Review: Central Cee’s “CAN’T RUSH GREATNESS” is polished but predictable

By Charlie Cruz     1/28/25 11:30pm

Rating: ★★★½

Key Track: “GATA” ft. Young Miko  

Central Cee’s “CAN’T RUSH GREATNESS” is both a testament to the UK rapper’s rapid ascent in the global rap scene and a reminder of his limitations. Serving as his first major-label release under Columbia Records, the album arrives with significant anticipation, following the success of tracks like “Sprinter” and “Doja.” While “CAN’T RUSH GREATNESS” delivers polished production, a handful of standout features and some unexpected surprises, it ultimately feels held back by repetitive flows and familiar themes.  

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The album’s title, a phrase Central Cee has championed since his 2020 "Mad About Bars" freestyle, suggests maturity and a reflective approach to his craft. Recorded across multiple locations worldwide, the project boasts contributions from producers like Dave and instrumentation that blends drill with influences of Brazilian funk and 2000s R&B. The result is an album that feels polished yet formulaic. Across its 17 tracks, Cee’s flows remain largely the same, and his recurring focus on wealth, fame and relationships grows tiresome. How often can someone mention the lack of generational wealth while flexing bank cards before the listener rolls their eyes at the lyrics? While the production shines, the album struggles to break new ground.

A bright spot of “CAN’T RUSH GREATNESS” lies in its features, that inject much-needed variety and energy into the project. On “GATA,” Puerto Rican rapper Young Miko delivers a stunning Spanish verse, her cadence blending seamlessly with the lush drill production. “GBP,” a collaboration with 21 Savage, explores the contrasts between their upbringings — Central Cee as a West London native and 21 Savage, though UK-born, emerging as a cornerstone of Atlanta’s rap scene. The track pairs reflective storytelling with braggadocio, culminating in a flex-heavy anthem. Meanwhile, “BAND4BAND,” featuring Lil Baby, remains a standout as a high-energy collaboration where both artists’ chemistry shines.  

The album also experiments with intriguing samples that enhance its production and cultural resonance. “WALK IN WADROBE” features a humorous and unexpected sample of Kai Cenat’s viral moment, “Hold on chat, Cee is tapped in” — a playful nod to contemporary internet culture. Elsewhere, “TRUTH IN THE LIES” incorporates a Ne-Yo-inspired R&B sensibility, blending introspective lyrics with a smooth, nostalgic melody. This track, first teased by Cee in 2023, splits into two distinct parts, showcasing a more dynamic structure than most other songs on the album.  

Central Cee also delves into his personal life, offering glimpses of vulnerability in tracks like “GEN Z LUV.” The song explores the trials of modern romance, blending Gen Z slang with introspective storytelling. Referencing his real-life relationship with social media influencer Madeline Argy, Cee paints a picture of how love and connection bloom in the digital age, navigating everything from Instagram follows to public scrutiny. Though it borders on self-indulgence, the track resonates as one of the album’s more authentic moments.  

Despite these high points, the album’s repetitiveness cannot be ignored. While his cadence is sharp and his delivery confident, the repetitive nature of his storytelling — centered around his rise from the streets, romantic entanglements, and life’s newfound luxuries — becomes exhausting by the midpoint. Many songs follow a similar formula, leaving the listener craving innovation. Tracks like “TOP FREESTYLE” and “CRG” hint at Central Cee’s potential versatility, but much of the album leans into his tried-and-true flows and themes, making the project feel safe rather than bold.  

Yet, for all its flaws, “CAN’T RUSH GREATNESS” is far from a failure — this album has some straight bangers. Central Cee’s charisma and knack for crafting hits remain undeniable, and the album offers enough enjoyable tracks to satisfy his fans. Its standout features, clever samples and polished production highlight his strengths and growing global appeal. However, the repetitiveness and lack of daring innovation hold it back from becoming truly great.  

Central Cee has undeniably cemented his place on the global stage, but “CAN’T RUSH GREATNESS” suggests that true greatness may still lie ahead. Perhaps, for now, he should rethink the pace of his rise — not rushing it, but making sure it truly delivers on its promise.  

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