Crown of Thorns is the debut solo studio album by American rapper Rakaa, a member of the Dilated Peoples crew.

[3] Chris Faraone of The Phoenix gave the album 3.5 stars out of 4, writing, "A couple of dud throwbacks briefly interrupt, but otherwise Rakaa has painted the sort of edgeless canvas that even the most eclectic acts are scared to make these days.

"[6] Scott Morrow of Alarm described the album as "a straightforward, original disc of hip-hop jams with a diversity of samples and sounds, whether they're hard-hitting, funky, or jazzy.

"[4] Brett Uddenberg of URB gave the album 3 stars out of 5, stating, "While the solo record is an extension of what he has accomplished with his group, it is unlikely to spawn any memorable hits.

"[8] He added, "The beats are excellent and the flow is solid, but there's something missing here.