“Views,” (known before its release as Views from the 6) is the fourth studio album by Canadian rapper Drake. It was released on April 29, by Young Money Entertainment, Cash Money Records, and Republic Records. The album was supported by three singles: “Hotline Bling“, “One Dance” and “Pop Style.”

The album’s title was first announced as “Views from the 6,” as it first appeared from a report in a July 2014 article from Billboard. According to Drake on Twitter, “the 6” is a reference to his hometown of Toronto, Ontario, Canada. On April 28, it was revealed that the title has been shortened to “Views.” The cover artwork for “Views” was released via Drake’s Twitter account on April 24, which features Drake sitting atop the CN Tower in Toronto. The CN Tower’s Twitter account later confirmed it to be photoshopped.

Drake has always had a skill for turning his innermost thoughts, feelings, and anxieties into breakthrough group therapy sessions. The record is called “Views,” but its perspective is one sided.

“This album, I’m very proud to say, is just—I feel like I told everybody how I’m actually feeling,” Drake told Zane Lowe in a toothless recent interview, differentiating “Views” from his previous work. After having other producers produce the majority of the beats on his last two mixtapes, Drake’s longtime musical consigliere, Noah “40” Shebib, returns with production credits on 12 of the album’s 20 songs. The vibe 40 creates with his music is now synonymous with Drake’s Toronto; the harsh chill of winter is brought forth via cold snares and ice-cube synths, with the summer’s relief often rendered through sped-up ‘90s R&B samples that the listener can hear in the background.

Rihanna co-stars on “Too Good,” finally offering a counterpoint to Drake’s constant disappointment with the opposite sex. Because while Drake’s relationship dissections were once questioning and openly hurt, they too have hardened—at this point, it’s getting impossible to believe he’s not the one to blame for so many squandered attempts at love.

Overall, the album was well put together and liked by the majority of his fanbase. If the listener likes a mellow album that will make the reminisce on past relationships, then this is the album for you. “Views,” deserves 8/10 stars for its overall production and quality. The album can be purchased at any major retail store that sells electronics, music, etc. Stores such as Wal-Mart, Best Buy, and Target sell the album. “Views” can also be downloaded and streamed online at various websites. Everyone should go out and give it a listen.

By Khaleb King