After the fast-paced and epic season premiere, the second episode of Empire’s sophomore season, titled Without a Country, takes a slightly more relaxed approach and focuses a lot more on the music aspect of the show. It’s a nice follow-up to a strong opener with some strong moments woven in.
With Jamal kicking Cookie, Andre and Hakeem out of his father’s house last week following their betrayal, they’re out of the company and this Wednesday’s episode opens with an excellent set of split-screen shots as the trio leave Empire and look to start their new company. That makes up the bulk of the episode and it’s interesting to see Cookie try and build a new company from the ground up. At one point she compares it to how she and Lucious started Empire and it’s fun to see the process unfold. 
Hakeem spends a lot of this episode trying to prove himself as more than just a singer by attempting to form a girl group for the new company, and it’s a lot more difficult than he thought it would be. His storyline is enjoyable to watch this week, and he makes a huge move towards the end of the episode that will have major ramifications very soon. Andre has a little more than usual to do this week, and Trai Byers is excellent throughout. There are two particular scenes towards in the last ten minutes in which he particularly shines, and it makes for great viewing. Jamal, meanwhile, is a lot more like himself and it’s refreshing to see. That said, it’s still clear that he is slowly but surely becoming just like his father, even if he has less to do this episode.
Speaking of, Lucious runs into some trouble with a guard who has a particular dislike for him, before coming across a new lawyer and recording a new track from inside prison. Terrence Howard is great to watch this week and his story is just as exciting as it was last week. Also, that track I mentioned? Terrific to listen to. In fact, you can listen to it right now!
Without a Country airs on FOX on Wednesday 30th September at 9pm, and it’s another can’t miss episode.
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