Juvenile – 400 Degreez

Posted on February 16, 2013 by WWC

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

The Luniz – Bootlegs & B-Sides

Posted on February 16, 2013 by WWC

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.

Rakim – The Master

Posted on February 16, 2013 by WWC

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

Drag-On – Hell And Back

Posted on February 16, 2013 by WWC

1. Intro

Just an intro.

2. Feel My Pain

Great way to start off the album, first Drag-On gets *****y with his lyrics, then he switches up to being angry and saying that he’s been gone for 3 years and people thought they’d left him for dead but HE’S BACK! The beat is produced bu Tuneheadz and it’s pretty basic but Drag-On carries it. Good

3. Bang Bang Boom(Feat Swizz)

Eh this is a party track and I don’t really like it. Swizz produced one of the most boring basic beats ever, man whatever happened to the old “World War 3” type Swizz? The chorus is really annoying as Swizz can’t even do that properly. Wack

4. Bronx Skit(Feat Okre Boy, Bar, Haze & neo)

Pointless stupid skit.

5. Respect My Gangsta(Feat Styles P)

Lox finest Styles raps with Drag-On and this is a hard hitting song, the beat pounds and Styles starts it off with a very dope verse. Mr. Devine produced this track and I’ve never heard of him but this is a good beat, nothing fancy just a hard hitting beat. Drag-On rips the shit to pieces, why do people overlook this guy? He’s very charismatic and has flows & lyrics for days. Good

6. Tell Your Friends(Feat Jadakiss)

Weird Matrix type futuristic beat with a mix of Arabian flavor to it. Drag-On spits some good lines and some true lines. I don’t really care for the chorus, it’s not bad or anything but it’s just very simple. Jadakiss is…well Jadakiss, always spits hot shit and this is no different. Good

7. Put Your Drinks Down

This was the single to the album, decent club track but this isn’t what Drag-On is suited for. Average

8. Hector The Killer MC Skit(Feat Capone)

Just a skit and a stupid one at that.

9. Trouble(Feat Fiend)

OH YEEEEEEAAA!!! DOPE! This is one of the best tracks on the album. This has a killer hard Southern beat. Fiend only does the chorus but he does a good one at that, the kids doing the chorus gets annoying but it fits the song. Drag-On just rips the track. Drag-On and Fiend work so well together, I’d love to hear a duo album from them. DOPE!

10. I’m A Ryder(Feat Baby & TQ)

To me this track is really dope. Black Key produces a nice bouncy beat. Drag-On adapts really well to the beat and TW sings such a great chorus, TQ is so *****in dope. Baby even drops a decent verse(For his standards). DOPE!

11. Let’s Get Crazy(Feat DMX)

Real basic beat here, but Drag-On & DMX carry it well. Just pure lyrics here. Good

12. Busta Skit(Feat Capone)

Sounds like a Busta diss here, just a skit.

13. U Had Me(Feat Eve)

Nice bouncy type beat, I love the chorus. This is another guilty pleasure of mine, the song is a definite radio hit. Drag-On comes tight, and Eve…well eh she’s decent on this track. Good

14. Holla At Ya Boy

DOPE! Nice beat and it samples “It’s Too Late” by Carole King & Toni Stern. Drag-On just flows so well on this track, it even has a touch of West to it. DOPE!

15. My First Child

Great track, Drag-On raps about his kid and he sounds so happy to rap about him. This is some great songwriting here. Drag-On raps about being a father and how it just changed his life. The chorus is decent but the singing gets annoying, but that doesn’t stop it from being a great track. Good

16. It’s A Party

DOPE! My favorite track on the album. You’d think this was an actual party track from the beginning but then it turns into a grimey dark song with a dark organ beat. Drag-On just rips it giving dark lyrics and adding more to this track. DOPE!

17. Life Is Short

DOPE! Another very dark track with a dope guitar type beat. I love the chorus and Drag-On just rips it. DOPE!

18. U Had Me(2)(Feat Eve & Aja Smoth)

Nice bouncy Southern type beat. Just a dope track and a nice way to end the album. The chorus is good as well. Good

All in all this gets a Good rating. So far(It’s only Feb though) this is the album of the year. Drag-On is back and he made a more solid album overall. Cop this album, but make sure you cop Opposite Of H2O as well.

Master P – Ghetto D

Posted on February 16, 2013 by WWC

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

Digital Underground – Sex Packets

Posted on February 16, 2013 by WWC

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

Digital Underground – Sons of the P

Posted on February 16, 2013 by WWC

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

VA – Bones Soundtrack

Posted on February 15, 2013 by WWC

1. Intro

2. Legend of Jimmy Bones (RBX, Snoop and MC Ren)

Fredreck drops a tight dark beat for this one. RBX spits some pretty wack stuff but Snoop and MC Ren come very tight. Especially Ren. Good way to start the album.

3. Lost Angels In The Sky (Kokane and the Lost Angels)

Battlecat’s production on this one is the highlight. Straight Wesct Coast. The rapping is pretty average though.

4. Ballad of Jimmy Bones (Latoiya Williams)

Sooopafly provides a good mellow beat for this one. Latoiya Williams does pretty well on this track. Her voice is very nice.

5. Dogg Named (Snoop and Tray Dee)

Mel-Man provides a dope, thundering beat for this one. Snoop comes tight with his verses and Tray Dee does well on the chorus

6. This Is My Life (Kedrick and C.P.O)

Another R&B track. The production is nice with a middle-eastern feel to it. Kedrick is amazing on this song. His voice is really smooth. The track would have been perfect but C.P.O’s vrse kind of messes up the song.

7. It’s Jimmy (Roscoe and kurupt)

Frdwreck comes tight once again with the production. Kurupt mostly rap’s on the song, and does a good job, but his younger bro Roscoe outshines him. Roscoe ends the song with a 30 secong verse that is short but blazing.

8. Raise up (Kokane)

Kokane flat out sucks. His voice is horrible and he does terrible on this song. His attempts to be funny in the song are just plain stupid. It’s a shame Fredwreck wasted such a tight beat on this crap.

9. These Drugs (D-12)

Im not a big fan of D-12 but this song is just dope. Eminem gives us a dark beat for an hilarious song. Bizarre, who ususal sucks comes tight on this one. His verse is pretty funny.

10. Death of Snow White (Snoop, Bad azz, Chan and Coniyac)

The beat sounds more like a Battlecat beat but it’s produced by Fransisco Rodriguez. The chrous is really ctachy. Bad azz does surprisingly well on this one.

11. If You Came Here to Party (Snoop, Eastsidaz and Kola)

This track is pure funk. Warren G comes up with a banger. Everone on this song comes really tight. Snoop is singing on this one, and at first i didn’t really like it but he’s actually pretty good at it.

12. ***** wit us (Kurupt, Tray Dee and Xzibit)

This sounds like something that come straight out of a nintendo video game. It’s still damn tight though. Fredwreck is always trying new things. The rapping is very solid too. Xzibit and Tray Dee come off really good on this one.

13. Jimmy’s Revenge (Snoop and Soopafly)

More of a laid back track here. Once again snoop is singing but it’s all good. Soopafly does well too.

14. Be Thankful (William Devaughn)

This is a nice R&B track too. William Devaugn does a good job wit his verses. This is not as good as the other R&b tracks but it’s still nice.

15. ***** It Less (***** That)

Ah back to the hardcore shit. I’ve never heard of ***** That but these guys spit fire. One of the guys kind of sounds like redman. The beat is nuts too. I loves the use of the violins. Something a little different.

16. Gangsta Wit it (Butch Cassidy, Snoop and Nate Dogg)

Battlecat serves up yet another solid beat. Butch cassidy steals the show on this one. His verse is amazing. Nate comes good on the chorus and Snoop does weel wit his verse too.

17. Memories (Cypress Hill)

This track is pretty average. The beat is pretty simple and the Lyrics are just boring. The track kind of a filler.

18. Endo

Just instrumentals

Final Rating: 4/5.

Bones is a solid West Coast Compilation. Definently a worthy purchase.

Ice Cube – Kill At Will EP

Posted on February 15, 2013 by WWC

Released in the latter part of 1990, Cube put out the ‘Kill At Will EP’ in a similar move that NWA put out ‘100 Miles And Running,’ as a go-between from one album and the next. The same way NWA put out their EP to introduce their new hard-hitting style, Cube put out ‘Kill At Will’ to introduce us to the production sounds of Sir Jinx Sir Jinx’s production was featured lightly on ‘Amerikkka’s Most Wanted,’ so this EP was his chance to shine…

All songs produced/ remixed by Ice Cube, Sir Jinx & Chilly Chill

1. Endangered Species (Tales From The Darkside) (remix) ft. Chuck D

About the dangers faced by a young black male in George Bush Senior’s America

“You wanna free Africa? I’ll stare at ya/ coz we aint got it too good in America!”

Chuck D comes in and drops it like he does with Public Enemy and he spits fire with the short verse he has. The remix of the OG produced by The Bomb Squad offers a different step in its beat to the original. While the OG had a harder clap to it, this version mellows out a little while still maintaining the OG beat underneath its different bass line Cube & Chuck’s voice seem slightly slower to fit with the tempo. The Bomb Squad version works better really, although after a few minutes your ears should adjust to this version

2. Jackin’ For Beats

The 30 second skit is quite annoying when u wanna listen to this song but bear with it til the track kicks in. It features beats taken from EMPD, Public Enemy, Digital Underground, LL Cool J and the X Clan. The song is about Cube jacking beats (who would have guessed?) and adding that ‘gangsta touch’ to them- even the crews down with him! This song is old school and dope with a constantly changing beat. If you don’t recognise at least 3 beats used, u aint no hip hop fan!

3. Get Off My Dick And Tell Yo ***** To Come Here (remix)

This remix of the OG was already co-produced by Sir Jinx and it keeps its original beat to it. The OG version was only one verse long and not even a minute long, the remixed version sees 2 more verses With the additional verses, Cube goes on to tell the story of a girl bringing her man along to meet him, the man jock riding bringing along a T-shirt and pad to be signed when all Cube wants is his girl! If you liked the OG you’ll be happy to hear the extra verses.

4. The Product

This song has a sing along “yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah!” hook! Now get a load of the sounds on this track because this track isn’t a remix. This is the sound of Cube’s production style for the next few years (Da Lench Mob sounds) Cube presents himself as the ‘product’ [of the ghetto, etc] The song gives a brief history of his life… starting with conception back in ’69! Then on to present day (1991) in verse one Verse 2 covers Cube’s younger days to his school years, sensationalising everything (like walking was another struggle in da ghetto!) Verse 3 deals with his how he’s dealing with the world and raising his baby The song’s sounds are fire!

5. Dead Homiez

Possibly the deepest song by Cube Speaks on Cube having to visit a funeral every other week because of the pointless gang violence. Anyone living this style of life will be agreeing strongly with Cube as he puts of a lighter voice to a slow and funky beat. This song shows Cube’s real feelings and maturity on the issue You can soak up the emotion of the song for yourself, but here’s some quotables (of many) from the song

“Why is it the only time black people get to ride in a limo?” “A lot of flowers and a big reef… what good is that when you’re 6 feet deep?” “I remember we painted our names on the wall for fun/ now its rest in peace after every one “How strong can you be when you see your pops crying?”

One of Cube’s best tracks ever

6. JD’s Gaffilin’ (pt. 2)

Skit. More of JD’s dig at the police. Funny

7. I Gotta Say What Up

Cube giving shouts to all those he’s down with. At over 3 minutes long, he knows a lot of people! Set to Public Enemy’s “Black Steel In The Hour Of Chaos” beat

Conclusion: Broken down, featuring 2 remixes, 2 skits and 3 new songs, the EP is worth less than buying it than when it was released and there was hype around it. Overall nowadays it’s not quite worth 4 so I give it 3.5/5

Krayzie Bone – Thug On Da Line

Posted on February 15, 2013 by WWC

Following the huge success of his THUG Mentality 1999, Krayzie Bone took another walk down the solo album road to release Thug On Da Line. Less heavier than THUG Mentality 1999, Thug On Da Line offers a deeper insight into what KB has to say on his situation after so much success as a solo Bone…

Yall Don’t Know Me

This is the opening track beginning with a unique sound… unique because the acclaimed LT Hutton produced the beat to it. The song is a dig at how since his last release so many clones have come along and the attention from people he doesn’t know who see him on MTV and BET claiming they know him

Ride The Thug Line – ft The Gunslangers (Keef G, Bam & Young Dre)

This is the first song on the CD to feature some of KB’s new Thugline artists. Their verses come off fine and the beat has a nice sound but coz KB is introducing his new clique you have to wait 3 verses until you get to hear him Dope sounds

Can’t Hustle Forever – ft Lareece & Young Dre

The whole mood changes to something downbeat and slower, the intro of the song is accompanied by rain and thunder and the song tells about KB’s struggle as a thug, caught up where he cant give up otherwise he faces failure. Lareece and Young Dre also tell their thoughts. Song works out nice

Talk To Myself – ft Tiffany

In my opinion this is the best track on the CD. Kicks in with an RnB feel and the chorus with Tiffany and KB. *****ing awesome! The song is very deep and the chorus is true Krayzie Bone soul as he tells of the loneliness of being a thug. The flow and the singing are balanced perfectly to make a class song. Great lead out to the song also.

A Thugga Level – ft Boss & Lareece

This song turns up the tempo from the last as a great club banger. Both Boss and Krayzie tear up their verses as each contributes to theirs and finishes lines etc, although because of that its only two verses. A good duet.

Da Thugz

Irv Gotti had some input in producing this track. You will either like it or hate is as “Da THUGS” is repeated after every bar, which makes it essentially a skipper track

If Only The Knew – ft Lareece

This gem of an RnB song uses Michael Jackson’s ‘Girlfriend’ as the chorus, but put to much better use. A harmonious flow from KB from the verses to the hook with Lareece makes this a very good song. As with stereotypical RnB this is a love triangle type story about creeping with someone else’s girl. At just above 3 minutes you’ll still find time to appreciate this song

I Don’t Give A *****

Good step to it with some brass loops accompanying The song is like and opposite to Y’all Don’t Know Me, now he doesn’t care anymore, biters and clones matter not. A good song

Time After Time

This is another deep song driven by a very simple beat. The message of the song is delivered through singing rather than rapping as KB questions life and prays to God about his issues including marriage Although the song is short it’s catchy and has an impact with another of KB’s harmony flows reminiscent of the solo songs he did on The Art Of War CD

Ride If you Like – ft Lareece, Asu & K-Mont

The guitar is strung for an upbeat song. The song does more Thugline advertising but each manages to pull off their verse fine. KB does another fine job with his verse filling breaks in perfectly and referring to his bud smoking habits. That’s how we like it!

If You A Thug – ft Lareece, K-Mont & Asu

Its more use of line repetition as most lines begin “if you a thug…” Going out to all the fakers in the industry who try to be badass, brought to you by the Thugline rappers. The beat chosen has a Turkish feel to it mixed with light bass farting set to the drum rhythm

Hard Time Hustlin’

Using the same formula from songs like Dummy Man, Hard Time Hustlin’ is the tale of a teenager trying to come up when his mother and father have been laid off and his brother is locked down. The only way he can do this is by selling rocks on street corners to make money quickly. The success gets to him but he doesn’t heed the warnings his brother gives… Hook is provided by one of Krayzie’s favourite singers, Sade

Gemini

KB’s conscience is having a struggle over the way the management is treating him and the stress its causing so the Good and Bad sides tell their view of how to deal with it, done by manipulating KB’s voice to sound higher and lower. Another unique track from LT Hutton

I Don’t Know What – ft Kelis

From the start this is a very typical Neptunes produced song but the beat grows on you (even though the vocals and beat don’t really fit!) Clearly KB chose the Neptunes to produce this song for a fresh sound to fresh vocals, but the vocals are fresher. KB doesn’t take part in the chorus, surprisingly, it’s left to Kelis, but it works

Rollin’ Up Some Mo’ – ft Lareece, Asu, K-Mont, Boss & Keef G

A humorous, blunted take of Mambo No. 5 which is slowed down to work with the subject matter KB’s voice works perfectly with this type of song but the other rappers ruin the mellowed out feel

Everybody Wanna Be Thugs

This song has a hint of THUG Mentality to it A clapped out beat put to deep underlying bass and a xylophone look make a sweet beat KB protests that he was a thug since a child unlike studio gangstaz who claim the same but know it isn’t true. The verses come quickly but they could have left the beat play on a little longer as the song ends

Bloody Murder (skit)

Brings you back to the days or Mr Ouija as KB sings us into the next track…

Kneight Riduz Wuz Here – (By Kneigh Riduz)

Another freaky tune from the Kneight Riduz with their cartoony “thug pirate” vocals There is no KB on this song and you’ll probably skip because the cartoon vocals just sound wack

Ready For Combat (skit)

Another sung-in intro for the next song. Less than 30 seconds but KB’s voice works well enough anyway. You might skip but its short enough that you won’t need to reach for the remote before it’s over

Thug On Da Line – ft K-Mont, Lareece, Asu & Wish Bone

The final song on the album with a super funky beat provided by Super Sako This is the only song to feature another Bone in although Wish only sings a few lines before he’s out! The song tells that Thugline will be taking over in the near future (where are they now?) Verses are fine although when KB breaks into them it rescues what possibly would become boring verses as KB has the edge lyrically and vocally above any rapper other than Bone that appear on a track with him.

Conclusion: Although KB wanted to break into the scene after 2000 with Thugline, sadly the rappers are nowhere near what he can put down on a track in his Thuggish Ruggish style. Had their been less appearances from his own Thugline team the CD would be more personal to him. Although this CD is less hard than THUG Mentality 1999, Thug On Da Line is still an essential CD for any Bone, RnB fan, or someone looking for a good CD released after the year 2000. Overall, you can never resist the sounds of a Bone record, especially KB and the CD is worth: 4.5/5