My write up from the event:

The night was kicked off by Cudi as he told the crowd, “I want everybody to focus and listen to the jams. This is one of those albums that you just gotta listen too”

At that point the music started and we were introduced to the Legend of Mr. Rager. The album starts off with one of the best songs on the record called “Scott Mescudi vs The World” featuring Cee-lo on a powerful hook and production by Emile (who contributed 9 songs to MOTM II).

Man on the Moon II is an amazing listen from start to finish as you immerse yourself in a new but familiar Cudi sound as he explores a darker side to his story. Each song has its own distinct sound that you’ll find yourself wanting to reply it over and over to fully understand his story and appreciate the subtle additions. I won’t go into much detail on everything else since I feel like I would need a few listens to give an accurate overview of each song individually. It’s definitely worth reading theTime Out NY feature if your looking for a song by song breakdown.

Finishing off the album is the Dot Da Genius produced “Trapped in My Mind”, another stand out track from the album. Cudi ends the song and album in a semi-spoken tone as he explains – “I’m trapped in my mind baby, I don’t think I’ll ever get out”.

After the album was done playing, Cudi took to the mic to discuss a few topics. He thanked his fans for pre-ordering the album as it both the deluxe and regular sit in the iTunes Top. Here’s a few select quotes:

“I never thought I could play an instrument, I down played that shit. If you think you can’t do something, don’t down play that shit. Now I pick up a guitar and I have a natural nack for it and I’m learning”

“The story is real, I come from this town. We really trying to make music for ya’ll on an everyday basis so ya’ll can get through your situation. I made this album for people to get through any problem they have. When I was growing up, I didn’t have songs like this. This is my motivation.”

Wrapping up the night Cudi added:

“I kind of used my self as a muse, to help people get through their problems. Thats kinda why the album is so dark, why the album is so honest. I’m happy ya’ll fuck with it, I really am”

Timeout NY says “We can’t wait to hear the album again”, I’ll second that as Man on the Moon II is another stepping stone for Cudi and his music.