Tha Realest – Witness Tha Realest Mixtape

Posted on April 1, 2013 by WWC

Tha Realest’s name is synonamous with ‘Pac biting. Ever since his debut in 1997 on the “Gang Related Soundtrack”, Tha Realest’s style, demeanor, and even tattoos and looks have been 2Pac related. Ironically signed to Deathrow Records for 5 years, Tha Realest made his name known nationally appearing on compilations like “The Chronic 2000” and “Too Gangsta 4 Radio”. However, after being shelved like everyone else on Tha Row, Tha Realest left after his contract expired in late 2001. Serving up the prequel to his national debut “Witness Tha Realest”, Tha Realest offers the mixtape (of the same title), which features renowned artists C-Bo, Kurupt, WC, Roscoe, Dru Down, and Devin The Dude.

1.) Street Lyfe feat. C-Bo, Jewell: A smooth piano loop is laced, as C-Bo serves up one his best verses in a while. Tha Realest follows (although a little off beat) with a good 16, while Jewell sings another beautiful hook. Good track.

2.) Tha Pressure’z Of Man feat. Crooked I: After garnering attention with their successful collaboration ‘Drunk Driving In My Glass House’, Crooked & Tha Realest return with this hard hitting track. Crooked I clearly steals the show, though, with his delivery, and equally impressive lyrics. Great collaboration.

3.) Everyday feat. 6’9: A laid back track, Tha Realest bounces over this smooth instrumental, with introspective lyrics, and deep message. Great track, and could’ve easily been used for his debut. Solid production, a smooth hook, and Tha Realest’s surprisingly deep topics make for a good track.

4.) The Life feat. WC, A-Bo, LBG: CLEARLY the best track on the album. This is the West Coast at it’s best. Featuring Westside legend – WC, Tha Realest serves up his best verse in a long time. After nearly 4 minutes of LBG, A-Bo, and WC tearing it up, Tha Realest comes with a noticable flow, very reminiscent of ‘Pac in his prime. Great track, and without a doubt, the best on the mixtape.

5.) That Don’t Make U My Gurl: East Coast production don’t suit Tha Realest; point blank. Southern beats and West Coast instrumental are what he needs to stick to, and this is a prime example. Over a soulful sample, Tha Realest tries his best to detail his struggle with women getting attached. Not a good look. Skip this one.

6.) R We Really Homiez feat. A-Bo: A-Bo guests again, and doesn’t dissapoint. Similar subject matter for Tha Realest, as they go back and forth over another smooth sample. Fake friends is the subject here, and while Tha Realest’s lyrics could use an upgrade, it still makes for a decent track.

7.) Nigga What: The first real southern-themed track, features Tha Realest in his purest form. While the hook is definatley as generic as it gets, Tha Realest rides the beat perfectly, making for a suprisingly great track. “Quicker then your average, a West Coast savage” is about as good as it gets.

8.) This Dream feat. A-Bo: Another deep track (to balance the mixtape out), features A-Bo once again. This, however, is obviously the deepest song on the entire mixtape. Over a dark instrumental complete with violin chords, Tha Realest pours his heart into this one. Good song.

9.) Ridin feat. LBG, Bonecrusher: This is yet another attempt at an East Coast crossover. While Bonecrusher rides the beat perfectly, and doesn’t dissapoint in the least, Tha Realest shows once again, while his style’s just not suited for NY flavored hip hop. Decent track, for Bonecrusher’s feature alone.

10.) Hoez’z Iz Trouble feat. A-Bo, Gonzoe, Finesse, Dirty Black, WC: A Regime rollcall (minus Yukmouth), features the Bay Area based group trading stories on troubling hoes. Smooth instrumental, plus good features from each artist make for a noteworthy track.

11.) Thug’n In Tha Summatyme: Great, great, West Coast summertime track. Featuring Nate Dogg-soundalike, Boskoe, Tha Realest rides this Westside banger smoothly. Zapp effects are used here, demonstrating Tha Realest can switch up the subject matter, and make a smooth, ride out song. Perfect for the BBQ’s.

12.) Why Iz Tha World So Bad: Despite the fact most of his song titles are a little too much like ‘Pac’s, Tha Realest serves up another above average track. As he questions why the world is so bad, the beat manages to save the song.

13.) ***** U If U Lonely feat. Tha Gotti Boyz: More of an R&B track catering to the ladies that are lonely. Tha Realest doesn’t care, cause he’s gonna ***** you either way. Good song, as I think most listener’s wouldn’t expect a more laid back cut like this.

14) Sumthin Like A Pimp feat. Devin The Dude, Dru Down: Although billed as the first single for “Witness Tha Realest” back in 2005, this song has been shelved for the mixtape, as a long 2 years has gone by. Never the less, this is cleary Dru Down’s song as his macadoshis flavor completes the track, and only features one verse from Tha Realest. Good song for Dru, only.

15.) 2 Live & Die 4 Tha Westside feat. Kurupt, Roscoe: Featuring D.P.G. brothers, Tha Realest ends the mixtape with another track similar to Tupac. In full blown war-mode, Tha Realest, Roscoe, and Kurupt correctly represent their coast to the fullest with this banger. Great way to end the album.

In conclusion, if you can’t get past the fact this guy sounds like Tupac, and you hate him for “biting” or “swagger jacking”, there is no point in even listening to him. But if you appreciate the music he actually makes as an artist (similar to ‘Pac or not), then peep this mixtape, as it is a very good apetizer to what his national debut could be. Hopefully all the years on the independent scene will pay off, and the world will finally be prepared to “Witness Tha Realest”.

Overall Rating: 3.8/5

O.F.T.B. – The Missing DR Files

Posted on April 1, 2013 by WWC

With the recent release of Deathrow’s catelogue, many fans have wondered what happened to former inmate’s albums that never saw the light of day (Danny Boy, Tha Realest, Top Dogg, J-Flexx, etc.). O.F.T.B. easily fits that category, as they were around when Tha Row was the reigning label in rap. 1996 saw the completion of their album (here titled “The Missing DR Files”), which featured the likes of Tupac, Kadafi, Kurupt, Snoop Dogg, and MC Hammer. Released in 2007, this is definatley regarded as a highly anticipated album.

1.) Intro: O.F.T.B. talking on the phone, excited over the recent addition of their lost Deathrow tracks.

2.) Better Dayz (96 Original) feat. 2Pac, Big Syke: Despite what people think, this is the original version of Tupac’s track “Better Dayz”. O.F.T.B. and Big Syke, both spit great verses. Syke’s verse is especially relaxing, featuring Tupac’s depth. Great song.

3.) That Was Then, This Is Now feat. Snoop Dogg, Kurupt: Very uptempo track, reminiscent of “Tha Doggfather.” A very funky sample is flipped for the O.F.T.B. and Tha Dogg Pound to get busy to. Vintage Deathrow track, perfectly capturing the 96 flava, they brought to the game.

4.) I Come Up Hard: Despite the title, this track is very relaxing. Featuring a ver melodic bassline, this is O.F.T.B. in another form. Detailing their come up, O.F.T.B. paints a portrait of the struggle of Watts in the late 80s/early 90s. Also featuring an unknown singer, this track is fairly above average.

5.) World Wide feat. 2Pac, Kadafi, Kurupt: Commonly referred to as “Time After Time”, this is the first time this track was released in CDQ. Everybody comes correct here, making for a perfect track. Tupac’s extremely menacing verse, works well with Kurupt’s hook, and Kadafi’s complimentary verse. O.F.T.B. do another great job.

6.) Check Ya Hood feat. Jewell: This song was actually released in ’96, complete with a video. Very, very mellow beat, suit Jewell’s melodic hook perfectly. O.F.T.B. details another come up in the ghetto. Great track overall, and really starts to let you see what O.F.T.B. could’ve been if marketed correct.

7.) I Trust Nobody feat. Street Damage: Decent track. “I Trust Nobody” has a very hardcore beat, but O.F.T.B. doesn’t do it quite the justice it deserves. Street Damage is dissapointing, and O.F.T.B. could’ve came a lot harder. The lackluster hook really drags the song down. Average at best.

8.) Still A Mystery To Me feat. Outlawz, Kurupt: Easily the best song on the album. This is a very heartfelt tribute, and possibly the most authentic song O.F.T.B. has every produced. Taking place between Tupac and Kadafi’s death, this beat has very smooth piano chords, featuring all the Outlawz and O.F.T.B. reminiscing about their lost soldiers. Best track on the album, and definatley recommended to any Deathrow fan, or hip hop fan in general.

10.) Project Kids feat. The Nickerson Garden Project Kids: A different kind of concept, featuring O.F.T.B.’s project homies. Vintage west coast beat, but a very hard song to really appreciate. Basic lyrics from 11 year olds, drag this song down, with a wack hook. Skip it.

11.) I’m On One: Another relaxing track. Listening to the first 20 seconds of the song, you’d think it was a Bone Thugs track. O.F.T.B.’s hook is exceptional here, as they deliver very hard lyrics. Great song, and definatley a stand out track on the album.

12.) Ladies Night feat. 6 Feet Deep: Another Deathrow group that never released an album, 6 Feet Deep lace a smooth hook over a great beat. This album, after listening to the majority of the tracks, has a very relaxing party vibe. This track is no exception, featuring O.F.T.B. putting a “gangsta twist” to another good track.

13.) Doin It At The Spot feat. Big Pimpin’: Wack song, overall. This track starts off with a porno skit, and is O.F.T.B.’s attempt at a ***** song. While the beat (like most of the album) is on point, and is very mellow, the song’s theme and concept is recycled (although it probably wasn’t when this was made), and ends up dragging the album’s credibility down.

14.) Lost Souls: An Eddie Kendricks sound-a-like is used on this track, about Lost Souls. Great track overall though. The bouncing funk of the beat, and O.F.T.B.’s flow is impecible. G-Funk at it’s finest, as this proves to be another reminder and reason of why Deathrow was on top of the game back in 96.

15.) Sooner Or Later: A deep, thought out song, about fate and how sooner or later, the good life will fall into their favor. While O.F.T.B.’s lyrics take a step back on this one, the beat is another testament to the superb production laced on this album. Good song none the less, but fails to stand out among other gems on the disc.

16.) So Long feat. MC Hammer: The perfect way to close out the album, and my personal favorite track. This song, is easily on par with “Still A Mystery To Me”, if not better. Featuring a surprise feature from MC Hammer (a Deathrow artist at the time), O.F.T.B. laces this beat with mournful lyrics dedicated to the lost homies dead from gang affiliation. The hook is the real gem on the song, and is a long, smooth way to close out this album, as you can’t help but to think about ‘Pac when listening of this track, and the atmosphere at Deathrow at the time.

Overall, this album is a very good effort. While O.F.T.B. may never have the lyrics of Kurupt, or the charisma of Tupac, they proved to be a very good group, while on Tha Row. Although released 10 years after its initial completion, this proves to be a West Coast classic. Hopefully more unreleased Deathrow material, from other artists, and O.F.T.B. will continued to be released in the future.

Overall Rating: 3.5/5

Prodigy – Return Of The Mac

Posted on April 1, 2013 by WWC

After 4 albums with Mobb Deep, Prodigy made the leap from 1/2 of one of the greatest duos hip hop has seen, to solo artist. “H.N.I.C.” was critically aclaimed and solidified Prodigy as a commendable soloist. However, it was another 7 long years, a potential break up with Havoc, and a questionable G-Unit deal later that P released his sophomore effort, “Return Of The Mac.” Produced entirely by The Alchemist, this is a prequel to “H.N.I.C. II.”

1.) The Mac Is Back: An intro featuring Prodigy talking over a very soulful beat. Good choice for an intro, even though it doesn’t feature Prodigy rapping.

2.) Return Of The Mac (New York Shit): Featuring former Prodigy foe, Tupac, on the hook, this song contains very uptempo, 70’s blaxploitation-production. Complete with saxophones and all, Prodigy stays on his NY shit consistently, making for a great track.

3.) Stuck On You: Despite being released to the underground in 2004, this song (and also the album’s main single), is near perfect. A perfect sample is provided by The Alchemist, as Prodigy’s laid back flow completes the track. Good effort.

4.) Mac 10 Handle: Great track. A grimey old school sample is used, and Prodigy takes advantage of it. With lines like “I sit alone in my dirty ass room, starin at candles, high on drugs”, P makes another very good song, suprising most at this point.

5.) Down & Out In New York City: An interlude, featuring smooth production. Although it’s just a skit, it fits the album perfectly, and is another showcase of The Alchemist’s skills as a producer.

6.) Rotten Apple: Possibly the best all around track on the album, P details the ruggedness in the rotten apple. With memorable lines such as “If Pac was still alive, we’d be on the same team/we got bigger fish to fry then that ***** Supreme”, Alchemist’s production is a gem once again.

7.) Madgesty Speaks feat. Madgesty: Pointless skit featuring Madgesty, dedicated to fallen soldiers – Tupac (of all people), Stretch, E-Money Bagz, and Kadafi.

8.) To The Top: A more mellow beat is used here, with what appears to be live instruments in the background. P’s lyrics are above average on this track, showcasing his unique style. The beat’s climatic overtone make for another good track.

9.) P Speaks: Yet another interlude featuring Prodigy looking back on old times, showing more of the mixtape side of the album.

10.) 7th Heaven: To contrast the mellow vibe of the album, Alchemist serves P with some uptempo funk. A threatening Prodigy demonstrates the gangsta image he brought to the game back in ’95. Above average track.

11.) Bang On Em: Another mellow track, featuring Prodigy at his best. Not as lyrical as previous tracks, it’s more of P’s bragadocious side. This is more reminiscent of “H.N.I.C.”, with Prodigy detailing “All I care about is music, and who I gotta cut.” Good track, with another perfect 70’s inspired beat.

12.) Nickel & A Nail: Superb production on this track makes it a standout. Prodigy’s demonstrates a faster flow, then his usual laid back style. “Some chose ballin, music was my calling”, about sums up this track. It’s a gutter track, with a very mellow relaxing beat. The hook is a very old sample, blended with Prodigy’s chorus.

13.) Legends: After hearing the first 12 tracks, it’s more then obvious Alchemist provided Prodigy with pure crack. Another great production, featuring Prodigy detailing his personal come up. “Gangstas don’t die, we just turn to legends/ what we go through is hell, what the ***** is a heaven?”, showcase Prodigy’s personal demons and pain. Great track.

14.) Stop Fronting: Prodigy chooses to close out the album the same way he started. From Mac’s to chains, P’s gangsta swagger is most evident here. Although not the best track on the album, with a lackluster hook, the verses and production make up for what would’ve been an average track. Good way to close out the album.

In conclusion, this album is billed as a mixtape. But if P had chosen to, any one of these tracks could’ve fit “H.N.I.C. II.” The only drawback from this album receiving a perfect rating, is the lack of songs. P shows no miscues, and proves he hasn’t fallin off, despite his lackluster effort on Mobb Deep’s “Bloody Money.” If “H.N.I.C. II”, is anywhere as good as this, it will no doubt be a classic. So, in the words of Prodigy, “this the mixtape, imagine how the album sound.”

Overall rating: 4.5/5

Young Buck – Buck The World

Posted on April 1, 2013 by WWC

Young Buck has been through a lot. Three years removed from his debut “Straight Outta Cashville”, an album that went gold, it would appear G-Unit is falling apart. An industry backlash has seen 50 Cent & Co. take a lot of verbal abuse. However, Young Buck manages to serve up his sophomore effort “Buck The World”, after the recent dissapointments of Lloyd Banks and Mobb Deep. Boasting production from Dr. Dre, Polow Da Don, and Hi-Tek, Young Buck hopes to revive the energy and fans the Unit once had.

1.) Push Em Back: Great effort to open up the album, production is laced crisply, while Buck re-assures everyone that the Unit is still getting money. Over smooth piano chords, Buck provides a note worthy opening track.

2.) Say It To My Face feat. 8Ball & MJG, Bun B: Typical southern production on this one, as Young Buck, 8Ball, MJG, and Bun B provide predictable southern bragging, that make for a slightly above average song. Bun B serves up the best verse.

3.) Buss Yo Head: An underground anthem, this is Buck at his best. Over epic production, Buck lets everybody knows that it’s his time to shine, so move over. Aggression and perfect production, make this a classic track.

4.) I Ain’t *****ing With U feat. Snoop Dogg, Trick Daddy: This song is a letdown. More should be expected out of Hi-Tek production, and Snoop Dogg is featured singing here. Trick Daddy serves up an average verse, but this track is an overall letdown. One of the album’s lackluster efforts.

5.) Get Buck: The 2nd single from the album, this is Polow Da Don at his best. After the recent success of “Throw Some D’s”, Polow provides Buck with horn blaring production, that brings the best out of Young Buck. Great choice for a single, and should be an anthem in the club for a minute to come.

6.) Buck The World feat. Lyfe: A frustrated Young Buck details how he woke up one morning screaming “***** The World” (sound familiar, 2Pac?). Good song none the less, with Lyfe Jennings on the hook. Buck mellows out for this one.

7.) Slow Ya Roll feat. Chester Bennington: Dr. Dre produces this gem, featuring Linkin Park’s Chester Bennington. This is Buck’s version of detailing an everyday struggle in different situations. Production is perfect on this track, and Buck delivers one of his best efforts to date. Great song.

8.) Hold On feat. 50 Cent: Typical G-Unit track, featuring 50 Cent crooning the hook. Over another Dre produced beat, this is somewhat reminiscent of an old time gangster track, which is also evident when watching the video. This song will grow on you, and becomes more addictive after each listen.

9.) Pocket Full Of Paper feat. Young Jeezy: A somewhat dissapointing effort, featuring what sounds like Lil Jon production. Same synths are used, and Jeezy’s adlibs are tiring on this track. Skip it, it’s a little too similar to everything else on the radio.

10.) Haters feat. Kokane: Recruiting West Coast legend Kokane for the hook, Young Buck lets his haters know that he still doesn’t give a *****. Smooth west coast production, provide for another superb track, as Buck wishes “Tupac was here to witness this”.

11.) U Ain’t Going Nowhere feat. Latoiya Williams: Smooth production is apparent here, but the song’s theme is recycled. As Buck and his girl go back and forth about how they can’t leave each other, it becomes a little too much. Banks is better at these type of songs, making the track under achieving.

12.) Money Good: At first sounding like another tried club attempt, Buck lets his lyrical side show, with lines like “things done changed, i’m hotter then a flame/ so i aint got time to beef with Jada, Joe, or Game”. Buck shows his will to move past conflicts, and focuses on getting money, over smooth production.

13.) Puff Puff Pass feat. Ky-Mani Marley: Buck is no stranger to weed. Nicknamed “Buck Marley”, a weed anthem was not even questionable for his second album. Sure to get the tokers chokin on that sticky, Buck provides a perfect track featuring Jamaican singer, Ky-Mani Marley.

14.) Clean Up Man: Quite possibly one of the best tracks on the album, Young Buck’s aggression once again carries this track. Production really helps the album, and this track is no exception. Young Buck describes his role as the Units clean up man, and nobody can do it like he can. Great track.

15.) 4 Kings feat. T.I., Pimp C, Young Jeezy, Jazze Pha: Looking at the featured list, you’d expect more out of this track. Jazze does the hook, and while the song’s decent, it’s also been available since mid-2006, and is a little bit of a dissapointment. Decent track none the less.

16.) I Know You Want Me feat. Jazze Pha: An obvious attempt at reaching the ladies in the club scene, this song works suprisingly well. Better then the previous track, Jazze provides a smooth beat for Buck to work with. Not the best choice for a single though, as it is out of Buck’s element.

17.) Lose My Mind: The track on the album that will take most listeners by complete surprise. Featuring a very aggressive Buck shouting like a rocker, this song is perfect. I would’ve never expected a track like this, and most fans won’t either. Perfect way to close out the album, on a suicidal note.

18.) Bonus Track – Funeral Music: 50 Cent’s diss to Cam’ron. Has nothing to do with Young Buck, and is a failed attempt at selling the album using the same G-Unit beef formula. Not worthy to be on the album.

So did Young Buck pick up where Lloyd Banks, and the rest of the Unit have failed the past 2 years? The answer is yes. This album, minus two or three filler tracks, is nothing less then perfect. Buck surpasses his debut album by far (which is a great album in its own right), and opts to go with big name producers who suit his style perfectly. I think it’s apparent The Unit is back in the game, thanks to Young Buck, and Young Buck alone.

Overall rating: 4.5/5

One-2 – New Day, New Money Mixtape

Posted on April 1, 2013 by WWC

1. The Return(Intro)
The beat is nice & bouncy, with some decent accordion sounds thrown in. One-2 does a pretty good job, and sounds really polished. With many mixtapes, you hear people fumbling their lines, and rapping off beat. That doesn’t happen here. Also, it’s nice to actually hear someone not waste an intro. So many people tend to waste disc space by putting painfully unfunny skits, or just introducing themselves in a vague manner. Good track. Good.

2. New Day, New Money
The beat is cheap sounding, and lifeless. But, One-2 is talented enough to do something worthwhile with it. I mean, it’s nice to hear someone motivated enough to rap over a beat so bland. Average.

3. Shoot To Kill(Feat Crooked I)
One-2 decides to diss backpackers, and people who are too uninspired to bring the West back. Nicely done. Crooked I just sort of sleep walks through his verse, but does so in a manner that it’s actually better than some inspired material. That is talent, my friend. One-2 does a good job. This is pretty much a “Yea! The West rules! We are here to stay!” type track, and that’s not really a bad thing. Good.

4. Guess Who?
The violin laced beat is so sappy, that I’m expecting a lumberjack to come plowing through my wall, and telling me he’s “Nonplussed”. Oh well, atleast it’s short. Wack

5. Get It Jumpin
Ok, now this is a good beat. Nice, bouncy, and it fits the tone. One-2 should just stick to these type of tracks, because he has the energy to really perfect this kind of style. Leave the sappy stuff to emo rappers, who haven’t gotten their Paxil filled. Good stuff. Good

6. Message From The Middleclass
Reggae flavor is added to this track, and it’s not that bad. This is your standard “Fight for your right!” type track, and that’s not really a bad thing. Average.

7. Work Hard(Feat Quiz)
Quiz is pretty good, and this bouncy, piano type beat is pretty good. Simple chorus, but it fits, and doesn’t end up sounding awkward. One-2 does a pretty good job as well. Good.

8. Fly Away(Feat K-Young)
Nice slow paced type beat. This track is about getting away from the world for a moment. Good chorus. Good.

9. Grand That Pole
I’ll give you a hint to what this track is about. ….Anything yet? Anyway, this is your standard “We screw women, we watch strippers, and we are cool” type track. You know, this type of subject matter is a dime a dozen, and if you can’t make it sound interesting, then why even bother? Don’t waste the listeners time with this type of stuff. Wack.

10. 120 Bars Of Fire
Pretty decent southern crunk style beat. One-2 does a pretty good job rapping over it. See, this is good for a mixtape, unlike the last track. Good track. Good.

11. Casanova(Feat Romeo From DNR)
This is pretty much another “Hey, I like to screw all kinds of women. I’m also the man because of it. Yea, I’m pretty cool”. The chorus consists of bad singing. Yea, this isn’t that good. Wack.

12. Good Girl Pt 1
Ok, so now you want to find a good girl? Didn’t you just make a track about screwing every girl in town? This isn’t good, and just sort of a slap in the face to the listener. Wack.

13. Get Ya Guard Up(Feat Human)
Human may be the greatest rap name ever. Maybe not on par with “Mr. Dog”, but close enough. I want to name myself “MC Person”. Is that name taken yet? Oh, right, the track. It’s a crunk, party type, and it’s pretty average stuff. Average.

14. Hector The Hook
I was expecting a pirate type of track, but it didn’t come to pass. I am left feeling a little empty inside because of it. Nice fast(Mixed with some slow elements) paced Chi-Town beat. Really good track, and One-2 does a pretty good job storytelling here. Good stuff. Good.

15. What The Deal Is(Feat Das From I-15)
Bad mixture of West & South here. Other than that? Nothing much. You have a chorus consisting of lifeless singing, and even more lifeless rapping. I don’t like it when rappers act like rapping is a chore rather than something they’re interested in. These type of tracks just scream “Let’s get this over with”, and if that’s the case, then why should I even bother listening? Wack.

16. Good Girl Gone Wild Pt 2
Oh, this is the much anticipated sequel. One-2 raps in such a way, that the stench of machismo is noticeable, and about as subtle as a guy yelling “I’M HUNGRY!”. This was just not that good, and I don’t want to hear a part 3. Wack.

17. Meet Me At The Gates
This samples Eric Clapton’s “Tears In Heaven”, and it’s actually somewhat refreshing to hear. I have to applaud him for rapping over it. Emotional track, and it’s actually pretty good. Good.

18. Jewel City(Feat Komplex & WordsWrath)
I’m losing patience with this mixtape. Standard track, that sounds like he found the beat in Scott Storch’s garbage. I mean, the rapping isn’t bad, but is there any hint of originality? Average.

19. My Life(Feat Charon & Aryn)
Pretty good track about One-2’s life. See, this was a well done track, and it was honest. Nice way to end the album. Good.

Ok, this mixtape was about 7 songs too long. This was long, tedious, and felt like a chore for not only the rapper, but for the producers and guests. I’m giving this an Average rating. One-2 has promise, but him trying to be like every other rapper is tiresome.

The Pack – Skateboards 2 Scrapers

Posted on April 1, 2013 by WWC

1. Vans
This is different, and that’s not a bad thing at all. The beat is fingers snapping, with a drum added in the background. Simple, yet catchy. See, music doesn’t have to be complicated. The Pack rap about their love of Vans(The shoes), and honestly, this subject matter is something that needs to happen more. Nice starting track. Good.

2. I’m Shinin’
This is more of a party track, complete with bouncy beat. It’s catchy, but it’s a track that has a short shelf life. I honestly just don’t care for the chorus, and find it a bit annoying. Bad singing is one thing, but bad singing filled with cliche’s is a whole new level of annoying. Yea, this was just sort of there. Average.

3. Ride My Bike
If you can’t understand what this title means, then you must be naive. It’s catchy, with a nice whistle type beat, and a good pace. The Pack really don’t try to make the song meaning a secret. Good party track. Good.

4. Candy
The Pack take a page out of 2 Live Crew’s book here. Fast paced party track, that has sexual content. Nothing complicated, and a nice little homage to 2 Live Crew. Nothing terrible, but nothing really good. Average.

5. Oh Go
Bouncy beat, with some party vibes thrown in. Again, there is nothing complicated here, and it’s an unapologetic party track. That’s not really bad thing, because contrary to the popular belief, music needs these sort of tracks. I mean, would you play Anticon or Aesop Rock at a party? I didn’t think so. Good.

6. Freaky Bopper
Another bouncy beat here, but it has a sort of old school Atari feel to it, and that’s not a good thing. I mean, I appreciate that the Pack are basically saying “We do party music. That is what we do. You don’t like it? Then go listen to something else”, but at the same time, these tracks sort of get a little old after a while. This was pretty tedious, and not very good. Wack

7. Vans Remix(Feat Too Short & Mistah F.A.B.)
I like the beginning, and found it a nice dedication to Mac Dre. This is so much better than the original, because F.A.B. & Too Short get to add their own twist. Really fun track. Good

All in all I’m giving this a Good rating. Was it mind blowing? Absolutely not. Was it fun? Absolutely. You know, music can be fun, and doesn’t have to always have a deep message. The Pack are a group that just go all out in the fun mode, and make tracks that are suited for parties. If you don’t like that, then buy an Enya album, and shut up.

Mac – World War III

Posted on April 1, 2013 by WWC

Mac’s one of those rare rappers from the south, with a complete East Coast delivery. The clarity in his voice, and his concepts alone, make him appealing to backpackers and MC’s alike. Starting his career off with 1998’s “Shell Shocked”, Mac returned with the completely opposite “World War III” in 1999. Even through the backlash of No Limit Records at the time, this album stands as a landmark in No Limit history, and unfortunatley the last album from Mac.

1.) Intro: Nothing more then a woman talking about Mac’s future plans to help the community, and declaring that it’s World War.

2.) War Party feat. D.I.G., Magic: The only single from the album is unfortunatley nothing more then a typical No Limit track. Soulja stories are traded here, over a subpar beat. Average at best.

3.) Best Friends: Classic track about friends turned enemies. The melodic beat ensensuates the storytelling ability of Mac, as he shares his depression on losing a friend. Excellent track.

4.) Like Before: A typical track directed toward the ladies, Mac smoothly spits 2 verses explaining the need to make it right with his girl. Good track, although a little boring after a couple listens.

5.) We Deadly feat. Master P, Silkk The Shocker: Mac spits one of his most aggressive verses, along with Master P, who does surprisingly decent on this track. Silkk just talks at the end, and somewhat ruins the credibility of the track. Good song.

6.) Bloody feat. Magic: This is one of the better tracks on the album. Sticking to the soulja formula No Limit is known for, Magic and Mac spit two very fast paced verses, with a perfectly laced hook. Some notable lines from Mac include “You might be the next to rip, get shot get stab you get cut up strip/ You boxed up in a ship, thinking niggas on some retaliation tip”.

7.) You Never Know feat. Mia X: A pounding beat is used to describe another tale of friends turned enemies. Both MC’s give arguably their best performance together, as Mac and Mia trade verses about the situation of friend turned foe. Excellent track.

8.) Just Another Thug feat. C-Murder, Ms. Peaches: Finally another C-Murder/Mac collaboration, leaving us to wonder how classic the anticipated “Tank Doggs” album could’ve been. This track, although short, is laced with a very smooth beat, explaining how Mac & C are “just another thug nigga”.

9.) Battle Cry (Tomorrow): One of the deepest songs on the entire album, Mac describes the pain of growing up, and the hope for a better tomorrow. Great song with memorable lines (“But never no love, i witnessed the sickness of unprotected lust/So many children born just because the rubbers bust”). Classic track.

10.) If It’s Cool feat. Ms. Peaches: A lighter song on an album filled with aggressive stories, this track cleverly samples Tupac’s “How Do You Want It” and makes for a smooth tale on Mac trying to game a *****, while stating “I don’t wanna be ya man/I wanna tap something if it’s cool (it’s cool)/But if you not ask your girl what i asked you”. Great song, and completely unexpected.

11.) Cops & Robbers: Re-spitting the classic first verse from “Niggaz N Trouble”, this sympathetic beat, helps Mac describe how life is nothing more then a deadly game of cops and robbers. Above average track.

12.) Lockdown (Remix): Quite possibly the best track on the album, this ended up describing Mac’s life. Detailing an accusation of murder that ends him up in prison, Mac contemplates on the thought of 25-Life, and sadly ends up living it. Classic track.

13.) Paradise feat. Popeye, Samm: Great song, featuring No Limit newcomers Popeye and Samm. Mac’s verse is saved for last, and rightfully so, as he steals the entire song. Great job by Popeye on the hook.

14.) That’s Hip Hop: One of the purest tracks on the album, Mac states the problems of this generations rappers. The bling, the cars, and the “*****es jumpin in the pool”, over a classic hip hop sample. Great song.

15.) Can You Love Me? (Eyes Of A Killer): Classic track. In every sense of the word, this song is nothing less then classic. Another deep song, Mac explains the troubles of a mother loving her son, who has the eyes of a killer. Great beat, and great verses from a great MC.

16.) Genocide Skit: Skit leading into the next song, with children being asked what genocide is.

17.) Genocide feat. Ms. Peaches: Another deep song (which is the perfect way to end an album), Mac details more stories of his past, by stating “if you ride on me, ima ride on you (it’s genocide)”.

18.) Father’s Day: A perfect Tupac-esque track, about lacking any real male influence growing up. Smooth beat, with a great hook, make for another classic track.

19.) Still Callin Me feat. Ms. Peaches, Sons Of Funk: The sequal to “Callin Me” off Shell Shocked, is just an extention of the need to get that girl. Good song, but not on the level of the others.

20.) Assassin Nation feat. Storm: Perfect haunting beat, make for a more aggressive track to end the album on. Good war song.

21.) Outro: Nothing more then that; an outro.

So while the album could’ve used a little less skits, take them out, and you have nothing less then a perfect album. Mac’s growth is shown here, and is sad considering what could’ve been, if he hadn’t have caught that murder case only months after this album’s release. While not denting the Soundscan Charts (The album only sold around 230K), it’s heralded as a classic to many hip hop fans, not just from the south. Free Mac.

Overall Rating: 5/5

Lloyd Banks – Rotten Apple

Posted on April 1, 2013 by WWC

With the recent decline in G-Unit’s popularity, and more importantly; sales, Lloyd Banks has been put in a “make or break” situation. The first G-Unit artist not named 50 to go platinum, the weight of his label is put soley on his shoulders. With recent flops from Mobb Deep (an album that has yet to go gold), and the extremely popular “G-Unot” campaign still in full effect, does Banks have what it takes to bring back the once powerful label? Or does he even have enough savvy punchlines and slick hooks to top his well received solo album, “The Hunger For More”??? He answers these questions with his sophomore effort, “Rotten Apple”.

1.) Rotten Apple feat. 50 Cent, Prodigy: After a very climatic intro, the title track opens with with 50, Prodigy, and Banks sticking to the original Guerilla Unit formula. This track works suprisingly well. Bank’s punchlines flow smoothly over this grimey New York instrumental.

2.) Survivor: Another mellow beat follows, with Banks harmonizing the hook (wonder who he learned that from?). Bank’s punchlines are again on point, but this track is nothing more then mixtape material. Nothing stands out, and that’s what ends up hurting it the most.

3.) Playboy 2: The original “Playboy” (featured on “The Hunger For More”) is a classic track in every sense of the word. A very intimidating bassline backed up with Bank’s punchlines and smooth delivery made it perfect. The sequel lacks in every aspect. The beat is another bland instrumental lacking punch. Bank’s hook is uninspired; and makes for another track you’d expect on one of Bank’s mixtapes.

4.) The Cake feat. 50 Cent: A very well put together track, features a clever sample, and Banks turns it into a great track. 50 does well here also, as this makes for one of the better tracks on the album.

5.) Make A Move: Live drums are blended with the beat, as Banks croons and sings the hook again. His flow is put to use on this track, and really puts the shine on him, strictly because of it. The beat is up tempo, and works well for the G-Unit soldier. Good track.

6.) Hands Up feat. 50 Cent: Featuring production from Eminem, this is your typical G-Unit single. 50 singing the hook, and Banks inviting everyone to come party with him. Verses are suprisingly good here; as Bank’s showcases his punchline savvy to a national market. Doesn’t save the track though. Very dissapointing choice for a single.

7.) Help feat. Keri Hilston: A very smooth track for the ladies, featuring a relaxing piano influenced instrumental. Banks shows the ladies he cares with an impecible flow. Good choice for the second single, and video. Top notch track, where Banks shines the most.

8.) Addicted feat. Musiq Soulchild: Just looking at this track, I expected a perfect collaboration. While it is decent, something’s missing. The beat isn’t on Soulchild’s level, as Banks spits more bars about his clout and wealth. Average track at best.

9.) You Know The Deal feat. Rakim: Despite the tracklist, this DOES NOT feature Rakim. It samples him perfectly, however, as Bank’s showcases his best flow on the album, that really lets you “know the deal”. Great track; and is Bank’s in his purest form.

10.) Get Clapped feat. Mobb Deep: Boring production, and Prodigy’s lackluster flow ruin this track for the most part. Havoc comes correct, and Banks is in typical punchline fashion, but makes for an unworthy track.

11.) Stranger: Yet another song that finds Bank performing his own hooks. While it works sometimes, in this case it doesn’t. A very monotonous hook, and average verses (at best) make for a fairly boring track. I expected more out of Banks, at this point.

12.) Change: A little bit of improvement is shown on this track. Bank’s growth as an artist is apparent, and if more tracks were made like this, maybe he’d be able to branch off on his own.

13.) NY NY feat. Tony Yayo: “NY NY” features another track produced by Eminem. Good track none the less, and finds Banks and Yayo spitting good verses. More of a track I expected out of an album titled “Rotten Apple”. One of the album’s highlights.

14.) One Night Stand: Very, very good track. Soulful hook, and is once again something I’d expect out of Bank’s. The end of the album proves to be the best. Great track.

15.) Iceman feat. Young Buck, 8Ball, Scarface: Attempt at appealing the southern audience, Banks falls out of place here, but manages to save the track with appearences from southern legends. Catchy hook, smooth bassline, and great guest appearences, make for a good track.

16.) Gilmore’s: Although failry short, this track (while not the best to close out an album) is very catchy and has an addicting beat. Pretty original concept, and the hook is above average for the most part.

So did Bank’s live up to the hype? In my opinion: No. The reason for this is, he’s so concerned with keeping it street on this album and saving good songs for his mixtapes, that it hurt his sophomore solo. While not terrible, this probably won’t go down as Bank’s best work down the line in his career. While some tracks are superb, some tracks are terrible. My advice to the Unit, if you’re looking for somebody to re-kindle the flame, Bank’s isn’t your best choice right now.

Rating: 3.5/5

The Game – Doctor’s Advocate

Posted on April 1, 2013 by WWC

01. Lookin’ At You Produced By Urban EP Pop
The beat is tight, but it sounds like a Dr Dre produced track and Game even adopts the Dr Dre rapping style. It bumps at the same time, I wish and I am sure Game fans wish he would’ve just been himself. In this track he pretty much tells you he is back. Great Intro tracks. C

02. Da Shit Produced By DJ Khalil
This bangs the ***** out, yeah it sounds like Dr Dre did it, but damn, the shit bumps your speakers, but again The Game sounds like Dr Dre. But he shows and proves he can do it without Dr Dre, Game rips it. B

03. It’s Okay (One Blood) Produced By Reefa
The street single, Love the reggae concept with Junior Reid. Game gained more fans with this track. Although I think Game could’ve spit the mixtape power on here with his lyrics, good track though. B

04. Compton (Feat. Will.I.Am) Produced By Will.I.Am
Will.I.Am of the Black Eyed Peas and former Ruthless records Signee is making a lot of noise appearing and producing on artist’s albums. Great track and the shit banged out. Great teamwork on this album, a nice banger to represent Compton. – B

05. Remedy Produced by JustBlaze
Song bangs a lil , but I think the Public Enemy – “Black Steel In The Hour Of Chaos” beat should’ve been left alone. I think Just Blaze could’ve came harder with another beat that hits that he usually makes. -C

06. Let’s Ride Produced By Scott Storch
This song rides out, something to cruise to, but he sounds like Dre, beat is tight by Scott Storch, chorus is nice, but need that 1st official single power like the last album. -C

07. Too Much F/ Nate Dogg Produced By Scott Storch
Not really a album worthy track…why? Beat sounds like a Dr Dre track. Beat is ok, sounds like something May J Blidge would sing over, Could’ve been harder or replaced with another song. -D

08. Wouldn’t Get Far F/ Kanye West Produced by Kanye West
This track is a gem. I think they used the same sample from Jadakiss’ “By Your Side”. Eiher way this song is nice from the beat to the chorus. Nice track with Kanye on it. They both did their thing talking about the certain ladies. – A

09. Scream On ‘Em (Feat. Swizz Beats) Produced by Swizz Beatz
This track goes a lil harder, not bad. Game spits hard on this track, different kinda production by Swizz Beatz. -B

10. One Night (Produced By Nottz)
This song is a deep track from the lyrics to the chorus. Explains what he has been going through with internal beefs he has with his former Black Wall Street camp and I believe his brother, Deep song! -A

11. Doctor’s Advocate (Feat. Busta Rhymes) Produced By Jonathan “J.R.” Rotem
This track is a gem on the album. Going off the concept of The Do*****entary’s “Start From Scratch”. Game apologizes and dedicates this song to Dr Dre. It speaks on their falling out and Game’s betrayal to Dr Dre. Busta also did his thing on the last verse co-signing Game’s words. Well crafted track. – A

12. Ol’ English (Produced By Hi-Tek)
Bangin track, Hi-Tek does his production at his best as usual, Game takes you on a trip through memory lane with a drunken and high twist. Smooth track, good to smoke and drink to -B

13. California Vacation (Feat. Snoop & Xzibit) Produced By Jonathan “J.R.” Rotem
This is a straight West Coast banger right here. Game does use Dre’s style of rapping on here a lil bit but the shit bangs. I think Xzibit steals the show on here. They all did their thing. Straight Gangsta Shit! -B

14. Bang (Feat. Kurupt & Daz) Produced By Jelly Roll
This sounds like some old West Coast Hip-Hop shit right here with a Gangsta twist. The beat bangs out by Jelly Roll. The all did their thing on here. Good to see Game put Tha Dogg Pound on this album. -A

15. Around The World (Feat. Jamie Foxx) Produced By Mr. Porter
Okay, I may get hate with this along with the whole review, but I think this song is nice. Single/Video worthy as well. I think he can win with Jamie Foxx on the hook; nice smooth beat. -A

16. Why You Hate The Game (Feat. Nas) Produced By Just Blaze
The final gem on the album. Bangin beat by Just Blaze and Marsha from Floetry did her thing on this track. In my opinion she brought life into this song. Lot of credit is due to her. Song bangs as Nas and Game trade verses on here. 9:22 seconds of Hip Hop. -A

In all honesty, I think Game held it down on his own and with the help of others…Although it could’ve been better without using the Dr Dre styles! .All in All, I think he did a great job for his major label sophomore release’s effort. It could bring much more light to the West Coast as well. I wouldn’t call is a classic, but its definitely one of the best albums in 2006. I would label it a street classic. Less name dropping as well. This album is definitely worth the cop. Has a lot more West Coast sound to it then the last one. Bangin album and good for the collection – Gangsta Rog

Album Rating: B-

2pac – Pac’s Life

Posted on April 1, 2013 by WWC

“After Death” Tupac albums are almost as common as rappers claiming they’re gangster. It just happens all too much. While most of the albums released after ‘Pac’s death have been failry well put together (and in some cases, excellent), the fact is eventually they will run out of material to put out. Last year’s God awful “Loyal 2 The Game” featured some of Pac’s earliest (but finest) work being raped by chopped vocals and bland production. “Pac’s Life” is released on the verge of the 10th anniversary of the legendary rapper’s passing. 13 new tracks are featured, and how did they fair? On to the review:

1.) Untouchable (Swizz Beatz Remix) feat. Krayzie Bone: This Swizz Beatz club banger is VERY reminiscent of last year’s anthem “Spit Your Game” featuring Notorious B.I.G. & Krayzie Bone. This song however does fairly well. Nothing standing out, and the horns are a little repetitive. The true highlight of this track is Krayzie Bone, spitting rapid fire once again.

2.) Pac’s Life feat. Ashanti, T.I.: Produced by LT Hutton, and featuring two brand new artists (well at least since Pac’s passing). This song is terrible. While the beat is listenable, hearing T.I. rap to Pac really makes it obvious Pac has been gone for so long. Ashanti’s hook is decent, but the vocals combined with this beat doesn’t work. Another verse from “This Life I Lead” is used here. Really sloppy job. Skip it.

3.) Dumpin’ feat. Hussein Fatal, Papoose, Carl Thomas: This is truly a REAL highlight of the album. Hussein’s been removed from many Pac songs that he was originally featured, and is making up for lost time. Over a “Hail Mary” influenced beat, all 3 artists spit very good aggressive lyrics. Carl Thomas performs the hook perfectly. Easily one of the best tracks on the album.

4.) Playa Cardz Right (Female) feat. Keyshia Cole: The original beat and theme to this song is perfect. Not saying this is bad, but if you’ve ever heard the original, you’d automatically know which is the better. This is a very mellow song, and Keyshia Cole performs the hook and verses very well. ‘Pac is unfortunatley only on one verse and the outro. Good song never the less.

5.) Whatz Next feat. A3, Jay Rock: This song is very southern. The influence of the south in hip hop right now is too apparent here. While it does make for a good song if you’re into Three 6 Mafia or Young Dro, this isn’t Tupac’s type of work. His lyrics (as always) are on point though, but i can’t say the same for the other no name artists on this track. Average at best.

6.) Sleep feat. Young Buck, Chamillionaire: This album should be titled “Tupac & The Current Hip Hop Game”, because that is exactly what this album is shaping up to be. Chamillionaire is the only one (besides Pac) who does decent on this track. The beat doesn’t seem to fit the theme of the song at all, and makes for another dissapointing track.

7.) International feat. Nipsey Hussle, Young Dre: Too more no names plus a mediocre verse from ‘Pac make this THE worst track on the entire album. Another crunk beat is supplied to an already lacking song. This track is a complete mess. Skip It.

8.) Don’t Sleep feat. Kadafi, Nuttso, Lil Scrappy, Stormey: If you’ve heard the original, you’d know this was a very aggressive song. Pac’s lyrics hit a little less hard over this more traditional hip hop beat. The hook is decent, and Lil Scrappy suprisingly doesn’t ruin the song. Kadafi is featured here, as well as a surprising appearence from Nuttso. Production could’ve been better, but a stand out track in a dissapointing album thus far.

9.) Soon As I Get Home feat. Kadafi: Easily the best song on the album. This QD3 produced classic is lefted untouched and remastered. Featuring the two slain Outlawz, production couldn’t be better, and it’s great to finally hear this in CD quality. Perfect track, and a reason to buy the album, if anything.

10.) Playa Cardz Right (Male) feat. Ludacris, Keon Bryce: Decent song, not too far off from the female version. This is a little more soulful, and Ludacris is made to seem like he was in the studio with Pac. Great singing by Keon Bryce however, make for a good track.

11.) Don’t Stop feat. Big Syke, Kadafi, Stormey, Young Noble, E.D.I. Amin, Hussein Fatal: The original beat to this was a very smooth West coast beat. It was remade into a very modern sounding Outlawz beat. Subject matter is still the same here though; with Pac very cleverly dissing Bob Dole and C. Deloris Tucker. Great appearences by the ‘Lawz make for an above average track.

12.) Pac’s Life feat. Snoop Dogg, Chris Starr, T.I.: Same recycled beat, hook, and a new verse from Snoop. Very uninspired, and nothing new to the table. Considerably lazy coming from Amaru, if you’re going to remix a song, don’t just add another rapper. Snoop’s verse is on point, and a very good tribute though.

13.) Untouchable feat. Kadafi, Hussein Fatal, Gravy: Perfect acapella intro from Pac. Really sets the song off. This was a perfect way to end the album. Featuring yet another GREAT appearence from Hussein Fatal and fallen Outlaw, Kadafi, this is made into a really nice track. Gravy has no place here however, and decreases the credibility slightly. Other then that, no complaints on this one, it’s perfectly orchestrated to close out the album.

So, after listening to the album, one can determine Pac’s music has been tampered a little too much. Guest appearences from today’s hottest rappers will not help it sell anymore, trust me. REAL fans see right through it. Other then that, production could’ve been stepped up drastically. Better then “Loyal 2 The Game”? Of course. On the same level with “Still I Rise” or “Until The End Of Time”? Not even close. My advice to Amaru: Make an album produced by Johnny J, QD3, and DJ Quik featuring appearences from people Pac has actually worked with. Decent album none the less, but for his 10th anniversary, it’s lacking in too many aspects.