1. Exxtra Special Thankz

This intro has a real nice beat to it, Eazy shouts out Dre and Snoop on this intro, nuthin special.

2. Real Muthaphuckkin G’s

This one of the best diss songs I ever heard in my whole life. This track is just crazy, crazy lyrics. This is a diss song to Snoop, Dre and Death Row basically. Real nice track, nice beat.

3. Any Last Werdz

This is another nice track, the beat is real G-Funk. The lyrics of this song is more like the gangsta type shit you usually hear from Eazy E. Real nice song to check out.

4. Still A Nigga

This track is a little laid-back type track, slow beat. Eazy E comes in nice on this track with some dope lyrics.

5. Gimme That Nutt

This track is kinda like those I wanna ***** You tracks, its kinda funny, not something I would bump all day, still a nice track though.

6. It’s On

This track is real dope, it starts off by Eazy E doing a parody of “Nuthin But A G Thang”, from this you can see that this track is going to be a Dr Dre diss. The disses on this track are really hard; Eazy E also takes some shots at Snoop Doggy Dogg and calling out Death Row. Real nice track. Nice G Funk.

7. Boyz N Tha Hood (G-Mix)

This is an upgraded version of the Boyz N Tha Hood track, the beat is more up to its dayz (G Funk). It’s the same lyrics and everything just a new beat, nice G Funk.

8. Down 2 Tha Last Roach

This track is real tight, it starts off with Dre sayin “I still express yo I don’t Smoke weed or ces” from NWA track called “Express Yourself” and scratches to a dude sayin “Biiitch” cause Dre was smoking weed all the time then. This is a get high song, real nice, dope track.

This album overall is dope. I consider it a classic, all tracks are dope. Beats are crazy lyrics are crazy. I definitely recommend this album if you don’t have it already. It’s a west coast classic if you ask me.

I rate it a 4/5.

JUVENILE “400 Degreez” Released June 9th 1998

LABEL: Universal Records & Cash Money Records

BILLBOARD: The Billboard 200 1999 No.9 ‘400 Degreez’ Top R&B/Hip Hop Albums 1999 No.2 ‘400 Degreez’ Rhythmic Top 40 1999 No.4 ‘Back That Thang Up’ Hot Rap Singles 1999 No.11 ‘Ha’

PRODUCTION: Ronald Williams, Bryan (BABY) Williams & Mannie Fresh.

01. Intro (Big Tymers) (2.12) 

The album starts off with the famous Big Tymers Introduction which became a common thing on most Cash Money Albums in the future to come.

02. HA (4.52)

The track that put Cash Money and Juve on the map. Unfortunately this version of this track is very poor compared to the Remix versions with Jay-Z & Hot Boys, lyrically. Juve fails to bring the beat alive with a lack of flow on majority of the beat making the original the weakest of the three versions apart from the tight hook and production.

03. Gone Ride With Me (4.23) 

A great production from Mannie Fresh as he brings the listener a nice smooth Cash Money beat. Juve does a great job at keepin the track smooth and running on track. This track was most recognized for the gangsta style content Juve spits about riding with his gun till death as it is the only thing that will be by his side until he dies as he swiftly laces the hook: “My nine is gonna die with me, do a homicide with me, pick up the supply with me, be up in the ride with me…who me?”.

04. Flossin Season w/Big Tymers & B.G (4.33) 

Another tight track laced with a funky touch that Fresh can only do. The track is bangin literally with the Big Tymers & B.G spittin their game about Flossin and showing that shit off. Juve does a nice job on this track and keeps the beat buzzing.

05. Ghetto Children (4.05)

As the album continues the beats stay really smooth such as this beat which has the slight touch of a Westcoast spice added to it. Juvenile’s flow on this track is on target and the rapping is on point as he also once again hits the hooks. Another mellow beat to lay back to.

06. Follow Me Now (3.55)

With a Latino heat added to the beat mixed with Cash Money clicks this track is a unique beat brought to the listener from the production team of Williams & Fresh. The rapping is quite good but the beat fails to gain any major attention at all making this track nothing really special and quite poor.

07. Cash Money Concert (0.51) 

SKIT, trying to get into the concert.

08. Welcome 2 Tha Nolia w/Turk (5.52) 

A typical Cash Money track which kept the label on top especially when it came to club bangers. The high paced South Style beats that CM was responsible for is a perfect example in this track. Turk does an excellent job on rapping and comes close to out doing Juvenile in the song, although Juve has a special style that only he can deliver. The song contains a sample of trumpets which blow out the track sounding similar to the movie ‘Rocky’ main anthem song.

09. U.P.T w/Hot Boys & Big Tymers (4.17) 

A classic track for the Cash Money group as the whole label connects to bring a gangsta beat to the album with the funky flow of Hot Boy members Lil’ Wayne, Young Turk & B.G. All members do a perfect job on this song and it has to be a highlight for the album as they all represent their sets on the N.O streets.

10. Run For It w/Lil’ Wayne (4.45)

Cash Money beat mixed with the tweaks and clangs of Westcoast/Bay Area sounds you expect to hear in a E-40 track. The song is another highlight as Lil’ Wayne & Juve rip the mic up together with perfection. The production though in this track has to get the credit though Juve does holla the ‘Run For It’ anthem in a few songs on the album.

11. HA (Remix) w/Hot Boys (4.25)

The second edition to the infamous ‘HA’ track is perfectly remixed with a Mannie beat which is definately FRESH! The Hot Boys callaborate with their much older and experienced partner Juve as they follow in his footsteps in this remix that clearly out shines the original lyrically though the beat in the original cant be beaten as Jay-Z later showcases.

12. Rich Niggaz w/Turk, Lil’ Wayne & Paparue (5.03)

This track has to be in the top 3 of the album’s best let alone Juve’s profile of tracks as the beat is slamming high on fire. The raps are all on point by all rappers and the production delivers a deep Cash Money beat funky and gangsta rolled into one hot 5 minutes of flamming heat by part of the Hot Boys. A classic track that could of had great potential as a single and ideal for the gangsta rap listener of today, Cash Money fan or not.

13. Back That Azz Up w/Mannie Fresh & Lil’ Wayne (4.25)

The beat that got CM major props alongside ‘HA’. Released as ‘Back That Thang Up’ this club banger had everyone asking the girls to back it up and drop it like its hot in and out of the clubs. Juvenile spits the best ever in the album right here on this beat which Mannie Fresh hits from the back after a great production job. Lil’ Wayne also has a quick hit of the song but this in undoutable the best song in Juve’s career that got him on top of his game and onto the charts bringing back the South to the world after the collapse of Master P’s No Limit Records empire. A club banger that would surely still get ass’ droppin today without a doubt.

14. Off Top w/Big Tymers (3.50)

Perfect gangsta beat where the Big Tymers, notibly Baby, do an excellent job rapping to this Westcoast influenced beat which has the touch of FRESH-ness added to keep it Cash Money style. This beat is perfectly executed by Juvenile and is a must hear for all rap lovers, perfect!

15. After Cash Money Concert (1.19) 

SKIT something unusual that compares to what the Luniz sometimes do in their skits and thats make no sense and just be plain weird and tripped out.

16. 400 Degreez (4.09)

This song is really ‘400 Degreez’ hot cause its a party banger for the clubs and is head boppin, ass droppin Cash Money shit. Juvenile raps and flow are on target and dont miss a skip of the beat at all which help this song become one for the party people who wanna bounce on the dance floor. Production by Fresh is great and the use of robotic voice hooks make this sound like Above The Law’s “Black Superman” on steroids and pitched up to full speed.

17. Juvenile On Fire (4.57) 

Tight production by Fresh again and its a real bumpin beat filled with CM tweaks and thumps. Juve spits game on ho’s and how he calls shots on ass and doesnt front on the ladies. Beats added with Juve raps makes another great song for this LP.

18. HA (Remix) w/Jay-Z (4.25) 

Juvenile couldnt resist on not doin a third instalment of his classic ‘HA’ track but this time inviting Jigga to the Cash Money Concert. The beat stays original as the first without any changes and would have to be the best version out of the three Juve performs in this album. Jigga does his usual raps that he rolls out smoothly and laces the Fresh beat without a single problem. The track was used in the clubs more than the original and gave Juve play around more radio and clubs due to Jay-Z’s contribution. CLASSIC

This album hits the high points for not only Cash Money Records but for the career of Juvenile who quickly became a household name in the rap game after this long awaited release. This album is full of smooth, club bangin, gangsta Cash Money beats that can be taken in by all rap listeners no matter what style you dig. The beats are perfectly composed and Fresh seems to always amaze the listener with his…well, FRESH beats. Juvenile put Cash Money on the map with this album no doubt.

RATING 4/5

1. Scandalous(Feat Suga T) 

We start with an intro with C&H & Richie Rich discussing women, Richie Rich would’ve been perfect for this track. The beat is a nice funky pimp type beat and Yumouth starts off first with a great verse mixed with humor, man Yukmouth is an incredible rapper and this song proves it. Suga T has a decent verse, but I don’t really like her that much unless she’s singing. Numskull has the last verse and man he outshines everyone, Numskull is such a great rapper, he really needs a solo album out and I’m not counting that album with Clee. Yukmouth does a funny chorus making his voice low and sinister talking about ho’s being scandalous then adds a Wizard Of Oz reference to it. Good

2. Doin Dirt(Feat Dru Down)

DOPE! Now this is a track that should have been on Operation Stackola, they use the same beat Brotha Lynch Hung used for his 24 Deep song but they add that Luniz flavor to it. The chorus is so dope, they use samples from “C.R.E.A.M.”. Numskull starts it off with a great verse that only Numskull can do. Yukmouth then with a great verse, oh man this song is crazy! Then DRU DOWN! Dru has such a great verse, his flow here is crazy. Classic song with that Luniz flavor that only they can do. DOPE!

3. Dirty Raps

Beat is on some funky pimp shit, it’s ok but a little annoying. This song is about….well screwing ho’s, funny stuff though as the Luniz can make a dirty song into a humorous track. C&H & Dru Down do the chorus and they just basically talk over it. Yukmouth with a good verse. Yuk & Nukm carried the beat quite well. Good

4. Scope

DOPE! This beat is really weird, I can’t describe it, it’s just odd but very dope. “I know the whole deal on you tramps” is said like 5 times by Yuk in the beginning in this funny ass voice. Numskull starts it off with a funny and dope verse then Yukmouth takes the mic and rips the shit to pieces, man they’re flowing so smooth here, they’re riding this beat well. Numskull raps again and tells a pretty funny story about spilling his Kool Aid. Then Yuk raps again oh man this song is insane, I don’t know why this was never added onto Operation Stackola. DOPE!

5. Just A Freak

Same track as Operation Stackola, I have no clue why this is on here. I don’t really like this track, the beat is slow, the chorus is funny though as they twist the Barney song into something really dirty. Not into this track. Wack

6. Stupid

The outro to Operation Stackola is used as the intro here. Nice funky type song, great Luniz flavor here as Numskull starts it off with the typical dope Nummy Num verse. Yukmouth starts out calm then just rips it. Classic Luniz here. DOPE!

All in all I’m giving this a Good rating leaning towards DOPE!, a very dope collection of songs that never made Operation Stackola, some tracks deserved to be on Operation Stackola. It’s a pretty rare album but I hear they’re re-releasing it and adding some new tracks(!) so if you can find this then definetly cop it, and if not then wait and cop the rumoured re-release.

Two years after his comeback album (18th Letter), Rakim dropped another album on Universal. After the dopeness of the 18th Letter, and of course Rakim’s history in the rap game many expected this album to be straight fire, and the lead single “When I B On The Mic” seemed to back up this feeling. But could the rest of the album live up to the hype?

Intro 

Flow Forever – (3 of 5) 

The first proper track on the album, produced by long time Rakim collaborator Clark Kent. The beat is alright, nothing special but it does its job, the problem is that it doesn’t really seem to inspire Rakim. He sounded a little bored on this track, and although lyrically it’s pretty good, his flow isn’t as smooth as normal. The hook is also quite bad, the whole track is really just average summed up.

When I B On Tha Mic – (5 of 5) 

Well, what can you say about this track? Straight classic in ever department. Brilliant Premo production based around a chopped up piano loop, Ra spitting fire for three verses, and perhaps one of Premo’s best scratched hooks ever. This track is hiphop in its purest form.

Finest Ones (feat Clark Kent) – (3.5 of 5) 

This is basically a track about women, and it is obvious that Rakim is at ease with this subject matter. His flow and lyrics are definitely on point on this track, the beat is pretty good, but Clark Kent proves to be very annoying on the hook which does spoil the track a little.

All Night Long – (3 of 5) 

Produced by Punch this track never quite feels right. The beat is quite simple, basically some percussion, a bit of bass and a few scratches here and there. Rakim only really drops average verses on this track though, and the hook is once again a very average half sung affair.

State of Hiphop Interlude 

Uplift – (3.5 of 5)

At least this track doesn’t have a wack hook. The beat is once again a pretty simple affair, but I’m liking the build up, and what sounds like a Indian vocal sample. Rakim spits pretty well on this track, not vintage verses but at least he doesn’t sound bored. Rakim handles the hook himself this time, and its certainly a better result than the chanting/singing on previous hooks.

I Know – (3 of 5) 

This track features a pretty nice beat from Tr Love, sounds sort of like a less advanced Premo production. However, it doesn’t seem to inspire Rakim at all, especially on the first verse, and he really does sound bored on this track. The hook is alright I suppose, but the end result is another average track.

It’s the R – (4 of 5) 

This Clark Kent production puts a bit of life back into the album. Although the beat is still quite simple, it’s definitely got some funkiness to it, and this seems to suit Rakim who drops his some real dope verses. The scratching in the hook isn’t top notch but its still pretty good, and is certainly better than the singing/chanting hooks, and actually amounts to a dope track.

I’ll Be There (feat Nneaka Morton) – (3 of 5) 

You have to wait through 38 seconds of the women on this track singing before you get to Rakim, and even then his vocals seem to be mixed very quietly into the mix. His verses are nothing special, and the beat doesn’t really do anything for me (or Rakim by the sound of it). Nneaka Morton sounds like your standard rnb singer, and doesn’t really do anything wrong, its just that there isn’t really much point having her on the track.

It’s A Must (feat Rahzel) – (4 of 5) 

Featuring the beatbox talents of Rahzel was an inspired move on this track, because he provides his version of a scratched hook, and a dope drum pattern throughout the track. Rakim drops some dope verses, and the beat is pretty nice, leading to a dope track.

Real Shit – (4 of 5) 

This track produced by Ron Lawrence and V.I.C, has a relatively dope beat, although it only really comes into its own with the horns that are added for the hook. Rakim actually sounds interested on this track, and therefore drops some quality verses. The hook is rapped by Rakim, and is dope as well.

How I Get Down – (3.5 of 5)

This track has quite an eery feel to it, with some dope strings and sporadic water dropping type sounds. Whether it fits the subject matter of the track or not though is a totally different matter, and I think it would have been more suited to one of Rakim’s deeper tracks. That being said this is still a pretty dope track, with some good verses and a standard rapped hook.

L.I Interlude 

Strong Island – (4.5 of 5) 

This self produced track seems to give Rakim an incentive to spit some hot shit. The crowd noises and scratching on the hook are pretty dope, and the beat itself is better than most of the rest of the material on this album. Rakim is basically giving props to his home Long Island throughout this track, and his flow is top notch on this track.

Waiting For The World To End – (5 of 5) 

The second DJ Premier production on the album, and once again its straight heat. Rakim spits some deep shit on this track, and combined with the brilliant simplicity of the beat, and the scratched hook, you can’t help but get hypnotised by this track. Straight classic.

We’ll Never Stop (feat Connie Mckendrick) – (4 of 5) 

I think one word can describe Connie Mckendrick – annoying. Her voice really annoyed me, and for me spoiled what was otherwise a dope track. The beat is real nice, with a piano loop which sounds straight old school, and some nice strings coming in and out. Rakim also spits dopeness, but it is still spoiled by Connie. This track which a scratched hook, or even Rakim rapping a hook would have probably been a classic, but the singing just makes it sound too soft.

Conclussion: For me this album was a pretty large disappointment. The 18th Letter was dope, but this album just seemed to lack any of what made that album great. The whole album seems very low budget, even down to the cover design. The majority of the beats used are very boring, and only DJ Premier actually hooks Ra up with some straight dopeness. Why Pete Rock didn’t do anything on here after the dopeness of the tracks he produced on the 18th Letter I really don’t know, and even Clark Kent, who is normally quite a dope producer didn’t really bring anything to the table for this album, and therein lies the main problem with this album. When Rakim has a dope beat to spit over he takes full advantage of it and drops pure classic rhymes, but when the beat isn’t high quality it just doesn’t seem to inspire him, and he sounds bored. There are a few dope tracks on here, but most of it is average at best, and I don’t think I could really recommend this album to the average hiphop fan because it just isn’t really worth your money at full price. If you are a big Rakim fan (like me), or it you see it second hand for cheap then maybe pick it up, but just don’t expect anything that great from it. Final Rating: 3.5 of 5

MASTER P “Ghetto D” Released September 2nd 1997

LABEL: Priority Records, No Limit Records

BILLBOARD: The Billboard 200 1997 No.1 ‘Ghetto D’ Top R&B/Hip Hop Albums 1997 No.1 ‘Ghetto D’ Hot Rap Singles 1997 No.2 ‘I Miss My Homies’ The Billboard Top 100 1998 No.16 ‘Make Em Say Ugh’

PRODUCTION: Master P, KLC, Carlos Stephens aka C-Los, O’Dell, Craig B, Mo B. Dick, DJ Darrel, K-Lou, Randy Jefferson & Dez.

01. Ghetto D w/C-Murder & Silkk (4.37)

The infamous track that got Master P and the No Limit Soldiers on top of the rap game. This track would have to be the best song on the entire album as the three Miller Bros. rap about the dope game and making crack, which is also portrayed as slangin albums like crack. Master P does a great job in rapping in this track and the production by KLC is 100% on point with a great sample and tight bass line. C-Murder & Silkk also lace the track well with pure ghetto and helped make this track one of the most controversal songs ever by the tank let alone the album title already added fuel.

02. Let’s Get Em’ w/Mystikal & Silkk (5.49)

This beat produced by C-Los is tight with a nice hard No Limit beat taste to it. The appearance by Mystikal and Silkk rappin’ hard as hell make this beat come alive. Master P also tears the mic apart and sets the record straight for the haters who he rides on in the tank with aggression in all raps in this track, a hard beat to ride to.

03. I Miss My Homies w/Sons Of Funk, Mo B Dick, O’Dell, Pimp C & Silkk (5.23) 

Master P takes time out to remember his fallen homies and all the fallen soldiers with Pimp C and Silkk. The song is a dedication to 2pac, B.I.G & Kevin Miller (Master P’s Brother) and also all fallen soldiers we have all lost. The pain of the ghetto is expressed through the raps of Pimp C and the track had the world mournin’ as it hit charts and hearts all over the world. The background vocals and hooks are put into place with Mo B Dick, who also produced the track, Sons Of Funk and O’Dell. A song to blaze up to and remember the fallen homies.

04. We Riders w/Mac (3.57) 

Another tight song by KLC who composes another classic beat to ride to which helped make the tank the best label at the time. Master P is assisted with the raps of the talented Mac who does a great job on this hard No Limit beat and rides all the way through the beat with a nice smooth but hard flow.

05. Throw Em’ Up w/Kane & Abel (3.23) 

Phat, Phat, Phat! This track is produced by O’Dell and has a mad ass beat to it that Master P raps perfectly on. The dueo of Kane & Abel who spit on this beat make it another classic to ride to. Kane & Abel make this song bump to its full potential as Master P calls out to his Soldiers on the hooks.

06. Tryin’ 2 Do Something w/Fiend, Mac & Mo B Dick (3.23) 

Produced by DJ Darrel this song is for the ladies and features the likes of Fiend and once again the talented Mac. Mo B Dick helps the hook out with Fiend and the track samples the famous Thug Life classic “Bury Me A G”. The beat is mellow and the raps are smoothly delievered for the ladies.

07. Plan B w/Mia X (3.50)

A modern day Bonnie & Clyde as Mia X joins the colonel in a Craig B produced beat that rocks the head from side to side. Mia X posts here raps on time with every beat that Craig B drops. The track is for the players who keep some ho’s on the side for pleasure only.

08. Weed & Money w/Silkk (4.05) 

A song for the pimps and hustlers who play the everyday dope game of the ghetto. Master P anthems up he lives for ‘Weed & Money’ as others live for ‘*****es & Blunts’. The beat is produced by Mo B Dick who does a great job on makin a perfect beat for the lyrical content. A layed back song for yall to smoke to and roll low with your skrilla. Silkk raps on the beat making it soar with his unique rapping style which fits just like a missing piece of a puzzle.

09. Captain Kirk w/Fiend, Silkk & Mystikal (5.05)

C-Los brings Master P back to Richmond California with this Cali inspired beat he produces. The Cali hit is laced with Southern hospitality as Silkk, Fiend & Mystikal ride on the track with the colonel making it another classic beat from the tank. The song is lyrically filled with how to becareful of these skandolous *****’s and how to be the mack in the game of *****. Another great track and a highlight to hear Master P return to his Californian influence in rap.

10. Stop Hatin’ w/Fiend, Silkk, Mo B Dick & O’Dell (5.04)

A dedication to the player haters and enemies who hate on players in the game doing their thing. Master P along with Fiend and Silkk lay the smackdown on the jealous ones and with the help of Mo B Dick & O’Dell on the hooks make their message clear. The beat once again is laced with a lil Cali love which is produced by Randy Jefferson. Another layed back track for the cool cats.

11. Eyes On Your Enemies w/Silkk, O’Dell & Mo B Dick (3.30)

Produced by O’Dell this song is a slow yet hard beat which explains how we gotta keep our eyes on our enemies. Silkk does an excellent job on the rapping and O’Dell and Mo B Dick keep the beat freaky with the harmony singing in the background. A song that will get mixed emotions by different listeners.

12. Make Em’ Say Ugh w/Fiend, Silkk, Mia X & Mystikal (5.06) 

The song that got the whole world riding the tank and people all over screaming ‘Ughhh’. This song is a pure classic and showcases the all star team of the No Limit tank. The production by KLC was once again tight and backs up the fact that he can do some really awesome tracks. The Soldiers all had their turn with the mic on this one and it still gets the party bumpin’ til this very day. Rappin’ 4 Tay & comedian AJ Johnson make a quick appearance on the intro which is funny and Master P fires first: “Nigga im the colonel of this mother*****en tank/yall have the big thangs, we after big bank. 3rd ward hustlers, soldiers in combats my comrades is dealers and killers wit TRU tats”

13. Going Through Somethangs w/Big Ed & Mr Serv-On (4.41)

Master P rides with two of the most deadliest soldiers on the tank Mr Serv-On & Big Ed aka The Assasin (R.I.P). Produced by K-Lou once again Master P delivers his Cali style beats to the listeners and runs through the struggle of ghetto life. Tracks such as these help this album become as popular as it is and the credit earned by Master P was well deserved as he stuck with the Westcoast influence which rap listeners could not ignore. A classic song on the album along with the other Cali based beats.

14. Only Time Will Tell w/Mac & Sons Of Funk (4.08)

Only time will tell whether we go to heaven or hell? Master P brings another relaxed flow and beat that bumps with a good meaning on the way of life and where we go after death. Mac drops a few bars on the beat making all his appearances on this album well felt and kept all the fans anxious for a solo album which was finally delivered a year later. Produced by Dez and rapped on by MP and Mac this had a great ingredient for a song.

15. After Dollars, No Cents w/Silkk (3.34)

Producer K-Lou has his second hit on this album after his impressive ‘Going Through Somethangs’ track which was perfectly executed. Master P does well on this Cali based track and passes an assist to his younger brother, Silkk The Shocker for a grand finally. Great track all round all over.

16. Gangsta’s Need Love w/Silkk, Mercedes & Lawand (4.07) 

A song for the boo’s down with their man. Master P and Mercedes go at it with the stories of ghetto love and just having a down ass ***** by your side. Mercedes harmonizes the hooks and the beat is composed perfectly by Mo B Dick. An excellent track for you to listen to with a down ass B’…

17. Pass Me Da Weed (3.05) 

All rap album’s wouldnt’ be complete without the traditional weed anthem. Master P has Craig B produce the track which is full of lil tweeks that are bound to hit a spot with the weed smokers out there who listen to this track. The song is another typical weed song and is a must for a successful album that is full of pimping, ho’s, crack and ghetto life in general.

18. Come And Get Some w/C-Murder & Prime Suspects (2.31) 

Produced by KLC a short track but yet still has the strength to hit the ear-drums with full force. Master P, C-Murder & Prime Suspects all manage to squeeze real gangsta shit in just over 2 and a half minutes of real ghetto talk. One of the most gangsta tracks on the album its a shame they couldnt’ of extended the song a little bit more, which makes you think maybe it was more of an introduction for the new soldiers Prime Suspects?

19. Burbons & Lacs w/Silkk, Lil’ Gotti & Mo B Dick (4.10) 

To end the album Master P goes out rollin in the cadi with Gambino Families Lil’ Gotti & Miller brother Silkk The Shocker. The track samples ‘Sexual Healing’ and along with his production hand Mo B Dick also sings the hooks. A track that caught the attention of many rap listeners most notibly non No Limit fans.

After a successful run on the tank back in 1996 with ‘Ice Cream Man’ and ‘Bout It Bout It’ Master P returned bigger than ever with ‘Ghetto D’. This album marks the era where it all began for No Limit and its success brought the South into the spot light. The all star features from the tank, the production by Beats By The Pound and Richmond Cali influence all rolled into one to deliver one of Master P’s best ever LP’s. This album was full of classic tracks after each other that not only hit the charts but also signed new soldiers to the tank. A near classic for Master P and a highlight in his career as he moved a small label from the Dirty South to one of the biggest labels in history next to Deathrow Records. RATING: 4.5/5

1. Humpty Dance 

The CD kicks in with the track that made DU explode on the scene. Humpty Hump takes the lead introducing himself (Shock G’s alter ego) and his signature dance This song is a classic and you can see why with its funky clapped out bass line (which Humpty acknowledges) and ‘dope-a-delic’ lyrics.

2. The Way We Swing 

“Are you hip-hop? RnB?” DU reply in their own honesty, they are themselves with their own original sound. The song is about how other people hear their music and try to take their styles. Features a lot of shout outs at the end to countries across the world that like the way they swing

3. Rhymin’ On The Funk 

Just check out this beat! This dope beat is a duet from Shock G and Money B. Both their vocals and the beat fit together because of their smoothness. Great track

4. The New Jazz (One) 

A very quick interlude. Its over before you even have a chance to skip it. Some piano beats. Funky, very short

5. Underwater Rimes (Remix) 

Somehow this song actually has an underwater feel to it especially when MC Blowfish takes a verse! This track has some of the cleverest lyrics on the CD. It pretty much takes an every day situation and turns it into an underwater dimension

6. Gutfest 89 (Edit) 

The intro of this song should have been separated from the song because it lasts over a minute meaning you have to fastforward it to get to the song Another Shock-G and Money-B duet In case you hadn’t guessed the song is about taking a road trip to a music palooza with a lot of sex going on! The beat is nice and quick and the breaks are filled with snippets of commentary from the Gutfest festival. Good song for breaking to

7. The Danger Zone 

Another song to show DU’s totally original sound. The bass is so low I cant get under it! Feel the kick drum! This is funky, through and through, laced with a few strings. Guitared hook What its really about is the situation of drugs in the hood and the dramas and dangers that follow. A message which is delivered in DU’s independent style

8. Freaks Of The Industry 

Sexual ‘freaks’ that is! It’s another Shock G and Money B collabo, Money busts some nice quick flows. Beat is slooow and chilled. Mainly about a multiple choice of what you would do caught in a dodgy sexual situation. Piano Man takes us out of the song. Real smooth.

9. Doowatchulike 

Its another DU classic and it plays at over 8 minutes long! Most of the lines end with “Doowatchulike” but its all good because the beat is constantly moving with variations in the beat every few bars. Its all about being yourself and basically doing “watchulike,” whenulike, howeverulike, as long as its cool This song is just straight dope… halfway through an announcer announces that radio stations may fade out, but it still keeps going! Samples, chants, Piano Man, break beats, pumping bass! This is one of those few songs that can go on for ages but still remain dope.

10. Packet Prelude 

Piano Man takes the prelude to Sex Packets

11. Sex Packets 

A very slow, mellow, smooth and sensuous beat. The idea is to capture the feeling of a sex packet in this song so this song is like trying one, apparently. The track is all sung. Smooth, something to blaze to and full of synthesised sounds No doubt this is another DU classic. Not often you get to hear stuff like this ever.

12. Street Scene 

A packet-dealing skit

13. Packet Man 

A Shock-G and Humpty Hump duet this is funky! It’s the song to the Street Scene skit basically. Real funky. DU got the styles!

14. Packet Reprise 

Instrumental lead out from the album

Verdict:

What can i say, this CD is smoooth! Digital Underground are unknown to alot of people except those who heard Shock-G and Money-B on ‘I Get Around’ by 2Pac. They were around years before the start of gangsta rapping. Their style always had been different and more fun yet often holding political meaning.

Sex Packets is a classic CD no doubt. Their sounds are original, their lyrics are clever and the rappers have character. If you call yourself an ‘oldskool rap fan’ then this should be in ur collection

Although this is definately DOPE some of the beats become uninteresting. An essential nonetheless

4.5/5

1. D-Flo Shuttle 

The moment you start playing this you know the CD will be good! By this time in D.U.’s timeline Tupac had been initiated as a member, although this is his only rapping appearance on the whole album! “D-Flo Shuttle” features a funked out saxophone bass line and a really catchy hook. Its one to sing along to! A fantastic introduction into the CD!

2. Heartbeat Props 

“Everybody get ready for the HEARTBEAT PROPS!” The track is about DU giving props out to living black representatives in the media. The song takes up a pumping bass line another sung/ sampled hook and bridge with a few classy choral verses. Great song

3. No Nose Job 

Humpty’s own song. Comically strung chords come as a standard and of course, Humpty Hump’s funny lyrics. And once again, disguised in its funny shell of a song, it also holds a deeper meaning, about how young kids are beginning to think they’re inferior because of the media Funny and dope song. And check out the cutting at the end

4. Sons Of The P 

Looking at the track time, this is another long jam at over 9 minutes long And once again it’s another original DU beat. You will either like it or you wont. If you like George Clinton’s voice you will be pleased to hear he graces the song with the DU emcees This song is laid back. Like I said, you either like it or you don’t. You decide.

5. Flowin’ On The D-Line 

I love this track. It has an almost Michael Jackson sounding beat. Shock-G tells of a story when he was on the D-Flo shuttle! Sadly its only one verse long with no chorus. Has some crazy cutting at the end

6. Kiss You Back 

The perfect radio-friendly song with such an oldskool style, this is really chantable It’s a Shock-G and Money-B duet once again! The motto is simple: “kiss me and I’ll kiss you back!” Its all about returning the favour. Full of nice nonsensical lyrics (“see me coco might go pop!”). A very playable tune.

7. Tales Of The Funky 

The most noticeable thing about this song is it samples “One Nation Under A Groove.” Shorty-B takes the verses which is different from Shock and Money’s flowing but he does a good job anyway. Humpty Hump supports the hook. This track is worth the boogie!

8. The Higher Heights Of Spirituality 

Interlude featuring some preaching and Piano Man’s talent

9. Family Of The Underground 

If you were waiting for another Tupac appearance, you can hear his voice at the start (that’s it) Think of “If My Homie Calls” and you will get an idea of what this song sounds like with “Family Affair” as the sampled hook Since DU’s last outing they had initiated a few more members and this track is each of their opportunities to flow. You should already recognise Stretch of Naughty By Nature already The bass on this song bangs! A good song. Each emcee has their own style of flow

10. The D-Flowstrumental 

Instrumental of “The D-Flo Shuttle” You may just consider it as a filler because it isn’t too necessary

11. Good Thing We’re Rappin’ 

Suddenly the atmosphere changes to something more threatening to fit in with the changing sounds an image of rap becoming gangsta. Yet ironically, Humpty Hump takes the verses in alternates with Shock-G! It also kicks some hilarious lyrics and even soulful singing near the end (check it out for yourself!) It’s another long jam (9 minutes). Humpty Hump takes up a lot of time giving shoutouts. And that closes the album!

Well what can i say? DU have pulled it off again. Their sounds still stay original and fun, humorous and friendly Like ‘Sex Packets’ this is another DU release you will want in your collection. Lots of fun and a class CD. DU may be funny but they keep it real.

Rating: 4.5/5

01. I Call Shots w/Roscoe (4.23)
02. Loose Cannons w/Daz & Xzibit (2.23)
03. Who Ride Wit Us w/Daz & Bad Azz (4.21)
04. Represent Dat G.C w/Daz, Snoop, Soopafly, Tray Dee, Jayo Felony & Butch Cassidy (5.06)
05. Welcome Home w/Latoya (4.13)
06. Tequilla w/Niva, Daz & T-Moe of Goodie Mob (3.45)
07. Trylogy (2.15)
08. Neva Gonna Give It Up w/Warren G, Snoop, Nate Dogg, Tray Dee & Soopafly (4.45)
09. Tha Streetz Iz A Mutha w/Daz & Big Pimpin (4.08)
10. Ya Cant Trust Nobody w/Daz (2.52)
11. It Ain’t About You w/Soopafly, Tray Dee & Latoya (4.47)
12. Girls All Pause w/Nate Dogg & Roscoe (3.28)
13. Your Gyrl Friend w/Daz (4.07)
14. Ho’s A Housewife w/Dr Dre & Hitman (4.44)
15. I Ain’t Shit Without My Homeboyz w/Daz, Soopafly, Crooked I & Baby S (4.37)
16. Step Up w/Crooked I & Xzibit (4.53)
17. Live On The Mic w/Krs-One [Bonus Track] (5.28)
18. Callin Out Names [Hidden Track] (3.55)

PRODUCTION: Organized Noize, Daz, Blaqthoven, Fredwreck, Soopafly, Bink Dogg, Meech Wells, Dr Dre, Battlecat & Joe Marrone.

BILLBOARD 1999 No.31
Top R&B/Hip Hop Albums 1999 No.5
Hot R&B/Hip Hop Singles 2000 No.62 “Girls All Pause”
Hot R&B/Hip Hop Singles 2000 No.62 “Who Ride Wit Us”
Rhythmic Top 40 2000 No.21 “Who Ride Wit Us”

Born Ricardo Brown in Philadelphia in 1972, Kurupt (aka Young Gotti) one half of the infamous but now split Dogg Pound Gangstas returned in 1999 with his second solo album after leaving the highly successful Deathrow Records, which he has recently rejoined. After Kurupt’s first success solo album on Antra Records entitled “Kuruption” 1999 was clearly the year of the Dogg as all members of Tha DPG reunited as one along with former Deathrow artists such as Tray Dee & Dr Dre to bring us “Tha Streetz Iz A Mutha”. With features on this album from not only the DPG members and production from the best in the game this was bound to catch the attention of all rap fans world wide.

After a hard couple of years off Deathrow Kurupt had finally launched himself as an official solo artist as many often, and still to date, associated him with his former partner in crime Daz Dillinger (aka Dat Nigga Daz).

In “Tha Streetz Iz A Mutha” Kurupt delievers his best performance to date and the featured artists and production team perfectly produce a ground breaking album. Artists such as Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg, Soopafly, Daz & Dr Dre, already well known for their contribution to the game, all manage to perform to the best of their ability as you can see the full potential shine off all artists as they truely resurrected the DPG and Westcoast Gangsta rap which dominated the rap community for years. We are also introduced to Roscoe’s lyrical flow as he steps up to the stage with his big brother Kurupt and even find the odd callabo with Hip Hop’s Ol’ School Krs-One and Goodie Mob’s T- Mo.

The album is pure Westcoast bangin’ as tracks like Fred Wreck’s produced “Represent Dat G.C” features the enitire click from Snoop Dogg to Jayo felony. As each artist rips the mic apart Battlecat sings the hooks with the talk box, defining the typical G- Funk, DPG classics we all look forward to hearing, we are even hit with the famous and unforgetable “W Balls Radio” skit at the beginining.
Similar G- Funk songs such as Meech Wells’ “Neva Gonna Give It Up” with DPG and a side serving of Warren G is notibly a highlight in the album as Kurupt’s flow and performance with his fellow homies show his full potential along with the featured artists as they fit perfectly together on the beat. Nate Dogg continues the blows on the hook as he proudly sings “Im still a Dogg Pound nigga im Neva Gonna Give It Up…Never Gonna Give It Up”. The Soopafly production on beats such as “It Ain’t About You” & “Welcome Home” with Latoya, are also highlighted as the songs are laced with pure Soopa-doopa-fly flow and filled with Westcoast tweaks and synthesizers as only Priest knows best. Daz has also contributed to the production with hard classic DPG hits such as “Tha Streetz Iz A Mutha” which offers Big Pimpin’ as he schools the listener about the streets with his smooth voice and pimped out slang, mostly remembered for his Pimp Preaching on Above The Rim’s “Big Pimpin”. Daz also uses a different style on “Loose Cannons” with Xzibit along with Kurupt as the rapping is done over a sample of NWA’s “Quiet On Tha Set” performed by MC Ren off the “Straight Outta Compton” album. Kurupt’s ability to lyrically perform and flow are excellent on these tracks and the production make Kurupt’s talent explode all over the album even more than usual.

Other bangin’ tracks included are Organized Noize’s “I Call Shots” with Roscoe & “Tequilla” with T-Mo from Goodie Mob, where Kurupt literally tears the beats to shreds. The blessing of the Dr Dre “Ho’s A Housewife” track also is spectacular as Kurupt again lyrically performs smoothly with non stop rhythm along with Hitman on his side. The club joint “Girls All Pause” produced by Bink Dogg with Nate Dogg has a catchy hook and Roscoe smooth sails out the beat with his brothers witty syle of rapping and flow. “Trylogy” also by Bink Dogg uses a classical sample of violins as Kurupt unites the East/West hardcore flow to the track to match the composer, which he performs with ease. The overlooked co-production and background vocals by Blaqthoven on a few songs is perfect as he has earned today the prevlidge to produce for artists such as Tha Realest, C-Bo & Eastwood.

For the Deathrow fans there are lyrical contests in tracks such as “I Ain’t Shit Without My Homeboyz” & “Step Up” as Kurupt goes one on one with the most talented lyricists on the album, besides himself and lil’ brother Roscoe, and that is Crooked I. Together with Daz, Kurupt’s ability to rap together with Crooked I is deadly and both artists spit venom as Kurupt blasts 100mph on “Step Up” “Terror starts, in the midst of your heart, starts/the storm, my vocals float like arts. In the mystic state of mind, when i create a rhyme/my microphone massacres every year the same time”. The lyrical content by Kurupt is extradionary and he has always shown lyrical talent along with the ambition to flow to any beat dropped on his ears from his debut on The Chronic. The album also has a special guest appearance by none other than Hip Hop’s Ol’ School flava of KRS-One on “Live On The Mic”, its good to see KRS with Kurupt putting the Ol’ & New school together in production aspect and in lyrical flow as well. The album also features a hidden track “Callin’ Out Names” produced by Fredwreck, which is directed at Kurupt’s beef at the time with DMX, Ruff Ryders and Murder Inc. The beat is funky and the words are hard to swallow as a lyrical master puts himself at the front line.

Kurupt has gone to extra lengths on this album to ignite DPG and his old homies from Deathrow Records and make this an album to remember. The production on this album was spectacular G- Funked with a tablespoon of DPG & the spices of Westcoast genius. Flow was on point as for the lyrics… well it should be used as a lyrical dictionary for upcoming rappers. To hear the DPG united on tracks laced with Fredwreck beats and other westcoast artists is rare today. To have four to five rappers all on the same dope beat is phenominal. The year of 1999 was obviously the highlight for the DPG as all artists returned on this album with a message… and that was to say WE BACK!. Kurupt had lead the way for the album and did an excellent job on it without a doubt. The album was more or less a highlight in DPG history as the coming together of all former associated artists after years was history itself. Kurupt had set high expectations with this album and they could of got away with calling it The Reunion, because thats what it was a reunion. The DPG has had its greatest moments in its past but “Tha Streetz Iz A Mutha” would have to be on the top of the list. Kurupt has shown a stunning talent more than usual on this album and the production, features and lifetime of the tracks are fantastic. This was an album for all lovers of real rap and if you were a DPG, Westcoast or G- Funk fan this was a bonus by far. Kurupt aka Young Gotti had so much with DPG and it is a shame today the group is no longer together due to their differences. The hope for Kurupt on Tha Row is that the most interesting lyrics were between himself and Crooked I who is also on the same label…together they are a deadly combination of Westcoast thugs with the talent to tongue twist their way to the top.

RATING: 4/5

JAY-Z – “Reasonable Doubt” Released June 25th 1996 

01. Cant knock The Hustle w/Mary J Blige (5:17) 
02. Politics As Usual (3:41) 
03. Brooklyn’s Finest w/ Notorious B.I.G (4:36) 
04. Dead Presidents II [New Lyrics] (4:27) 
05. Feelin It w/Mecca (3:48) 
06. D’Evils (3:31) 
07. 22 Two’s (3:29) 
08. Can I Live (4:10) 
09. Ain’t No Nigga w/Foxxy Brown (4:03) 
10. Friend Or Foe (1:49) 
11. Coming Of Age w/Memphis Bleek (3:59) 
12. Cashmere Thoughts (2:56) 
13. Bring It On w/Big Jaz & Sauce Money (5:01) 
14. Regrets (4:34) 
15. Can’t Knock The Hustle [Fools Paradise] w/Meli’sa Morgan (4:46) 

PRODUCTION: DJ Premier, Clark Kent, Big Jaz, Irv Gotti, Ski, Knowbody & Damon Dash

Billboard 1996 No.23 (Album)
Billboard 1997 No.70 (Album)
Hot Rap Singles No.7 “Can’t Knock The Hustle”

Born Shawn Carter in Marcy Projects of Brooklyn NY Dec 4 1970, Jay-Z, as we know him as Jigga introduced himself to the game with his debut “Reasonable Doubt” in mid 1996. With tracks like “Can’t Knock The Hustle” & “Ain’t No Nigga” hittin charts back in the day. Jay-Z introduces himself in this album as the smooth hustler from Brooklyn NY rapping about the struggle in the hustle, money, and rising to the top.

DJ Premier laces a few tracks with his typical Gangstarr sound with scratch samples on the Eastcoast deep flow of “D’Evils” where Jigga flows that NY style which many believe compare to Nas’ “Illmatic”. Jiggas features include artists who were rookies in the game & you can hear rappers like Foxxy Brown on “Aint No Nigga” bust her rhymes hungry to break through the game as Big Jaz laced the track wit a sample of “Seven Minutes Of Funk” by The Whole Darn Family.

“Cant Knock The Hustle” with Mary J Blige blows up and gives you that Brooklyn style funk as she sings on the hook and Jig flows naturally to the beat “Factions from the otherside would love to kill me, spill 3 course of my blood/into the street let alone & heat, *****’em”. Another soulful beat is “Dead Presidents II” where Jig raps about the paper chase & the hustle he been through, with production by Ski on this track you can see the classic of this track grow once again even today.

The controversial “Brooklyn’s Finest” produced by DJ Clark Kent & co-produced by Damon Dash featuring BIG causes confusion with 2pac fans to whether or not it is aimed as a dis as BIG spits “Who Shot Ya” and “If Faith had twins she would have two pacs..get it 2..pacs” the beat is a nice old school sampled beat along with most the production, which became a typical sound on Roc-A-Fellas tracks into the future. This album most recognized for Jiggas hustle like flow & his ability to blend with the old school beats spiced up showed critics how a young nigga from the projects can rock the mic and represent his city.

All his features are all new comers to the game & you can hear there efforts to spit lyrically as Memphis Bleek raps crazy on “Coming Of Age” and Sauce Money tears the mic on “Bring It On”. Irv Gotti, Murder Inc, even has his share of production on tracks like “Can I Live” & “Cant Knock The Hustle Remix” which are not top highlights on the album as they pump out the same kind of style other NY niggas were doin back in 96 & start to sound alike.

With his Scarface influences i see how Jigga tried to break through just like Scarface wanted to do, make a name for himself, which he did. All production is pretty tight apart from a short track “22 Two’s” a short talented freestyle though “Friend Or Foe” which lacked room for Jigga to bust & “Feelin It” which people were’nt feelin as Mecca’s hooks were not in place. This album was bumpin back in the day & you can still hear these tracks today & bop your head to most of them especially real rap lovers of all styles.

This debut album by Jay-Z would have to be one of his best even though rap was different in 96, lyrically he tore the mic as he comes across cool & calm & he had an excellent flow as his rappin purified the tracks. Production was good as long as Jay could flow to the beat & callabos were hungry niggas wanting to make a name for themselves…..a bumpin eastcoast album which cleared the way for fellow Brooklyn rappers & one of NY’s best rap albums of the 90’s..Hard to rate but here go….

RATING: 4/5

Now, Tupac has just been convicted of touching some girl’s ass, 4 Years in hell. This album actually debuts at #1 while he is in prison. Whats the result? Read on my friend.

1. Intro 

Length: 1:45
Featured Artists: Unknown.
Track Rating: None.

Basicly the intro is some basic beats, with people talking in a ‘news-reporter’ like way about his 1994 Shooting in the Manhattan recording studio. It’s quite interesting the first time you listen to it, but naturally after a while you’ll be skipping it.

2. If I die 2nite

Length: 3:56
Featured Artists: None.
Track Rating: 5 / 5

I don’t think a better track could have started off this classic album. I think this was the actual time when Tupac started thinking about his own fate. The whole track is about ballin’, about how he is known, his former life and of course, about his own death. A fairly deep track, but gives a decent mental picture of how he lived and what he was thinking. If I were Afeni, i would have featured this track on his Greatest Hits album. A true classic, I don’t think this track gets the props it deserves, but its all good.

3. Me Against The World

Length: 4:40
Featured Artists: Dramacydal.
Track Rating: 5 / 5

This track is defiantly a classic, very nice production, intelligent verses, catchy hook. This track has it all. It is based, similarly to #2, on ballin’ and obvious how Tupac himself as a Rapper and a person is facing the world. Tight verse by Dramacydal, this makes for a quality pac-track. Even a sample of it was played in the movie ‘Bad Boys’ and is on the sound-track, if I recall correctly.

4. So Many Tears

Length: 3:59
Featured Artists: None.
Track Rating: 2 / 5

I don’t like to do this to Tupac, but this track has a wack beat. Which in all slows the whole track down, which I’d rate under average, well under ‘Pacs average. The track is a very deep one mainly about death, his death, god, his peers passing and him trying to give up T H U G L I F E. All in all, sad song, wack beat, simple verses, below average.

5. Temptations 

Length: 5:00
Featured Artists: None.
Track Rating: 3 / 5

This is more of a party track, and as the title suggests, its about women. The beat is aight, but you wouldn’t be able to just play it when your chillin’ maybe stoned or pissed. On the movie ‘8 Mile’ while some of the characters are driving around sample of this track can faintly be heard. So this track just reaches average.

6. Young Niggaz 

Length: 4:53
Featured Artists: None.
Track Rating: 4 / 5

Aight, aight! Now I can really vibe to this track. Nice production, real lyrics. ‘Pac gives a shout out to the young/late Robert Sanderford, who if y’all don’t know that is; young LA gangsta who slang dope, was found shot dead in his brothers room. ‘Pac really thought about this track and the message he was trying to put over. Over-Average for this one.

7. Heavy In The Game 

Length: 4:23
Featured Artists: Lady Levi, Richie Rich.
Track Rating: 4 / 5

Another tight production, nice verse by Richie Rich and ‘Pac. Although Lady Levi’s random singing lines can get a bit annoying, all in all its a great track based hustlin’ and keeping yourself alive while being, heavy in the game.

8. Lord Knows 

Length: 4:31
Featured Artists: None.
Track Rating: 4 / 5

First Line: ‘I smoke a blunt to take the pain out’, simple; the track is based around pain, god and once again ballin’. Tight production, some of the best ‘Pac verses I’ve ever heard. Thus, Over-Average Rating.

9. Dear Mama 

Length: 4:39
Featured Artists: None.
Track Rating: 3 / 5

I know y’all is gonna yell at me for my rating on this track, and I’m sorry ‘Pac, but after a while the track is only an average Pac-track. Although it was the track that leaded the album to its Number 1 spot, it’s a highly deep, sensitive song about, you guessed it; his Mother, Afeni Shakur. He’s reminiscing back on all the stress he put on her through the years. But other than that it is, whether you face it or not, a slow and boring track. Not wack but only average.

10. It Ain’t Easy 

Length: 4:53
Featured Artists: None.
Track Rating: 4 / 5

***** Yeah! Now we’re bangin’ again. This track has some slow but good verses by ‘Pac, spittin’ about his life, ballin’ and how life ain’t easy. Nice song, but can become boring after excessive bumpin’.

11. Can U Get Away 

Length: 5:45
Featured Artists: None.
Track Rating: 2 / 5

Ok, this is a wack-ass track. I think Tupac was trying to show his sensitive side towards women or something i dunno what he was smoking, the beat is neary like something in the background of a porno movie. Slow and boring, skip.

12. Old School 

Length: 4:40
Featured Artists: None.
Track Rating: 4 / 5

This is a good track, not too fast or slow. Its interesting to just listen to his lyrics, they rock! He’s basicly just reminiscing on the, yep, the old school!

13. ***** The World 

Length: 4:13
Featured Artists: None.
Track Rating: 4 / 5

Another one of them tracks that are wild to slowly concentrate on what he’s saying. Decent beat, the track is based around all the shit that has or was happening to him at the time, then he’s saying, ***** The World!

14. Death Around The Corner 

Length: 4:07
Featured Artists: None.
Track Rating: 5 / 5

This track has one tight-ass beat placed under ‘Pacs crazy verses. Once again speaking on his own death and his life. I personally think this track can be placed up there with ‘Me Against the world’ or ‘If I die 2Nite’.

15. Outlaw

Length: 4:32
Featured Artists: Rah Rah, T.H.U.G L.I.F.E?
Track Rating: 3.5 / 5

This track has a tight-production, decent verses but the OUTLAW, OUTLAW, OUTLAW, will be getting circulated around your mind for days to come. It bores you also after a while. Basicly track is about ballin’ and being an outlaw.

Well there you have it, give the most controversial rapper one *****ed up year, a recording studio and you get ‘Me Against The World’. All in all, This Album is a good sign of Tupac’s amazing talent to give you a mental picture or message through his music. Not only were the tracks bangin’, lyrically they had meaning. I would recommend this album to anyone who is a Hip-Hop fan.