Be Electric Circus was a pivotal album for Common, garnering both praise and criticism from fans. Released in 2002, the record showcased a bold and experimental approach, uncommon for a rap album at the time. With Be, Common seems to have found a new direction, moving away from the sprawling nature of Electric Circus. The album is concise, featuring 11 songs with contributions from two producers and a select few guests. Kanye West and Dilla play a significant role in shaping the album’s sound, drawing inspiration from ’70s soul and soul-jazz. Be may not be groundbreaking, but it stands out as one of Common’s finest works, characterized by its cohesive production and thoughtful lyrics. This reissue of Common’s 2005 LP is a testament to his evolution as an artist.
