This was a combination born from the jump when they collaborated on “Duffle Bag Boy.” Both 2 Chainz and Lil Wayne are both by-products of powerful rap labels where each had to step out and get their own shine. However, 2 Chainz left DTP because of a lack of appreciation while Lil Wayne stuck around and became the face of the label. Still, both of these artists have found their niche and explored options of growth and progress to have notable careers. Yet and still, ColleGrove is not the culmination of great artists that many would think it should be. The problem with ColleGrove is that it doesn’t have enough punch to it. One of the problems plaguing this album is the lack of catchiness to it. “Gotta Lotta” would have been run-of-the-mill impressive if the chorus was better. On “100 Joints,” 2 Chainz sounds bored as all hell. Then again, this “bored” version of Taheed Epps partially shows up again on “Dedication” and “Bentley Truck.” Plus, there seems to be a lack of cohesion between the two. It seems as if they tried to make a collaboration album that really collaborated on very little. Don’t get it twisted: there are some songs that get things right. “Rolls Royce Weather Everyday” is a great accompanying song to the already-winning-on-the-radio “Watch Out.” “Bounce” sounds good as they both trade bars and show some true involvement between each other. “Not Invited” does have great production and actually has 2 Chainz doing what he does best: comically talk his talk. As incomplete and lacking as this album may sound, there are some good songs on here. Still, there could have been more to this album. In fact, this album could have been better with more lyrical effort and slightly better production. However, what we have is an album that sounds more like a mixtape setting listeners up for something better. If 2 Chainz and Lil Wayne plan on making another project, I hope they get about 10-15 of the best production they can buy and just make some of the most creative music they can. Otherwise, what we will have is another album that underwhelms greatly.
