Juvenile crossed paths with Cash Money in the mid/late 90’s and later formed the group UTP Playas (UTP is for Uptown Project) and UTP Records after leaving Cash Money. Reality Check is recorded on that label, under Asylum. I have to admit I’m not a big Juvenile fan. I liked Soulja Rags and 400 Degreez but was very disappointed with 600 Degreez. A funny side note on Juvenile is that he found Young Buck and made him a member of UTP Playas. Buck later connected with 50 Cent while being with Juvenile in L.A.

1. Intro

2. Get ya hustle on

The album starts of with an encouragement for people to get your hustle on. Juvenile says he lost his house and everything with it in Hurricane Katrina and that he has to hustle more than ever. The beat on the song has a smooth but heavy bass with a dirty south flavour to it.

3. Around the way

Around the way is about Juvenile – where he’s at and where he’s from. In my opinion, Juve has a special way to rap and it’s coming out real good on this track. One again he’s flowing over a tight beat and the album sounds real tight 2 tracks deep.

4. Sets go up feat. Wacko

Juvenile continue with a more up-tempo track without the beat lowering the standard of the cut. The Magnolia rapper is dissing people that didn’t believe in him and worked against him over the years and up till this day. Wacko comes in on the last verse with a different type of flow than Juvenile and diversifies the track in a good way.

5. Rodeo

Rodeo is the first single of the album, and it’s a good pick. This slow jam is a tribute to all the hot girls out there and considering the type of songs that get a lot of airplay it seems like a good song to put on the radio and TV. The way Juvenile looks in the video actually reminds me of Ja Rule. Still, he manages to not completely sell out and lose respect. Nice cut.

6. What’s happenin’

Juvenile mix story-telling rap with ole fashion southern bragging on this one. I guess he’s telling us What’s happenin’. The beats so far has been real tight but this one is weak to me. It might be that I’m not into the old South sound. All in all it’s an ok song but more or less a filler to me.

7. Loose booty feat Eightball & Skip

You can probably guess what Loose booty is about. She’s got a Loose booty. Eightball and Skipp can back it upp, too. I think we all know what Eightball can do by now, but Skipp is a pretty new rapper to people not into the UTP Playas. I’ve heard Skip before and he’s impressed me. I’m looking forward to a solo effort from him. This track? It’s allright.

8. Way I be leanin’ feat. Mike Jones, Paul Wall, Skip & Wacko

Swishahouse came in on this one to keep it crunk. The beat sounds like something Lil Jon would put together and the two outside guests Mike Jones and Paul Wall help taking it to the next level. I’m guessing this is the second single – enough said.

9. Break a brick down

Break a brick down has a bass similar to Get ya hustle on but with a lil more speed to it. That’s a good thing. Overall the beats have kept a high quality throughout the album this far and that’s an important ingredient for a hit record. Juve’s saying he’s “Going platinum from talking about my lifetime” and if he’s referring to this album he just might be right. He’s also saying “Everybody wants to be the king of something, I guess I’ll just be the king of hustling”. That pretty much sum up the subject of this song.

10. Who’s ya daddy

Next song in line is a kind of up-tempo bouncy song. In Who’s ya daddy, Juvenile speak to the girls again saying he’s gonna ***** them etc. The hook’s pretty catchy and the beat is tight so all in all it’s a real tight track.

11. I know you know feat. Trey Songz

Trey Songz has gotten a lot of attention lately and I was really feeling that first single of his where he talked about how he used to be poor and fight hard to get a chance. Every time a big RnB singer comes on a track you know it’s gonna be a real smooth cut. I know you know is no exception. I hate when singers just look for those opportunities to take high tones, as if the listeners are supposed to be impressed or something. Trey Songz doesn’t do this and I appreciate that. His effort is solid. I wouldn’t think Juveniles voice would be good for a slow jam like this, but his flow actually fits real well with the guitars and all other instruments on this cut.

12. Keep Talkin’ feat. Skipp & Red Eyezz

Keep talking on the side of your mouth and get smacked. That’s the message with this track. It’s an other Lil Jon type of track with the whistles and all that stuff. I’m sure a lot of people are feeling this track but I’m not one of them.

13. Rock like that feat Bun B

I’m a big Bun B fan. Every time he’s on a track it’s a banger (with a few exceptions). The beat on Rock like that is hard hitting and the instruments complete the full picture. Bun B come in with a real tight verse taking the track to the next level. Arguably the best track on the album.

14. Why not feat. Skip

Looks like Skip is the next UTP Playa to drop a solo album. He’s on a lot of tracks here and it’s a classic move to put your unknown rapper on your album to hype him. Snoop and Hittman are probably the best examples. This track is real tight but considering the other songs on this album it’s average. It fills its purpose though – I’m gonna check Skips album out when it drops.

15. Animal

Animal is an other one of those Lil Jon sounding tracks. The production actually use a monkey-sound in the background to illustrate how Juvi’s an animal. The track’s allright, but could’ve been cut.

16. Addicted feat. Brian McKnight

Addicted is pretty much a Brian McKnight solo track. Juvenile’s doing some talking between McKnight’s singing but the RnB singer pretty much makes the song. It’s a real mellow jam and might be nice to play with a girl at your place. Still, I don’t really see why this is on Juveniles album…

17. Holla back

Holla back is one of those southern songs that is trying to hype you up and get you crunk. Even thought I kind of like the song, it doesn’t really fill its purpose. It’s not all that tight. The beat’s pretty tight but not tight enough to make you wanna get up and get crunk. Like I said, it’s still an allright song.

18. Pop U feat. Fat Joe & Ludacris

Any time you have Fat Joe and Ludacris guesting you on a track, you know it’s gonna be tight. Juvenile does his thing on his verse just like he’s been doing for all of this album, and when Ludacris comes on on the second verse I can’t help but feeling like he can do better than this. I mean Ludacris is Ludacris, don’t get me wrong, but we all know what he can do. He’s not really doing it on this one. Fat Joe comes in on the third verse doing his thing. Probably the best verse on the song flow wise. All in all a real tight track.

19. Say it to me now feat. Kango

Last song on the album is kind of different than the other ones production wise. Say it to me now doesn’t have a typical dirty south beat. Juvenile’s talking about how people talk behind his back and should say it to his face instead. Kango really completes the picture. It’s a real soft track and I’m definitely feeling it. It’s a good thing Juvi share his experiences with us listeners and fans.

With Reality Check, Juvenile shows the world that he’s back (if he was ever gone). The album was a lot better than I had expected and all in all I’m definitely going to rate it somewhere above average. Juveniles flow doesn’t fit for all productions, but here he really found a good mix of slow and up-tempo beats where he could shine. Production wise this album was very well made and the mix of a tight rapper on tight beats is always a good thing. Big name guests were combined with less known artists from Juveniles own UTP Playas crew and label. I’d say the rapper managed to find a good mix without overdoing it. Some albums looks like compilations but Juvenile managed to escape that type of criticism. If you’re a Juvenile fan that might have been thinking that Juve fell off lately, get this album and then speak on it. People that didn’t really bump Juvenile before can also check it out and make him a new fan. I rate this album 4 out of 5. Real solid effort.

1. Lost Lair Of B’zle

Intro.

2. Monster

Wow, this is pretty good. Don Juan produces a pretty good horn sounding beat. Tech takes this semi standard beat and rips it to shreds. Tech is probably the most talented rapper out, but never gets his props. Mostly due to idiots who can’t comprehend a rapper rapping about various subjects and not the standard punchline rap that gets touted as great. Before this track even played, you had Tech describing this track and what it was going to be on. This track was going to be on the Oz soundtrack, but it never got put on there. I find it funny how they don’t put this track on the soundtrack but put Fiend & Magic’s awful track on there. Monster is really good. Good

3. S.H.E.(Seductive Human Erotica)

Not one of Tech’s best tracks. In fact, this is actually pretty average. Tech does a good job rapping and all, but man the beat is just annoying and all over the place. Tech raps about blowing money on strippers and the like. Man, that beat is just an atrocity. Average(For Tech’s work)

4. Save Yourself(Feat Big Krizz Kaliko)

This is Krizz singing and it’s actually pretty good. it’s about a minute and basically a skit. I’m not rating this.

5. Now It’s On(Feat Lejo)

This is one of Tech’s best tracks. Great beat, great flows, great lyrics, and it’s paced perfectly. Lejo & Tech trade some short verses. Lejo is a rapper I need to listen to more, I’m always impressed when I listen to him rap. The chorus is really good and very simple. See, music doesn’t have to be complicated. If you haven’t heard this, then you need to. DOPE!

6. Be Jealous

Another one of Tech’s best tracks. Great piano type beat mixed in with other styles. Tech really shines on this track and proves that he was(And still is actually) the most overlooked rapper out. Great chorus here, very simple and again very effective. It gets the point across. You don’t need to be “high” to understand the concept. It hits you right from the beginning. Again, if you haven’t heard this, then you need to. DOPE!

7. Red Necro

An old track as Tech says in the beginning. Really good track that is about racism. Tech does a great job storytelling here, one of Tech’s strong suits is his storytelling. Very descriptive and very emotional. Good track. Good

8. The Grench(Feat Boy Big & Big Krizz Kaliko)

This was on the Absolute Power DVD. I’m glad they put this on the cd as it’s really good. Nice synth kicks in during the beginning, but then it turns into a drum heavy beat. Good singing from both Krizz & Boy Big. Krizz is one of the most overlooked hook men out there. He hasn’t become tiresome like Nate Dogg has. Good track. Good

9. I’m A Playa(Remix)(Feat Big Krizz Kaliko)

I actually like this better than the original. The beat is a more relaxed drum & bass heavy style with a nice synth kicking in during the chorus. Good stuff. Good

10. Trapped In A Psycho’s Body

This is the original version with the Donna Summer’s lyrics still in(They were backwards on the AP version). I really like this track a lot. Very original and shows Tech’s creative side. Great track. DOPE!

11. Freaky

I like this track. A really good track about all the ladies out there. Tech talks about going to a drive in show and all that stuff. Funny track with a catchy beat(By Don Juan). Good catchy track with humorous lyrics. Good

12. My Own Hell

Really good track that has Tech rap about all the politics he had to deal with and what he went though in the music business and what happened in his personal life. Really good personal track. Tech again shows his storytelling skills and paints a dark picture about his journey. Good track. Good

13. Victory

Very horn heavy beat. Really an upbeat bouncy type track. I’m glad this was also put on this album as it stood out among the other tracks on the Absolute Power DVD. Krizz Kaliko sings a great hook. Tech raps about touring and hitting people with powerful music. This is a track to play while you’re cruising around in your ride. Good

14. Mitchell Bade

(Feat Bakarii)-This is what started it all. This is the track that made me a Tech fan, so naturally I’m going to give this the highest rating possible. A classic track here with a great piano heavy beat by Don Juan. You need to hear this track. DOPE!

15. Strange

Laid back track to just chill to. QD3 produced the beat and Tech just rips it here. He flows really well over this beat and actually enhances the beat by using several different voice tones. The chorus has some girl singing on it and she does a good job. Great track. DOPE!

16. Snake Ya(Feat Big Krizz Kaliko)

This was on the Beef Soundtrack and instead of cutting and pasting my review of the track, I’ll just re-review this. I really like the beat here, nice Arabian style to it. It’s a mix of a club song and a diss track. Good mixture here. Tech starts things off with a great verse. Krizz with the second verse and he shows that he can rap. Tech with the last verse and he just rips the track here with venemous lyrics. This track is a grower as it gets better with every listen. Good

17. Shocked(Feat Kutt Calhoun)

Another horn heavy track. I really like these kind of tracks because they fit Tech’s style perfectly. Tech rips the first verse to pieces. Tech uses multiple voice styles here. The chorus is really simple but it works. Kutt with the second verse and man he does a great job. Kutt is another overlooked rapper who needs to be heard. His B.L.E.V.E. album is really good and should be heard. Tech with the last verse and it’s really good. Great track. Good

18. Outro

Outro.

All in all this track gets a Good rating. This was a great compilation of old tracks and unheard tracks. You really need to pick this up and listen to Tech grow as a rapper.

If you’re from the UK then more or likely heard the cheeky lad called Sway. Sway lately has been making big moves for a UK hip hop artist and getting respect from critics and fans alike. His way for words and the way he can be advance as many backpack emcees and still appeal to the masses is one thing to respect.

Sway has released a lot of this material (About half of it matter of fact) on his two highly acclaimed mixtapes so that’s why a lot of people may be slightly disappointed with this attempt of marketing at its best. “Little Derek” his latest single, has a nice melodic beat but is wasted on the way sway delivers with his very repetitive delivery style by making the last bit of each line very animated. “Flo’ Fashion” is the next single which has been hanging about for the last 2 years. The beat created by himself is very different and obvious that it was one of his. The song’s lyrics are funny and clever about Sway following fashion and how it gets him into trouble with him having his stuff reposed. In a subliminal way it’s a lesson to kids which a lot do these day. “Up your speed” was his next hit with a beat good enough for any Southend-on-sea boy racer to ride along with as he rides down the sea front picking up schoolgirls. Sway incidentally shot his video down here and why I notice this a lot Again he drops a few quotables which is expected from him.“Download” is my favourite song from his early archive of earlier songs. The content is fresh and original and again like a lesson to the kids. Sway puts himself his shoes after he just released a banger (many say like this) and his going mad due to the amount of people knowing his song and not one sell. What’s the root to all this evil? Downloading! Glad someone addressed this and only Sway could make this as highly entertaining like him with dropping quotables. It’s a funny and realistic song.

There has been some more songs previously released on the mixtapes but not as singles. “On my own” is another favourite of mine. Covered by a slow simple piano by DJ Shux, Sway looks deeply at his struggle in life by his own.“Slow Down” was on one of the mixtapes and also a snippet of it appears it in the middle of up your speed (that was my favourite part due to my favourite group Iron Bridge appearing the video). The beat again is simple but great and the lyrics about fighting clubs again are funny and brilliant with the few quotables with are mandatory with sway.“Month of the summer” also appears on the mixtapes. Its beat again Is very warm and nice making it perfect for the love song. Lyrically this is one of the strongest songs with a lot of wordplay. Sway pulls it off without being too corny.

The other half has new songs and out of the other 7 only 3 really shines out to me to be honest. They are my favourite tracks. The intro “This is my demo” is great looks and looks at his life before while playing with his words like a beautiful words while also playing with his flow and delivery over the brilliant bassline. In all one of the best intros I have heard in a while. “Hype boys” looks at the fake gangster images in a humorous way with even more quotables the usual for Sway. The beat can be heard on why and sounds quite grime like (that and his delivery has a lot similar to a grime artists) and a lot of the lyrics are compiled from a lot of other songs. “Pretty Ugly husband” is easily the albums highlight! Sway looks at domestic abuse and how the husband acts. The beat changes depending on what the mans mood is like. Even though it’s a serious look at it I did chuckle when I heard the loo line to be honest and the way he perfectly matched the husband’s behaviour so its self is like a black comedy.

Apart from the triumphs of them, two other songs not bad but I don’t see my self always going back. “Products”even though it has a nice bass I can’t get into it. The topic isn’t about anything in particular but looks at quite interesting stuff though the hook is off putting. “Sick World” sounds too much like what he tried with Products but with funnier and clever outcome. Again the beat is lively, energetic and warm but the hook in the singing really off putting. Sway looks at how the world perceives England and how the world sees the rest of the world with racial stereotypes.

The only obvious fillers are “Loose Woose” and “Back for you”. Loose woose sounds like he just wanted to get as many features as many possible to show who’s he still friends with. The topic is the love story one with a beat which I don’t approve with at all. Back for you is another love song which could have been done without. The beat sound like it made for an rnb artist. The lyrics are by far his worst ones on the album.

In all the album gets a 3 out of 5 . I suppose it will have to grow on me a bit disappointed due it being full of skits and old songs.

The beats are 90% but they type of beats don’t really vary enough with a lot of them sounding the same. The lyrics are clever, witty, funny and appealing to most. He hasn’t really used his lyricial skill to the max but I have heard him on songs like “One Day” and here and there on songs which is good enough for me. His delivery pisses me off due to how much he animates it and has a fluent flow. The topics do vary though once and a while they are similar.

Recommendation: Definitely worth the look in. Though if you’re a big fan of his may feel a little bit disappointed.

First, let me start the review off by saying that Soulja Slim, next to C-Murder and Mac, is my favorite southern my favorite artist of all time. I love down south rap, and he is what down south rap represents. This album came out amidst 21 other CDs from No Limit in 1998. Somehow though, maybe because the sound was still fresh (this album dropped in May of 98) or because Slim’s delivery was so raw, it stood out amongst other albums from that year like Full Blooded, Skull Duggery, etc. That being said, on to the review:

1) From What I Was Told: 

Slim kicks off the album with a bass guitar influenced joint about his debut on No Limit. This song was also used for the ‘I Got the Hookup! Soundtrack’ released a month earlier, and was made into a video. The song’s hook is what makes it stand out with lines like ‘Niggas say Ima hit No Limit, like Pac hit Deathrow’. Truly a stand out cut.

2) Street Life feat. Master P, Silkk the Shocker: 

Another bass heavy track featuring P giving his signature ‘Uhhhhh!!!’ and Silkk’s stuttering, but standout flow runs a little too long, but Slim’s verse stands out the mostand doesn’t dissapoint. An above average song.

3) Wright Me: 

This cd is full of piano loops and bass guitar rifts, and this song is no different. The theme is Slim being locked down and his girl holding it down for him, even though he knows she’s out doing shit she aint supposed to be doing. Slim delivers three hard verses on this solo track, and doesn’t dissapoint.

4) At The Same Time feat. Snoop Dogg: 

One of the best joints on the album…period. Not because of the beat, but because of the subject matter and the flawless flow of Snoop and Slim. The hook, the verses, everything is almost perfect. Snoop and Slim trade verses on hitting No Limit at the exact same time while Snoop tries to find his flow over No Limit produced tracks and Slim gives hard hittin lines.

5) Only Real Niggas: 

Another solo track for Soulja Slim ( which is rare considering No Limit’s tendency to put at least 3 other soldiers on every song ) is an average track to me. I don’t hate it, but it’s not one of my favorites. The hook gets old after hearing it twice, and the verses are the only thing that stand out. People complain about Slim’s flow, but after hearing him on a certain amount of tracks, it becomes more of an art then a choppy flow, unlike Silkk the Shocker. Average track though.

6) Pray For Your Baby feat. Master P, Trenitty: 

P’s 2Pac influenced monotone rhymes set the stage for this song, as it goes through your average gangsta subjects and themes. P delivers lines like “Mama I love ya cause ya made me, but this ghetto got me crazy, so pray for yo baby!”. Trenitty (of Slim’s Cutthroat Committy click) has a decent verse, and Slim shines once again with his flow and ability to make his lyrics visual to the listener.

7) Head Buster feat. Big Ed, Mr. Serv-On: 

Definatley a stand out joint, with hard ass verses from Slim and Big Ed. The beat is sick, everything’s good. Then Serv-On hits the cut with the last verse, and rips it. Serv’s style had changed, and for the better. Easily one of the best songs on the album.

8) Me and My Cousin feat. Full Blooded: 

Not a bad song, the idea of the song though was even better. Slim’s real cousin – Hound ( Full Blooded ) appears on the song and they go back and forth in what a good collaboration should sound like. The only problem is Hound….he can’t rap. I never thought he could. He’s not even raw on the mic or intense. He slurs his words and sounds like a mess on almost every track he’s on. Slim though once again proves that he deserves to be respected as one of the best MC’s in the game.

9) You Got It (II) feat. Mia X: 

You Got It (II) is an underated track. And the reason it’s a part II, is because it was off one of Slim’s CD’s from Parkway Pumpin Records (originally owned by KLC). It was also featured on Down South Hustlers compilation, the first version that is. The second one is basically the same thing, with better recording quality and a slight change in the hook. It is a good track, until Mia comes on. I dont mind Mia X, but she didnt do shit for this song. She wasn’t on the original, and didn’t deserve to be on the 2nd one. Good track, but skip when Mama Mia drops her verse.

10) You Ain’t Never Seen feat. Master P: 

Despite saying it features Master P, he doesn’t rap and doesn’t even give his signature “Uhhhh!!!”. It’s strictly Soulja Slim. This song is most definatley one of the best I’ve heard from any label in a long time. The chorus is sick wit lines like “You aint neva seen what I seen, or been through what I been through that’s why I got a *****ed up mental!”. Slim delivers bomb ass verses, and this track is definatley a stand out cut. The beat, the lyrics, everything is perfect.

11) Anything feat. Mia X: 

Slim don’t even shine on this one. It’s aint worth hearin,cause the beat and the lines get very repetitive. One of the only skippable tracks on the entire album. Not recommended.

12) Imagine feat. Mac, C-Murder: 

One of my favorite tracks of all time. Definatley the best on the album, with hard street verses from Mac, Slim, and C-Murder. They all rip it, the verses, the lyrics, everything is on point. The beat is also one of the reasons to listen to this song, the piano with the bass, is pure perfection. If you like Slim, down south rap, or rap period listen to this classic.

13) Takin Hits feat. Master P: 

Another song where Master P has just a short cameo at the beginning and Slim spits his shit. This is more of a bounce track, with a bouncing bass in the background. The beat has to grow on you, but it is definatley a hard hitting track. Slim paints the picture of him being a hired hittman with his lyrics. Definatley recommended and in the top 5 joints on the album.

14) Wootay: 

Another solo track from Slim ( which is very good ), doesn’t dissapoint. To me, the album picks up around the second half of the CD, and this song is no exception. After Cash Money blew up usin words like Wootay, nobody realized Slim’s been usin that word. The beat is hot, the lyrics are on point, with Slim addressing his haterz and being Soulja hated. Good song.

15) Get High Wit Me feat. Trenitty, Mystikal: 

A tight ass track bout gettin high, and being down to ride in any situation. Slim delivers a slow, smooth, verse that outshines everybody else on the track. Trenitty’s verse is too short and not that great, and Mystikal does his usual thing. Bottom line though, another great track off an album full of great tracks, definatley recommended for the weed smokerz.

16) Law Breakaz: 

Starts off with a 30 second skit, and then really picks up. Probably my 3rd or 4th favorite song off the album. The beat is real uptempo, and so are the lyrics, almost to the point where you can’t understand what Slim’s saying. Nevertheless, the hook (“This is for the law breakaz, kidnappaz, murdererz, and burglarerz”), and all three verses are lyrical masterpieces from one of the most respected artists in the game.

17) What’s Up, What’s Happnin: 

A somewhat short song, but Slim made the most of it. My favorite song off the album, Slim delivers two hardcore verses for what he claims is his “last bounce shit”, and he doesn’t dissapoint. He gives shoutouts to every ward in New Orleans and dead rappers like Kilo G, Pimp Daddy, etc. Definatley a hot track.

18) Hustlin is a Habit feat. Steady Mobb’n: 

This song is straight, but it’s not all that great. The beat has bells incorporated with bass, that No Limit would use much during the end of 1998. Soulja Slim once again has the best verse, with bay area veterans Steady Mobb’n comin average. Average song, nothin more.

19) Gettin Real feat. Silkk the Shocker, Full Blooded, Fiend: 

Rowdy track featuring a number of No Limit soldiers including Slim’s cousin – Hound. Slim’s verse is the best behind Fiend’s who steals the track. Silkk supplies the hook, and nothin more. Good track though.

20) N.L. Party feat. Master P, Silkk the Shocker, Trenitty, Big Ed, Mac, Gambino Family, Prime Suspects, Snoop Dogg, Magic, Kane & Abel: 

This song looks like a soulja song No Limit is known for giving us. Unfortunatley itdoesn’t come down to that. From each rapper, you get about 2 bars, and is most definatley a poor filler track. The beat sounds like some Sega Genesis game, and NOBODY can save this track…weak attempt to end the album.

Well, despite 2 or 3 tracks that aren’t anything to listen to…this album is perfect. Production from Beats By The Pound was never better, and my favorite artist of all time delivers arguably his best shit ever.Despite appearances and being incarcerated during it’s release, Slim manages to shine all on his own, let’s it be known it’s his debut, and manages to sell over 82,000 copies it’s first week. If not for the prison time, Slim, I’m sure, would’ve gone gold, cause the album itself is nothin less then platinum. R.I.P. Soulja Slim.

Overall: 4/5

In the midst of Tupac Shakur’s very crowded catelog of albums (most of which were released after his death), there is some very classic material that no one seems to ever mention alongside commercially acclaimed albums like ‘All Eyez On Me’ or ‘Makaveli The Don: The 7 Day Theory’; including earlier gems such as ‘THUG LIFE Vol. 1’. This album was released in Sept. 94 and offers maybe the last glimpse (with the exception of Me Against The World) of a truly introspective artist at his politically themed peak. THUG LIFE, 2Pac’s first group to release an album, consisted of Big Syke, Macadoshis, Rated R, and cousin Mopreme Shakur. On to the review:

1.) Bury Me A G feat. 2Pac, Mopreme, Macadoshis, Rated R, Big Syke: 

This song features the entire THUG LIFE click and samples an Isley brothers classic. The perfect blend of street life and 70s funk is apparent here, as all members spit introspective verses on growing up in the streets. A very underated song that deserves more recognition.

2.) Don’t Get It Twisted feat. Mopreme, Macadoshis, Rated R: 

1 of 2 songs without group leader 2Pac, three other unknown members at the time get a chance to shine over another funk driven beat…a decent track none the less, with Mopreme’s verse hitting the hardest. Average track, and is lacking a 2Pac verse.

3.) Shit Don’t Stop feat. 2Pac, Macadoshis, Rated R, Mopreme, Big Syke, Y.N.V.:

Released as a single, ‘Shit Don’t Stop’ is a George Clinton sampled song featuring Y.N.V. and is easily the most funk influenced song on the album. With all members delivering good verses over this Bay Area beat, it makes this song another classic among classics.

4.) Pour Out A Lil Liquor feat. 2Pac: 

A very smooth laid back song with guitar rifts finds Pac reminiscing on past friends that have died in the struggle. Also featured during the feature film ‘Above The Rim’ this song is one of Pac’s 2 solo’s and doesnt dissapoint in the least. Yet another classic.

5.) Stay True feat. 2Pac, Stretch, Mopreme: 

Possibly my personal favorite track on the album, 2Pac, Preme, and Stretch trade verses about living the Thug Life and staying tru 2 da game. West Coast influenced production suits the vocals perfectly, and make for another great song.

6.) How Long Will They Mourn Me? feat. 2Pac, Nate Dogg, Big Syke, Rated R: 

One of Pac’s first experiences detailing his own death while reminiscing yet again on dead friends, flows perfectly over the Nate Dogg assisted track. While dragged down by verses from Syke and Rated R, ‘How Long…’ is still a great track that has a tremendous amount of repeat value…making it very introspective.

7.) Under Pressure feat. 2Pac, Stretch: 

A very dark beat on an album filled with party cuts and street themes…this track shows the good collaborations between Randy “Stretch” Walker and 2Pac. Before their falling out, they made many songs together..some of them near classic; this being one of them. The song describes their pain and pressures of growing up in the ghettos and need to clutch a 9 for protection. Great song.

8.) Street Fame feat. Macadoshis, Big Syke, Rated R: 

Terrible outdated production and bad verses make this song a huge letdown on a classic album. A completely skippable track…after one listen.

9.) Cradle 2 The Grave feat. 2Pac, Thug Life:

Another single, this song is an all around classic. Detaling the struggles literally from the cradle to the grave, Pac recollects on his past as does other Thug Life members. Solid production and smooth vocals for a nice hook make this quite possibly the best song on the entire album.

10.) Str8 Ballin feat. 2Pac: 

Pac’s other solo on the cd closes the album out in true hustla fashion. Similar to the later released ‘I’m Gettin Money’..Pac spits four hard verses on this 5 minute track about his hate for the police and need to make money. While no particular verses stand out, the overall theme of the song and sample along with hook make it a classic cut.

In conclusion, this album, although being one or two songs short of an EP release, is an absolute classic that overshadows Pac’s other work in terms of quality. With all but 1 song being near perfect, every Pac fan and hip hop fan in general should own this acclaimed cd. With questionable cd’s like ‘Loyal 2 The Game’ destroying Pac’s legacy, pick this up and remember where it started.

Overall: 5/5

You have to get used to Soulja Slim’s style. This is his 4th album, and even by the time it was released people weren’t used to his style. Some say it’s too rushed, too complicated, etc. It took me a while for his music to grow on me, and for me to appreciate the rawness that comes with his music. And if you do listen to Soulja Slim already, you know what I’m talking about. Slim was never going to break any huge barriers in rap, or reach a level that 2Pac; or say Nas were on. He was strictly New Orleans. One of the realest and most respected south artists ever, and anybody from the south region will tell you the same. This is his last cd before being shot in front of his mother’s house in 2003. On to the review:

1.) Intro: 

This intro/song gets you set for the album. Over a Dani Kartell produced track, Slim spits tales that everyone’s heard before, but in a way only he can describe it. Overall, perfect way to open the album.

2.) Hustler: 

Another tight song, not too much different from the last one, this time talking about how Slim’s a hustler and how he’ll never fall off when it comes to the game.

3.) Cheeze Eataz:

Def. one of my favorite joints on the album, the beat has to grow on you. At first, it sounds like something nobody could ever write a verse to or over. The song is basically about snitches and them snitchin on anybody to the FEDz, police, etc. Slim spits three hard verses, talkin bout how he’d never snitch, and how he plans to set a rat trap for all the rats. Overall, a bomb ass track and is great to play in yo system.

4.) Yeahh: 

Yet another Daniel produced beat (he’s all over the album, which is good)Slim continues his theme of the previous 3 songs detailing his history with enemies, *****es, and money hungry snitches. He takes subliminal shots at various people; including Master P and the No Limit camp.

5.) Heata On Me feat. B.G., Lil Real One: 

Most people’s favorite song on the entire album, shows the chemistry between former No Limit Soldier – Soulja Slim and former Cash Money Millionaire – B.G.. The two planned to release a duo album together after this was released, and it’s not hard to see why. The flows, the guitar laced beat, everything works together to make a near perfect track. Recommended…and has good repeat value.

6.) Speak Yo Mind:

About a 7-8 second skit leading up to the next song. Not really worth listening to; skip it.

7.) I’ll Pay For It: 

Also released on Slim’s 3rd album ‘Years Later’, this song had New Orleans buzzin for a while. Slim flows perfect over the beat, and the song is about payin for a ***** if ya really want it and need it that bad. Overall, tight song.

8.) U Hear Dat: 

My favorite song on the album, easily, is a KLC (formerly of Beats By The Pound) produced joint, that Slim flows smooth over. The bass is a 12 gauge 1, and Slim is talking about everything from spittin 50 bars, to taking shots at Master P with lines like “I ain’t no friend of P (Master P) don’t ask me bout that boy, he aint no man you think Im lyin then ask Pastor Troy”. Great track.

9.) Souljas On My Feet:

Another KLC produced track and another song off his underground release ‘Years Later’ this song is just as good as the previous. The beat is perfect, the flows, everything is on point. Guns, Soulja Reeboks, and stompin they face in is the story on this joint.

10.) Magnolia: 

The beat took me a while to get used to, as did Slim’s flow on this track. It’s not a mess, but it definatley could’ve been better. This song was yet another off Magnolia Slim’s ‘Years Later’ cd. By now, anybody can tell that this is a revamped major record distributed version. The song is not really that great, but worth listening to only if you cant get enough of Slim.

11.) U Bootin Up feat. Juvenile: 

One of the best songs on the entire album, the song is a beef record directed at Silkk the Shocker, Krazy (504 Boyz), and No Limit. The only bad part is Juvenile’s verse (it has nothing to do with the original theme of the song), but Slim saves it at the end with lines at Silkk like “No I don’t know Karate (reference to the Hot Boys movie) lil Silkky draws, you located in Victoria’s Secret for the broads”.

12.) Lov Me Lov Me Not:

The only video shot for the album (Slim died less than two weeks after it was filmed) the song is decent. I don’t want to say it’s bad, because it’s not even close, but it did feel like it was missing something. However, the song will be remembered by some; if not many as Soulja Slim’s last song…although it appeared on the first advance of this album ‘Years Later’.

13.) Holla At Me: 

Another skit (this one being about a minute) leading up to the next song. Slim’s on the phone with his boy talkin bout gettin loaded and meetin up later.

14.) If It Ain’t Real feat. Lil Real One: 

The beat is sick, and Slim and Lil Real One rip it talkin bout that midnight potion. This song is definatley worth playing repeatedly because it has a good feel to it, and is laced with a smooth sick beat.

15.) ***** You Nigga feat. Lil Real One, Cutthroat Committy: 

This song is a posse cut with some of the Cutthroat Committy crew and it definatley doesn’t dissapoint. Lil Real One steals the whole damn song though, with his verse to open up the song. The beat, the flow, everything is on point. Overall, a solid track, but fails to really stand out.

16.) U Gon Feel Me:

This song is weak…for the most part. Aside from a few entertaining disses thrown towards No Limit Record’s Krazy…the beat is skippable and the track sounds rushed. Skip it.

17.) Hit the Highway: 

A very good song with a beat that you have to get used to ( ike a lot of other songs on this albu ), but it delivers. While some argue that this is an obvious filler track, the song to me is one of the better ones on the album. Three solid verses from Slim over a solid beat don’t dissapoint. Ever.

18.) Committy feat. Cutthroat Committy: 

The track on the album with the whole Cutthroat Committy crew on it doesn’t dissapoint to a certain extent. If you’re lookin for Slim on this track, the most your going to get is about 6 bars. His crew is all over it, as he describes them as “ammunition for yo ***** ass”. Most of them can flow, and makes you wonder why they didn’t drop an official release because they’re almost all good…with the exception of a few.

19.) Untitled Track (I’ll Pay For It – Part II) feat. Mystikal: 

Basically the same track as I’ll Pay For It, with the same beat with a cameo from Mystikal. It’s average and nothing more, I like the original better.

Overall, this cd is a down south classic. It’s sad in a way, that this was Slim’s last CD; but your also glad that he went out at the top of his game at least. From starting his career at No Limit, to going to jail, to finishing his career at No Limit, to going back to jail, to finally seeing the fame he deserves (even if it is after his death) on a track with Juvenile; Slim put out enough classic albums, his rawness and realness on the mic will always be remembered; and I recomended ALL of his other releases. R.I.P. Soulja Slim. 4/5

A TRU album without TRU members might be a big reason, people are overlooking this cd. And to some extent, they’re right. Let’s face it, Silkk is on 3 tracks, C is on 1, and P and Halleluyah basically crowded the cd. Others say it is somewhat of a new beginning for the New No Limit camp. The production level was raised ( not anything close to the BBTP days ), but good enough to gain some praise from those outside of the New No Limit fan base. However, the album does have it’s flaws, so on to the review:

1.) Where You From – TRU feat. Master P, Halleluyah, Silkk the Shocker:

The first single off the album ( and possibly the only ) doesn’t dissapoint. The production is great, and flows from everyone are on point. A good track, for what it is, and that’s an anthem that’s made to be played in clubs.

2.) Photo Book – TRU feat. Master P, Silkk the Shocker, Lil Romeo:

By looking at the tracklist and seeing the name of this song and who is featured on it, it doesn’t seem ‘TRU’. And by ‘TRU’ I mean that bout it bout it musik, that most No Limit fans have liked over the years and grown accustomed to. But by now, anyone should know that those days are over; which brings me to this song. It’s not bad, not at all, but DOES seem a little out of a place from a group that brought the world the dirrty south anthem back in 95. Overall though, a good beat, and good flows from everyone.

3.) Go Off – TRU feat. Master P, Hall, Afficial: 

Some people might dissagree with me when I say this, but this song is nothing better than average. Nothing, and I mean nothing really stands out about this song. P has basically the same flow he’s had on Goodside/Badside and brings nothing new to the table with this track. Not really recomended, skip it.

4.) Stressin – TRU feat. C-Murder:

The only solo C track on the album left a lot of people dissapointed. When most people think of TRU, they think of Master P, Silkk the Shocker, and C-Murder. The Miller Boyz. So when first hearing about this album, I’m thinking ‘new C-Murder tracks.’ This is not the case; just 1 song. Never the less, it is a good song, as the sound isn’t that great, the hook could be better, but I like this song. Definatley one of the best on the album..

5.) Street Army – TRU feat. Master P, Afficial, Halleluya:

The song that really got people buzzin over the album is in my opinion overrated. The chorus is wack, the beat is average, and it doesn’t really do nothing for me.

6.) Drama – TRU feat. Master P, Halleluya: 

This is where you can see the production for the NNL has changed for the better. Drumma Boy pulled it off with this track; which is worth listening to for the beat alone. P’s lyrics however, get tiring after a couple of these songs. Instead of overpromoting himself on this album, he should’ve let his brothers shine. Halleluya (who is being talked about as being the best soldier since Mac) comes average. He’s not bad, dont get me wrong, but putting him all over the album, was definatley a mistake.

7.) Welcome to New Orleans – TRU feat. Halleluya: 

Halleluya’s solo track doesn’t dissapoint. One of the better features of him on this album, he raps over a Mozart sample that has been used enough, but manages to pull it off. His 3 verses, are very much on point and this song is definatley recommended.

8.) You Ain’t Sayin Nothin – TRU feat. Master P, Mr. Stra, Afficial: 

A subliminal diss track to Yukmouth (P is heard shoutin ‘Godzilla aint got nothin on me’ at the beginning) is definatley one of the best songs on the entire album. This song’s production is as good as it gets in any region. Definatley recomended; everybody’s raps are on point and worth listening to (even MP’s).

9.) Shake It – TRU feat. Master P, Halleluya:

The beat is aight, the track itself is really not good at all. It’s another attempted club anthem to get the hoes poppin, but this aint goin to cut it. Also, throughout the whole song it sounds like P sampled Magic’s voice; which would be weird because Magic hates P and has publicly stated that numerous times.

10.) Sea Saw For Me – TRU feat. Master P, Halleluya: 

If you thought my review for the last song was bad, this song is hella worse. I’m open minded, but looking at the name of this track I almost wished this album DIDN’T come out so as not to damage TRU’s name. Lyrics like ‘Get ya wet like Niagra falls’ and ‘I aint Nelly, but girl get your eagle on’ make this track a complete mess. Skip it.

11.) Hood and Street – TRU feat. Halleluya, Yougi, Jazz:

First off, the beat is fiya. It starts off with a piano loop and busts into what sounds like a Diplomat-type beat. Once again, Drumma Boy REALLY helped this album with his production on anotha level. The song is good, the hook is good, the whole song is basically a highlight of the album. The only thing that sets it back is that this is NOT TRU. It would work a lot better on a 504 Boyz album.

12.) Headhunter – TRU feat. Master P, Halleluya: 

Once again, you can see that Halleluya is ALL OVER this album. And while he is not bad, and pretty good most times, I dont want to hear him on 5 or 6 songs in a row. Back to the song, the beat is good, the lyrics are laughable at times with P spittin ‘She used to ***** with Cash Money, now she ridin wit me.’ The song is basically about gettin head from a hoe that’s a ‘headhunter’.

13.) Squeeze – TRU feat. Silkk the Shocker, Halleluya: 

Silkk’s third and final track on the album, and he doesn’t dissapoint. While still on his ‘Based On a True Story’ flow, him and Halleluya collaborate for a good song exchanging verses talking about gettin girls to slow motion for them like ‘Slim and Juvey’ and removing bras and undressing.

14.) Buckle Up – TRU feat. Master P, C-Los, Black: 

Not a track that really stands out to me. The hook isn’t very good, and as usual P’s lyrics aintnothin to look. Just an average track, and in my opinion was more of a filler joint.

15.) Ride – TRU feat. Master P, Halleluya: 

Definatley one of my favorite tracks on the CD, Master P actually delivers on this joint. Halleluya does his thing, and nothing unusual stands out about his flow on this song, but overall the song is mos def. tight and recommended.

16.) Point Em Out – TRU feat. Master P, Halleluya: 

Another track at the end of the album that didn’t stand out. P and Halleluya collaborated on a lot of songs, some being good, some not. This song is just weak.

17.) Here We Come – TRU feat. Master P: 

Possibly my favorite track on the album, Myke Diesel actually produced something fire. The song is on point, the whole thing is worth listening to and I definatley recomended it to anyone from the south, whether you got respect for P or not. Great way to end an album.

Overall, this cd is nothing above average. It doesn’t stand out, but is possibly New No Limit’s best release yet. Hopefully the production on this album is a sign of things to come, because without Drumma Boy this cd would’ve REALLY been lacking. There are problems though, one in which it doesn’t SEEM like a TRU album. And I’m sure you’ll hear this over and over again, but I’d expect this from a 504 Boyz album, not TRU, and that’s what ends up dragging it down.

Rating: 3/5

After his last two great releases, Jehst album’s is something to be highly anticipated and something you think is likely to live to the hype.

This Album one minute I love it and the other few I’m reaching for the skip button. One of my favourite has to be the title track and the lead single “Nuke Proof suit” The beat is very catchy with the deep bassline and the energetic arrangement. This is actually one of Jehst’s most complicated beats though compared to most it’s nothing difficult. Jehst makes light humour of a quite political topic finishing off with a catch as hell hook. The only problem is the squeaky voice can get on nerves. “Vice City” is another one which caught my ear. The simplistic but effective looped beat has a happy positive feel. Jehst addresses the struggle of city life. Jehst seemed to have switched back to the less abstracted but still present still which many feel in love with from return of the drifter. “Hydroblowback” many would say this is the best song with its chilled out beat and atmosphere where Jehst is almost singing his verse’s and delivering a catchy as hell hook, its hard to argue with them. “Work Ethic” again a nice simple but effective looped beat finished with a catchy hook. Jehst looks at his hard work staying on target while using more of that classic ROTD style.

As I kind of pointed out before Jehst finds it hard to stay on topic. Many would say this is a strength and his formula of success the others would say its his downfall. I do enjoy it but sometimes he does sound like a tramp who jump wandered into the studio. “Neck Breakin” and “Ape Shit” would be the two which show this the best. Neck Breakin, Jehst gives the beat an old skool vibe though the high pitched sound could get on your nerves. Ape shit many would say it’s a highlight though im one to disagree. The beat is simplistic and that being nice. Yes it is creative and yes he does create a nice haunting and eerie atmosphere with the chimes though its boring. Though both are creative, weird and fun to listen lyric wise kind of like one of Redman songs they are really ramblings of a drunk and stoned man, don’t think they even have any topics. “Magnum Force” and “Pepper Spray” are more of the unique style of lyrics Jehst is bringing. Its also nice to see Kashmere feature on a track. Jehst both brings nice heading nodding beats which are quite funky though both again very simplistic.

In all this album gets a 3.5 out of 5 and I think this one is more of a grower. It is sort of growing on me. There is only 8 tracks and to me it is cutting it a bit fine. First you think of the old saying “Quality before Quantity”, then of all the other classics and then you remember his Return Of The Drifter had about 8 tracks (not counting skits and remixes) and that was classic I thought maybe this would be. 8 tracks means it leaves it short but sweet though it also means if one track terrible there is not much to compare it to so you might brand it wack for just one tiny mistake. Jehst flips between his Return of the drifter and Falling Down style and delivers quite a creative, weird and fun to listen lyrics. I like how Jehst tried at a one man solo self production release and I can now give him the artist status. The beats are good, experimental and to a style of his own but with them being so damn simplistic you do get bored of them.

I recommend you buy the other two first (Return Of The Drifter 1st) and then expanding from then on.

1. ***** me ***** you 

This song is a classic. It’s basically the brothers arguing over a dope beat. They both come tight on there individual verses then on there joint verse. Dope! (5/5)

2. G.O.R.G.I.E 

This song is about how even though there making money from the music they still got to sign on the doll so they can afford an extra pair of trainers or whatever. Dope beat and the Mitchell brothers both come. Good (4/5)

3. Routine check Featuring Kano and The Streets 

Dope beat. This song is about how police officers “routine check” them when their driving along. Kano is alright on this. The Mitchell brothers are dope as usual. The Streets is really good on this he raps about how he don’t get many routine checks. Good (4/5)

4. Shesgot it all wrong Featuring The Streets 

This has the same beat as Kano nite nite but it’s good. Tony’s verse is average on this song but when The Streets come on this song pickups again. But the best verse award goes to Teddy. He raps basically just leave her alone for a while and shell realise your right. The chorus is done by the streets normal hook singer. Good (3.5/5)

5. Someone can’t look us in the eyes

Dope beat. You hear grass being whispered and the Mitchell brothers go into some dope story telling lyrics bout how CID comes to the door asking questions. The chorus is on par with the rest of the song. They go on about how someone close to them can’t look at them in the eyes after he grassed bout the robbery they did so they smack him up. Dope! (5/5)

6. Harvey nicks featuring The Streets 

Dope beat again. And they rap bout how they get shit service if they go in there in overalls but if there in “garments that are the shit” they get good service. (4/5)

7. When the whistle blows

Starts with them arguing as usual. Then in comes in this good beat and they start rapping at the ref and arguing with him about his decisions. Then in the next verses they rap as managers. Then at the end you hear white noise and he taps the TV saying “what the ***** is wrong with the TV” (3.5/5)

8. Alone with the TV 

At the start this song shows that even though they argue all the time they still like each other. Teddy comforts Tony about his girl walking out on him. They both spit dope shit. The beat has an annoying squeaky sample in the background but apart from that amazing song. Good (4/5)

9. Excuse my brother featuring The Streets 

This song is about Tony getting well and truly pissed and gets rowdy and loud. And he raps bout coming on to this girl and she slaps him and she’s getting her boyfriend. Then The Streets plays the part of the boyfriend. Then Teddy stops Tony before he starts fighting him. Then teddy raps as if he’s talking to the girl and he starts off about how he’s sorry bout what his brother did then starts saying she brought it on herself. Good (4/5)

10. Smart Bastard featuring The Streets 

The Streets are on the chorus and are ok. The Mitchell brothers take it in turns and it sounds a bit awkward. Poor (2/5)

11. Wish I did the same 

Dope beat but the Mitchell brothers aren’t on par with there performance on the rest of the album. There basically rapping bout women. Poor (2.5/5)

12. Dont try this at home

Dope beat. In this song Tony raps about wasted and driving he gets chased by the police and runs away and crashes. Then in comes the chorus. Now its teddy’s turn and he raps about a robbery on a security van there about to do. Then back to Tony and he raps bout how stupid he was. Then teddy raps bout the robbery again and they run across the road to jack the security man don’t look and Tony gets run over. It’s a great ending. Dope! (5/5)

All in all this album gets a 4/5 apart from a few weak songs this is a very good album. And a great debut from the Mitchell brothers ill advise anyone to go out and buy this even if you’re not into English hip hop. I’m sure you like this.