For me, Chicago rapper Common has always been a hit or miss. The first album of his I owned was Like Water for Chocolate, and that was stellar. Electric Circus just wasn't my style and BE was a good comeback that possessed a chunk of hits that were on repeat for awhile. So, my hesitation with his latest, Finding Forever, was justified. What I find in this MTV darling's newest offering is a 12-track album that embodies the perfect combination for a dope album: diverse and quality lyrics, consistent energy, and complimentary beats.

Highlights on Finding Forever include "Southside" featuring producer Kanye West on vocals. Honestly, West's flow typically annoys me, but this Chicago anthem is so hype, I can ignore my irritation. While I'm on the producer topic, "The Game" with DJ Premier on the scratches is a classic groove reminiscent of early 90's hip-hop.

"Drivin' Me Wild" with Lily Allen is the one I skip. I understand why they released this as a single, after all, Ms. Allen is part of the British export enjoying American popularity, but the song is dull.

Okay, back to the positive – "Black Maybe" with Bilal shines lyrically. The chorus tells a truth tale of the internal and external struggle of being Black. The vibe can be detected in such lyrics like - Can't come around/they gonna wanna bring you down/No one knows just what's inside/doing dope and doing time/Why they messin' with your mind? - The ending spoken word piece showcasing Common's softer, poetic side which probably won't be received by hardcore hip-hp heads too well.

I saved the best 3 tracks for last beginning with "I Want You" featuring Will.i.am., who sings and produces on the album. The attraction for me is in the upbeat swagger. Definite party jam. Next is "Misunderstood" which appears towards the end of the album. While as a whole, this song isn't that strong, the Nina Simone sample fits perfectly and the fade in from the Simone classic to the beat is easily felt. The last one to discuss is my absolute favorite, which is "Break My Heart". I play this at least once a day. Slight OCD? Perhaps! But this song tells the tale of typical relationship issues that suffer when fear interjects. What makes this song shine is the chorus and laid back vibe. It is just so smooth and I can easily see this as being the most female friendly cut of the album.

I feel like Common redeemed himself on Finding Forever, proving that he is a MC capable of keeping up with the ever-changing tides of hip-hop and the constant critique of his personal life includin his fashion and dating. But, really - who cares? This album is a solid effort and pleasant surprise that I'll be bumpin' for quite some time.

I'll give it 5 Globes.