the rapper squarely hitting his stride lyrically and pushing his comfort zone sonically after aligning himself with a burgeoning hip-hop force in Rick Ross’ Maybach Music Group imprint.
Buzz for the release centered on two storylines; the rapper’s noticeable assertiveness on the mic and the aura surrounding everything coming out of the “it” hip-hop crew.
There was some pressure on Wale to continue the hot streak they’re on from 
Self Made to Meek Mill’s Dream Chaser mixtape, but the rapper — who has been unafraid of being completely honest about his feelings over tracks — finds a way.
Toeing the line of where to box him, he’s seems undeterred by an emo tag earned for his constant commentary on the love life of pop star and addresses his female fans on his past relationship ills or his honest expectations more directly.
How ambitious was Ambition? The short answer: very.
From its onset, Wale turns what you may have expected from an MMG project on his head. Neatly tucked away were the synthy-anthemic jams fitted with radio-friendly choruses and signature adlibs, instead the album was surprisingly smooth.
“Don’t Hold Your Applause” was more go-go than expected but an outright lyrical decree of his awesomeness setting the tone for just how brash but dope he expects to be on the project. Admittedly vain but pretty flawless as an opener even without being as stark record, we’ve come to expect from MMG.
After hearing “Double M Genius,” which is dope but playfully light, “Miami Nights” — the antithesis of the seedy, 80s Miami dark side we’re used to Rick Ross touched projects to paint but was like Studio 54 upbeat – and “Legendary,” another shockingly mellow jam, you’re completely OK with this album not being the one you passionately rap along to.
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