The Hip Hop Mortuary

If you don't have love for Lonnie Rashid Lynn Jr, you must have never heard his music before... better known as Common, he created a place for nice guys in rap music. Just as Wu-Tang came out with their release which created a genre now known as "hardcore" rap. At the same time, Common released his first album, which established "conscious" hip-hop... first created by A Tribe Called Quest. I personally don't believe in labeling any artist... but Common had a very distinctive voice in the innovative 90's. Were it not for Lonnie, Chicago may not be the hip-hop hot bed it is now, how many times has Kanye West labeled Common as the inspiration for his career. And even Lupe Fiasco, the hip-hop illiterate epitome of a conscious rapper has labeled Common as an inspiration. So how did Lonnie sound 16 years ago?....

The Good:

1. A Penny For My Thoughts- This is No I.D.'s first released production job and this instrumental still holds up. Common's flow has changed a lot since 1992, but I like his flow on this song, and you will listen to this song again. I promise.

3. Take It EZ- Even back in the day when Common equipped a rapid-fire delivery he still spit lines that just sound totally awkward. Not a bad song though, the production is superb.

4. Heidi Hoe- Early Beatnuts production job, early Common... Way before their time.

5. Breaker 1,9- How eerily similar does this sound to "Big Poppa", and any guy can attest to what Common is saying. This was a single, and judging by NO I.D.'s slow jazzy beat and Common's woman-oriented rhymes and the time period, I can imagine how the music video looked.

6. Two Scoops Of Raisin- Kind of an ironic song when you examine Common's persona... but I like the back-to-back rhymes.

8. Blows To The Temple- Only Common could get away with this weak-ass hook. As corny and easy as the rhyme scheme is, I love this song, more specifically the vibe that this song exudes.

9. Just In The Nick Of Rhyme- This sounds like a freestyle 2 pc. DRK threw a beat over. It sounds good as hell though...

10. Tricks Up My Sleeve- I'm sick of these lazy-ass/zombie choruses. This is Rayshel's only major album appearance, and for good reason, she sounds like a man.

11. Puppy Chow- I love the Isley Brothers sample... and this is more like how Common would sound on "Resurrection".

12. Soul By The Pound- how Main Source does this sound? The instrumental is like "Fireman" meets "Halftime".

13. Pitchin Pennies- A Busta Rhymes reference, and a pissing sample... thanks for the send-off.

I loved this album, even with the corny rhymes... I hate to say this but: "This is what used to be good about hip-hop". This is a great listen for everyone into Golden Age records, even though Common would soon become a different type of lyricist, this album is a landmark of Chicago hip-hop, think "Illmatic" of conscious rap.

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

I give this album a 91, and I dare anyone to challenge the rating.

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Inspectah Deck, Ghostface Killah, GZA, Method Man, Masta Killa, Ol' Dirty Bastard, Prince Rakeem, Raekwon, and U-God make up Wu-Tang Clan... arguably the most influential rap group of the 90's (like how I eliminated almost all arguements). It's obvious how much of an effect this had on early 90's hip-hop, and still on today's hip-hop... NaS, AZ, Cormega, and many others have visible influence from Wu-Tang, even Jay, and especially Big L. As a warning beforehand, I'm not a Wu fan, and "respect" and "acclaim" can't buy me... so you Wu heads who think that God gave birth to "The Genius", I'm sorry.

The Good:

1. Bring Da Ruckus- Not a bad start, this track is actually really good, I wonder why I didn't like this album...

2. Shame On A Nigga- And we drop off a little bit, still a pretty good song. Never been a fan of ODB, average lyricist with a unique voice.

3. Clan In Da Front- And GZA picks it up, this track is straight fire.

4. Wu Tang: 7th Chamber- And some more heat, even ODB comes true. Methodman kills it, and RZA comes with another great instrumental.

5. Can It All Be So Simple- The bass takes away from the beatiful instrumental, but Ghostface murders this track.

6. Da Mystery Of Chessboxin'- ODB's moaning would later be sampled in a song I think everyone has heard (I'm not saying). The only negative is the poppy beat which takes away from the gritty rhymes.

8. C.R.E.A.M.- Even my 7 year old sister has heard this song.

10. Protect Ya Neck- The single... and it's actually really good. All the verses are sick as fuck.

12. Wu-Tang:7th Chamber-Part II- Didn't U-God already use the "fallopian tube" line before on the first part? Otherwise, this track is fire, other than the jazz sample that RZA inserted for no reason.

13. Method Man (Skunk Mix)- This version is a lot better than the original... but still only an average track. Why Method Man had two songs named after him, I'll never understand...

And that concludes this review... and what did I think? I enjoyed this album for the most part, by no means was it "amazing" or "classic". There are some great songs, great examples of lyricism, and great instrumentals throughout the whole album.

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

I give this album a 87. Now I need a nap...

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I was on 2dopeboyz.com a while ago, and I found this mixtape, thought it looked interesting... so I downloaded it. Then I heard it, and now I'm writing about it. Why? Because J The S aka Jake The Snake is repping Boston like crazy, and has rhymes for fucking days, and I think it's my obligation to get this dude even a little bit of hype. These underground cats are all on the come-up, and not enough can be said about the state of underground hip-hop today... there are too many good rappers to support, while I can only think of a few mainstream artists I would ever even think about supporting. That being said, the Bean has been producing crazy rhymers for the last few years... and if J the S's albums are as good as his mixtapes, New York might have some competition.

The Good:

1. Right Of Passage- This was the first thing I heard, and obviously it made quite the impression on me, and this song is still at the top of my playlist. The wordplay is crazy. But J changes subjects every other line, and he over exaggerates just a little bit... for those who actually listen you'll know what I'm talking about.

2. Pump- The hook is terrible... but the rest of the song is fire. The featured artists are good too.

5. Do You- This would have been the single of the mixtape. The hook is terrible, but the instrumental is awesome... the Joell Ortiz and Lee Wilson features are amazing. And J the S bests both of them... that's saying something.

6. Push My Buttons- Great production job, the rhyming is alright, there's a few weak features, and a Stack Bundles feature (R.I.P.)

9. Loosen Up- Perfect.

10. Whispers In The Dark- Soulful beat laced with some real lyricism... the hook is a bit too obvious, but the rest of this track is real impressive.

12. Get Low Remix- No Memphis Bleek feature, but a great song. Badnewz (nice name) has a terrible verse but it still makes me interested about the original...

13. Forever Tomorrow- A crazy-ass instrumental, real soulful and meaningful lyrics... the combo just takes you to a different place. Love this track.

14. A Strange Feeling- I have a strange feeling this song is gonna be straight fire. What do you know? I was right... I like the "You Know My Steez" reference.

16. Kilograms (I Know)- He got Ras Kass to feature on this track... even though J The S comes with some strong lines, but Ras Kass completely outshines him. I'm getting tired of the Iraq/Osama references already.

And we're done... not what I was expecting from a mixtape, but I would listen to at least half of the songs over again. J The S aka SNZA (Don't bite the Genius too bad) comes with deep, introspective commentary. I feel like a douchebag saying it, but he ultimately is a less-talented version of Immortal Technique. But at the same time... his lyrical game is crazy and pretty unique, very few dudes are spitting like he is so check his shit out fam...

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

I give this mixtape a 82... check it out cuz there's some great songs on here, but this admittedly is not for everyone.

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William Joseph Crawford aka Ya Boy is probably the least-known Gold-certified artist ever. For those of you who haven't heard of the new product of hyphy music... you will soon have to put up with suburban white kids reciting Crawford's quotables. Mix west-coast production with a pinch of lyricism and a confident flow and you've got Ya Boy. I first found out about this cat because of his affiliation with Black Wall Street (I'm a Game fan if you haven't noticed). Then I started checking out dude's mixtapes (which are crazy by the way) and then I graduated to his debut album. It was refreshing to know that Crawford's mixtapes were much hotter than his album.... not to ruin anything.

The Good:

1. Introduction- Ironically, most of Ya Boy's best songs are named "Intro", no joke. The hook is terrible, but the instrumental is ill and he laces this track with crazy metaphors.

4. Right Here- "I'm not one for female-orientated tracks", I believe that I've said that once or twice. This is another song with insane potential because of the beautiful (yeah it's beautiful, no homo) instrumental and the fitting lyricism. But the hook is terrible again.

8. Bad Company- The first 30 seconds of the instrumental proved to be promising, but when he starts spitting, the beat is nearly non-existent. Not a bad nearly acapella verse though.

11. Turf 2 Tha Club- Almost every aspect of hyphy that I hate is included on this track... yet it still sounds decent.

15. Somethin To Rap About- Best, the guest verse is weak though...

17. How You Want It- Another track for the ladies that sounds alright.

And that concludes this short review. The songs I listed above are only good, a few are stand-outs, and a few are great... but this album as a whole is not comparable to the mixtapes Ya Boy makes. I'm saying if you want a real taste of his music check em out (I will do a review on one of them soon)...

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

I give this album a 58... it's weak, and the few songs worth checking out aren't "amazing" in any sense.

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The one dude everyone is sleeping on nowadays is John Jackson, a mainstream artist who can rhyme with the hungriest of underground cats. I remember I was in New York early 2005, and the song "Breathe" was fucking everywhere. So I copped "Real Talk", his album, and I was somewhat impressed... lot of bangers, but a lot of garbage too. That's why I was looking forward to his new shit 3 and a half years ago... but from what I remember, he got into a Kanye West-esque accident and stopped rapping for a second, got better started doing guest features. Then 2007, "From Nothin To Somethin" came out and I got it the second day it came out, not something I was extremely proud of, but I did it. And what did I think...

The Good:

1. From Nothin To Somethin Intro- I don't know if I like the Sportscenter sample... but the beat is banging and the lines are fire.

2. Yep I'm Back- You want a fucking street single? Well you got one... this song is straight lyrical murder. Every line is a quotable. This might just be a 15 dollar song right here. Why wasn't this a single?

3. Change Up- As much as I hate what Akon is doing to hip-hop... I'll admit that this track is real hot. And the lyrics are on point.

6. Return Of The Hustle- How does Swizz still have a career? What a weak-ass chorus, that Cream/Wu reference fucking blowed. Liking Fab's verses though.

7. Gangsta Don't Play- The cool thing nowadays is to feature reggae singers to do your hooks... and it nearly ruins this song which is fucking awesome without the hook.

10. Diamonds- The first time I heard this song I wasn't really feeling it, but now that I heard it again I realized that it's not that bad... but not that good.

11. Brooklyn- Who do you think Fab sampled on a track called "Brooklyn" featuring Jay? Anyone who didn't say Biggie may not feel welcome here. The sample feels out of place, and Uncle Murda appropriately murders this track.

12. I'm The Man- This song fucking rocks. "Your bitch is so easy a caveman could do her".

13. Jokes On You- Pusha T's comedy references are pretty impressive... and I strangely like this hook. And the song, it's really good.

15. This Is Family- This is a gritty ass song to put on such a club banger album, I'm also really impressed how Fab got Ransom, Budden, and Paul Cain to get on this track. Too many features for my liking, but it's still pretty decent.

This is by far my favorite Fab album, it's not that he changes his style at all... he just raps like usual but a lot better. This is by no means a "street" album, but I think everyone can find what their looking for and be satisfied. Loso's World (new album) coming end of the year.

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

I give this album a 84, I definitely enjoyed listening to it and there are only a few bad tracks. Also check out "Yep, I'm Back" that song is fucking crazy.


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Your family's favorite twin coke pushers seem to be giving Jesus a ride... probably to their cocaine factory. I was apprehensive to give this record a listen because of Clipse's shady affiliation with Pharell (my favorite raspy, talentless singer who befriends today's talented mainstream artists). But once I re-listened to the "We Got It 4 Cheap" series again, I got serious motivation to give Malice and Pusha another chance. These two are probably the only rappers who can honestly get a guest appearance from anybody... from Kanye to Jadakiss to DJ Quik to... you get the idea. This album has 3 remixes so be ready... for what I don't know...

The Good:

1. Intro- How ironic would it be if a song called "Intro" was a single. This is a good song, since I've cheated and heard this album at first... I will say this is one of the better songs off the album.

2. Young Boy- I LOVE this hook!!! And the "Woo-Hoo" sample.... Yay! On the real, it's amazing how Malice and Pusha ride the beat and make a great sounding track even though the hook and aforementioned sample are ridiculous.

3. Virginia- Sounds like a beat Juvenile would spit to, but I liked it. More of a somber and serious song... even though the previous songs were about cocaine dealing.

4. Grindin- Back in 02, this was the song to drive to, people were driving to church listening to this song... it was that big. This instrumental is pretty sick, and the punchlines are ill as hell. Nothing I should have to write about, since you've probably heard this song before.

5. Cot-Damn- A Re-Up Gang posse cut that sounds really good. Now if Pharell wasn't on the hook...

8. When The Last Time- The hook fucking blows, but the instrumental and Clipse verses sound real good.

10. Comedy Central- Clipse would later make a song just like this on Fab's "From Nothin To Somethin". I'll admit that this song is pretty tight. And I didn't hear Pharell once.

12. Gangsta Lean- Clipse seems somewhat out of place trying to make a song for the ladies... but it still sounds really good.

13. I'm Not You- This song has been sampled and freestyled over more than "Dead Presidents II"... and I have to say I like this original version more than any other song on this album.

Neither of the remixes were even comparable to the original, so needless to say they weren't any good. I'm glad I don't have to listen to Pharell anymore... but I will probably do a "Hell Hath No Fury" review soon enough. I can honestly say this album was a good quality listen most of the way through, there was very little filler and the Neptunes production was great. The hooks not so much...

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

I give this album a 83. Like I said... give it a listen, you will probably like this album if you haven't heard it before.

Download here

The best producers ever: Ski, Pete Rock, Jam Master Jay, many others and then there's DJ Premier. I've honestly never heard a bad song produced by Preemo, and he's produced at least 500 songs... and I've probably heard 100 at minimum. And not enough can be said about his monotone partner, who made lyricism street and gritty. Even though everyone names Wu as an influence, no one really mentions Gang Starr... who probably influenced your favorite rappers (maybe not Wayne and company). But Camp Lo owes much of their success to the jazz rap pioneers, as does Ski who has made his name as the second coming of DJ Premier. Interestingly, Guru and Preemo have both gone their separate ways, but are still active in hip-hop. Guru has been silent for a while... but DJ Premier is hard at work with my fucking boy TERMANOLOGY, check the kid out people. But now to bring it back to 1998, and for the heads who know their album history... I'll quote Cool J: "Don't Call It A Comeback"...

The Good:

1. You Know My Steez- This song is on the top of a short fucking list named "Best Album Intro's Ever". This was a single? HOW!?!?!

2. Robin Hood Theory- The lyrics are fucking murder, but the beat is much to subtle to emphasize what Guru's saying.

3. Work- All the hipster-hop artists nowadays freestyle over this instrumental. For good reason, this track is fucking awesome.

4. Royalty- Why didn't these guys sell millions? Still a mystery to me... I wish this song was two and a half minutes... but it's 5 minutes... still it's beautiful.

5. Above The Clouds- Appropriately named, as repetitively as I say this... it's true: You just do not hear shit like this anymore. And it's a damn shame...

6. JFK 2 LAX- Just a chill track... Premier laces this track with a beautiful vocal sample. And Guru's storytelling is commendable... I'm loving the lyricism.

8. Moment Of Truth- The topic at hand is pretty lame... and this track flip flops from weak to decent. Not surprising for a track the album was named after or vice versa.

9. B.I. Vs. Friendship- Let me get this off my chest... as gimmicky as M.O.P. is they were the first ones to come out with their sound. (which is why I am willing to listen to them) That being said, they sound pretty good... well as good as two screaming maniacs can sound over a jazzy Premier beat. Now Guru...

10. The Militia- This instrumental is fucking awesome. Big Shug is fucking awesome. Guru is fucking awesome. Freddie Foxxx is a different story.

11. The Rep Grows Bigga- Why? Why? Why? For those with patience, you will suffer through a minute and a half long interlude... but you will be rewarded with a good track equipped with insane sampling jobs by Primo.

12. What I'm Here 4- Let's just say my neck hurts from involuntarily nodding it after repeating this track 15 times.

13. She Knows What She Wantz- A completely different vibe, but I love this song. Not enough can be said about DJ Premier's ability to perfectly simulate a vibe with his instrumentals. And Guru well he delivers like always.

14. New York Strait Talk- Average, maybe below average... still better than most rapper's best.

15. My Advice 2 You- My advice to Gang Starr: Come back and make another album right fucking now. This track is a dream that you don't wake up(and don't want to) from until you hear...

16. Make Em Pay- Another amazing track, if you ever download this album, it will probably be your introduction to Krumbsnatcha... and it's quite the introduction.

18. Betrayal- It's hilarious how accommodating Gang Starr is to Scarface on this track. Slow beat, slow flow... still a great track. Check the attention to detail in the storytelling too... not too many people do that. The hook is amazing, I'm surprised it hasn't been sampled, and Scarface gets on his "I Saw A Man Die" shit.

19. Next Time- The chorus SUCKS!! but the rest rocks.

And sadly (in contrast to most albums) we're done. I can honestly say that this album is not just a good listen, it's a fucking Tony The Tiger great listen. All the way through... it's real hip hop that don't stop... at all... for one second... of one nanosecond.

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

Remember "Illmatic", I said no album would ever top it... as good as this album is it's no "Illmatic", I give it a 92. And everyone young, old, musically deaf or gifted... pick this shit up. And you hip hop heads listen to Primo's instrumentals one more time before you decide not to give my boy Termanology a chance (would he really fuck with lame cats)? The download for ya ass:

What Part of Download Now Didn't You Understand

A lot of hype over this album, especially cuz of da albums original name. U know what it is. NaS dropped a beast of a mixtape. If u havent heard it, then go cop "The Nigger Tape". Lets see if da Gods Son comes correct...

1: Queens Get The Money - Da piano production is FYRE, courtesy of Jay Electronica. If u dont know who he is, then google him cuz hes creeping on da come up. NaS kills a perfect intro track, which seems 2 throw shots at Fiddy.

2: You Cant Stop Us Now - Okay, whats up with this sample being used by both RZA & Salaam Remi? I like both versions, but I might have 2 lean towards this version a lil. Also, dont expect NaS 2 disappoint on da lyrics either. Is NaS defending Michael Vick by saying da chinese eat dogs? I dunno lil homie, I aint on that.

3: Breathe - Pretty good song, but a lil boring cuz of da beat.

4: Make The World Go Round - What da FUCK is this? If u want my opinion, "Letter To The King" should of made this album instead of this crap.

5: Hero - Dah shyt! Perfect single, NaS kills da song & da production is pretty good. I could imagine him performing this song in front of a huge crowd, str8 spitting.

6: America - I love da production & lyrics, but da chorus is horrible. So it lost a notch or 2 in my book.

7: Sly Fox - Da infamous Fox News diss, "I use Viacom as my firearm". This is a pretty good song accompanied by a rock sounding beat. "I pledge allegiance 2 da fair & balanced truth, not da biased truth, not da liest truth, but da highest truth. I will not b deceived, nor will I believe in da propaganda. I will not fall 4 da oke-doke. I am tuned in..."

8: Testify - This might b my favorite song off da album. Great production & chorus. NaS slows it up a lil but comes correct. My only knock is that its not long enough.

9: N.I.G.G.E.R. (The Slave And The Master) - Good song, but da production may be a lil boring. Thanks Toomp.

10: Untitled - NaS kills it once again. Da whole song is fyre! I thought this song was supposed 2 b called Louis Farrakhan.

11: Fried Chicken - I love this song. NaS is at his best at song like this. Concept songs? Da production is pretty good. Y is Busta talking bout pork though?

12: Project Roach - I was expecting more when I heard about this song. BUT...dont get me wrong is still a great song. I guess I was thinking it might b da next "I Gave U Power".

13: Ya'll My Niggas - This song has da best chorus on da entire album. Great song, point blank period.

14: We're Not Alone - I think I would like this song better if there wasnt so much singing on da chorus.

15: Black President - Great Pac sample, good beat from DJ Lantern. I heard da original version wit samples of sum politician introducing Obama, but of course da sample didnt pass so they used a different voice. I was looking 4 NaS 2 give us good valid points on y Obama should b our next president, but he came up short.

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe 1 good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half r good songs, half r weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all r great songs

I would get this a 87 rating. A solid effort by da Lil Homie. I think he MIGHT b developing an ear 4 beats. NaS hardly eva comes up short on his lyrical game. Lyrically, its a step up from "Hip Hop Is Dead". Its also way better, but not better than Illmatic, It Was Written or MAYBE Stillmatic. Definitely worth being in my collection. How bout yours?

Hey this is vivacious with you and ready to post some reviews.... My first review will be on Solange's new album which...lets just say is dope...well that probably be today or tomorrow. I am just excited I was invited to blog here about the 2 things i vibe the most...music and hip-hop. Well I will be doing my first review sooon.... for now check out my blog as well!!! PEACE!!!

Yo! Jus wanted 2 give yall a lil announcement man. Im joinin da team here. My name is Were Read 2 Def. Ill b postin sum reviews here soon, so look out. 4 those who aint up on me, check my site...Only If Its Lyrical.

N dont 4get 2...Holla @cha Boi!

First, big fucking ups to my boy PeanutbutterToes at forfreedownloads.com. I been waiting on this shit for a hot second, and I bet you were too. I just heard "The Inspiration" for the second time and I realized what a huge part Jeezy has had in reinventing the genre of "Southern Rap"... which is infested with downright thieves. Don't get me wrong, there are some good(at max 50) Southern rhymers, but there are far more gimmicks. Which is where Jay Jenkins comes in. Mr. Jenkins actually released a god-awful first album, and kept improving from there (who said debut albums are always best)? Now he is a household name, if not for his stellar lyrics, definitely for his adlibs. After making the acclaimed Thug Motivation series (which will be reviewed soon enough), Jeezy decided to steer away and created "The Recession" which hopefully is not a political album...

The Good:

3. By The Way- Damn, Jeezy said this album was Thug Motivation on steroids... I don't know if I agree with that, but this track is real hot.

4. Crazy World- I'm pretty sure this is a single, the beat is crazy, and ironically enough this song is political.

8. Who Dat- Once again the instrumental is sick... but the lyrics are weak. Which makes it an average song.

9. Don't You Know- Same hook, different words... same lyrics, different words, same instrumental different bass.

10. Circulate- This shit is hot!! Love this track already.

11. Word Play- Not bad. Not great, but not bad.

15. Don't Do It- Finally a real song... this sounds kind of like "Dreaming".

16. Put On- You've heard it, and it's pretty good... for a street anthem. Kanye's verse sounds dumb as fuck though.

18. My President- This shit is straight fire, Jeezy kills it, and even though Nas goes back on his Black Republican/Democrat shit... it still sounds really good.
Nas seems to be finishing off lots of albums nowadays... or maybe it's just me.

I didn't really like "The Recession", it sounds like one long song that changes subjects 18 times. The hook is almost always the same with different words, the lyrics are simplistic and repetitive, and the production (good as it is) begins to bore you halfway through. There's a few great songs off this album, but the majority of them sound generic to the whole album.

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

I give this album a 64. Didn't love it, but it was good at times. Can't say I recommend a download, but...

Download Here

I actually have time and motivation so I will be getting to work on reviews... and on a special project:
I will compile the 100 greatest songs ever made and make them downloadable...
If it sounds good, holla at ya boy.
I should have it done by October.

I promised, and now I deliver... O'Shea Jackson's 8th album "Raw Footage". For those of you who enjoyed "Laugh Now, Cry Later", you should expect a more political album, full of Public Enemy references (necessary to succeed at social commentary). I remember the first hype for this album came with the single "Gangsta Rap Made Me Do It", everyone was hyping it up as Ice Cube's return to NWA form. Which I didn't buy in any case, since the song was on Juice's album named "Death Certificate", named after Cube. I also remember that Nas had a verse... which got cut from the album version for some reason. Is it me... or is it ironic how Ice Cube is going from R rated movies to PG-13 to PG to fucking youth movies, yet at the same time his rhymes are more revolutionary and controversial. How O'Shea still gets roles, I don't know. Let's see if this album is any good:

The Good:

2. I Got My Locs On- The beat and hook are menacing in the best way possible... Jeezy's lines are weak as fuck, but Cube delivers.

3. It Takes A Nation- Just the first P.E. reference, but once you get past that... you will notice that what Cube is saying really makes sense.

4. Gangsta Rap Made Me Do It- If you haven't heard it yet, enjoy.

5. Hood Mentality- This sounds strangely like Nas' new album.

6. Why Me?- The first verse is great, but Cube ruins it with his "white man" racist spiel.

7. Cold Places- The first great song.

8. Jack N The Box- This song bangs, whoever "Tha Bizness" is they did a great job producing this track. And Cube spits some hot shit at ya ass.

11. Here He Come- This song would fit perfectly on "Laugh Now, Cry Later", but not on this album. Regardless, it sounds good. It's funny to see how the members of "Tha Lench Mob" changed... I'm talking about you Doughboy.

16. Take Me Away- Even though this song is only average, it sounds a lot better than the shit before it.

And we're finally done. First, all the instrumental's on this album are good, some are very good, and a few are average. Second, Ice Cube probably made this whole album very quickly (a week I'm guessing), because after the second song the political rhymes get worn out. Not because I'm ignorant and need songs about money, hoes, weed, and guns... but because every other line is "Fuck the government", "Fuck Bush", "Ice Cube For President" or some sorry-ass Public Enemy reference. I wanted to love this album, but it is easily the weakest Cube project I have ever heard. As a hip hop head who admires Nas yet still respects Lil Wayne, I can confidently say: most of this shit sucks.

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

I give this album a 62. The lyrics are dull and repetitive after the first half of the album. But if you want to find out for yourself:

Download Here

I am the type of person who usually laughs during sentimental moments in film, so I'll spare you from all the touching details...
A good friend of mine has agreed to join the blog, so hopefully that will mean more posts and more new music. But we are both students so don't count on it with any odd regularity.
And please, if you are a reader, don't just download, leave some feedback... it's instrumental. And again, I'm always down for recommendations.

Whose the person in the picture? Just guess...

Before he had enough money to fill an Olympic sized pool, Hovito was an disgruntled cocaine dealer who decided to give rap a try... and it turns out he was alright at it. As legend goes, Jay started out appearing in Jaz-O tracks... then featuring in Daddy Kane tracks... but not making enough money, started a record label known as Roc-A-Fella Records, with his cronies Damon Dash and Kareem Burke. Once word got around, Ski (Camp Lo producer) offered Jay a few instrumentals... Clark Kent, and Primo later joined after discovering Jay's potential. And even Biggie decided to offer a feature job... that's what unsigned hype used to mean. This album is considered a classic, and the epitome of "Mafioso Rap", so is it worthy of your collection? I'll help you decide:

The Good:

2. Politics As Usual- Just an introduction to Sean Carter's unique flow... but you have to wait for the final verse if you want to witness Hov's equally unique lyricism.

3. Brooklyn's Finest- The aforementioned Biggie feature, notice the rap-battle aspect of this song. And you might notice Superman's superb production job... and maybe the lyricism (maybe).

4. Dead Presidents II- With one instrumental change, you go from playful to somber. People just don't make beats like this anymore, nor do people even approach Jay's lyricism on this track. This song is so much more than simply a hip hop classic. Say what you want about the subject matter, but it cannot be examined more poetically than this.

5. Feelin It'- A last second Jay record, this was supposed to be a Camp Lo track... but Jay murders this track and exhibits his flow versatility. And the hook... it's pretty good.

6. D'evils- This song is the reason that Jay is still a legend after making "Kingdom Come", why Preemo is still a legend even though he now works with Christina Aguilera and The Black Eyed Peas, and the reason Snoop still has a job and a reality show. (I may have went a little far... but you get what I'm saying... this song is really fucking good.

7. 22 Two's- The ever-necessary "Fuck The Haters" song. The song structure is kind of lame, but it still sounds pretty good.

8. Can I Live- I'm guessing Beyonce can answer the question pretty thoroughly... but I can tell you that this song is classic, "I'd rather die enormous, than live dormant".

13. Bring It On- The instrumental sounds somewhat like "Kick, Push", and the Kid Capri sample fits the vibe perfectly. This Roc-A-Fella autobiography is narrated in a real gritty way... and with the right members (Big Jaz and Sauce Money mentored Jay for years).

14. Regrets- Slow chill beat, equipped with chilling lyrics by a guilt ridden Sean Carter.

People nowadays mention the word "classic" in every other sentence... some call "Tha Carter III" a classic, and some call every Nas album a classic... when you use a word so liberally, it's overall importance and value greatly diminishes. I don't call albums classics unless they are classics... "Illmatic" is a classic, "Capital Punishment" is a classic, and "Uptown Saturday Night" is a classic. Classics are albums that take a genre of music to a level once thought unattainable and are consistently great the whole way through.
The reason I defined classic is because I believe "Reasonable Doubt" is not a classic, although the songs "Dead Presidents II" and "D'evils" are probably among rap's top 10 songs ever made... this album is hard to listen to the whole way through without once pressing the skip button. The songs that are "amazing" on this album are truly once-in-a-lifetime... no one will ever duplicate the vibe that you get from "Dead Presidents II". But the songs that are bad, are just bad (bad as in fucking terrible)... and there are at least 3 or 4 of them.

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

Now to sound contradicting, I will give this album an 86. Because even though it doesn't look right on my grade scale... the good songs more than make up for the bad ones. But they just do not make this album a classic or a must-have. At the same time they do make it an album you should probably download:

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Do you see the resemblance?

Who is this fucking white boy? Mac Lethal aka David Sheldon is renowned for his freestyling abilities primarily because of his victory at Scribble Jam (the World Series of rap battling). And the only way you would know about Mac is if you keep up with the underground rap gladiator scene (admittedly unlikely), or with the increasingly impressive rap label "Rhymesayers". In Minnesota, mainly Minneapolis, Rhymesayers is a really big deal... they draw pretty small audiences to their local concerts but still appeal as more than just a grassroots indie hip hop label. Slug (frontman of Atmosphere) is responsible for the rise of indie hip hop, in Minnesota if nowhere else... it's also pretty big in New York (what isn't?) and in California. He has been signing no name talents to his label, and equipping them with no name production for years... and his label is now seen as a viable alternative to big record labels. Either this year, or maybe a few years before, Slug was able to land MF Doom, king of underground hip-hop and comic-book hip-hop. (honestly a fascinating subgenre) He was also able to lure David Sheldon (already forgot about him?) to his Minneapolis recording studios, to re-record the album that may have gotten him signed in the first place. If you like this album, and are inclined to hear more of Mac Lethal, I strongly advise you not to listen to his first album, which is worse than fucking horrible. He has a series called "The Love Potion Collection" and it's actually pretty good, we'll see if I get around to reviewing it. The hard and discouraging part about reviewing unknown artists is building a base or any sort of comparison to the artist. I will say this beforehand, if you are looking for lyricism, Mac Lethal has got it in fucking spades. Please check him out.

The Good:

1. Backward- The lyricism is unrivaled, I will proudly proclaim this as an indie/underground classic... that any hip hop fan has an obligation to hear.

2. Calm Down Baby- This reminds me of Wale's ADD tracks... Mac has a really hard time staying on subject, but his delivery and on point rhyming just sounds really fucking good.

3. Rotten Apple Pie- I found myself vibing to this song. The flow slows down, and the instrumental is awesome.

4. Makeout Bandit- A carefree and harmless waste of 3 minutes and 42 seconds of your life.

6. Jihad- Why do I like this song? All his comments about celebrities are right on. I've been saying Fuck Dane Cook for a long time... and worshipping Hedberg and Carlin for quite a while.

7. Crazy- I knew I wasn't the only to receive that e-mail from the Nigerian president...

10. Die Slow- After having his fun... Mac gets back to flowing insanely, and this track is truly remarkable.

11. Lithium Lips- Mac's attempt at storytelling is fully entertaining. You'll have to listen to this one a few times.

12. Tell Me Goodbye- Listen to this and think about the Sean Bell tributes, and all the Biggie and Pac references.

13. Sunstorm- Only Mac Sheldon could make a song displaying himself as an insensitive, cynical piece of shit. And then the next song he makes a sentimental outro. As contradictory as it seems, this song is really good... maybe the best off the whole album.

So, my longest post is regarding an unknown artist whom no one will ever care about. Maybe you shouldn't, as there is nothing morally comforting about this album... but if your looking for introspective lyrics and modern social commentary you will definitely find it... and you might just find yourself vibing to this album.

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

I give this album a 83, as much as you want to love this album, you can't. The lyricism is great, at times unparalleled... but at times, the combo of weak production and repetitive lyrics will put you to sleep. I would definitely recommend a download, because this is an album you have to hear and decide for yourself...

Download Here

Comments always welcome

Who says I'm not into alternative rap? MURS aka Nick Carter has been Making Underground Raw Shit (the acronym for MURS) for over 10 years now. He has affiliations with the Living Legends, The 3 Melancholy Gypsies, and FELT with Atmosphere's head man: Slug. And who was MURS able to snag to produce this whole album? None other than the production king of alt rap: 9th Wonder. And what sets MURS apart from the other thousands of unique west-coast rappers who own their own label and operate outside of the hyphy movement? For one, he has a somewhat embarrassing namesake, but more importantly he has the arrogance of a man who knows how to control the mic, and has made his name for himself in the underground without glossy hustle anthems and Lil Wayne features... that is someone I can respect.

The Good:

1. Murs Day- This instrumental could make nails scratching a chalk board sound poetic. Murs' ability to grasp a mic and your attention is quite vivid on this track.

2. Murray's Law- Listen to the man's lyrics people... he's actually saying something beyond "Fuck bitches and get money".

4. Barbershop- Just kick Phonte out and you got a better version of Little Brother, Pooh is somehow able to evoke that Southern California in the summer mood.

5. Yesterday & Today- This is an anthem for everyone 9-5ing. And the production is just amazing.

6. Dreamchaser- And this is alternative/underground rap at it's best.

7. L.A.- The ever-present rep your city/hood presented in a unique context. Mr. Carter spits some hot shit all over this jazzy 9th instrumental.

9. D.S.W.G. (Dark Skinned White Girls)- I got to say the "Excuse me" sample fucking rocks, as does the whole production job which makes MURS' average lyrics sound a hell of a lot better.

This album is a great introduction to the other type of West-Coast rap. 9th Wonder does an amazing job, he has a few bad songs, but all the rest are amazing, not amazing as in good, amazing as in really FUCKING good. MURS is an average lyricist with way above average delivery, every punchline just sounds that much better...

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

I give this album a 73... it's a decent listen, and I know you will love at least one of the songs:

Download Here

After creating "Illmatic", which would take a while to reach it's now legendary status, Nasir Jones embarked on a campaign to change his image to a "mafioso rapper". The first step was to adopt the nickname Nas Escobar... after the infamous drug lord. The new image was created to appeal to the mainstream... where you had to be a gangster to sell gangster rap (still the same today). The new image was complemented with new producers whose name spelled success, (Dr.Dre for example) and with the new instrumentals Nasir created his best-selling album. So I guess you could say that he succeeded. Some argue that he sold out, and some argue that this is his second classic. Like always, the decision is yours:

The Good:

2. The Message- Maybe the best song ever made.

3. Street Dreams- The hook is terrible, but the lyricism is incomparable.

4. I Gave You Power- This song is legendary for good reason, the storytelling and metaphors were ahead of their times.

5. Watch Dem Niggas- This is a song that could easily fit on Illmatic, but to feed his image, Nas featured Foxy Brown on the hook. Still, you will find yourself involuntarily nodding to this track.

6. Take It In Blood- This song is astonishing, astounding, fantastic, incredible, marvelous, miraculous, phenomenal, prodigious, stupendous, unbelievable, wonderful, wondrous and most importantly Illmatic (yeah the album is now a noun).

8. Affirmative Action- The pure brilliance of this song was probably the motivation to create the ill-advised group "The Firm" consisting of: Cormega, AZ, NaS, and Foxy Brown.

9. The Set Up- Another Firm cut that turns out pretty well.

10. Black Girl Lost- This is Nas' lyrical and heartfelt attempt at "I Can".

12. Shootouts- Different beat, different story, different hook, same sense of admiration.

13. Live Nigga Rap- If this was just a Mobb song, it would already be considered a classic, but it's obvious that Nas has an obligation to outshine Havoc and Prodigy.

14. If I Ruled The World (Imagine That)- This song shows Nas' evolution. He started as a ghetto poet but evolved into a hip hop legend that scorched tracks with social commentary... the 90's version of Public Enemy.

This is a perfect way to conclude: "The lyrics were there, but some of the emotion was gone. Maybe it was the world around Nas changing, or maybe it was changing in himself, but no one can listen to this after Illmatic and not see a change... If Illmatic was the kind of nightmare you can't wake up from and don't really want too, then IWW is a regular dream, not quite "real" but enjoyable all the same."- Joe Katz

As much as I agree with Mr. Katz quote, you will notice more storytelling, which constricts Nas from expanding lyrically like he did on Illmatic. And most importantly, the emotion isn't gone... the production is completely different, and at lots of times just doesn't work.

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

I give this album a 89, there's no argument to it's "classic" status... but the one or two bad songs really detach from the listening experience. I would recommend a purchase... or at least a download:

Hip Hop that Don't Stop

This is ultimately the CD that proved Kanye's worthiness to the hip-hop community, his sophomore album avoided the jinx and sold an amazing 850,000 and change albums in the first week. By today's standards that's a feat only Wayne can perform, but back in the day (2005) people had some pretty insane expectations for Kanye... and he more than proved his worthwhileness. Dude was everywhere from MTV to Rap City to 106 & Park, and everyone was loving it. He even semi-created the new Kanye (Lupe) and became the new Jay-Z... all this for a guy who spent years selling beats as a career. Foreshadowing "Graduation" this album features a few of the party anthems which would make up most of Kanye's next album, yet there were still the soulful heartfelt tracks from Kanye's debut. So, where does this album rank compared to the other two...

The Good:

2. Heard Em Say- This song always reminded me of "Through The Wire" even though they are completely different. The same soulful Kanye instrumental for which he became legendary.

3. Touch The Sky- Most of the world's introduction to Lupe Fiasco, and it could not have come over a better beat.

6. Drive Slow- Where did this song come from? This is the song to drive slow to, especially with rap's reigning mechanic Paul Wall spitting some hot shit all over this instrumental.

7. My Way Home- Amazing. Period.

9. Roses- For a song that was supposed to be really heartfelt, it's somewhat weird how Kanye jumps off subject all the time... but it's a pretty good song.

13. Diamonds From Sierra Leone Remix- The remix is before the original... but this version actually stays on topic of blood diamonds. And Jay's verse is just sick.

14. We Major- Try not to enjoy this song... amazing production job. This shit just sounds really good.

16. Hey Mama- This is what "Roses" tries to be. This is probably the best storytelling that Kanye could ever achieve.

19. Gone- A little long, but it's a good song.

21. Late- It takes a little while to become used to the tempo and flow of this song... but it's one of the better tracks off the album.

This is the best of Kanye's 3 albums, and this is what ultimately sold "Graduation", this album was so successful because Kanye transcended markets. People in the South were looking forward to new album after "Drive Slow" and hip hop heads were looking forward to the new album after the NaS collab.

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

This album earns a 86... ultimately I'd advise buying it, but since you won't:
Once again, comments welcome

Download here

Sorry it's been a few days and I've been pretty busy...
I've decided to do a Kanye West trifecta, simply because I'm lazy and have heard both of the remaining albums quite a few times. It was early 2004 when most of the world was introduced to Kanye West. To know him before you'd have to be a hip hop head who actually reads the liner notes... for production values... on CD's. Kanye has long been a great producer, the hip-hop world has endured countless stories about how Mr. West locks himself up in the studio and creats beats. Which somehow qualifies to be the most outspoken pro-black black man on the universe. No other rapper has ever been so Afro-centric, Afrika Bambaataa has almost nothing on Kanye (bit of an overstatement). All audiences appreciated the first effort by the newly found Roc-A-Fella gem. I think Jay was behind the song selection for this album, as there were songs for everyone, but you'll soon see.

The Good:

2. We Don't Care- This is Kanye West in a lot more than a nutshell. Conscious and smart lyrics draped in soulful jazzy instrumentals.

6. Spaceship- This instrumental gives me goosebumps everytime, and this is just an introduction to GLC and Consequence who are regular visitors on Kanye's albums.

7. Jesus Walks- How controversial was this song a few years ago? It sounds the same, and is still the same average song that catapulted Kanye to superstardom.

8. Never Let Me Down- This is a great song... kind of weird that the hook overlaps Jay's verse, but not very many bad things to say about this track.

9. Get Em High- Is this the same Kanye, the moral crusader who won a Grammy for terrorizing the FCC of radio stations, who wouldn't allow him to make a song about Jesus? Yet he makes a Lil Wyte esque song... And irony of ironies this song is actually really good.

12. Slow Jamz- This is the new age Barry West, a contemporary song that sets the mood.

13. Breathe In, Breathe Out- I know a different southern rapper who could have bragged circles around Ludacris, and maybe thrown in his YEeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaaaa (not Lil Jon).

15. School Spirit- "We Don't Care" part 2... except it stays on subject.

18. Two Words- I've got two words: Great song.

19. Through The Wire- The infamous song that Kanye recorded through a mouth brace, and this song still sounds just as good as it did the first time Kurt Loder introduced it.

20. Family Business- Who else makes songs like this? Only Kanye.

It's almost an unspoken rule that every good rapper's first album will always be his best, and Kanye is no exception, this album is very impressive. It was back in the day, and it still is. This album marks Kanye's transition from cocky producer to cocky rapper that produces his own shit.

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

I give this album a 82, it's a solid listen all the way through. And as always I got you.
Comments always welcome.

Download Here

If it's your first time on this site, check the labels before you make an opinion. For others, this is my first try at underground Southern rap, and I think I found a worthwhile candidate. Judge Dredd is a cat who I've wanted to give a fair listen, and I advise that you give this dude a chance too. When it comes to Lil Flip, it's a different story, I guess he somehow got a rep for being good at battling, but judging by his verses this dude can't rhyme to save his fucking life. Sadly, Judge Dredd is a Flip affiliate, which can't possibly be a good career choice... but maybe I'll be proved wrong (I hope so).

The Good:

1. The Answer- A good southern lyricist? Nah... well... maybe.

3. Glocks Up- This is actually a good song, watch Dredd show up everyone at the end. Even Flip is good on this track.

8. They Like Me- The first one that's actually halfway decent, and Flip actually gets somewhat lyrical.

11. H-Town Dreams- Over The Game's "Dreams" and it's actually a good cover. Shit sounds hot.

12. Members Only- Where do I know this beat from? This song sounds really fucking good. The reggae singer is overkill, but you do what you can.

15. GB Run This- I don't know what to say about this song, a completely different beat that actually fits, and the lyricism is impressive.

17. What The Verdict- No rap outro, instead a good song, that fits topic. Wow.

This mixtape is really shaky, which is definitely what I expected, there's a lot of garbage, but there are a few good songs.

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

I give this album a 53. I wouldn't recommend it but as always the decision is yours:

Download Here

When you think gritty you think 90's East Coast hip-hop, and when you think of that specific genre, one name stand as it's whole representation: Big L. The accredited inventor of horrorcore rap, L's style has paved the way for many of today's most controversial names in rap. He is also one of the least known rhymers that could still contend for the title of "Greatest Of All Time". As a 19 year old (note it) Lamont Coleman joined the group D.I.T.C. where he created his first hype, as a sidestory Lord Finesse(the "talent manager" of D.I.T.C.) wasn't even looking for another artist, but once he came upon L spitting rhymes, it was a no-brainer. This album came out in 95, and 4 years later L began to write "The Big Picture" which sadly was released as a posthumous album. L was set to sign to Roc-A-Fella in a week. But instead of living in sorrow of what could have been enjoy the immortal classic from an artist that will never be forgotten.

The Good:(Essentially a track by track write up)

Track #1- Put It On- All rappers pay attention this is a rap intro... I've heard my fair share of "Scarface" and "Goodfella" quotes and none of them compare to this track. Kid Capri is the Ol' Dirty Bastard of D.I.T.C.

Track #2- MVP- This song and most importantly the instrumental takes you back to mid 1990's Harlem. An appropriately titled track that proves L's claim as GOAT and MVP.

Track #4- 8 Is Enuff- This is the type of posse cut that was cool to make back in the 90's. And not surprisingly all these dudes can spit.

Track #5- All Black- This song is "How To Make Death Threats Poetic for Idiots". More of the same, amazing lyricism over the same beat that you will hear from track to track. "I know a good way to gather your family, and it ain't a family reunion"

Track #6- Danger Zone- The classic block reppin track, which is illuminated by sadistic yet lovable rhymes.

Track #7- Street Struck- You might be able to take this song seriously, I wasn't able to. I still admire the lyricism though.

Track #8- Da Graveyard- Another posse cut that goes hard from beginning to end. Maybe the hardest beat off the whole album.

Track #9- Lifestylez Ov Da Poor & Dangerous- How good does L sound over the door bell sample? Real fucking good. Eugene...Hey Arnold...Harlem...Gerald...Big L?

Track #10- I Don't Understand It- Imagine if this song was made today, I doubt this would be the same upbeat song. South..Cough..Lil Wayne..Cough..50 cent.

Track #11- Fed Up With The Bullshit- This is the East Coast's version of "Fuck Tha Police" under a more politically correct name. If nothing else listen to this song for the rant against taxi drivers.

Track #12- Let Em Have It L- And a lyricistic farewell it is. All rappers pay attention this is a rap outro.

This album is the peak of lyricism, maybe other rappers have rhymed better than L, but nobody does it as consistently and as easily. This album would be a fucking classic were it acapella (which it might as well be)... because after the first 20 minutes you'll start to notice that the beats all sound the same. Probably the only blemish on an otherwise very impressive debut and finale.


0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

I give this album a 87, if you find a blend version of this album that's actually good... PLEASE let me know. Were this better produced it may have been the best album ever. But the lyricism itself is something anyone can admire:

Real Hip Hop right here

One more Game for ya ass. When did The Game really gain support for his claim that he was "bringing the West back"? I hopped on the bandwagon after this album, because even though "The Documentary" was good, it was boring. The production was a lot more varied on this album too... because after one album Game decided he could travel the path to greatness without the Doctor. It helps that Game finally found out he can't beef with everyone (dude has a pretty lengthy yet impressive resume). There isn't so much name-calling on this album. It looks like "Big Dreams" targeted everyone Game ever beefed with. And now that he put 50 behind him we can finally recognize him for something other than the over dramatized theatrics between the two. On a more celebratory note, I can honestly say this is a classic West Coast album, put it right next to Dre's classics, Cube's, and Andre Nickatina's (reviews coming soon). For all y'all that know about Dre Dog. Dare I say that "Doctor's Advocate" is better than "L.A.X."? We shall find out.

The Good:

Track #1-Lookin At You- This is a Don King track in every sense of the expression. The sample in the middle of the track is just menacing, as is the beat.

Track #2- Da Shit- The beat bangs and Game controls your ears for the few minutes this track lasts. Not much substance, but you can definitely bang this one.

Track #3- It's Okay (One Blood)- Is this song overhyped? Not at all. All the name-dropping you could ever hope for. Yet it's probably one of the best songs of 2006.

Track #4- Compton- Not a song you would ever expect Will.I.Am. to produce, but the instrumental itself summarizes the Compton movement.

Track #5- Remedy- Just Blaze provides a blitzkrieg of turntabling, piano, and thumping bass. And while this isn't Game at his best, it is definitely something any rap fan can appreciate.

Track #7- Too Much- Soft piano lends the musical background to Game's lyrical annihilation.

Track #9- Scream On Em- Actually a worthwhile contribution from Swizz Beatz. This song goes back and forth, first Game rapes this song into submission, then he goes easy, and in the third verse he finishes the job.

Track #10- One Night-I love the beat, and the raw emotion and story telling makes this the most memorable song so far, and even the weak hook doesn't subtract from this track.

Track #11- Doctor's Advocate- "Start From Scratch" part 2.

Track #12- Ol English- This song could easily be on "Eazy Duz It". Game's storytelling here is classic, and hats off to Hi-Tek.

Track #13- California Vacation- I can imagine that this track was on replay at west coast radio stations for a loooong time. The beat bangs, Game murders it, Snoop almost ruins it, but Xzibit brings it back, and maybe even outrhymes Game. Why does every mainstream rapper feel burdened to include Snoop on their albums?

Track #14- Bang- Kurupt and Daz are more than welcome on this track. And you've got the hardest song off the album.

Track #15- Around The World- I've never liked these types of songs. But I'll admit that this track is good.

Track #16-Why You Hate The Game- Whoa...all I can say, Game decides to make an album full of bangers and then features NaS on the very last track. Blaze's beat is sick, Escobar's lines are fucking ill, and Game straight murders shit. Love this track. "I don't talk about my guns nigga I just blaze". I guess it's smart to put this track at the end to tempt hip-hop fans with what could one day be. What a farewell.

This album follows "The Documentary's" formula perfectly, half the songs are bangers, and half are heartfelt songs full of raw emotion. The difference between the two album is The Game's maturation as a lyricist and his menacing presence on the mic.

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

I give this album a 92. The Game sounds like a completely new artist from The Documentary... and every hip hop fan should pick this album up. I'm not even going to give you any babble about how weak and defenseless I am to providing links for my readers:

Download Here

For someone who created gangsta rap Ice Cube has received an insane amount of flak for his roles in PG movies. From NWA to WC to all of his other ventures, Cube not only created gangsta rap, but rap in general, before N.W.A. all we had was hip-hop. But if we all judged music by people's character, then 50 Cent wouldn't exist, Eazy E would never be a legend, and Common would take Nas's place as God's Son. Altogether I wondered what Cube's album would be about after seeing him in those Disney ass movies. I wasn't expecting "Kill at Will", "Death Certificate" or "The Predator" but I wasn't expecting a soundtrack to "Are We Done Yet" either. One more thing, I don't respect Cube trying to appease his gangsta rap fans with this album, after creating his Twinky soft films. But give this album a listen, you might be surprised, and check out his new album (I'll review it soon).

The Good:

Track #2- Why We Thugs- Probably as commercial as Cube can get, this is obviously a single, it's catchy, and for some reason I like it.

Track #3- Smoke Some Weed- This will probably be your favorite song after you listen to the whole album, it is abrasive and the definition of gangsta rap.

Track #5- Child Support- Cube is done?!? CUBE IS DONE??? Didn't think so. "You want child support GET IT OUTCHA ASS BITCH!" This is a fucking banger.

Track #7- Doin What It Pose 2 Do- This track does what it pose 2 do. Another banger... listen to this shit loud.

Track #8- Laugh Now, Cry Later- This track appropriately summarizes the whole album. Some funny storytelling, in a style only Cube can spit it.

Track #9- Stop Snitchin- Dammnn... Cube ain't kidding... who can fuck with this? Even Swizz Beatz produces some hot shit.

Track #10- Go To Church- Cube keeps rolling, a 4 track winning streak now... I can't say I love this song as much as the others. Lil Jon's beat is pretty sick, Cube's hook and verses are sick as usual and even Snoop delivers.

Track #11- Nigga Trapp- A different type of track, an insightful look at Ice Cube, the gangsta rapper who promotes safe sex and steers away from his ghetto anthems. This is a song for all the hip hop heads.

Track #13- Growin' Up- One more song for the hip hop heads, this shows you who Cube really is. And the beat fits perfectly... gotta love this quick autobiography.

Track #14- Click Clack, Get Back- And Cube gets back to the bangers, and this beat could overpower most rappers, but most rappers do not go by O'Shea Jackson. He murders this song.

Track #15- The Game Lord- This is actually a below average track compared to the above tracks. Still it's pretty good.

Track #16- Chrome&Paint- This song takes me back to the mid 90's... you would never guess this song was made in 2006. A nostalgic experience to say the least.

Track #17- Steal The Show- Definitely a single for the ladies but it's still enjoyable.

Track #19- Spittin Pollaseeds- I wonder where the idea for this song came... Kokane's hook is dreadful, but Cube annihilates this track and the beat is great.

Track #20- Holla @ Cha Boy- The best Lil Jon could ever do, and it's an impressive track to end on.

I used to like this album, but once I listened to it again, I realized how impressive this album really is. It's more than a way to silence the critics but really provides his fans motivation to buy his new album (Go COP that shit).

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

I give this album a 93. It is an album you can listen from cover to cover. You should cop this shit and "Raw Footage" but since I love my readers so much:

Download NOW!!

Leave me some comments, tell me how I'm doin...
One

This is the guy that Nick Hogan (Hulk's son) paralyzed and nearly murdered. Nick is doing a year sentence, and is still bitching... watch this video and tell me you don't think he deserved fucking life in prison.

Quick, whose the best Latin MC ever? If you didn't say Big Pun, your in luck, ya boy has got you. I've always been mesmerized by Big Pun's rhyming abilities, he provides more substance in 10 seconds than most rappers do in a whole song. It almost seems like he wastes his lines by rapping so quickly, but that adds to his legend. Ironically, Fat Joe found Big Pun and singed him to the still present Terror Squad, and Pun quickly proved to be a great investment for Joey Crack. Probably the only good signing Fat Joe has ever made, and the sadder thing is the death of Big Pun from a stroke. Imagine if Big L, Big Pun, and Biggie Smalls had never died, us hip hop fans would be spoiled. For now enjoy the Latin "Illmatic".

Track #2- Beware- very simple beat that introduces Big Pun as a stone cold track murderer, or maybe a serial killer. I think this line says it all: "Y'all niggas can't do shit to me, physically, lyrically, hypothetically, realistically I'm the epitome".

Track #3- Super Lyrical- Pun rhymes circles around Black Thought, a great rhymer on this track. Pun is literally super lyrical. The turntabling, hook and the "aah" sample actually makes this a memorable beat.

Track #5- Still Not A Player- This track is acclaimed, I don't see it, but it's definitely enjoyable.

Track #7-The Dream Shatterer- Pun goes off and I believe comes with his best lines of the album, if not, definitely his best metaphors. The beat is awkward yet it does the trick. The hook just fits and this is a great song.

Track #8- Punish Me-This song is so well made you may not notice this awkward threat: "I want to raise my little man but you keep on resisting, I'm insisting you chill before you end up missing".

Track #10- You Ain't A Killer- If you don't listen to anything else, check this song out. It's classic. One of the best of the 90's.

Track #13- Glamour Life- the track is gritty as fuck, ironically, Pun has 4 guest verses on this track, yet all of them spit fire, and Pun's hook is pretty good too. The beat is simple, but fits the verses perfectly.

Track #14- Capitol Punishment- The rhyming is on another level on this song, and the beat fits like a sock.

Track #19- Boomerang- It's hard to find anything bad to say about this song. It's perfect.

Track #21- Tres Leches/ Triboro Trilogy- Banging this song could make anyone feel hard. This song defines the Wu-Tang and 90's raps perfectly.

Track #23- Fast Money- Once you warm up to this song, you will notice that it's pretty good.

I love this album, no matter how many times I listen to it, it holds up every time. It is just sad what Pun could have done, if it wouldn't have been for his early demise.

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

I give this album a 89. Almost all the tracks are amazing, but there is a lot of interludes, and a few bad tracks. I'd definitely cop this shit and support good music, but since you won't here you go:

Get It Right Now, Right Here

It only seems fitting to review Mr. West's album after 50's, and after the tragic passing of Mr. Bernie Mac. (R.I.P.) Who else can claim the title of being the best producer and the most outspoken person in the world? First, the "Bush doesn't care about black people", that one was justified. But when Kanye stood up for Soulja Boy in the Ice-T beef, I could be sure that Kanye was no longer the same artist that he was 2 years ago. "Late Registration" and "College Dropout",(both to be reviewed) were innovative albums full of the soulful anthems that Kanye would become known for. Each was different yet good in their own way. Kanye wasn't making music for the mainstream, he was making music to make it. But in "Graduation" he OBVIOUSLY targets the two biggest markets in hip-hop: "women who just want to dance" and "people who watch MTV for good music". But don't let me bully you into an opinion:

The Good:

Track #3- Stronger- I laugh every time Kanye says "does anyone even make real shit anymore", because this song is the farthest from real shit... but it's pretty good for a single. A track for the ladies, that the men can somewhat appreciate.

Track #4- I Wonder- THIS is what made Kanye who he is...these are the beats we miss on his albums, it's too bad he only spits like 20 bars.

Track #5- Good Life- Although I fucking hate T-Pain, I will admit he puts in work on this track... another decent single, but the verses have nothing of value.

Track #6- Can't Tell Me Nothing- I remember when this song came out, everyone was going crazy over the hook: "I had a dream I could buy my way to heaven, when I awoke I spent that on a necklace". Is this the same dude that produced Common's classics? But, this track is still ironically good. Even the lines are on. Probably the best so far.

Track #7- Barry Bonds- Kanye tries to outboast Lil Wayne, and needless to say he doesn't succeed, because it's impossible. Combined with the beat, this song is a guilty pleasure, a track any hip hop head knows they shouldn't like... but is actually pretty good.

Track #9- Flashing Lights- The metaphors on this track are just fire, and the beat makes this a song that will take a while to get out of your head.

Track #10- Everything I Am- DJ Preemo? on a Kanye album? Guru's better half actually provides a soulful Kanye beat, and Kanye actually makes a song with a message.

Track #11- The Glory- Bang this shit!! As loud as you can. Amazing.

Track #12- Homecoming- I was pissed once I realized this was a recycled pair of verses, but they sound a lot better over this instrumental.

Track #14- Good Night- Why was this a bonus? The only blemish on this track is the Tony Yayo (is that him) line. Mos Def hook is beautiful.

Track #15- Bittersweet Poetry- I love everything about this song, the beat is innovative yet fitting. Once again, one of the better tracks was a bonus.

This isn't really a Kanye album, but there is still plenty of songs that any hip hop fan could enjoy. I wonder if Kanye edited this album because of 50's offer (which he strangely hasn't stuck to).

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

I give this album a 64. Don't expect a great album, but you will definitely find some good songs. Here's the link mayne:

Download Here

These days Curtis Jackson seems to only have the support of G-Unit, and most importantly Marshall Mathers. But a short while ago, Mr. 50 seemed to have the support of every person living on the planet Earth. The "Get Rich Or Die Tryin" soundtrack was a celebrated piece of work, it still is in some circles. And his album appropriately named before the movie, (instead of after) sold an amazing 12 million copies. Remember this was 2003, I think, the Internet and downloading were already very harmful assets to the music industry... which makes this Herculean feat even more impressive. Imagine anyone nowadays going 12 time platinum, as much as I love The Game, L.A.X. would be lucky to even go 3 times platinum. So, needless to say, I was never a 50 Cent fan, but I decided to feel experimental and gave his monster album a listen:

The Good: Be prepared, there is not a lot

Track #4-Many Men- I think many hip hop heads can even appreciate this song, Darrell Branch's effort is simply amazing, and from the hook to the lines, 50 comes with a stellar effort.

Track #8-If I Can't- Dr.Dre provides something halfway decent, 50 provides some good lines(probably below average for other rappers) and this track turns out pretty good.

Track #11- P.I.M.P.- This was the best single, the lyrics aren't good... but the hook and beat are simply addictive.

Track #14- 21 Questions- Midi Mafia + Nate Dogg = An amazing track, nobody in the world besides 50 could ruin.

This is not a good album by any means, but it is easy to see how this album could have sold 12 million copies... but I doubt any real hip hop fans could ever appreciate this effort.

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

I give this album a 48. I probably wouldn't post a link if it wasn't my policy. Here you go my two ignorant 50 Cent fans.

Download Here

One word is all that you have to say to remind people of NaSiR JoNeS's legendary status: Illmatic. Illmatic is not just an album, it was a way of life back in the 90's... any one who lived in NYC back in the 90's can attest to the validity of NaS's vivid storytelling. This is widely considered one of the best albums to ever be made and it's puny by today's standards (only 10 songs). Some argue that NaS was ever able to measure up to Illmatic, and I thoroughly agree, "It Was Written" is an amazing album in it's own right, "Stillmatic" really did prove that NaS is still Illmatic, and "Hip Hop Is Dead" opened a forum that is still today discussed. Is hip hop really dead? No living hip hop artist has garnered as much respect as NaS besides his former enemy Sean Carter... but that's a different story. Now to review the album to which all other great albums are compared to.

Although foolish, The Good:

Track #2-NY State Of Mind- DJ Premier does an amazing job on this beat, I read somewhere that MC Serch once said that Primo and Nas were like brothers how they fit each other. Nas does an immaculate job rhyming on this song, every line is perfect, and I love the hook on this song. This is an amazing introduction to the album, it's almost impossible to tire of this song.

3. Life's A Bitch- Nas does it again, the jazzy elements lend to a great instrumental, and the lines are legendary. AZ almost keeps up with Nas' nearly immaculate lines. This song is a hip hop classic, and for good reason. This song has been referenced thousands of time. The best part of the whole song is Nas' father ending this classic track.

4. The World Is Yours- Uncomparable, Pete Rock creates one of the best instrumentals of all time. Nas' lines are impeccable, not one line that is weak. His flow is amazing, and this song has instant repeatable potential. This may be the best song ever. ** This MAY BE THE BEST SONG EVER!!!

5. Halftime- This is a different song from what you have quickly grown used to, it does the trick in a different way, NaS' lines are amazing once again, and Large Professor from Main Source, provides a LARGE beat to operate over.

6. Memory Lane- The beginning of this track is legendary, and for good reason, can anyone top these lyrics:

I rap for listeners, blunt heads, fly ladies and prisoners
Hennessy holders and old school niggas, then I be dissin a
Unofficial that smoke woolie thai
I dropped out of Cooley High, gassed up by a cokehead cutie pie
Jungle survivor, fuck who's the liver
My man put the battery in my back, a difference from Energizer
Sentence begins indented, with formality
My duration's infinite, money-wise or physiology
Poetry, that's a part of me, retardedly bop
I drop the ancient manifested hip-hop, straight off the block
I reminisce on park jams, my man was shot for his sheep coat
Childhood lesson made me see him drop in my weed smoke

For my money that may be the best verse I've ever heard/read. And not enough can be said about DJ Premier's production job on this song, the sampling, the turntabling, is just simply put perfect.

8. One Time 4 Your Mind- This track is Large Professor at his best, a very slow beat, which Nas destroys, again coming with some crazy lines, and the hook is "phat" as they say 10 times to many on this track.

9. Represent- Goddamn Premier has done it again, Nas' rhymes are infinitely close to godliness on this song, maybe his best performance on the album. And Premier, well let's just say you could have this track on repeat for the whole day, and still get goosebumps when Nas rips shit up.

10. It Ain't Hard To Tell- The first time I heard it, I was expecting another Premier track to finish off this classic album, but this "critically acclaimed" track leaves something to be desired. I don't hate this track, but definitely not a song that belongs on Illmatic. This track is way to pretty to be played after DJ Premier, but maybe I just need time for the beat to grow on me. Large Professor's blunder does not stop Nas' on this track as he just annihilates this song, can't really hope for more when it comes to lyrics.

This album is a tale of two cities, you have the gritty beats from DJ Premier which NaS' illuminates with his ghetto tales. And you have the "sittin in the park" beats from Large Professor which NaS' illuminates with his ghetto tales. This is one of the best albums ever made. Period.

0-20: Terrible listening experience
21-40: Maybe one good song
41-60: A few good songs
61-80: Half are good songs, half are weak
81-100: Great listening experience, almost all are great songs

I give this album a 95, I think it's as close to 100 as any album will get. Amazing... Buy it, please, but if my pleads won't do (said sadly) enjoy

Press this fucking button, right now