Knoc-Turn’Al – The Way I Am

Posted on February 19, 2013 by WWC

01.) “Intro” (feat. Old LeRoy and Nelson Brown) Produced by Knoc-Turn’Al

02.) “War” (feat. Slip Capone) (4.2 out of 5) Produced by Blaq Rose, Knoc-Turn’Al and Padrone

I’m not too sure if a politically-driven track was the best way to kick-off Knoc’s debut album. But never-the-less… It bangs. Knoc-Turn’Al and fellow L.A. Confidential MC Slip Capone trade dope verses over a suprisingly bangin’ instrumental courtesy of Blaq Rose, Knoc-Turn’Al and Padrone.

03.) “Love L.A.” (4 out of 5) Produced by Hannon

Knoc-Turn’Al spits a few nice verses over a very nice production courtesy of new-comer Hannon. I’m very impressed with the production of this track. Knoc-Turn’Al has done the Golden State justice with this one. It’s simple… Yet effective.

04.) “The Way I Am” (feat. Snoop Dogg) (4.8 out of 5) Produced by Scott Storch

The albums title-track features a couple hot verses from Knoc and a rather impressive verse courtesy of West Coast legend Snoop Dogg. The production of Scott Storch is on another level on this track. This was a great choice for the lead single. I’m still suprised that this track didn’t recieve a better reception from radio.

05.) “Watch Out” (feat. Hittman) (3 out of 5) Produced by Mel-Man

This is the skipper-track of the first-half of the album. The production of this track sounds especially dated. Eventhough Hittman comes-through with two nice verses it’s still very hard to ignore Mel-Man’s rather annoying instrumental. I’m even annoyed by the hook on this one.

06.) “Radio” (interlude) (feat. Old LeRoy and Nelson Brown) Produced by Knoc-Turn’Al

07.) “Peepin’ Tom” (3.8 out of 5) Produced by Precision

This is the type of lyricism I’ve been expecting from Knoc-Turn’Al. Knoc-Turn’Al manages to weave together various classic punch-lines from various West Coast classics to create his own classic LYRICAL performance. What taints “Peepin’ Tom” is the rather simple production of Precision. Needless-to-say… this track could have been a lot better had Knoc-Turn’Al recruited the proper producer for this track. It’s still well-worth the listen. The perfect word to describe the lyrical performance on this track is… BRILLIANT!

08.) “Click-Click” (feat. Slip Capone and Yykkes) (3.5 out of 5) Produced by Padrone

This may be the first time I’ve ever been dissapointed with a verse from Slip Capone. Knoc-Turn’Al seems to be MILES ahead of his L.A. Confidential counter-parts on this track. If you ask me… “Click-Click” would have been just fine as a Knoc-Turn’Al solo cut. Eventhough the theme of the record is becoming rather played-out in today’s Hip-Hop scene.

09.) “Love Slave” (4.8 out of 5) Produced by DJ Quik

DJ Quik LACES Knoc-Turn’Al with this outstanding production. It doesn’t get much better than a dope production courtesy of the legendary DJ Quik. Knoc-Turn’Al proves that he’s worthy of rhyming over such an outstanding production with his outstanding lyrical performance. I’m sure that in a matter of week’s I’ll re-read this track breakdown and be pissed-off when I realize that I didn’t give this track a “5”. “Love Slave” is clearly the albums stand-out track.

10.) “What We Do” (feat. Nate Dogg, Warren G and Xzibit) (4.2 out of 5) Produced by Warren G

The bass-driven production of Warren G is rather simple on this track. I’m feelin’ it though. The timing to put-out this track is almost perfect with summer coming right around the corner. Knoc-Turn’Al drops the hottest verse on “What We Do”. I must say that I’m pretty dissapointed with the lyrical performance of Xzibit on this track… never thought I’d be saying that.

11.) “I Like” (feat. Yero Brock) (4 out of 5) Produced by Dr. Dre

Knoc-Turn’Al rides the rather average production of Dr. Dre damn-near perfectly. Knoc-Turn’Al did his part on this track by dropping a couple outstanding verses… it’s just too bad that Dr. Dre didn’t match the lyrical performance with the production

Yukmouth & C-Bo – In Thugz We Trust

Posted on February 19, 2013 by WWC

1. Go Hard In The Paint

“Go Hard In The Paint” is a good way to open up the album. It features Killa Tay. The beat reminds me of a New York type beat for some reason. All the verses on this song are hot. 8/10

2. 44 Mag Glocc

This is another hot ass track. The beat on this song kicks real hard. This track also features Killa Tay. Dope ass Thug Lordz Killa Tay collabo. 8/10

3. She’s A Hoe

This is different from the first 2 tracks of the album. The style of the beat and shit like that. The lyrics are basically about Yuk and Bo *****ing other niggas’ *****es. The beat is dope. Produced by Mo’Betta. 8/10

4. He Aint A Thug

50 Cent diss record. This track features Bang Em Smurf (former G Unit member) and Silverback Guerillaz. They accuse 50 Cent of bragging about a lot of shit, about how he got shot and shit like that. They also accuse him of being a snitch. Bang Em Smurf’s verse was weak on this song. Yukmouth’s delivery was nice and C Bo’s delivery was also nice. Domination’s verse was also dope. He has that hard New York type lyrics. At the end of the song someone is impersonating 50 Cent and how he talks and shit like that, the outro is pretty funny. 9/10

5. American Dream (Yukmouth Solo)

This is another hard beat. Yukmouth solo track, I do not think this is better then C Bo’s solo track but this song is still hot. Yukmouth comes in nice like usual. 8/10

6. Get Away

West coast bounce type track. Makes you bop ya head. Dope song, C Bo delivers the first verse, C Bo verse is hot. This is one of the best songs on the album. 9/10

7. Killa Cali

This is the official best song of the album. Features Spice 1, the beat has a grand piano on it, its real dope. Spice 1 has the best verse on there. This song bangs. Spice 1, C Bo and Yukmouth talk about the thug life they live out in California. 9/10

8. Bulletproof Love

Produced by Rhythm D. This sounds like a Kanye West beat. Sounds like a love song, but they really talking bout they guns. Kinda like how Pac was talking bout his gun on “Me And My Girlfriend”. This is a dope song. Eastwood from Deathrow Records is also on there. 9/10

9. Get Ya Money (Be A Thug Lord)

This is another dope ass west coast bounce song. Yukmouth outshines C Bo on this in my opinion. This is one of those tracks you need to check out from this album. 8/10

10. Made Men

The beat has nice strings on it. Features Killa Tay. The beat is pretty hard. Killa Tay has a dope verse on there. He probably has the best verse on this song. Yukmouth’s verse was alright on this song; not wack but Yuk had better verse. C Bo comes off better then Yuk on this track. 8/10

11. My Life (C Bo Solo)

C Bo’s solo is way better then Yuk’s solo. The beats, the lyrics everything. C Bo raps a little fast on this, faster then he usually does. It kinda reminds me of a song Twista would be on. 9/10

12. Let’s Flip Her

This song has the same feel as “She’s a Hoe”, they don’t talk about the exact same thing but there are some similarities. Yuk and Bo are talking bout they hoes and shit like that.. Dope song. 8/10

13. 21 Gun Salute

As this beats starts, you don’t really think it is going to be that hot. But as Yuk’s verse starts, the beats gets harder and tighter. Instruments get added and the beat goes well. E A Ski produced the beat. This is another hot ass song from this album. Yuk and Bo both deliver hot ass verses. 9/10

Overall this album is one of the best to come out in 2004. Pick this up if you a fan of west coast gangsta rap. The production on this album is hot, the lyrics are hot, good guest appearances. Definitely a hot album.

Final Rating: 4/5

The Dayton Family – Welcome To The Dopehouse

Posted on February 18, 2013 by WWC

The Dayton Family (Bootleg, Shoestring & producer Steve Pitts) gained some fame in the mid 90’s with hits like F.B.I,Stick N Move and What’s On My Mind but never really blew up to the mainstream audience. Most people heard about them but not a lot of people knew about this album being released. Welcome To Dopehouse(2002) is the groups third release. I recommend ya’ll to get both previous releases; What’s On My Mind(1995) and F.B.I(1996).

1. Intro

The albums intro is a lil trumpet/guitar thing. I don’t normally write anything about intros and skits but it’s a real cool piece of work.

2. Big Mack 11

First real track of the album is a banger. “Big Mack 11” has real tight production from Steve Pitts that’ll get you hyped up. On top of that, Dayton Family is spitting some real raw and aggressive shit that’ll get you even more hyped up. Great way to start the album!

3. Do You Remember

Steve Pitts produced all tracks on this album except for one. On “Do You Remember”, he’s managed to design a perfect beat for Dayton Family to do something slower. If you’ve heard the Dayton Family before, you know that they’re not about slow jams so I’d say that this is as close as they can, and should, get. Lyrics about back in the day are topped with a real tight hook making this a very good track.

4. Welcome To Flint

If you’ve heard Dayton Family before, you know that they’re from Flint, MI. If you didn’t know, now you do. “Welcome To Flint” is, to me, what Dayton Family’s all about. An up-tempo beat with raw, adrenaline rushing, hardcore lyrics. Dope song.

5. Feds

If you’d listen to this instrumental, you’d probably think it was a slow jam with g-funk influences… But you know a slow jam ain’t gonna happen on this album. Dayton Family’s making this track to be a raw cut with a smooth hook. I’ve always thought that the Dayton Family should spit on high-speed productions, but I’ve still gotta give it up for them on this one.

6. Gangstarism feat. Goldfish

I’m speechless… This track alone is worth the money spent on this album. The beat’s one of the best beats I’ve heard over the past 3-4 years and the lyrics are making it even better! Raeggie artist goldfish is cool on the hook but they shouldn’t have given him a verse… I’d rather hear Bootleg or Shoestring do their thing one more time on this tight ass beat! “Gangstarism” is the best track of the album this far even tho all of the first 6 tracks have been bangers.

7. Young Thugs feat. Ghetto E & Lori

“Young Thugs” is a nice track but… it’s a slow jam. Dayton Family doesn’t really go well with a beat this slow. They’re supposed to be doing raw and hyped up music, not slow jams. The hook’s real tight and former group member Ghetto E’s doing a nice verse tho. I wanna say that this cut is wack so that The Dayton Family might see it and stop making slow jams, but I just can’t… It’s a real cool track.

8. Drugstore

This is more like it! An up tempo beat with a super-tight hook and raw deliverance from Dayton Family. The hook goes;Let’s go to the drugstore and pull out a shotgun, take all the money then break out and run and that can symbolize the content of the track. Don’t sleep on this!

9. Set Up

Steve Pitts is hitting us with a mind blowing production on this one… First time I heard it I forgot to even listen to the lyrics because of the tight ass production. This track’s not as good as i.e Drugstore and Gangstarism, but it’s a real tight track. Bootleg and Shoestring is doing their thing in a good way as usual. There’s a guest on here not listed on the booklet tho…

10. We Kept It Ghetto

“We Kept It Ghetto” is an other of those slow production with two hyped up rappers on it. They might not be common in general, but they are on this album. I guess you’ve got to hear it to understand. It’s a cool track with a real tight and calming hook on it. Don’t worry about falling asleep tho, I’d not consider this a slow jam considering the group are spitting really raw shit on it. Message of the track: Dayton Family’s keepin’ it ghetto.

11. Dope House

I’m not really feeling “Dope House”, but that’s probably because I’m spoiled from listening to the rest of the album. The Dayton Family’s spitting something that could be called battle rhymes over an up-tempo production. It’s cool but nothing special.

12. Shadows feat. Kalonda & Ryan

“Shadows” is the only track on this album not produced by Steve Pitt. Instead, Gee Pierce stepped in with this beat and it’s a real tight beat. Reminds me of… shadows. The title and lyrics are right on point. Good lookin Dayton Family. The hook should not go unnoticed either. It’s tight.

13. Outlaws

An other banger from The Dayton Family! The group are saying that they are the last outlaws. I don’t know about that, but I do know that they can make some tight ass music happen!

14. Weed Song

Are you wondering what this song is about? Go back to school.
The production’s smooth with some Egyptian type of shit influences, but still not too slow for the Dayton Family to be tight on. I’m sure that all the weedsmokers out there will enjoy bumping this while smoking.

15. Simple Wish

“Simple Wish” is a real good way to finish of the album. The Dayton Family are, as usual, spitting hardcore lyrics over a cool beat. There’s not much to say… Tight track.

16. Outro

Basically the same as the intro.

The Dayton Family had not released an album in 5 years when they released Welcome To The Dopehouse. The album’s no desperate attempt to get back in the limelight tho. It’s a tight ass banger from beginning to end! Tracks likeGangstarism, Big Mack 11, Welcome To Flint, Drugstore, Outlaws and… shit, I could list all of them! Point is it’s a tight ass album. I rate it 4 out of 5 and that could be higher but I don’t want to rate an album above 4 unless it’s a timeless classic and I’m not sure that this is yet. It’s definitely classic material, tho. Don’t sleep on this album!

2pac – Resurrection Soundtrack

Posted on February 18, 2013 by WWC

Telling the story of young Tupac Shakur’s life, “Tupac: Resurrection” is accompanied with the soundtrack. The movie, based on the life of rap legend Tupac Shakur, is in his own words.

2Pac: His story, his words.

1. Intro (0:05)

2. Ghost (4:17) Written by: Tupac Shakur, Mark Jordan, Luis Resto and Marshall Mathers Previously unreleased

Just that simple saying “Don’t cry, just ask why, and try not to die, as I take you through a ghetto-nigga’z lullaby” just hooks you on this song. It has a nice lyrical flow and some hard beats to go with it. “Ghost” was the second-most anticipated track off of the entire soundtrack in most people’s eyes. 9/10

3. One Day At A Time [Em’s Version] (3:44) feat. The Outlawz Written by: Tupac Shakur, Henry Garcia, Malcolm Greenridge, Katari Cox, Rufus Cooper, Marshall Mathers and Luis Resto Previously unreleased

Okay, honestly, I hate the beat, I’ve hated it ever since the song came out. It is very uneven in the song, especially with the lyrics. I really like what Em did with this song, he made it hott. Eminem gets a lot of hate because he’s with Shady/Aftermath and 50 Cent, no one really sees the actual talent he has. He wouldn’t be as big as he is without the talent and a mind for a rapper. Yeah, he’s white, but is this the 60’s again? No, this is the 2000’s, that shit isn’t necessary. 8.5/10

4. Death Around The Corner (4:07) Written by: Tupac Shakur and Johnny “J” Jackson Previously released on “Me Against The World”

Okay, one simple question: WHAT THE ***** IS UP WITH THE MEXICAN FOR THE CHORUS SAYING ALL THAT SHIT? I mean you listen to it the first time but after the second time it just gets annoying as *****. But the song does have a nice, smooth lyrical flow and a good beat to go along. 8/10

5. Secretz Of War (4:13) Written by: Tupac Shakur, Rufus Cooper, Malcolm Greenridge, Yafeu Fula, Johnny Jackson and Bruce Washington Previously released on “Still I Rise”

Another very righ track with the Outlawz, honestly, I think “Still I Rise” is one of his best albums, and this song adds to it. “Secretz Of War” is a song that you could listen to constantly, it never gets old, very nice choice for the soundtrack. 9.5/10

6. Runnin’ (Dying to Live) (3:51) feat. Notorious B.I.G. Written by: Tupac Shakur, Christopher Wallace, Osten Harvey, Edgar Winter, Marshall Mathers and Luis Resto Previously unreleased

The clash of the titans is resurrected right here, once friends, B.I.G. and 2Pac turned against each other. Each dying young, many people thought it would be good to remember them by one song; Runnin’. Both 2Pac’s and B.I.G.’s music talent is whipped into one in this song, a definite good thing. 10/10

7. Holler If Ya Hear Me (4:38) Written by: Tupac Shakur, Randy Walker, Barrett Strong and Norman J. Whitfield Previously released on “Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z.”

Going back to “Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z.”, the 2Pac Shakur legacy is still alive. “Holler If Ya Hear Me”, I think, is one high point of not only “Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z.”, but for this soundtrack, also. It goes good with the rest of the songs. 8/10

8. Starin’ Through My Rear View (5:11) Written by: Tupac Shakur, Tyrone Wrice, Malcolm Greenridge, Yafeu Fula and Phil Collins Previously released on “Gang Related” soundtrack
When I first heard this song, I absolutely couldn’t go through the day without turnin’ up my headphones and just listenin’, think about shit. In my mind, Tupac is staring through his “rear view”, just looking back at his life, all the shit he’s done, just everything. I think they picked a good song for the movie, here, it goes good with looking back at the late, great Tupac Amaru Shakur. 10/10

9. Bury Me A G (4:59) Written by: Tupac Shakur, Diron Rivers, Tyruss Himes, Walter Burns, Maurice Harding, R. Isley, E. Isley, M. Isley, O. Isley and C. Jasper Previously released on “THUG LIFE: Volume 1”

Well, every CD in my eyes has one “different” song. It goes very well with the movie, very well, but I just don’t like the flow of the lyrics and beat, I mean I love them both, but them together equals, well, not the best! 8/10

10. Same Song (3:57) Written by: Tupac Shakur, Ronald Brooks, George Clinton, Jr., William Collins, Gregory Jackson, J.S. Theracon and Jim Vitti Previously realsed by Digital Underground on “This Is An EP Release”

Totally tight track to have on an album, awesome lyrics and an even better beat rythm. It’s not the best, nothing like that, just a cool song to sit and chill to. 9/10

11. Panther Power (4:36) Written by: Tupac Shakur, Raymond Tyson, Mark Dorado and Jim “Chopmaster J” Dright Previously released on “Tupac: The Lost Tapes”

Hmmm….Not really my type of song, little too “old school” for me, but I still like it. It has nice lyrics, medium beat, but are very tight when mixed correctly. 8.5/10

12. Str8 Ballin’ (5:04) Written by: Tupac Shakur, Osten Harvet, George Clinton, Jr., W. Collins and G. Cooper Previously released on “THUG LIFE: VOLUME 1”

Now, “Str8 Ballin'” is a classic in my eyes, a pure classic. One of Tupac’s best songs, but not the best, maybe top 3, just maybe, however. It has that kind of beat that you hear it and your like “Oh, yeah, this song is tight” and just listen to it. Definate plus to put onto an album. 9.5/10

13. Rebel of the Underground (3:16) Written by: Tupac Shakur and Gregory Jacobs Previously released on “2Pacalypse Now”

Tight lyrics, tight beat, tight song. Nothing else said, “Rebel of the Underground” is a definite good track to have on any 2Pac album, it probably should have been on “Greatest Hits”. 9/10

14. The Realist Killaz (2:58) feat. 50 Cent Written by: Tupac Shakur, Curtis Jackson, Andy Thelusma, Calvin Broadus, Bruce Washington, Yafeu Fula, Rufus Cooper, Katari Cox, Joseph Paquette, Tyrone Wrice, Brad Jordan, mike Dean, James Harris and Terry Lewis Previously unreleased

Adding 50 Cent into the mix just makes this album even tighter. You have to admit it, 50 Cent is the best on the market right now, no if’s and/or but’s about it. The song has a “new” beat, very tight, and with Tupac and 50 Cent it is just straight-fire lyrics. One thing I don’t like is “Until Makaveli returns, it’s all eyez on me”, that’s jus’ tellin’ people to buy the album, just to think that Tupac is alive. HE’S DEAD. 9/10

Album Final Points: 116/130 Album Final Grade: 89% (B)
Album Final Notes: This soundtrack is a must have for any true 2Pac fan. The album may be one of the best “mixes” of 2Pac’s songs, all into one.
Best Song Race: 1. The Realist Killaz 2. Ghost 3. Secretz Of War 4. Runnin’ 5. St8 Ballin’

City High – City High

Posted on February 18, 2013 by WWC

City High is a trio consisting of rappers slash singers Ryan Toby, Robbie Pardlo and Claudette Ortiz. The two male group members was originally signed to Wyclef Jean’s Booga Basement imprint as a duo, but the group became a trio when Wyclef realized that they resembled another group on his roster, The Product G&B, too much. Ortiz was added to the group after her effort on the groups first hit single “What Would You Do” from the Life OST in 1999. City High drew comparisons to Wyclef’s super-group, The Fugees for two main reasons: the first being that the make-up of the band was two male members and a superstar female member, and also the fact that the members both sang and rapped. Unlike The Fugees, however, City High had more of an R&B slant.

1. Didn’t Ya

Didn’t Ya seems to be a mixture between a song and an intro to this album. The group is singing over a smooth beat and you can sense from the first song of the album what type of music City High is gonna offer.

2. Three Way

Three Way is a funky type of RnB song. I’m not a City High knowitall so I’m not sure on this one but I think this is a solo track from one of the male singers. Either that or it’s a duo between the two male members. Either way, it’s a cool track but nothing you’ll bve hearing at the club.

3. Why

The third song on the album doesn’t have the funky vibe to it like Three Way had. Why has more of a jazzy sound to it. On this song, the three members sing one verse each. It’s a real smooth song that you can bump when your future babymama is coming over (unless you get some rubbers). Yeah, it’s a sexual song.

4. Song For You

On Song For You, Wyclef makes his first appearance on the album, even though he’s just basically doing some adlibs here and there. By the guitarr and just the feel of the song, you can tell Wyclef produced it (I don’t even have to check the credits for this one). Actually, you can tell Wyclef had a big say in this album by the quality of the production – it’s top notch. This track is real tight… it’s got a special feel to it.

5. 15 Will Get You

15 Will Get You is another one of those funky tracks. Hiphop producer Klark Kent produced this song and Wyclef is featuring with a verse, rapping. It’s a funky song and a real nice beat, but nothing all that special. Atleast not compared to most of the other songs on this album.

6. Cat And Dogs

Cat And Dogs is a hiphop track. The group is rapping and by how they mix rapping and singing you can tell that Wyclef has been a big influence on the group members. To me, it’s cool to mix rapping and singing as long as you don’t try to be some hard core gangsta rapper. Wyclef, however, is an all around artist. He can do it, and so can his protige group. It’s dope!

7. Caramel

This is a Claudette Ortiz solo song. It’s a mixture between a funky sound and a smooth Ashanti type of song. I like where this is going. It’s a real good song.

8. Best Friends

Best Friends is a typical RnB song. It’s so RnB it doesn’t even fit in on this album. Even though City High is an RnB group, they have a funky sound that makes their genre more hard to define. They’re in the Wyclef genre which is a new genre where different styles mix. This, however, is RnB. That’s cool though. It’s an enjoyable song.

9. Sista

This song is about how one of the group members is telling a friend how he hooked up with his sister. Now that’s not something you want your homeboy to say… but if it ever happened to me I’d like for it to be said through a song like this. But after the part about how the sister is pregnant comes on, fists would still be thrown. Either way, real nice song.

10. What Would You Do

What Would You Do was the smash single from this album. Everybody was loving it and everybody still is. If you haven’t heard this song, you need to get out more. It’s a real real good song where the band members are talking to a single mom working as a stripper. The message is deep and the different angles is what makes it even better. Ofcourse, the way the band delivers the message and the beat is obviously why this was such a big hit. It’s funny how they got a Dr. Dre beat mixed up into the song for a few seconds aswell. The song could be longer though.

11. So Many Things

Top notch smash single What Would You Do is followed up by So Many Things, a cheezy love song about how the group want to ask questions to their ex or something. It’s a nice slow cut but nothing compared to the previous track.

12. The Only One I Trust

The Only One I Trust is Claudette Ortiz singing about the only one she loves and trust. The beat is what makes the song and I can imagine playing this while smoking a fat blunt. Actually, I will… Give it a minute and you’ll like it too. Don’t be too fast on that next button.

13. City High Anthem

Ok, so for you to name a song the City High Anthem, you need to make a real real dope song. After all, this song is about to represent your group. On this song, the group members sing about their backrounds and where they came from. It’s a real cool song, but I wasn’t impressed until the twist came in after about two minutes. That was a good move by the producer. Also, it’s cool to hear a lil background on the group.

14. You Don’t Know Me

Okay so the group first tells the listeners about themselves, and then they come back saying “you don’t know me”? What’s up? You don’t know me either! ***** you! Nah, seriously though, it’s not what it seems. This song is real funky and Wyclef did his part real well on the production. Real tight song.

15. Do The Right Thing (UK Bonus)

Do The Right Thing is on the UK version of the disc. I guess I’ve got that one. US listeners aren’t missing out on anything major: This is RnB on a Hiphop beat. The track’s got a male rapper featured but the cover or booklet doesn’t say who.

16. It Ain’t The Same (UK Bonus)

It Ain’t The Same is a pure hiphop track. It’s a good one at that. It doesn’t really go with the rest of the album, but I could care less. Sounds like a Rass Kass track to me. Check it.

What Would You Do is the best song on this album. There is no doubt about that. The song was a mega hit when it came out and it’s still good to hear it to this day. The rest of the album doesn’t keep the same level as that one song, but it does keep a high level. With Wyclef behind a majority of the production, you know that the album will contain quality production.

Wyclef uses a mixture between RnB and HipHop in his music. City High is trying to do the same even though they are more of an RnB group. City High will always be in Wyclef’s shadow. However, being in Wyclef’s shadow might even be a good thing.

I rate this album 4 out of 5 and expect more from future releases.

Xzibit – Restless

Posted on February 18, 2013 by WWC

Front 2 Back – The first song was produced by the Rocwilder, and damn it’s a great start to the album. The beat is relatively fast and heavy, but guaranteed to get you hooked into the album. Xzibit comes off great in this track. If they would have paid slightly more attention to the chorus this song might have been nothing short of perfect. 9/10

Been A Long Time – Battle Cat produced this, I was hoping it would come out a bit faster than this to keep the momentum rolling from the song before it. Instead you have a somewhat slow beat that Xzibit doesn’t seem able to fully flow to. Don’t get me wrong, the beat is still great. Nate Dogg simply rips it with his vocals in the chorus and is the highlight of the song. 9/10

U Know – Finally, the first Dre produced track of the album, and damn you can’t ask for any more. The beat is mainly a piano along with drums on a nice somewhat fast beat. Xzibit is decent on this track and then, surprisingly, Dre drops an amazing verse in the end. The chorus should have been different though, it simply didn’t follow the flow of the beat or verses. 8/10

X – Another Dre beat, you should know this song. Xzibit’s flow in this song is nothing short of perfect. This song is basically an introduction to anyone that doesn’t know X. Snoop’s speech in the end was unnecessary but doesn’t harm the song in any way. 10/10

Alkaholik – I don’t know what to say about this track, all my friends claim it’s the best on the album, but I don’t really find it that great. The song is produced by Erick Sermon who is also featured along with J-Ro and Tash. Xzibit has a good verse to start it off, Erick wasn’t all that great and neither was J-Ro, however Tash was decent. The chorus is sort of addictive and simple. 6/10

Kenny Parker Show 2001 – Xzibit attempted a bit of production with this track. It’s a good remake of the Kenny Parker Show. The beat is nice and addictive. Xzibit’s flow over it is great and he seems very full of himself, “Yo it’s me, down with D-R-E, X to tha Z rocks any party”. KRS One has occasional shout outs in the song. 8/10

D.N.A. (Drugs-N-Alkahol) – The first real appearance of Big Snoop Dogg on the album. The beat is pretty good and produced by Rick Rock. Xzibit’s verse in the beginning is nice and on a medium speed. After a chorus which was actually a bit annoying, Snoop drops a verse with a really sweet flow like only he does. 8.5/10

Double Time – Produced by Erick Sermon, and I really wasn’t feelin this song. Both the beat and the verses got very repetitive and annoying. Further more, the chorus was too simple and repeating the same thing for too long. This song could have been left out of the album. 4/10

Don’t Approach Me – This song was produced by Eminem, and you can see that he learnt from Dre. The beat for this song is very simple, but seems to be very filling and perfect for the sound of both Xzibit and Eminem. The chorus is also amazing. 10/10

Rims & Tirez – Soopafly produced this, and unlike his normal production, this sucks. The chorus was just lame and completely not of the quality of this album. All the verses sounded slow and forced rather than following the beat which is probably impossible on the beat. Another disappointment was Kokane’s chorus, usually he sounds unique on each song with his odd voice in a good way, but not here. 3/10

*****in’ You Right – Well, its Xzibit, what can you expect? A song saying “I’m just *****in all these hoes to get experience to know how to ***** you in the best way possible honey, I swear”. Once again the beat is produced by Soopafly and this time he didn’t screw it up. Xzibit has a fast flow in this song and the chorus is just bangin. 8/10

Best Of Things – The third Dre produced beat of the album, and possibly one of the best. Xzibit’s flow is medium in this song, but drops some amazing verses. The chorus is Xzibit experimenting with his voice attempting to somewhat sing with a soft voice that did not turn out that great, but was still nice over this beat. My favorite track on the album.10/10

Get Your Walk On – Produced by Mel-Man and Battle Cat, and damn its great. The song starts off right away with a fast beat and Xzibit drops fast verses but seems to stop for a second between each line or something like that. The past two songs have been simply amazing. 10/10

Sorry I’m Away So Much – The only DJ Quik produced track for the album, and that’s a shame. This song is great, Xzibit seems able to flow over the beat without any problem, too bad that Quik didn’t make more beats for this album. Suga Free also drops a real tight verse. 9/10

Loud & Clear – A perfect way to end the album. This Battle Cat production has a dark feeling to it. Once again Xzibit starts instantly rapping with the beat and drops another great verse. Everybody has good drops on this song and the chorus is simply perfect. A real good way to finish off the album. 10/10

Overall the album is consistent with the exception of two or three songs. I’d recommend you get this album, another great mark of Xzibit’s career. Overall this gets a 8/10 or 4 out of 5.

Naughty By Nature – IIcons

Posted on February 18, 2013 by WWC

1. IIcons

We waste no time getting into this album as they do a short intro demonstrating that NBN are IIcons. Oh yea forgot to tell you, Kay Gee left the group and is not doing beats anymore. The beat is fierce and perfect for Treach to spit venom at, the chorus is great and only Treach can do a chorus like that….well he does use “Hail Mary’s” “Come With Me” for the chorus then adds his own flavor to it. Great track. Good

2. Rock & Roll(Feat Method Man & Redman)

Well we are into song 2 and there are already guests? Blah, I like both Redman & Method Man but they aren’t needed here. Treach just outshines both using a fierce angry fast type flow, it has to be heard to be believed. Method Man gives us a lackluster verse but mentions “Kobra Kai” so he gets cool points. Typical Redman verse, humor filled with dopeness. Good

3. What You Wanna Do(Feat Pink)

Well Treach and Pink were going out around this time so it was to be expected. She really is horrid on this track, and not even Treach can carry this mess, Vinnie tries as well but doesn’t matter because Pink’s ear bleeding vocals are all over this song and when she says “Got blunts?” I just shake my head in disgust. Wack

4. Swing Swang

Alright here we go! This is what I call Feel Me Flow Part 2 but with Vinnie. Beat is a little similar, chorus is different but it really reminds me of Feel Me Flow. Treach starts it off with a great verse, just unbelievable. Vinnie with a very good verse, nice to see uncle Vinnie trying to keep up with Treach but knowing he can’t so he puts his own style to it. Oh yea the chorus is really good as well, very positive. This should’ve been the single, this could’ve been the next Feel me Flow, seriously, this song is one of their best. DOPE!

5. Rah Rah(Feat Rottin Razkalz)

Well we get some weirded out intro with some guy babbling with NBN laughing in the background. Beat is some hard Southern horn type shit. Treach starts it off and man this guy could ride a Casio beat, pretty much the only highlight, oh yea Vinnie does a great job as well. Uneventful but still a good song. Good

6. Feel’s Good(Feat 3LW)

Guilty pleasure of mine, this is one of the most catchiest songs I have ever heard and even though it gets hated on, it’s still a nice party jam and even with Treach unmotivated, he’s still better than 90% of these rappers out, what a wasted talent, to get off topic for a minute, I’m no Eminem fan but I respect him for going out and saying Treach was a huge influence to his style. Anyway the song is catchy, the chorus is catchy, what can I say? Good song. Good

7. Let Me Find Out

This track is really bitter, I mean really REALLY bitter. Gay….I mean Kay Gee diss here, Treach gets really personal here and you can honestly hear his anger and his frustration with the switch hitter Kay Gee. For those who don’t know, Kay Gee did that Next(RnB group with that Real Close single) project and basically said he was done with NBN and done with gangsta music all in all and dissed them, well Treach being a legit tough guy didn’t take it too easy. This song as well as “Real Niggaz” off Doc’s Da Name(You should peep that track not only is there a great Kay Gee diss by Treach but a Yuk diss by Scarface). Anyway this song is really good and to prove Treach rules the school he switches up flows, pure greatness. Good

8. Naughty By nature(Carl Thomas)

A TREACH SOLO SONG! DOPE! This has that old school feel to it, with lots of horns and old beat drums and all that. Carl Thomas is worthless on the chorus but who cares? Treach of course makes this track his ***** and makes it cook him dinner! I can’t give it a DOPE! rating because of Carl Thomas and his Jafaken accent here. Good

9. NJ To LA(Feat Roaddawgs & Rottin Razkals)

Ok the beat is completely horrible, Treach carries it well but the others have no clue how to ride a beat like this. Average(For Treach)

10. Red Light(Feat Queen Latifah)

Good little track, Treach starts it off and of course rips it to pieces. Vinnie does a good job. Treach again and I can’t complain. Chorus was good, luckily Latifah didn’t rap, because that would’ve been horrid. Good

11. Ashes To Ashes(Feat Icarus & Freddie Foxxx)

Treach starts it off and has a funny line about Chris Rock’s fingers, Treach has such dope wordplay, he could be reading off his grocery list and it’d sound like a masterpiece. Icarus is your no substance punchline rapper who I do not care of. Freddie Foxxx disses Bubba Sparxxx. Wow Treach & Bumpy Knuckles on the same track? 2 *****in crazy thugs who no one would ***** with or diss. I would love a duo album from them. Good track. Good

12. What U Don’t Know

Not feeling this track, all it is is “What you don’t know” repeat 1000 times, it gets old. Wack

13. Wild Mutha*****az(feat LiL Jon & Chyna White)

Oh yea, NBN did do a song with LiL Jon and it’s a very dope song except for one thing….Chyna White, she’s just horrible, very irritating and totally messes up the flow of the song. Nice try lady, you ain’t outshining NBN and you for sure ain’t lyrically touchin Treach. Jon gets annoying but atleast you expect it and he does his usual cursing and yelling type schtick that grows on you. Good track. Good

14. Family Tree

Realest song ever! One of NBN’s best tracks. Great way to end the album. Treach gets really emotional here and the beat in the background…ah man I can’t do it justice. Vinnie does a great job as well but lets get real here, he ain’t touchin Treach but I’m glad Vinnie found his niche. Treach even gives a “***** you” to the people who claim Pac was alive, by saying he’s gonna see him in Cuba but then says “When I Moun You Till I Join You”, pure clever. Classic track. DOPE!

All in all this gets a Good rating. Is it the best NBN album? No way, but is it solid? Yes. I’d cop this last though, just get their whole catelogue first then get this. Treach however ruled the school here, trying his best to carry these weak sounding beats, and Vinnie also tried. Kudo’s NBN, good album, please come back and make another one!

Kanye West – The College Dropout

Posted on February 18, 2013 by WWC

Release Date: February 10, 2004 The College Dropout Record Label: Roc-A-Fella

01.) “Intro”
Produced by Kanye West

02.) “We Don’t Care” (4.5 out of 5)
Produced by Kanye West
This was the perfect track to kick-off “The College Dropout”. Kanye sums it up perfectly by spittin’, “If this is your first time hearing this/You are about to experience somethin’ so cold man!”. This track perfectly sets the tone for the rest of the album. Kanye’s lyrical performance is awfully reminiscent to that of Talib Kweli’s classic “Get By”… which KanyeWest produced.

03.) “Graduation Day” (interlude)
Produced by Kanye West

04.) “All Falls Down” (feat. Syleena Johnson) (5 out of 5)
Produced by Kanye West
Kanye West puts on an outstanding lyrical performance over his outstanding production. Kanye tells the tale of the “Self Conscious” tendencies of young people. The line “Couldn’t afford a car so she named her daughter Alexis (A Lexus)” basically sums-up the plot of the track. If this isn’t considered classic material then I don’t know what is.

05.) “I’ll Fly Away” (interlude)
Produced by Kanye West

06.) “Spaceship” (feat. Consequence and GLC) (4.5 out of 5)
Produced by Kanye West
“If my manager insults me again I will be assaulting him/After I ***** the manager up then I’m gonna shorten the register up!”. If you can’t relate to Kanye’s verse on this track… then you probrobly have never held a job. Consequence and GLC also drop great verses over another one of Kanye’s signature sped-up samples.

07.) “Jesus Walks” (5 out of 5)
Produced by Kanye West
This is one of my personal favorites featured on “The College Dropout”. Listen to the lyrics and you’ll see why I say that this will end-up as a
contender for 2004’s best lyrical performance. Kanye’s production perfectly fits the theme of this track. This is nothing short of outstanding…

08.) “Never Let Me Down” (feat. J. Ivy and Jay-Z) (5 out of 5)
Produced by Kanye West
The production on this track is Grammy-worthy. Kanye West drops an absolutly outstanding verse on this track. Jay-Z drops two outstanding
verses aswell. As-a-matter-of-fact… it’s difficult to decide who drops the better verse on this track… it’s very impressive that Kanye West can
hang with Jay-Z lyrically. J. Ivy drops a lyrical gem on this track also. It’s rather confusing though… it’s difficult to make-out whether J. Ivy is just speaking or rhyming. If he’s infact rhyming then he really needs to work on his flow.

09.) “Get ‘Em High” (feat. Common and Talib Kweli) (4.8 out of 5)
Produced by Kanye West
This may be the best production featured on “The College Dropout”. It also sounds different than any other production featured on the album. If you ask me… Common is HANDS-DOWN the star of “Get ‘Em High”. Hopefully his lyrical performance on this track will give him some of the respect he deserves. Kanye West and Talib Kweli (more-soKanye) both drop great verses. But for some reason I’m a little dissapointed with Kweli’s verse.

10.) “Workout Plan” (interlude)
Produced by Kanye West

11.) “The New Workout Plan” (5 out of 5)
Produced by Kanye West
The production alone on this track easily rates at a “5”. I also love the overall originality of the production. I especially love Bosko’s talk-box drop on this track. Everything about this track is irrisistibly catchy… and when I say catchy… I mean catchy. Good luck getting this track out of your head.

12.) “Slow Jamz” (feat. Jamie Foxx and Twista) (4.8 out of 5)
Produced by Kanye West
The production and the hook on this track easily rates at a “5”. Twista’s flow on this track is also next-to perfect. What’s great about this track is that it’s so damn original. The only reason that I couldn’t find myself to give this track a perfect rating was due to Kanye West’s lyrical performance. It’s by no means wack or even half-way bad… I simply think that it could have been better.

13.) “Breathe In Breathe Out” (feat. Ludacris) (4.2 out of 5)
Produced by Kanye West
Let me start by saying that Kanye’s lyrical performance on this track is arguably his best overall lyrical performance featured on “The College Dropout”. “Eventhough I went to College and dropped outta school quick/I always has a P.H.D…. A Pretty Huge Dick!” and “Baby I fully understand let me help you out with a plan/While he trickin’ off don’t get no rich nigga/Give me some head that’ll really piss him off!” will easily end-up being two of the best punch lines of the year 2004. The production on this track is nice and Ludacris does a pretty nice job with the hook. I’m still dissapointed that Ludacris didn’t drop a verse on this one… it could’ve taken this track to that next level.

14.) “School Spirit, Skit 1” (interlude)
Produced by Kanye West

15.) “School Spirit” (4.2 out of 5)
Produced by Kanye West
Kanye West drops a couple nice verses over one of his signature sped-up samples on this track. This is another track that you’ll find stuck in your head in a matter of days… “School Spirit Muthaaa Fuuuccckkkaaa…”

16.) “School Spirit, Skit 2” (interlude)
Produced by Kanye West

17.) “Lil’ Jimmy” (interlude)
Produced by Kanye West

18.) “Two Words” (feat. Freeway, Mos Def and the Harlem Boys Choir) (5 out of 5)
Produced by Kanye West
Once again creativity reigns supreme on this classic track. Mos Def does an outstanding job proving why he may be the most under-rated MC in Hip-Hop. Freeway and Kanye West also drop outstanding verses over the amazing production of Kanye West. It doesn’t get too much better than this… What more can I say?

19.) “Through The Wire” (5 out of 5)
Produced by Kanye West
I feel as though I don’t even half to justify why I’m calling this track a classic… for the simple reason that if you’ve heard it you should feel the same as me about this track. Everything about this track is a picture of perfection.

20.) “Family Business” (4.5 out of 5)
Produced by Kanye West
The production on this track is top-notch. This track will send you down memory lane… it’ll also make you suddenly want to be around your extended family.

21.) “Last Call” (5 out of 5)
Produced by Kanye West
“Killin’ y’all niggas on that lyrical shit/Mayonaisse colored Benz I push Miracle Whips!”… if you aren’t feeling that line then I don’t know what’s wrong with you. The lyrical performance, the production and the overall concept of “Last Call” is nothing short of classic material. I can sit through the entire twelve mintues and forty seconds of this track without feeling the urge to hit the stop button.

CONCLUSION

This album may be one of the greatest debuts in the history of Hip-Hop. There is not a shadow of a doubt in my mind that “The College Dropout” is nothing short of a classic. The album contains absolutly no filler-material or “skipper tracks”; I can honestly say that I’ve never skipped a single track on the album… I even love the skits because they serve a purpose. The creativity and the quality of this album is simply un-matched in today’s Hip-Hop scene. From the second I first heard “Through The Wire” I couldn’t wait for this album to drop. I’m glad to say that this album is everything I expected it to be… and MORE! If you don’t own this album then please (for your own sake) go out RIGHT NOW and pick-up a copy of “The College Dropout”… you’ll thank me. Kanye West is more than just an outstanding producer… He’s the savior of Hip-Hop!

FINAL RATING: 5 out of 5

Kastro & EDI – Blood Brothers

Posted on February 16, 2013 by WWC

1. Makaveli & Kadafi Intro

Just an intro no rating.

2. Desperation

Good track, EDI starts it off as he raps about having no other choice than to smoke PCP, because his brother is successful and his girl been cheating on him. Kastro comes tight but his verse is short. Good

3. No More

Standard new Outlawz track, boring beat but lets see if EDI & Kastro can carry the load. EDI starts it off with a rapid smooth verse, say what you will but EDI IMO was always the most consistent Outlaw. Kastro of course rips it. Song really doesn’t have a good beat but EDI and Kastro carry this and work their asses off so you have to appreciate that. Good

4. Lost Love

Different beat, more rapid and EDI of course takes advantage of it, rapping fast and showing his versatility. Kastro does a slow chorus for the beat but he does it well, then Kastro raps and well it’s the usual which is always dope. You can say what you want abou the Outlawz but they bust their asses on songs. Song’s about the evil in people including the evil in drugs and money. Good

5. Never Givin it Up

Dope guitar type beat, the chorus is pretty standard but that’s not a bad thing, everyone comes tight. Good

6. Just Us(Feat Dirty Bert Of Jerzey Mob)

Beat is softer and it’s pretty basic and boring. They try, but that’s not going to save this song. Average

7. Born A souljah(Outlawz, Hellraza, & Yukmouth)

Good track as it’s lyrical slaughter time! Noble starts it off with a vicious verse and seriously has this guy ever came wack? I never heard him come weak, he has always gave it a 110%. The chorus is good albeit simple. EDI with a good verse but not as good as Nobles so it comes off semi weak. Hellraza with a vicious but short verse then his brother Napoleon takes over with a vicious verse, man this guy has such a great flow. Yukmouth with the best verse and…they cut his verse short? WHAT!?!? They cut Yuk’s verse off! Doesn’t matter still a good song. Good

8. Same Shit Different Day

Starting is stupid but gets good when the rapping starts going on. Everyone comes tight. Good

9. Thug Law(Feat Miko)

Good song, EDI shines, but uses a dated Ras Kass line so I have to deduct points, still everyone carries their load. Good

10. Ride Wit Tha Lawz(Noble)

DOPE DOPE DOPE!!!! Nice bouncy West type beat, the chorus even fits. Jersey’s finest right here, all we need are Treach, Chino XL, Redman, & The Outsidaz and it’d be the Jersey anthem. Best song on the album. DOPE!

11. So Wrong(Feat Jazzy Pha)

Wow we go from dope to this? Ugh this song is terrible. Wack

12. Guns & Butter

What a title name lol. Good track but the slow sneaky whisper type flow doesn’t work. The chorus has a nice piano beat in it but it’s pretty basic. EDI does rip it though. Good

13. So Hard(Feat Tre)

Good track, even a Dogg Pound shout in the beginning. Nice bouncy weird type beat with a good singing sample in it. Tre’s slow then fast type flow is great, this guy needs a solo out. EDI with a calm but rapid flow(!). Kastro with a good verse. Good stuff. Good

14. It Is What It Is(Feat Big Syke & The Homie Wack Deuce)

Beat is basic and boring, nothing special but it beats an outro. Average

All in all a Good rating. Nice effort by 2 of my favorite Outlawz. One problem was there shouldn’t be any guests, but you take what you can. This was EDI’s time to shine and he took the ball and ran with it. I recommend this album!

Young Noble – Noble Justice

Posted on February 16, 2013 by WWC

1. Respect Ourz

Beat is basic, but Noble wastes no time. He rips the track to shreds and uses some really good breathe control and multi’s. The chorus is good as well. Noble carries the beat and brings it up to a good rating. Good

2. Godz Handz

Softer type track. This is not Nobles type of track to rap on, it’s way too slow, faster rapid gangsta beats suit him better. He tries but it’s just average and with the singing it just gets annoying. Average

3. Hate Me Or Love Me

Now this is the type of track Noble should be on. Nice bouncy gangsta beat and Noble wastes no time ripping it to shreds. It’s got a nice party vibe with a touch of gangsta to it. Good

4. Gotz 2 Go(Feat Hellraza, Hommicide, & Napoleon)

Nice Outlawz vibe to it, slower beat but it rides. Hellraza shines on this track. Good stuff. Good

5. Noble Justice

Soft song, but it’s clever. Noble raps about his son and the concept here is that he’s writing a letter to him. I really don’t like the female vocals, it gets annoying, so it’s average. Average

6. I Ride U Ride

Noble just rips this Reefologist beat. Nothing special but it is lyrical so you have to respect that. Good

7. Over Again(Feat EDI)

Chorus is really cliche’d, decent song but there’s nothing interesting on here. Average

8. Baby Mama(Feat Val Young & Ed Bone)

Blah, this song sucks. Gangsta rappers cannot do love song’s, they are just cliche’d and horrible. Wack

9. Get Bac(Feat EDI & Napoleon)

Nice symphony type beat, just a lyrical circle. As Noble, EDI, and Napoleon just spit straight lyrics, with EDI outshining both. Good

10. Dead Or Alive

Pac & Yak dedication and honestly the beat sucks, Noble tries but man the beat is just boring, and what’s weird is that Mike Dead produced this and he usually makes great beats. Wack(Noble isn’t a miracle worker)

11. Raised As 1(Feat Hellraza, Dirty Bert, LiL D, & Shorty B)

Good song, it’s another lyrical warfare song but nothing stands out. It’s just lyrics for the hell of it and there’s no story told or anything. Good

12. Timez Up(Feat Game)

Is this the same Game that everyone is creamin over? Man this guy is average at best, oh well whenever someone signs with Aftermath, every bandwagon “rap fan” has to jump ship. Noble outshines him. Average

13. Gatz Up(Feat EDI & Napoleon)

Beat sounds like Hail Mary but rougher. It’s a good song, these are the type of songs the Lawz should be doing. Good

14. Don’t Know(Feat Nutt-So)

Decent track, nothing really special. Noble of course rips it but Nutt-So seems average. Average

15. Your World(Feat Baby Girle)

Just awful, the least said the better. Train Wreck

16. Get Low Outlawz(Feat JT the Bigga Figga & Get Low)

Sean T produces a basic boring beat, but everyone carries their load. Good

17. Enough 2 Make(Feat Kastro, Napoleon, & EDI)

Weak track, you’d think having basically all the Lawz on there they’d made a banging track but I guess not. Wack

18. Don’t Cry(Feat EDI & Napoleon)

Best track on the album, the beat is really good(Produced by Mil). Song is about not crying when you die. Great track, the chorus is good and everything is all good here. Good

19. Lightz Out(Feat EDI, LiL Zane, Bad Azz, & Yukmouth)

Can you spot the rapper that doesn’t belong? Zane actually carries his load, he doesn’t embarass himself…much. Yukmouth of course outshines everyone and makes them cook his dinner. Nice way to end the album. Good

Well there are no skits which is always a plus. I give it a Good rating. Cop it if you’re an Outlawz fan but if you’re just getting into them, then you might want to cop their Still I Rise album.