1. Yall N***az Betta Recognize

Well we start right into this album with a song instead of an intro which is always the ownage. Soopafly raps over a techno-ish gangsta type beat and talks about the usual gangsta cliche’d babble, but I do like Soopafly and he has charisma so it’s ok here, he however is not good at doing these type of songs. Average track. Average

2. This Type Of Flow

Well now we totally shift gears here into a much better song. This is straight hip hop here as Soopafly focuses on his lyrics here and the beat is really dope and old school sounding. Soopafly sounds really different here, his voice his high. Good track. Good

3. Hell Yeah(Feat Tray Deee)

Beat is boring, really boring and basic. Alot of weak scratches and a tired horn type beat that sounds like a Technotronic reject. Soopafly tries but this puppy is too boring to be carried plus the chorus is tired. Tray Deee also tries and as good as Tray Deee is he actually carries it(!), Tray has a way to turn the most horrible beat into a decent track just by flowing over it. Wack(Still giving it a wack rating)

4. Can I Get Bucc(Feat Crooked I & Daz)

What is up with the beat? It’s not afraid to suck that’s for sure. Daz starts it off with a tired verse, I’m sorry but when Daz flows like this I automatically change the track, it’s so cliche’d and stale and he does it all the time now. Soopafly with a decent verse but the beat sucks that I have to think about just getting through the track. Crooked I sounds awkward on this beat, it’s something to be heard, he tries to use the vicious flow but this beat is so corny. Wack

5. Way 2 Often(Feat Kurupt)

Beat isn’t that good, it’s “gangsta” and all but it’s just boring to me, no technicality into it and as good as Daz & Soopafly are at producing I’m dissappointed they’d produce a stinker like this since they “both” produced the album “together”. Soopafly sounds bored on here and hits every cliche’ imagined, and Kurupt is on here so you know it’s going to be the pretzels. Wack

6. Everyday(Feat Bad Azz, LiL C Style, & Tray Deee)

Now we’re talking, this is classic Soopafly here with a smooth beat here, nice guest line up here. C Style flows well over this beat, he sounds more comfortable here then on Chronic 2000 & Too Gangsta For Radio. Tray Deee with another great beat but of course it’s Tray Deee, even with his jaw wired shut he’d still outshine everyone and you all know it! Bad Azz has a good verse as well(One of his best actually). Love the chorus as well with both styles of singing, the good and the silly singing mix real good together. Good

7. There Will Never Be Another(Feat Daz, Richie Rich, & Gonzoe)

All star guest line up here and a great beat that sounds like something out of Dogg Food. See now this is a better Daz verse, he sounds a little lazy but atleast he has a good beat to carry him. Richie Rich with a good verse albeit short. Gonzoe with a crazy verse, but of course it’s Gonzoe so you know it’s going to be dope, too bad his albums are rarer than uncooked steak, yikes this is a long Gonzoe verse and he brings his A-game here, good work there very nice touch. Soopafly maintains his smooth flow, never gets old. DOPE!

8. Bacc 2 L.A.(Feat Daz & Xzibit)

Way too much Daz on here as you can tell he had a hand in the production and raps on here as well. Soopafly with a good verse but the chorus is terrible I’m talking really annoying. Daz actually sings then stops in a funny bit, actually Daz has a good verse here and sounds like old school Daz. Xzibit with a decent verse. Average

9. Like It Or Not

Same track that was on Chronic 2000. I like this track alot, nice singing type beat, real laid back and Soopafly rules the school on here. Good

10. Dat Whoopty Whoop(Feat Snoop Dogg)

Very dope West type beat, glad they didn’t go with the “Love” type beat on this one, even though the lyrics are cliche’d albeit funny. Snoop has a really weak verse, oh man his verse is atrocious. Average(Snoop brought this down)

11. Pimp City(Feat Daz)

Nice beat here, I love when producers use that cricket like high pitched beat in there songs. Soopafly with a good verse, good chorus as Daz does it, and Daz has a pretty good verse. Good

12. Phone Conversation

Pointless intro but I do like this track alot, I love the beat, it’s really laid back, even though it’s basically a “Love” song in Soopafly terms it’s still good. Good

13. Playing Games

Beat sucks really bad, way too happy here. Soopafly tries but still the beat brings the song down. Wack

14. Why You Wanna Act This Way

Very dope beat, sounds really 1996-ish which I love, Soopafly with a vicious flow here which is good. Nice chorus with nice singing samples. DOPE!

15. Freak Freak

Beat has a mixture of newish rap and old school g-funk. Soopafly has a pimpish flow & lyrics here, same old same old. Average

16. Baby Boy

DOPE! Great way to end this album, no Soopafly but Jewel(?) sings the whole track, oh man this track is so smooth, seriously this is actually worth the price alone right here. Flawless track. DOPE!

All in all this gets a Good rating, this will most def please g-funk fans and gangsta rap fans. Some very good tracks but also some really horrid tracks. For established fans get this but for the casual fan try to make sure you listen before buying.

Paris, Westcoast conscious/gangsta rapper, gives us a new album of anti-government goodness. Not the best rapper out there, but the man takes hip-hop in an entirely different direction from the mainstream, which makes him very refreshing.

1) Ave Bushani 

Just media clips of people trashing the government n shit.

2) Field Nigga Boogie 

Basically Paris saying black power, ***** authority. Hard bassline, dark beat, good track.

3) Sheep to the Slaughter

Likin the piano-influenced string beat. Starts off with clips of protestors, gets a little overboard with one guy callin him a “mad dog killer.” On this track Paris’ lack of flow shows; trashing a lotta whites, he may come off as a bit of a racist unless you understand what he’s talking about.

4) Spilt Milk 

Paris dons the monicre “P Dog” for what is essentially a simplistic, hard, actiony beat; love the Reggae-type hook.

5) Tear Shit Up

Basically a hard drumline, Paris flows fast for a change and calls for the people to raise up and revolutionize, with some tight lines.

6) Freedom

Sampling an old song with a woman singing “freedom,” this track isnt very imaginitive, beat-wise or topic-wise. Paris doesn’t shine here but he’s not bad, either.

7) Ain’t No Love

A cut with a 70’s type feel, probably Paris’ most lyrically complex track. Whoever comes on next, though, does come off as racist.

8) Lay Low 

About hard life in the ghetto, Paris calling for people in the hood to take responsibility and watch out for their kids, themselves and eachother. Lovin the piano-thick beat and jazzy hook, and Paris spits it laid-back; one of my favorite tracks.

9) Life Goes On

A very 2pac-ish cut, Paris seems to majorly borrow/bite (depending on how you look at it) Makaveli’s style on here. At least he does a very good job of it. Good if you like 2pac.

10) You Know My Name

Good beat, but this is Paris at his most “gangsta” throughout the album. He doesnt pull it off perfectly, but still better than a lot of the rappers around.

11) Evil 

My least favorite track; Paris really pours it on, lots of exaggeration in here.

12) AWOL 

Completely different from the last track, one of my favorites. Paris spits a story about the military’s deceptions over a jazzy beat, with a sinister hook.

13) Agents of Repression

Same deal as Ave Bushani.

14) What Would You Do? 

Starts with a cleverly put together “speech” by George Bush on the “war on the american people.” Essentially accusing the government of setting up 9/11, the beat is complex for a change and I like the sung hook.

15) How We Do 

More of the same, nothin really special; same-ol’ same-ol’ topics are gettin really boring–but he fact that they’re boring this late in the album is an accomplishment. However it does give me the feeling of fueling the race relations fire with lines like “dont forget/they made us slaves/gave us AIDs and raped us/”

16) Freedom (Last Cell Remix)

Basically the same as the OG, except Dead Prez and Public Enemy step in to liven up the cut.

Rating: 2.7/5 Of all the conscious/gangsta combination rappers of his type like Dead Prez and Public Enemy, Paris is my favorite. This album however gets boring after a while–not surprising, considering he tried to make 15 tracks and a remix out of 3 or 4 topics. There are times when Paris pours the “blame whitey” game on pretty thick (accusing rich whites of creating AIDs? Cmon now) but there are also times where he keeps it fresh. Paris has great potential, but could still learn something from Talib Kweli and Mos Def.

1. It’s Here

Intro to the album, really annoying.

2. Paullelujah

Typical Barman here, which isn’t that bad. You know some people may think he’s annoying but Barman entertains me. Paul Barman has some hilarious lines(The Ritalin line for example), the Barman gimmick is genius as well. Nice cartoony beat, total cheesy over the top song with Barman singing “PAULLELUJAH!!!!” in the chorus, the same crap being sung in the intro. Good stuff. Good

3. ***** Mobster

Horrible title name, but the beat is really catchy. Nice horns in there and again just overall over the top feel that made his first EP so great. Barman talks about getting with all these women, his humor and sarcasm will fly over the heads of some people, for example my sister thinks he’s horrible so I always play his music when we’re driving heh! Funny song with a very dope beat and a stupid title name and an even more idiotic chorus albeit hilarious. Good

4. Old, Paul

Terrible intro to the song, going about 40 seconds of just nothing interesting. Barman’s flow on here is great because like always he tries to fit in as many big words as possible making a very sloppy first verse. Chorus is really funny, nice to play in public when you’re driving around the mall parkinglot heh. Better second verse for Barman as he finally stays on beat. Third verse is funny as he tries to change up his flow. Great comedy here. Good

5. Bleeding Brain Grow

Nice guitar type beat, it has a salsa flavor mixed in with it. Barman uses the “Reading Rainbow” song as the chorus but replacing it with “Bleeding Brain Grow”. Typical Barman stuff but once he starts singing it boosts this song up to Good status and then he lists some dope rappers. How can you not like this guy? Good

6. N.O.W.

Horrible beginning, it’s just terrible, so bad that you’ll skip it once you hear it. Stupid song, but can be funny when playing it in a club with people on the dance floor who have never heard Barman. Average(For comedy)

7. Excuse You

Barman goes western? Hmmmm this song is a little weird and not in a “Oh this is so weird it’s genius” way. Way too stupid for my liking and I usually like Barman’s sense of humor. Wack

8. Vulture Shark Sculpture Park

Great beat, very very dope stuff. This is a totally different beat then you’d expect Barman to rap on. Good stuff. Good

9. Anarchist Bookstore Part 1

DOPE! MF Doom produced this beat and man it’s one of his best beats EVER! This is a really different track for Barman but he does a great job. Barman channels Twista(Heh) as he raps in a rapid hilarious flow. Weird chorus, kind of annoying when he mentions “Amazon.com”. Great track, the best Barman track EVER! DOPE!

10. Burping & Farting

This is the greatest track ever made heh! Hilarious track as Barman talks about….what else but BURPING & FARTING! Isn’t that genius? Hilarity is just running rampant all over this track. Whoops forgot to turn off “Sarcasm Mode” on my computer. Ah here we go I turned it off man is this track horrible. Train Wreck

11. Talking Time Travel

Weird starting and I mean weird, kind of eerie as well. It then gets hilarious as Barman gets into Willie Nelson mode as he sings a little country tune and I’m rollin on the ground hearing this. Barman even says “darn tootin” thus boosting it to Good rating. Good

12. Anarchist Bookstore Part 2

Another Doom beat but it isn’t as good as Part 1, weird track all around as it starts off with voice samples. Good track though as Barman is in his glory here. Good

13. A Somewhat New Medium

Not really a track, just one long outro as Barman says some funny stuff about “Parrot shit” over a pretty dope beat. I cannot rate this though.

All in all this gets a Good rating. You have to appreciate Barman’s humor to appreciate this album. Barman’s music is a guilty pleasure of mine. Some really Good tracks and one DOPE! track is not bad for his first full length album. Cop it only if you like Barman’s style or else it’ll be just too weird and “nerdy” for your liking.

If you’ve heard anything about The Firm, you’ve heard about Cormega, the man who was dropped from the group cuz of his jail time. If a rapper can be in the Firm, and then diss Nas and Nature at the same time and still be talked about, shit..he’s good in my book. I decided to check some of his shit, and, well, he’s *****in ill. Corm has that same kind of laid-back voice as AZ, but his style is more complex and his lines are good shit. The result is one of the best rappers out, kind of a mix between AZ and Royce da 5’9”, and so sick that he’s probably a match Nas himself. The only problem is that his mellow voice, like AZ, really doesn’t allow him to put much emotion or passion into his verses. Still, this doesn’t stop him from being one of the best rappers out right now. Ratings: GRR = Horrible, Boo! = Poor, Meh = Avg., Cool = Good, Yeah! = Great, HELL YEAH = Excellent

1) Intro ft. Doña, Miz

A soft, laid-back piano beat that fits Corm’s voice. Corm delivers Royce-style tight lyrics; then the beat switches to a more aggressive cut that better fits his labelmates Doña and Miz. Doña however is annoying, a woman with decent skills (Eve-level, I’d say) but with a deep, butch voice that just doesn’t work. Miz, at first listen, sounds like Jay-Z, and he’s okay. (Meh)

2) Beautiful Mind 

Using a slightly different version of, but mostly the same piano beat as labelmate Royce’s T.O.D.A.Y., Corm spits the same sullen, sicc style of deep lyrics on various topics. One of the album’s best tracks.

(Yeah!)

3) Let it Go ft. M.O.P

A kinda hard piano beat somehow manages to suit both Mega and rap duo M.O.P. without making Corm seem too soft. Good competitive track like for a video game soundtrack. (Cool)

4) The Bond ft. Doña 

Doña delivers an actually pretty good verse over this odd but good, echoey, hard-drum beat. Cormega speaks on loyalty. Good collab track. (Cool)

5) Bring it Back 

Over another strange but pretty good, kinda dark beat by Ayatollah), Corm raps a good, uninterrupted 2-minute verse about old MC’s he used to look up to back in the day. (Cool)

6) Hoody ft. Doña 

This is either a very RZA-ish beat I haven’t heard before, or a RZA beat that I have heard, I’m not sure which right now. Corm and Don rhyme to a “crowd,” both coming with the usual–Corm with sickness, Don with so-so verses. However this is one of Cormega’s greatest verses, possibly his best on the album. (Yeah!)

7) Dangerous ft. Vybz Kartel, Unda P. 

Over an aptly dangerous calypso-ish beat, Cormega with good rhymes of course. The reggaeish Vybz delivers a clever, funny verse (Kill Will/Bill Smith just to Kiss Jada…Pinkett) but Una P. comes with the usual Sean Paul type Jamaican jibberish. Good for reggae lovers. (Cool)

8) Tony/Montana ft. Ghost Face Killer

Another one of the best, possibly the best track on the album. The killer and Mega grace a damn soulful beat with great motha*****in rhymes. Tie for Mega’s best verse on the album, and Ghost Face comes with one of his best verses in years. (HELL YEAH!)

9) Personified ft. Doña

A different rendition of Jay-Z’s What More Can I Say, Cormega comes with a real, Nas-style rambling, overlapping verse but with a good, on-point flow like Jay-Z. The letdown here is Don’s poor hook and lacking verse, which kinda dominate this cut. (Meh)

10) Stay Up ft. Kira

A smooth, funkified beat and the woman in the background should have Cormega rapping to a woman, but instead has him rapping complex shit about living in the ghetto and doing whatchu gotta do. The mismatched beat doesn’t stop Corm from dropping some proficient verses. (Cool)

11) Deep Blue Seas ft. Kurupt, Jayo Felony

A bangin, horn-laced cut showcases Kurupt, Jayo and Mega laying great verses. For some reason the high-pitched echoey hook isn’t annoying but I could see it getting old quickly. I really think Royce da 5’9” could have been a great addition to this star-studded song, and as he’s also on Koch it wouldn’t have been hard to negotiate. Oh, well. (Yeah!)

12) More Crime ft. Jacka

My favorite track on this album, very deep with a really soulful beat by Maki. Cormega delivers good verses, and sings the catchy hook pretty well. (HELL YEAH!)

13) Monster’s Ball ft. Banger, Lake, Main O 

A dangerous, deep-piano-laced violin track that has Corm spitting more fire with a good verse from newcomer Banger and decent ones from Nas’ protégé Lake and Main O. (Cool)

14) Redemption ft. AZ

YES! Really good collab track between Cormega and AZ; I’m glad they stayed friends. Both of them with their mellow voices over a laid-back beat makes this really fitting. AZ lays down a really good verse and so does Cormega; one of the best collab tracks and tracks in general on the album. (HELL YEAH!)

15) Respect Me ft. Doña 

Another decent couple of verses from Donny, unfortunately this is her track with no sign or Corm, a waste of a good beat in my opinion. At least this time her hook is pretty good and sets the mood for the dangerous string beat. (Meh)

16) Sugar Ray and Hearns ft. Large Professor 

Cormega and Professor trade verses well here, both giving good rhymes on this laid-back, floaty beat. (Cool)

17) The Machine ft. Doña, Miz

Doña flows really well over this laid-back beat, making her listenable. Miz still sounds a little like Jay-Z, giving more pretty good rhymes but nothing special. Cormega still shines. (Cool)

Rating: 3.5/5

End Result: This was a really good album but still had a few falling points. Mostly a showcase for Cormega’s potential. Mega shows his great skill throughout, when the beats lack originality (taking others’ beats and altering them slightly) and the over-abundant guest appearances (especially from Don) give this a bit of a mixtape feel. I would remove a bunch of Don’s verses and a few others from their songs (Lake, Unda P.) and that’s about it. The only joint that really fails at what it tries to do, is Stay Up, proving Cormega still can’t really drop the type of deep, soul-catching tracks as some other MC’s. However the majority are still good, creative, unspoiled cuts, and Cormega moves away from his usual constant disses towards Nas, which is good.

My Recommendation: GET THIS ALBUM, whether a previous Cormega fan or a newcomer. It really showcases what he can do, and is a step up from his previous Nas-obsessed slump.

The deceased 2Pac was and still is, without a doubt, one of the most imfluential forces to ever hit the rap game; the vast majority throw it up to Pac as “greatest ever” for his political songs and emotional delivery, to the point where he’s become a cult icon. Better Dayz was the first real 2Pac album I ever picked up (the very first being his Greatest Hits) and it’s always stuck in my memory.

Track by track ratings: Horrible -> Poor -> Avg. -> Good -> Great -> Excellent

CD 1: 

1) Intro 

Staging of a reporter covering a crowd waiting for the Better Dayz release, posing the question of whether Pac is still alive or not.

2) Still Ballin (ft. Trick Daddy)

Sequel to “Str8 Ballin.” A bouncy but hard track with a piano and a heavy drumline. Pac delivers his usual stuff, with Trick laying a good verse. (Good)

3) When We Ride on Our Enemies (Briss Remix)

One of my favorite tracks. The beat starts off with threatening piano chords and moves into an energetic cut that explodes at the hook. Originally a laid-back cut, this remix makes Pac’s verses violent and rageful. (Great)

4) Changed Man (ft. Jazze Pha, T.I., Johnta Austin)

A bouncy, G-funk party track, Pac spits fast. The silky hook, supplied by Jazze Pha makes the track R&Bish and a verse by T.I. helps the atmosphere. (Good)

5) ***** em All (ft. Outlawz) 

Bouncy with a hard guitar riff and a reckless hook, one of Pac’s disses to Notorious BIG. Not a very good collaboration between Pac and the ‘Lawz; the only one that retains his energy is Fatal. (Avg.)

6) Never B Peace (Nitty Remix ft. EDI, Kastro)

A haunting, arabian-styled cut where Pac speaks on war and questions peace. Unfortunately his companions lower the par of the song. EDI lays a decent verse in his whiny voice, and the beat doesn’t fit Kastro’s flow (or maybe his flow was shot on the OG as well). (Avg.)

7) Mama’s Just a Little Girl (KP Remix ft. Kimmy Hill) 

A touching string beat, on which 2Pac shows his soft side and speaks on the story of his mother’s upbringing, with a soulful hook by Kimmy Hill, and the finishing touch–Pac reciting his poem “Rose From the Concrete” at the end of the track. Another of my favs. (Excellent)

8) Street Fame (Briss Remix)

Big switch from the last cut but still good. Harder than When We Ride but not as rageful, Pac raps determined verses about being betrayed and getting even. Very effective. (Great)

9) Whatcha Gonna Do (Remix ft. Kastro, Young Noble)

A southern-styled simplistic beat that doesnt fit pac’s flow, wasn’t feelin it. Pac dares anyone to test him, usual pac fare. The hook may have fit the OG but doesn’t fit this one. Kastro and Noble trade verses well, actually a pretty good collab track but *****ed by the beat. (Poor)

10) Fair XChange (Jazze Pha Remix ft. Jazze Pha)

A good bouncy beat and hook, but one that doesn’t really fit Pac’s delivery on this vivid sex track. (Avg.)

11) Late Night (From “The Chronic 2000”) 

A laid-back, smoke-a-blunt party cut about Pac lookin for and *****in women, nothing special. (Avg.)

12) Ghetto Star (ft. Nuttso)

An echoey string beat that lacks substance, with drums that lack a punch. Pac speaks on life on the run and in hiding, and Nuttso a slower verse on something completely different. (Poor)

13) Thugz Mansion (Nas Acoustic ft. Nas, J. Phoenix)

DAMN. Lots of people complain that Nas is on the track, though if the Outlawz are to be beleived, Pac and Nas squashed the beef. But politics aside, the beat and hook themselves don’t fit the original vocals at all, and Nas’ poorly-placed verse destroys what Pac was trying to say in the song. (Horrible)

CD 2: 

1) My Block (Nitty Remix)

A slow, euphoric string beat and a hopeful chorus sung by children fit 2Pac’s nostalgic rhymes perfectly. Pac raps about happenings on his block (which one is unclear). A rare look at Pac in one of his softer moments. (Good)

2) Thugz Mansion (7 Remix ft. Anthony Hamilton)

Ahh, the original unreleased Thugz Mansion. Better Dayz’ first single, the echoey synthesizer beat goes together with Pac’s angsty verses extremely well. Pac sends a message to his mother that he’s in a heaven for G’s chillin wit Marvin Gaye and Malcom X. (Great)

3) Never Call U ***** Again (ft. Tyrese)

A soft piano-laced, R&Bish track wherein Pac promises to stop mistreating his woman, who’s always been with him. (Excellent)

4) Better Dayz (ft. Mr. Biggs) 

Pac speaks on more troubles in his hood and wanting people to take more responsibility. The beat, however, sounds like a 70’s wedding dance song, and doesn’t really fit. Plus, the whiny R&B singer in the background is really annoying. (Poor)

5) U Cal Call (Jazze Pha Remix) 

A party track in which Pac spits game, over a sly, suggestive beat. Jazze supplies the usual hook for that type of thing. Nothing special but not bad either. (Avg.)

6) Military Minds (From “One Nation,” ft. CoCo Brothers & Buckshot)

A murderous beat that perfectly fits Pac’s hard rhymes. His companions on the track set up an even better collab than even the ‘Lawz could; in fact they start to sound like Wu-Tang. Best collab track on here, easily. (Great)

7) Fame (ft. Kadafi, Kastro, Napoleon, Young Noble)

A lounge-style track about, of course, the effects of fame. The beat fits the vocals, Kadafi–probably the best Outlaw besides Pac–is on the track. Their presence seems to motivate the other present ‘Lawz, who give a good performance. (Good)

8) Fair Xchange (Mya Remix ft. Mya) 

A better version of the Fair Xchange Remix, much bouncier that makes Pac’s verse seem hungry and lustful. Mya delivers a provocative hook ass–I mean, as well. (Great)

9) Catchin Feelins (ft. Mussamil, EDI, Young Noble, Napoleon) 

An angsty, angry track that goes together extremely well, Pac callin on his boys for war. Napoleon doesn’t put much emotion in his verse, but the other MC’s make up for it. (Excellent)

10) There U Go (ft. Kadafi, EDI, Kastro, Napoleon, Big Syke, Jazze Pha) 

An R&Bish track with a beat I wasn’t feeling at first and still don’t love, Pac and his boys sounding disappointed in their women, Jazze delivering a fitting hook. (Avg.)

11) This Life I Lead (ft. Outlawz)

The verses on this song, rhymes about riding on enemies, woulda been more suited to a harder track, as this beat (though not bad) sounds too lamenting. The ‘Lawz deliver pretty good performances as well. (Good)

12) Who Do U Believe In (From “The Chronic 2000” ft. Kadafi) 

A very compatible combonation of sad, lamenting, beat and the two best Outlawz spitting sad, desperate rhymes. (Great)

13) They Don’t Give a ***** About Us (ft. Outlawz) 

Another lamenting cut, Pac and the boys on being overlooked in the world, over a decent but garish synthesizer beat. (Avg.)

Rating: 3.4/5

One pitfall of double albums is, they’re filled with forgettable tracks. This one’s no different, though the level of that depends on your preference. A few good collabs with the Outlawz were downgraded by bad beats, and a few otherwise good songs were ruined by them. Most of the album’s best tracks are Pac solos. Also, this album was badly put together (Military Minds right after U Can Call?) but that’s not a real problem.

My advice: If you’re a hardcore fan of Pac you’re gonna want the album. But if you’re really strict about the OG’s from back in the day, the remixes may sound wrong or weird, so approach it with an open mind.

Mob Life Records was a Record-label from New Jersey. Their first release was a mix-tape called “The Chosen Ones Vol. 1” this however was their first full-length solo album from one of their artists. The Cablez album was produced by Mob Life’s in-house producer Hela Tight and is joined on this album by guest rappers like JT The Bigga Figga, Edi of the Outlaws, Spice 1, Fue, Q.U, and many more.

01) Intro feat Mutulu Shakur (produced by Hella Tight) 

This album is starting of with a powerful intro. The great Mutulu Shakur (The father of Tupac Shakur) is speaking about Tha Movement over a tight eerie beat. It’s a perfect way to start the album with.

02) Gotta be a way (produced by Hella Tight) 

Cablez is asking us if there’s a way… I don’t know about that but I do know that there’s no way anyone’s NOT feeling this track.. It’s a banger for sure. It’s a perfect way to start the album. Hella Tight came through with a beat that’s catchy, raw, dark, and tight. Of course Cablez’s dropping impressive verses. The hook is simple yet catchy. However the best thing about this song is that it got a meaning behind it. Listen carefully to the lyrics and you will know what I mean.

03) Message from Edi 

Edi is dropping a quick message just to let us know that’s he’s down with Cablez/Moblife.

04) Bustaz feat Edi (produced by Edi) 

It took me a while to like this track. First of all I don’t like Edi that much and this beat is average. The only thing I liked at first was the hook and Cablez verse. I like this track more after a while but I still consider it to be average.

05) Jus wanna get away (produced by Hella Tight) 

When I have a hard time at work, or when my girl and I don’t get along I play this song. Because this is something everyone can relate to, don’t believe me check this part of the hook.
“Time and time just wanna get away sit back and chill just for a *****ing day”.
Not only that the beat is blazing too, with drums and horns in the background that makes this beat original and very good. Just Like the hook Cablez lyrics makes sense and that’s very rare now days in rap.

06) Message from Hassachi Ryda 

Hassachi Ryda is dropping a message and let us now that he’s down with the movement.

07) Hold me down feat Hassachi Ryda (produced by Hella Tight) 

The subject matter on “Hold me down” is about friendship and loyalty. It’s basically about if you got my back I got yours. It’s good that Cablez is dropping songs that mean something instead of the usual “bling bling” bullshit. Once again the beat is banging and Cablez is doing his thing on the M-I-C. I was also surprised by Hassachi Ryda who’s dropping a tight hard verse. Based on that performance I can easily say that he got a career ahead of him in the future.

08) We here now feat Fue (produced by Hella Tight) 

On this song another artist from Moblife is featured. He goes by the name of “Fue” and impresses me with his verse. He’s definitely something to watch out for in the future. Cablez and Fue are lazed with a tight beat that they shine trough. This is one of the better tracks on this album.

09) Freak it (produced by Hella Tight) 

“Freak it” is a club banger for sure! I can see this song blow up with the right promotion. This beat is something people could shake and bounce too all night long. The hook is simple yet catchy. His Lyrics on this song aren’t too special but they shouldn’t be either since this is a track aimed for the club.

10) Message from JT The Bigga Figga 

JT talks about how Moblife will take over in 04.

11) Nuthin` like that Moblife feat JT The Bigga Figga (produced by Hella Tight) 

East meets west in this tight song. Whenever JT makes an appearance it can’t be nothing but good. He brings a lot of energy to this track with his great flow/lyrics. In fact his verse is so good that he outshines Cablez tight verse. The beat fits them perfect too, since it’s got a banging mob sound. Similar to older bay area beats.

12) U don’t want no problemz feat Q.U. (produced by Hella Tight) 

On this track another Mob Life artist Q.U. is making an appearance. I must say that he and Cablez impressed me on this track. They switch verses back and forth and it works perfect due to their chemistry. The beat is well done with drums and piano noise in the background. The hook is good too, could have been better tho.

13) Message from Napoleon

Napoleon former member of the Outlawz drops a message. He also lets us know that he represent for Mob Life.

14) Tha life that we live feat Napoleon, Muszamil, Nzingha Shakur (produced by Hella Tight) 

This was the first single of the album. Although the track is very good I wouldn’t release it as a single. It’s not the normal fake Rap-RnB/club track that works wonder in the mainstream area. Instead it’s an emotion filled track that’s very deep. That’s good no doubt to bad the average people don’t wanna hear tracks like this no more on the radio. Well back to the track. The hook is nicely done with a female singing heartfelt lyric that really catches your ear. The featured guest does their work too by dropping good verses one by one. I was kinda disappointed in Napoleons verse tho. I heard him spit way better before. Cablez is shining on this track too and shows us that he’s good at spitting lyrics with meaning behind them. Tight track!

15) Whatchu gon´ do (produced by Hella Tight) 

On this track Cablez takes it to the street. This is a “ride or die” track. He is basically asking what you gonna do when it’s your time to go. The hook is simple and not very original. The beat is ok. This track is kind of short tho. All in all I don’t like this track so much I usually skip it.

16) Message from Assasin

“Assasin” a bay area rapper lets us know that Mob Life gets love in California.

17) Tha life I lead feat Assasin & Arsinist (produced by Hella Tight)

On this track I’m feeling the beat. Unfortunately I don’t like Assasin that much. He kinda ruins the track with his boring appearance. Arsinist however is laying down a tight verse and Cablez too. The hook is decent and works well with the beat. Ok track.

18) Message from Muszamil 

I’m not sure but I think that Muszamil is Napoleons brother. Anyway he’s dropping a message to Elijah the C.E.O of Mob Life Records and letting him know that he’s down 100%.

19) Survival of the streets feat Muszamil (produced by Hella Tight) 

After a few up-tempo tracks producer Hella Tight slow it down a bit. This track got a laid-back beat that’s very well done. The lyrics are very serious and are about the streets, this track reminds me of Mobb Deep’s classic track “Survival of the fittest”. While this is not as good as that track its still banging and one of the best of this album.

20) Dirty world (produced by Hella Tight) 

This song is easily the best on this album! I can’t stop listen to this track. The crazy part of it was that they weren’t going to put this song on the album (thank god they change their minds) the track starts with a sample that might sound weird at first but once the beat kicks in it makes sense. Cablez is easily performing his best lyrical performance on this track and the hook is crazy. I got nothing bad to say about this song. In fact it’s so good that even my girl who hates “Rap” loves this track. I hope they release this song as a single.

21) Who gon´ ***** wit´ us? feat Fue and Sonny Garcia (produced by Hella Tight) 

When fellow Mob Life artists comes together for a track expect a hot one. Not only are they doing a dope job with their lyrics, the beat is also banging (once again Hella makes it tight like his name). The hook is nicely done by them all. I like how they manage to rep for them self and Moblife on this track. Tight track!

22) Mutulu Shakur Outro (produced by Hella Tight) 

Mutulu Shakur is speaking the real on this outro.

23) Bonus track feat Spice 1, Assasin. San Quinn, Q.U. (Produced by Assasin)

On the last track Assasin is making a hard gangsta beat. He impresses me with this beat it’s very good (didn’t know he had it in him).With an all star line up like this I’m sure you won’t be disappointed either. This song is a tight track and a very Good way to end this album.

Overall

Well there you have it the first review of Cablez first solo album. If you are a fan of bullshit “bling bling” and RnB love tracks stay away from this album. The subject matter of this album is about the “Streets life” Cablez and producer Hella Tight did a great job with this album and I recommend it to everyone that likes gangsta rap or reality rap. The only flaws on this album were the skits and that it was too many guests. I would like to hear more solo tracks from Cablez but maybe next time I will…

I give this album a strong 4/5

Poor Joe. Lovin his single, Fire, I went and picked up his self-titled album. Unlike most though, I immediately got into his deep tracks as well as his party tracks, and I like his underrated, complex style. Maybe it’s his non-thuggishness, or suttin, but Budden’s extremely underrated and constantly being called “joe buddens,” which would piss me off. Still, the man can rhyme, and rhyme he does.

1) Intro 

Joe lettin fans know what time it is in rap form, his arrival is here. (Good)

2) # 1 

Some lyrical heat about the rap game, on a beat pretty much consisting of a complex drum track, using KRS One’s hook. (Good)

3) Pump it Up

One of the album’s singles, you’ve definitely heard this one. Showcases Joe’s versatility, and he does well, managing not to dumb down while talking about *****ing women over a banging party beat, with an energetic hook. (Great)

4) Pusha Man 

A sinister, kinda grimy track about hustlin, thuggin, doin drugs and fake thugs. More complex and good lyrics, including some funny ones–”I don’t drive, I like shotgun/never pull L’s, I like shotguns/hate 22’s, I like shotguns/nondescripts talkin bout they got guns/like tecs, .45’s and shotguns/.” (Great)

5) U Ain’t Gotta Go Home 

A horn-laced crunkish club banger, not on par with Pump it Up, but again he delivers damn good lyrics. Still, not on the album’s par. (Avg.)

6) Walk With Me 

Ah..now we hit the deep tracks. A sad violin-based beat with a touching sung hook, Joe laments on the affects of rising fame, and questions his friends’ and girl’s and record execs’ motives. Love the line “Should I carry a pen and pad/and ask ehbody in the *****in hood for they suggestion?” (Excellent)

7) She Wanna Know ft. Lil Mo 

A disorienting switch from the last track, this is a disappointing, upbeat R&Bish joint directed at Joe’s woman. Definitely not for Budden and his lyrics aint that hot on here, anyway. (Poor)

8) Survivor

Is this an R&B album? An emotional, wistful, hard-drum-laced cut, great except for the fact that Joe Budden is only in the background. He doesn’t rap on the track and definitely didn’t sing it…confuses the hell outta me. (Avg.)

9) Fire ft. Busta Rhymes

A bouncy club banger in the style of Pump it Up. The beat is great–a house beat!–and Joe and Busta both deliver really good verses. (Excellent)

10) Ma Ma Ma ft. 112

This girl-directed song is done well for a change. The beat is good, Budden’s verses are–what?–yeah, good shit. 112 delivers a signature silky hook. (Great)

11) Calm Down

Another deep track, this one is angsty and has Joe talkin to his moms and his life before rapping. More heat from Joe Budden! Tracks like this, confused the hell out of most heads who bought his album for its club banger singles. Still an excellent cut. (Excellent)

12) Focus

A grimey beat has Joe spittin what should be a ballin theme (I think it was on a commercial or in a basketball video game, or suttin). It was also his featured track in Def Jam Vendetta. Pretty good but nothin special; not on par with the album’s best tracks. (Avg.)

13) Give Me Reason

Joey tryina be gangsta. Not feelin the overly-complex, weak-drummed beat. Aside from his usual lyrical heat, Budden says “nicca” after almost every line, gets *****in annoying. (Poor)

14) Stand Up Nucca 

Another really good, touching track. Joe on a dark-piano, hard-snare drum beat throwin it up with lyrical siccness for people who have to endure the hood. (Excellent)

15) 10 Mins. 

Great, great track. A very personal song about Joe’s situation and issues, tryina get away from all the stress and chaos. The good beat and ill verses make the 10-minute song bearable and even a favorite. (Excellent)

BONUS TRACKS: 

16) Real Life in Rap 

An underground 50 Cent-type song with a sung chorus, Joey talkin gangsta and speakin on fake thugs on a decent beat. (Poor)

17) Porno Star 

A funny-as-hell track about sex with an 80’s-style synth beat. Joey puts ‘dick’ at the end of every line in his first verse, ‘*****’ at the end of every line in his second and ‘sex’ on the third. Real skill. (Great)

Rating: 3.3/5

Bottom line: Def Jam *****ed up the album, not Budden. Joey comes with straight skill on every track, if you really listen to him. But Def Jam put out 2 club bangers as singles, so the man’s laid-back voice and style surprised heads that bought his album thinking it would all be more Pump it Up joints. Plus, they kept better tracks like Dear Angie (a letter to his baby moms) and When Thugs Cry (remake of Prince’s When Doves Cry, on uncertainties of being a father) off the album for commercial shit like She Wanna Know and Give Me Reason, and put on Survivor, which I can only assume must have been unfinished. But there are still many great and a few excellent tracks on the album.

My Recommendation: Buy the album, if you like both deep tracks and commercial ones, and also if you’re willing to really listen for the man’s verbal ill skills.

(The final word after each song (Poor/Average/Hot/Excellent) simply reflects how i feel about a song. So one song with the same word at the end can still be better than the other)

Kurupt goes for a mainstream approach to the hiphop market. The Smoke Oddessy CD sees more radio friendly and slightly less gangsta tunes to entice a different audience to his music.

1. Blast Off (Intro) 

Time to hit that Space Boogie….

2. Space Boogie ft Nate Dogg 

Good, hard introduction track from the production house of Fredwreck, nice bassline, im feeling that bassline. Nate’s entrance adds to the charm of the track. Kurupt mainly raps about Westcoasting and himself with the DPG. For all those who never heard a DPG rap song before its the track to introduce them to Kurupt. Good.

3. Hate on Me ft Soopafly & Damani 

Personally i dont like this song. I feel the beat is messed up, repetetive and annoying. ‘Fly delivers the usual witty lines and his style eg, the way he takes the hook. Still, i personally dont like it for the beat. Song is generally about the hate they all recieve. Average/poor

4. On da Grind ft Daz 

Real catchy Westcoast cavi hit. A good old duet with Daz and Kurupt. Good feelings to this u can really feel the chemistry between the two. Reminds of the old ‘Dogg Food’ days when they talked about slangin their dope on the block. All about good times, piano driven, this song is hot.

5. It’s Over ft Natina Reed 

Undeniably a pop song recognisable by its cheeky beat and an appearance from a female rapper! This track was released as a single so Kurupt take the liberty of giving props to fellow homeboys like Dre, Snoop, Tone and Poke. Kurupt comes of fine but Natina is the usual chart-rapper. Does nothing to help the reputation of a legendary Westcoast emcee though. Average borderline poor.

6. Can’t Go Wrong ft DJ Quik and Butch Cassidy 

DJ Quik hardly ever fails to impress. The mastering of the song sounds a bit grimey when played loud. One of the hottest joints on the CD. Butch owns the hook with the saxaphone accompanying his smooth voice, Kurupt takes two verses and Quik takes the third with some downright dirty lyrics about “mooshing the goosh!”. A fantastic Westcoast collabo. Hot, excellent.

Xzibit interlude:

The X has a hard dig at those coming to test him all the time. Leads onto the next track…

7. On, Onsite ft Lil HD 

A display of Fredwreck’s hottest production, madd tight beat! Kurupt raps about letting off on those coming at him to challenge him and *****-mades with the Dogg Pound. Snoop’s homie Lil 1/2 Dead sings the hook to it which doesnt add too much to a hot track but works fine. Kurupt spits pure venom. It combines to make a hella tight track. Hot

8. Sunshine ft John B 

I don’t know too much about John B apart from he’s a white RnB singer with a great pull on emcees! This is clearly another radio-friendly track about the love for a girl and trying to pull her. Although generally i dont like it too much and it is pretty weak, this is a good summer chill-out track and John B’s production is actually quite hot if u give the track a chance. Good

9. The Hardest Mutha *****a’s ft Xzibit, Nate Dogg and MC Ren 

Kurupt is joined by two Westcoast legends…. and Xzibit! All jokes aside, excellent track. Hook is bomb. MC Ren begins the track spitting… like the track title says: something hard. The return of Ren is still as powerful and shocking as he ever was. Xzibit is very good too. Kurupt though doesnt come off as hard as the other two which is a shame. More of an “On, Onsite” verse would have been better, but that doesnt knock the track. Excellent

10. Gangsta’s 

Oddly the credits dont mention Daz’s appearance coz he takes the hook. Production is pretty weak and hook isnt that good. One of the weaker tracks. Average

G Funk Interlude:

Short break between tracks. Short beat with Kurupt talking about the old G-Funk sound

11. Bring Back That G Shit ft Snoop Doggy Dogg and Goldie Loc 

This tune doesnt feel as relevant to Kurupt as it does to Snoop and Goldie. Lyrically, Snoop raps reminiscent of his Doggfather style (i think that’s the point though!) but he’s generally weak and steals the show taking up two verses. Rhyming ‘geology’ with ‘G-ology’ i dont really find funny, sorry. Goldie Loc’s verse is macking for something so short. Damned Snoop, he was too greedy with this appearance. Average.

12. Lay It on Back ft Fred Durst, DJ Lethal and Nate Dogg 

Its the collaboration you dont really expect to happen with Kurupt. Yet he prettymuch pulls it off. Kurupt and DJ Lethal rap about the days of way back and hiphop’s old trends and when Kurupt first stepped to the streets. Biker shorts breakdancing and thick laces The verse from Nate sounds great too, but Fred Durst doesnt sound like he cares too much. Actin’ smoothe. Good/hot

13. Just Don’t Give A ***** ft DJ Lethal 

Another Limp Bizkit connected song. Better than the last, this one has alot more energy and attitude to it. Generally about not really giving a ***** and not caring for others. Im feeling the bit near the end with the ‘Cyco Lic No’ talking. Song is hot, beat jumps.

14. At It Again 

The first of two cuts by Damizza. At It Again is a great party about partying the whole weekend. Real radio friendly (i cant count one cuss word) but at the same time, very catchy, you can really sing along to the hook. Hot

15. Kuruption ft Everlast 

Another collabo you really wouldnt expect to go down. Its amazing how a country singer ends up and works well with a gangsta rapper! Atmosphere is built up in the intro to the song and hard hitting as the childrens choir sing. The beat comes in and its better than expected. The hook and general gist of the song is about things in the world being corrupt. Kurupt is about street crime Everlast’s verse is about some sort of country-style ballad and a troubled lover. Hot

***** Da World Interlude:

Brings in the apocalyptic intro to the next track

16. ***** Da World ft Daz 

Quite simply, Kurupt’s had enough. Average

17. *****es ft Roscoe and Butch Cassidy 

The second and best production from Damizza. “Something to bang.” Please beleive that, this song is simply amazing when used in conjunction with the finest subs. Bass cuts so low the windows rattle. The lyrics are cheeky (sexist in other words) and funny. Roscoe’s verse equals that of Kurupt. Butch steals that hook. Song is excellent

Conclusion

Kurupt took a risk by going more commercial this time. The CD is probably something comparable to the likes of Dr Dre’s 2001- quite a few guest appearances along with the commercial sound. Nevertheless, alot of the songs work and are above average in both production and cameos. Fredwreck’s talent is truly displayed in the likes of the hard hitting ‘On, Onsite,’ ‘The Hardest Mutha *****as’ and ‘Space Boogie’ while Damizza helps with his two cuts (Damizza met Butch Cassidy through the connections made in ‘*****es’ Overall i cant really complain about this CD. i like it, you should like it too but its on a different level from the likes of alot of other DPG releases. I award it a 4/5. It innovative and something new and one of the decent Westcoast releases since after 2000. My advice, if you’re not really into Westcoast sounds and you seem interested, this is a good album to check out.

The first track I ever heard AZ on was The Firm’s “Desperados.” Surprisingly, the man’s verse kept up with the heavyweight Nas and even compared with that of Canibus. His mellow flow sweetened the deal for me, and honestly I DL’d the only album I could find, Aziatic, since his albums are hard to find where I live. I also plan to buy Do or Die. I was surprised people don’t usually pay attention to Z, but then I realized that you have to pay extra attention to dude cuz of his passive voice, mellow style and not-so-emotional delivery. Still not an MC that should be overlooked.

1) Once Again 

Using a sample from an older song, a laid-back track that suits AZ’s mellow style and voice, on which AZ raps a positive verse about his return to the game. Makes me feel good, refreshing. (Good)

2) A-1 Performance 

AZ pronounces, “no more crystal and Don P–straight Gatorade,” and delivers his promise (lyrically at least) on this bouncy track. AZ raps confident heat, though I wasnt feeling the beat (think of Joe Budden’s NBA) or hook, which didnt seem to fit well with AZ. (Avg.)

3) Wanna Be There 

Not feelin the upbeat, piano keyed, 70’s soul beat/singer combination, definitely doesn’t fit AZ. His verses are real good, throwin it up to deceased homies, but the track itself is more suited to Jay-Z. (Poor)

4) Take it Off 

A Westcoast club banger, a good beat and def more of AZ’s style. Not feelin the sung hook that comes by way too often, however combining Westcoast club with rhyme skills is a good thing. (Good)

5) Essence (ft. Nas) 

60’s-type slow-dance joint…not feelin beat at all. Nas and AZ trade verses like experts with scorching rhymes, but the gangsta/i gotcha back subject matter ABSOLUTELY DOES NOT GO WITH THE CUT. (Horrible)

6) Hands in the Air 

MAJOR switch-up, an ILL beat worthy of Kanye West with guitars and a blues singer, a piano and a crazy-as-hell drum beat, put together with AZ’s verses INSANELY well. One of my favorite tracks ever, GOD DAMN THIS IS SOME HOT SHIT. (Excellent)

7) Fanmail 

More tolerable beat, average to me but not bad, and it fits AZ’s style as he reads mail from fans; set up extremely similar to Nas’ Book of Rhymes. (Avg.)

8) Paradise (Life) 

Not feelin the piano lacing of the track, but the beat does a nice as hell drum beat. AZ spits deep on life. (Good)

9) Take Care of Me 

A weirdly catchy string beat with a sinuous hook, a sex track rhymed in story form, takin it to a different area. (Good)

10) I’m Back (ft. El Shaber) 

a Spanish, Mamba-styled track, nice, different beat that I’m feeling pretty well, with a cool hook that’s over quick so AZ can get back to spitting. More about AZ’s return to the game, with guest El Shaber laying down some pretty good stuff too. (Good)

11) Hustler (ft. Trav) 

Good, emotional beat with a deep hook (I’m a hustler, not by choice), AZ laying vivid images of death and loss. Trav, a second MC, also lays it down pretty well. Only hitch on this is that AZ’s voice isnt really suited to deliver heavy emotion–can’t hold that against him, however. (Good)

12) ReBirth 

AZ spittin some str8 fire, not much for subject matter. (Good)

13) Aziatic Outro 

Starts with a slow, memories-type beat, AZ talking; then fades and moves into a sick Westcoast, G-Funk beat with him spttin suttin real, as usual. (Good)

Rating: 3.2/5

A few of the cuts on here seem out of place, not fitting AZ at all, and his ill verses are hampered by that fact. However many of his songs are good (not amazing, just good) due to his own skills more than the beat, and there’s the odd Excellent cut on there. If they had, except for a few exceptions, released an acapella album of this I’d cop that and lay the vocals over something more suitable.

My advice: If you’re a die-hard AZ fan get this album, you can put up with whatever and listen to his illness. If you’re listening to him on recommendation and never heard dude before, you’re better off with Do or Die.

Detroit MC Royce da 5’9″ is definitely one of the industry’s most underrated rappers. From his tight, complex style to his amazing wordplay to his very emotional verses, Nickel Nine is (in this reviewer’s opinion) probably a match for or iller than someone like Jay-Z or the deceased Big L (RIP). 5’9″‘s latest album tries for versatility but ends up seeming to be more than one man can handle alone. Doesn’t stop Royce from delivering fire every time, and many of the tracks are great ones. It’s also absolutely crammed with subliminal disses toward D12 and the Aftermath camp, unsurprisingly enough…

1) Intro 

Just a few sound effects; footfals, door opening, etc.

2) Regardless

Great string beat, very soulful, a kanye-styled beat; starts off with the same lyrics as Eminem’s Lose Yourself–His arms are sweaty/knees weak arms are heavy/ (hmmm..) The track has Royce spittin some determined shit about how no one can make him leave the game but himself.

3) Throw Back 

Great track; love the energetic, aggresive, get-the-*****-out-ma-way beat, Royce flows to with perfection with a confident, aggresive verse..Nickel’s usual siccness. Hook’s assisted by a female and very catchy.

4) What I Know 

A sudden switch from the last track, kinda disorienting; mellow beat, not touchin me that much..however Royce’s sung hook sounds like Nate did it and is oddly catchy and his verses are fire.

5) I Promise 

Cool beat; Royce spits more illness, seems to be talkin to God about how no one wants to let him in the game and he’s sittin on all the potential he has (I feel like Nas before he dropped Ether/)

6) Call Me Never!

What seem to be Royce’s phone messages, prolly fake, an attempt at a day in the life of Royce…iono what it’s sposed to do..

7) Hip Hop

Great beat, Royce laying verses about how the game isnt as real as it used to be and the sad state of current rap. Great track.

8) Gangsta 

Truthfully, one of the only tracks on the album i wasn’t really feeling at all. Dont like either the assisted hook, or the plain subject matter. At first the beat seems imaginitive, something out of a cliche old western, but soon gets boring.

9) T.O.D.A.Y.

Big change from the last track; this is my personal favorite. Love the piano beat and the chorus sung by Ingrid Smalls and rapped by Royce; a frustrated Royce questions how die-hard his fans really are and his own skills.

10) I & Me 

Dark, creepin, Mobb Deep-ish track, great beat but Royce again talks about lack of mainstream success, which is beginning to get old. At points Royce quotes Makaveli’s infamous “Truest shit I ever wrote” line from Hail Mary. Tracks like these Royce starts to fall into monotony, not very interesting.

11) Beef

A remake of the cut “What’s Beef” by Notorious BIG, oddly enough a subliminal diss track toward 50 Cent and rappers who ride 2pac’s dick (Pac should be pissed/50percent of the niggas suckin his dick is *****/) and references to 50’s shooting and the battle with D12.

12) Bomb 1st

Unrelated to the 2pac track, another i wasn’t really feeling, however more imagininative than ‘Gangsta.’ Details instructions to a successful murder, but still a bit monotone.

13) Everybody Goes 

Another good, creepy beat, Royce being more aggressive but still not very refreshing.

14) Death is Certain pt. 2 (It Hurts)

YES! The break in the monotony, the title track and one of the best cuts. Another excellent track; Nickel Nine raps about his homie gettin shot and dealing with his distress and the man’s moms. Very emotional track, again one of the best tracks on here.

15) Something’s Wrong With Him 

A very emotional, bitter track about how everyone seems to have a problem with Royce and the affect the stress has on his family life.

Overall: 3.5/5

Royce has the potential to drop a classic album, but he tries to tackle more than he’s ready for here and near the end of the CD his energy seems burned out. Through that, and the needless gangsta tracks, Royce does deliver some gems and has more versatility and thought than half the rappers–no, 75% of the rappers in the game right now. No matter the shortcomings, still one of the best albums of 2003 next to Kanye’s College Dropout. Due to the fact that the album was mostly produced by one guy, a lot of the beats will have the same style which can get boring–even though a handful are great. Give the man some funding, and some more renowned producers (RZA, for example, would do a great track for Royce; so would Kanye West or Alchemist) and the man will have a great CD. My advice: Cop this here; we’ll be seein a lot more of Royce in the months to come.