Murs (from Living Legends) and Slug (from Atmosphere) return with their third Felt project entitled Felt3: A Tribute To Rosie Perez. For those of you who don’t know, Felt reaches out to a new producer for each album. On the first felt (A Tribute To Christina Ricci), the album featured production by Living Legend member The Grouch. The second album (A Tribute To Lisa Bonet) was produced by Atmosphere’s Ant. This time around they went outside of their groups and selected indie artist/producer Aesop Rock. Murs and Slug picked the right guy if they want a real indie sounding album. Let’s just hope that the three have good chemistry in doing so.

In my opinion, Murs and Slug are two of the most underrated emcees. They have both spent over ten years in the game, and are still looking for some respect. Both of these guys would definitely be in my top five underground artists. Slug had arguably the best album last year with When Life Gives You Lemons…. Murs’ first album with 9th Wonder (Murs 3:16 – The 9th Edition) is acclaimed to be an underground classic. Plus, what is there not to like about these two. If you listen close enough, their lyrics relate more to you than most other Hip-Hop today.

1. Protagonists
Produced by Aesop Rock
This is the first (internet) single to promote the album. Aesop shapes a nice beat that Murs and Slug can spit over. Aesop is not afraid to display his producing style as he throws some nice guitars on the beat. This song explains what Felt is about, and I believe is a message to the fans that claimed they sold out. Here is a line Murs uses to prove his point, “We still spittin’ on that indie bullshit, Legends, Rhymsayers, Def Jux, the full clip”. This is a great start to the album.

2. Felt Chewed Up
Produced by Aesop Rock
If you think the first song didn’t sound “underground” enough, then this will definitely twist your perspective. Aesop hits us with a beat that is reminiscent of Daddy X’s (Kottonmouth Kings) style. This song explains how Felt has been chewed up (in the rap game), but are still doing their thing. Once again, Murs shines on a few verses which show why he is a leader of the underground, “Our rhymes have a little bit more to give, so I give it, and I stay on tour to live”. Then, later, “I do it big on the independent tip, new car, no rims on the whip”. If that isn’t a hot underground line, then I don’t know what is.

3. Get Cake
Produced by Aesop Rock
Aesop definitely makes his presence with the funky beat on the interlude “Get Cake”. This song sounds like it should be on a Cage album. I liked the video of this song to help promote the album, but I don’t think this should have made the final copy… well maybe if it wasn’t an interlude.

4. Bass For Your Truck
Produced by Aesop Rock
Both Murs and Slug trade verses about a girl with serious issues. This is no surprise for Slug because he always has a couple of these songs on his albums. Murs keeps the same type of formula for this song and does it well. However, I’d still give the edge to Slug. He has one of the best styles of illustrating narratives. Another good thing about this track is the beat provided by Aesop Rock. You wouldn’t think the beat would fit the type of lyrics, but Murs and Slug have no problem with it. This is a definite standout for me.

5. Like You
Produced by Aesop Rock
This track helps explain my introduction on how Felt is just like you and I. Their lyrics let you know that they are no better than you, and no different than you. This is why underground groups like Felt can do tours constantly. They are a Hip-Hop group that actually performs in front of their peers. The song has some nice lyrics now and then, but nothing that really stands out.

6. Permanent Standby
Produced by Aesop Rock
Murs and Slug tell you two stories that involve some girls that went down the wrong path. Murs starts off telling you a tale about a girl who got lost in the big city. The story goes from a cocaine addiction to being taken advantage of to becoming a whore. In the end, she realizes she is too real for a city of plastic (hmm sounds like Vegas) and moves away from the city. Slug steps up next and speaks on girl that moved from the Desert to the Midwest. This girl not only goes through the cocaine and whore stage, but turns into an alcoholic as well. This narrative ends when the girl finds out that the Midwest is not for her too. The two emcees are real even when you compare them on this track. They both speak on similar stories and both display the art of storytelling.

7. Kevin Spacey
Produced by Aesop Rock
Aesop drops his second interlude. It’s just as crazy as the first with wild voice samples. However, I prefer the first one over this.

8. Ghost Dance Deluxe
Produced by Aesop Rock
After one listen, this song quickly reminds me of “My Alien Girlfriend” off Molemen’s Killing Fields album. They both are about those certain type of females that seem too real to be true (such as a ghost or alien). The haunting beat really fits the theme of the song. The only difference between Murs and Slug’s verses is how they respond to the topic. Basically, Murs is the unbeliever and Slug is the believer. I’m feelin’ this one.

9. Revisiting The Styleetron
Produced by Aesop Rock
Next up is an energetic track that will make about anybody in the mood to party. Slug drops an interesting verse, “I’m like X-Y-& Z, I stick by the back door, let it go free, that’s what the track’s for, my jobby job is rock a party, taught your mommy to karaoke La Di Da Di”. This line may not sound too clever, but you have to realize that this song (“La Di Da Di”) is one of the most sung songs in hip hop. This is how I like to see people use swagger.

10. Whaleface
Produced by Aesop Rock
This is the first (non-instrumental) track that I would find average. Murs and Slug compare those haters (you know the ones who think their shit don’t stink) to whales. It’s a decent song, but nothing too significant about the lyrics or creativity.

11. Glory Burning
Produced by Aesop Rock
Slug starts by describing a guy who is running from the police. He really paints the picture as he goes into deep detail about the setting and mood. Next, Murs jumps on the track and continues to describe what is going on in the guy’s head. Then, he switches up his lyrics and lets you know that he is talking about himself. Murs storytelling turns into a style where he is talking to himself, and sounds like he is losing his mind. The closer you listen to the lyrics, the more you will appreciate this song and Murs’ ingenuity. Plus, this is another Aesop Rock beat that perfectly fits the frame of mind.

12. Henrietta Longbottom
Produced by Aesop Rock
The beats shine brighter each time I listen to the album. The delivery on this beat is flawless. Murs and Slug start rhyming about the rumors of Henrietta Longbottom. The rumors get crazier as the two continue to rhyme. In the end, Slug ends the rumors with a nice verse, “I don’t know if you care or if you invest, but Henrietta is dead, no more no less, never really met her, so I’m not losing sleep, but Longbottom is long gone, rest in peace”.

13. She Sonnet
Produced by Aesop Rock
This is a tribute to all the people who doubted Felt: critics, fans, etc. I’m starting to think that Felt is growing a chip on their shoulder. There has been a lot of talk about them selling out after their last solo albums. What some people need to understand is that people can’t keep doing the same shit. I’m sorry haters, but Slug is better with a band than by himself. Why hate on a little change? And now Murs can’t get major producers on his albums because it means he sold out? Get the fuck outta here; I’m trying to listen to the best music possible… no matter who made the beat. Anyways, here is a line Murs used to describe what he’s trying to achieve, “Fuck a bitch, love a women, that’s my new motto/ Yeah, I’m ignorant but trying to be a role model”.

14. Felt Good
Produced by Aesop Rock
This is a flat-out Hip-Hop song. There is no unexpected metaphors, no storytelling; just a nice display of lyricism. However, some of the lyrics are similar to the previous track “She Sonnet” – “breath, please, give me freedom and some peace, a fugee to the beast with the demons and police”.

15. Deathmurdermayhem
Produced by Aesop Rock
Murs starts to rhyme (or mock) about those fake rappers who people love because of their image. On the other hand, Slug takes a more aggressive style, and speaks on what he wants to do to these hypocrites. The main point is to do Hip-Hop right. What I like most about this song is how they flipped the script. It may not be the artists selling out, but rather their fans. Maybe you’re the fake when you don’t really understand what you are listening to.

16. The Prize
Produced by Aesop Rock
Where did Aesop go? Never mind, he’s definitely back on this track. This song is about “The Prize” or goal, and how some people aren’t achieving it because they are too busy worrying about somebody else’s. This is yet another track that might have some people looking in the mirror before they criticize again. Slug sums it up on the chorus, “I don’t even think you’re looking at the prize, I think you’re killing time looking at what’s mine”.

17. G.I. Josephine
Produced by Aesop Rock
Felt is back with another symbolic song on “G.I. Josephine”. “G.I. Josephine” represents that female that all guys have respect for. This is that type of women that all men are searching for. Murs and Slug do a brilliant job showcasing their lyrics and originality on this one.

18. The Clap
Produced by Aesop Rock
This is a short interlude by Slug. He says to picture someone and presume they have the clap (no herpes). It’s a little funny, but shouldn’t have been on the album. For the last interlude, I was hoping for something that involved Rosie Perez.

19. We Have You Surrounded
Produced by Aesop Rock
You ever feel like you’ve been ripped off by an artist when you buy their album. Not because it wasn’t good, but because it seems like they don’t give a fuck about you? They never go on tour, and when they do, they are nowhere to be found after the show. Well then, this track is dedicated to you. Felt lets their fans know how much love they got for them. However, they do let you know how some fans get out of control too.

20. Give It Up
Produced by Aesop Rock
I first want to touch on the beat by Aesop Rock. It starts almost like it should be on a film soundtrack, then it really takes off when Aesop mixes in some guitars and other sounds. The beat is nicely done and should be appreciated. The soundtrack lyrics shape the beat – like a movie after it reached its climax.

21. Paul Reubens
Produced by Aesop Rock
Here, Murs and Slug have some fun on the microphone. I think they take a few jabs at the mainstream. Nevertheless, it sounds like they are taking a victory lap. They both do their thing, but I think Slug takes it on his last verse.

Bottom Line:
At the end of the day, everyone’s first question is how does this compare to the others albums? Personally, I find this better than Felt 1, but not Felt 2. The first Felt album was good, but only had ten tracks (including two skits). The second Felt album is one of my most played albums. It’s filled with great lyrics and production; making more than half of the songs standouts. I also believe some on Ant’s best work is on that album. Felt 3 is nothing compared to the first two; mainly because of Aesop Rock (which is not a bad thing). I imagine a lot of fans are not going to like this strictly because of the beats. However, you’ll see how gifted Murs and Slug truly are if you took the time to listen to how they adjust on certain beats. Their lyricism and creativity is nothing you should pass on either. Don’t be afraid to let it grow on you.

Everyone’s second question is who did better? Was it Slug or Murs? In my opinion, I’d give it to Murs. It’s not that Slug did poorly, but Murs is more of a hyped rapper and the energetic beats fit his flow better. Plus, he dropped some quotable lines that I’ll be explaining for weeks to come.

One thing I didn’t like about the album was the unnecessary interludes. I know it’s a big thing to have Aesop Rock as the producer, but don’t ruin the album by having the listener use the skip button when he or she didn’t have to.

Lyricism: (4.25/5); Production: (3.50/5); Originality: (3.75/5); Overall: (3.75/5)

nappyPicks: “Protagonists”, “Felt Chewed Up”, “Bass For Your Truck”, “Permanent Standby”, “Ghost Dance Deluxe”, “Glory Burning”, “Henrietta Longbottom”, “G.I. Josephine”, “Give It Up”

Download: Felt (Slug And Murs) – “Bass For Your Truck”

I hope it doesn’t count as hating if I say that ever since 2003’s Get Rich or Die Tryin’, 50 has gotten worse with time. I hope it doesn’t, because the truth in that statement is fact; Get Rich or Die Tryin’ has sold over 10 million copies worldwide to date. 50 Cent recently struggled to move units after an album leak and competition from Kanye. He’s also been charged with getting soft, making a lot more commercial songs than he used to. In response, 50 replied that he’d really been waiting for Curtis to come out so he could release his “real” album, Before I Self Destruct. Claiming it to be his hardest album since his debut, we finally get to hear the album that everyone has been waiting for. Does 50 exceed expectations with BISD?

The Invitation
Produced by Ty Fyffe
Now THIS is how you start an album. 50 sounds REAL hungry on this one, jumping on with little hesitation: “You want some? Come get some!/Nigga it’s Murder One when you see my gun/I just squeeze and squeeze ’till the whole clip done!/You just bleed and bleed ’till the Police come!/Huh? You want some??” If this first song is any indication of the entire album, then 50 may have been right about his promise (thank you!!). Ty Fyffe definitely brought the fire with the beat, and 50 flowed on it like a proven vet: “I’m far from a centric, I’m so psychotic/I don’t need you to shoot for me, nigga I got it!” Great song.

Then Days Went By
Produced by Lab Ox
The sampling here is flawless. This beat is hot as hell courtesy of Lab Ox. 50 sounds good flowing on this track, rapping about his younger days in the hood. While his flow over the track sounds really good, he doesn’t really spit anything notable lyrically. He makes up for it with the hook, which is crack: “I seen niggas gettin’ rich, then days went by/Then days went by, then days went by…” The hook make the track much more appealing. Good song.

Death To My Enemies
Produced by Dr. Dre & Mark Batson
Dre’s first appearance on the album, and it’s BLAZING!!!!!! “Dre, niggas think we bullshitin’!” The the beat drops and it’s fire!! “I bring money to my niggas that bring death to my enemies”. 50 keeps up the pace as with the first few tracks and keeps it truly gutta over a Dre (& Batson) production. Did anyone else catch the Wayne diss? (“This ain’t Tha Carter/Nigga this is Sparta/It’s harder I die I be a matar/Respect me like your father”)

So Disrespectful
Produced by Tha Bizzness
I think this song is more popular for it’s disses to Jay, Game, and others than it’s actual quality. Not saying that the quality is bad, the beat is pretty good, and the repeated “So disrespectful” was a good choice to use for the hook: simple, yet effective. Anyway, the disses in question are: “Jay’s a big man, he’s too big to respond/I’m a big dick, you know the one everybody on” and “Come on Game, you’ll never be my equal/Your homies shoot doors, my niggas shoot people!” The disses aren’t bad, but c’mon we all know Fif can do better than this. He almost sounds asleep on this track. Not bad, could have been better.

Psycho
Featuring Eminem; Produced by Dr. Dre
The Three-Headed Monster reunites on one track for the best effort I’ve heard from Fif in a very long time. Fuck best song on the album, this is one of the best songs of the YEAR!! The beat is perfect, sounding just like those old fashioned 1950’s horror movies plus 50 and Em both showed up for the track. Well, you know Em murked the track and it’d be hard for 50 to even match him on this considering its Em’s style of subject matter. But 50 did a very good job:

“Look look, I come from a different crew, you fuck with me, I’ll get to you/A clip or two’ll cripple you, just ’cause I ain’t got shit to do”.

Wow. Don’t think Em slouched either:

“You pop off the top it’s like opening vats of acid/Beat the Octamom to death with a Cabbage Patch Kid/Attack a snatch, yeah there’s something to jack a batch in/Impregnate her then shoot up the embryo sack with Mac 10s/Triplets, quadruplets and a couple of back to back twins/Dead fetuses fallin out all over, Jack is back again”

Damn. What more can I say? Excellent song.

Hold Me Down
Produced by Team Ready & J. Kevs
What a transition. We went from killing everything in sight to a song for the girls guns. This is the usual 50 throwaway female song; ABC style beat, with 50 using a couple clever metaphors to get by. I will give him props for doing the whole my gun is my girl (See 2Pac’s “Me And My Girlfriend”). The hook ain’t bad, but this song gets kind of boring and is pretty short anyway. I’m not skipping this one, but it’s pretty blah. Not really feeling it.

Crime Wave
Produced by Team Demo
This is what I’m talking about. I heard this on the local radio and this was crazy. The hook is perfect, the beat is hot, and 50 is spittin’ crazy shit on this one too:

“I’m not tellin you to shoot somebody, but if somebody try to shoot you shoot ‘em/Don’t waste time, lil’ nigga just do it/Any nigga out of order, must be serviced/See now now you hesitatin boy you makin me nervous/The Feds know I clap heat felonies on my rap sheet/Front on me try to run from me hollows be up your back B!

After the last song, this was the perfect recovery! BANG THIS ONE!!!

Stretch
Produced by Rick Rock
The pianos on this one are ridiculous, and make the beat sound really hard. The hook fits, but the “stretch…” is a lil suspect. 50’s flow on this one is pretty good: “Your favorite bad guys gone!/The Joker’s dead!/So for now till forever your stuck with the kid./I ain’t supposed to be a boss, I’m supposed to be a enforcer!/I’m supposed to hold a gun, not be stuck in the office!” The lyrics probably won’t wow you, but at the same time, it’s a serviceable song.

Strong Enough
Produced Nascent & OB Da Problem
DAMN!! This song is hard as hell!! The sample is: “Your life is over…” again and again. Damn. 50 didn’t play around on this one either: “These niggas ain’t strong enough/They money ain’t long enough/When they bump heads with me, they find out the guns do bust/We gettin’ money in god we trust/Suck on this nigga!” You gotta hear this one to believe it. Great song.

Get It Hot
Produced by Black Key
Can’t believe this wasn’t one of the first singles. It sounds like “Get Up” and “I Get It In” combined with a much hotter beat. This would have blazed the charts! Fif came correct with lines like: “I’m a made man, a Don Corleone/No matter where I’m at, I’m doin what the fuck I want!” This one was obviously made for the club, but that’s not exactly a bad thing since it works well on this song. Good song.

Gangsta’s Delight
Produced by Havoc
This is a gangsta play on the classic song “Rapper’s Delight”. While I appreciate 50’s creativity, I wasn’t really feeling it myself. It could have been executed much better. The way it is now, it’s actually pretty skippable. However, I’m sure some people will like it. The beat isn’t too bad, it’s just something that you can tell was meant to be filler.

I Got Swag
Produced by Dual Output
The beat on this is really hot; Fif chose great production on this album. This is basically what the title looks like: 50 flossing to the max. The hook is kind of hot though and this definitely could have been a single. Lyrically, 50 is aiight, nothing too shocking: “Me, I’m into me/I destroy my enemies, even if they kin to me.” Good song, but again, you can tell this was meant to be filler.

Baby By Me
Featuring Ne-Yo; Produced by Polow Da Don
This was the first official single off this album, steadily getting more and more airplay. Compared to the other first singles from 50 Cent, this definitely underwhelming, even compared to “Straight To The Bank”. It’s grown on me though; the sample was perfect for this song. 50 was definitely asleep on this one: “I need you to be what I need/More than liquor or weed/I need you to maybe give me a seed/I need you to give me reason to breathe, I need you/I’m tellin’ you so now you know what I need.” Damn. Even 50 fans have to admit that sucks. Ne-Yo definitely controlled the song here. Overall, it’s a fun little song but 50’s parts bring it down. Sadly.

Do You Think About Me
Produced by Rockwilder
What was 50 THINKING!?!? This is the exact same song as the previous one without the awesome sample and Ne-Yo. Instead, you get 50’s same lackluster rhymes and some no-name singer on the hook. The beat is aiight, but it could have been used a lot better if 50 woke up and chose a really singer to do the hook. Sadly, this is the second single…
SKIP!!!

OK, You’re Right
Produced by Dr. Dre
The street single off the album. Dre was on point here, this beat bangs and has that classic eerie sound to it. Sadly, 50 barely showed up for this one. It’s like he realized even being on a Dre beat would make him sound good so he didn’t need to come correct with the lyrics. I mean, he comes with two verses, each 12 bars long, and with the same sounding monotone delivery. Disappointing. The song still sounds good without 50’s help and proof that Dre can make any rapper sound good flowing on his beats.

Could’ve Been You
Produced by DJ Khalil
Why would anyone end their album like this? SKIP!!

*Bonus Tracks*
I fucks with “Flight 187″ and “Man’s World”, but the new original version of “Baby By Me” could definitely have been left off. And by the way, why are “Man’s World” and “Flight 187″ not on the official album?? Damn!

Bottom Line:
Did 50 live up to his promise? Well, yes, I think he did. He’s got some ridiculous songs on here that definitely live up to the Get Rich Or Die Tryin’ pedigree. But at the same time, he’s got some shit songs on here that are some of the worse he’s ever done (read: “Do You Think About Me” and “Could’ve Been You”). I was actually a little surprised there weren’t any shots thrown at Rick Ross seeing as that was pretty much the biggest Hip-Hop beef of the year. Speaking of Rick Ross, I think that this was the better album between the two of them because some of the good songs on this album are better than the best songs on Deeper Than Rap. 50 did a prettty good job here all things considered, but at the same time, I think we all know he can do much better than this. After all the hype surrounding this album, some people might feel he under-delivered.

However, just because King Jerm gave Deeper Than Rap a 4.5 and I think 50’s album is better doesn’t mean I’m gonna give 50 a 4.5. Ross’ album deserves a 3.5 in my humble opinion, shit, maybe even a 3 flat in my book. So I’m rating 50 based on that.

nappyPicks: “Stretch”, “Crime Wave”, “Psycho”, “The Invasion”, “Death to Enemies”, “Strong Enough”

Download: 50 Cent – “Flight 187″

Download: 50 Cent feat. Jovan Dais – “Baby By Me” (Original Version)

Download: 50 Cent – “Man’s World”

Download: 50 Cent feat. Gucci Mane – “Crime Wave (remix)”

Any Hip-Hop enthusiast, “Hip-Hop head”, or casual listeners should almost immediately recognize the name Rakim in connection with the genre of Hip-Hop music and its history. Rakim’s trail in Hip-Hop music is one that can be traced back to the Golden Age of the 80’s when the music was said to be in its truest and rarest form. As a duo with DJ Eric Barrier, the two made up the team of Eric B. & Rakim in releasing one of the most storied and influential Hip-Hop albums of all-time in Paid In Full, as well as other memorable albums that followed (Follow The Leader, Let The Rhythm Hit ‘Em, Don’t Sweat The Technique). Like most good Hip-Hop groups (Little Brother, Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth, Gang Starr, etc.) all things must come to an end eventually and that end came in 1992 for Eric B. & Rakim. But from that end came a new beginning for Rakim in the form of a solo career with two releases in 1997 (The 18th Letter) and 1999 (The Master) that saw moderate success with hits like “When I B On The Mic”, “The Saga Begins”, “New York (Ya Out There)” and “It’s Been A Long Time”. Just like the DJ Premier produced track it has been a long time (ten years in fact) since we last heard and saw an album from Rakim and now in 2009 we have his third solo release entitled The Seventh Seal. In describing the album’s title Rakim stated, “I’m using it metaphorically in Hip-Hop hoping to kill the old state of Hip-Hop and start with the new.” building off the number 7’s significance and influence from the Bible. Any extended period of time between releases for any artist has the possibility to have positive and negative results (see: Raekwon’s Only Built 4 Cuban Linx… Pt. II, Royce Da 5’9”’s Street Hop), it’ll be interesting to see if a ten year span has brought on rust or recovery for The God MC Rakim.

How To Emcee
Produced by Slyce
If Hip-Hop was a college or school institution it’s pretty clear to say Rakim would be a professor with a Masters degree in the subject as he rhymes on the chorus (“I could show you how to emcee like I got a degree”). With the Hip-Hop landscape turning to the Pop scene and being more driven with lyrically inclined rappers, this is a type of song that is greatly needed. Lyrically Rakim comes correct with the bars in displaying to listeners why rappers (won’t name any names) have been emulating his flow and delivery since ’87. The production provided by Slyce is sufficient with an old-school feel but comes off sounding too bouncy and playful for Ra’s rhymes and the song’s subject matter.

Walk These Streets
Featuring Maino & Tracey Horton; Produced by Needlz
The second official single that had listeners thinking it was a track from Rakim & Dr. Dre’s Oh, My God sessions when it first premiered back in October. In saying that Needlz does his best “Dre” impression on the beat (which sounds similar to “Been Through The Storm” on Busta Rhymes’ The Big Bang album) in giving Ra an introspective backdrop for him and Maino to deliver tales of the trials and tribulations of the street life. Maino was a good selection for a feature on this track as he gives vivid descriptions of the life that has played a major part in his life (Jadakiss is somebody else that I could have heard easily on this track spittin’ a verse). The chorus sung by Tracey Horton gives life to the track and bring it full circle in matching the feel of the song. This was a good pick for the album’s 2nd single, which should have some nice visuals to accompany it soon.

Documentary Of A Gangsta
Featuring I.Q.; Produced by Y-Not
In similar ways to Ludacris’ “Southern Gangsta” on Theater Of The Mind, Rakim presents to listeners the life and times of a gangsta in documentary style like BET’s American Gangster series. Ra basically displays his storytelling skills on this track in telling about the moves and mindset of a gangsta in the streets. The beat by Y-Not is perfect production for the theme and feel of this song. In many ways this is the track that Luda wanted to make on his album as it presents the topic in a more convincing way.

Man Above
Featuring Tracey Horton; Produced by Nottz
As you could guess from the song’s title this track is about Rakim’s daily conversations with God in regards to the things going on around him in the world and in the hood. Nottz delivers a nicely produced beat as Ra he speaks about keeping the faith even when things aren’t looking their best and not falling into the traps that surround. On this track Rakim is able to deliver some conscious lyrics and a message without sounding too preachy, which is something that not too many rappers can claim to do (except Brother Ali). Once again Tracey Horton comes through in providing the hook for this song in a superb way that adds to the track.

You And I
Featuring Samuel Christian; Produced by Samuel Christian, J. Wells & Lorenz
While Rakim might be talking about a significant other on this track, I really believe that he’s speaking about Hip-Hop in the figurative when he speaks about the chemistry and bond that him and this other person shares until the end. A song of this topic has been done many times before and Rakim puts together a nice version for his catalog. Samuel Christian (who supplies the singing on the chorus), J. Well, and Lorenz give this track a nice dark, sinister sounding backdrop that fits well with Ra’s flow and delivery.

Won’t Be Long
Featuring Tracey Horton; Produced by Jake One
As Rakim stated at the beginning on this track in summarizing the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “How Long, Not Long” speech, this song is built off those exact words in being titled “Won’t Be Long”. Rakim’s lyrics follow suit in speaking about perseverance and determination in whatever it is that you’re focused on achieving and accomplishing. Jake One’s production on this track is subtly presented with his signature bass (that sounds kind of 80’s) that serves well for Ra’s rhymes as well as Tracy Horton on the chorus again.

Holy Are You
Produced by Nick Wiz
This is the album’s lead single and the song that let everybody know Rakim was on the return with an album after ten years of waiting. Nick Wiz uses an unorthodox sample and builds a hard-pounding street beat over it that sees Rakim in prime form with lyrics and rhymes. When this song first appeared back in July it let listeners with doubts know that Rakim hadn’t lost a step over the span between his last album.

Satisfaction Guaranteed
Produced by Neo Da Matrix
Just as “Holy Are You” reassured listeners about Rakim’s skill and ability on the microphone, that’s where the basis of this track’s topic lies. Over some nicely sampled production by Neo Da Matrix, Rakim lets listeners know that his rhymes and music equals instant satisfaction. For most Hip-Hop aficionados Rakim delivers exactly what they’re searching for and feel is a missing part of Hip-Hop music today.

Workin’ For You
Produced by Jake One
While “You And I” was indeed about Rakim’s relationship with Hip-Hop, this song speaks about Rakim’s relationship with his woman. Jake One samples William Bell’s “I Forgot To Be Your Lover” for some feel good production as Rakim talks about how he’s working and doing what he can to provide for his lady. Rakim delivers some good lyrics in regards to the subject matter about loyalty and faithfulness to his other side. They say that every Hip-Hop album has to have a track dedicated to the ladies and luckily Rakim takes the better route with that choice instead of going for the cliché track heard on most albums.

Message In The Song
Featuring Destiny Griffin; Produced by SWJ
On this track Rakim talks about the one thing that is present and can be heard in his tracks regardless of the subject matter and topic, and that being a message. As heard so far through this album Rakim has touched on different topics from relationships to religion to street life, and on all of those tracks he offered lyrics with something to be learned and gained in listening. This is something that more rappers need to be focused on doing in their music instead of it just being the same cliché topics of drugs, women, partying, etc. with no real substance. SWJ provides Rakim with some great sampled production as his daughter Destiny Griffin supplies her father with a nice chorus.

Put It All To Music
Produced by Poppa Pillz
The sampled beat produced by Poppa Pillz immediately gives this track a 90’s Hip-Hop feel and Rakim uses it to his advantage as he speaks about putting everything of all subject matters to music. His analysis of using music to deal with problems and how music has a place with everything in life is something that I can relate to as a listener. Rakim sounds most comfortable on this track than on any other track on the album most likely because of the smooth production provided.

Psychic Love
Produced by Nick Wiz
In getting back to the tracks for the ladies, Rakim uses the smooth production from Nick Wiz to speak about love and his affection for a certain lady. This can be seen as a more seductive track than the previously heard “Workin’ For You”, and ultimately it works for Rakim and doesn’t come off as much of a stretch for him in terms of the theme and lyrics. It’s great how an emcee like Rakim can do a track like this and still keep it away from the area of sounding clichéd.

Still In Love
Produced by Nick Wiz
For those listeners that were curious as to how Rakim might feel about the current times of Hip-Hop music and the genre in its declining state, this track serves as your answer to that question. Ra speaks about how he still has love for Hip-Hop even though things aren’t as they were when he was in his prime delivering albums in the 80’s and 90’s. With enjoyable production as heard from Nick Wiz it’s easy to see why Rakim still has a love for the game while others are claiming “Hip-Hop Is Dead”. Like Cormega said on Born And Raised, “Hip-Hop ain’t dead, it’s just tired of the drama” and with music like this that statement from 2006 can be retired as its evident that Hip-Hop is in no way deceased.

Dedicated
Produced by Nick Wiz
After 13 tracks Rakim decides to finish off the album on a sincere note in dedicating the track to his mother and speaking about what she truly meant to him and his life. He talks about his heartbreaking experience in losing his mother and the times their bond together ever since his birth. Nick Wiz provides a nice beat that fits with Rakim’s lyrics and the song’s topic. This was a good way to end off the album as it nicely brings things to a close in allowing for listeners to start to listening experience again back at the first song.

Bottom Line:
In being ten years since his last album release with The Master I was like a lot of fans and listeners is not being quite sure about what to expect from Rakim with a new album especially in 2009 and the current state of Hip-Hop. A part of me was excited to finally be hearing some new music from The God MC after being satisfied with his two previous releases, but the other part of me was concerned about Rakim possibly changing up his style to better conform with the ways of the music industry of today. Luckily my concern was nothing more than a worry as Rakim proved that he hasn’t lost a step with The Seventh Seal and ultimately reassures listeners that he’s still one of the nicest emcees in the game regardless of the ones (Jay-Z, Lil’ Wayne, T.I., Nas, Drake, J. Cole…) that have come after him. There really aren’t any tracks on this album that are below average or sub par for an emcee like Rakim as many of them range between good to great. Throughout the album Rakim delivers lyrically on every aspect from lyrics to flow to delivery to subject matter. The only thing that holds this album back from being even better is the production that’s heard. While it’s always great to give new and lesser known producers a platform to showcase their skills, it would have been nice to hear something from the established producers that Rakim has collaborated with on past albums like DJ Premier, Pete Rock, Clark Kent, as well as including a song or two from his work with Dr. Dre during their Aftermath period together. Knowing that this isn’t Rakim final album it can be certain that we’ll eventually hear music from those sessions and music from some of Ra’s previous collaborators. Overall, Rakim sees the same success with The Seventh Seal that Raekwon saw with Only Built 4 Cuban Linx… Pt. II and Royce saw with Street Hop in delivering an enjoyable album despite years spanning between releases… Let’s just hope it’s not another ten years before the next Rakim album is released.

nappyPicks: “Walk These Streets”, “Holy Are You”, “Message In The Song”, “Put It All To Music”, “Documentary Of A Gangsta”, “Psychic Love”

Download: Rakim – “Holy Are You”

Download: Rakim feat. Maino & Tracey Horton – “Walk These Streets”

Rick Ross is the latest rapper to try his hand at being an executive with the release of his group Triple C’s debut album Custom Cars & Cycles. The group consists of Ross, Gunplay, Torch, and Young Breed. Don’t think that these were some rappers that just got put on; they have been down with Ross from the beginning. Now it’s their turn to bring the country deeper into Miami, past South Beach, past all the beaches, and straight to Carol City. Ross has been on a roll this year, now he has to show that he really is a Boss and can manage a team. Let’s check it out.

Custom Cars & Clips
Produced by Schife & OhZee
The album starts off with Ricky GOING IN over some nice production. Say what you want to about Ross, but the dude has that IT factor about him. The rest of the group made a good impression on me on the first song. There wasn’t any doubt that Ross & Co. wasn’t going to come out the gate stumbling.

White Sand
Produced by DJ Speedy
The chopped beat has me OPEN over here! Of course Ross starts it off to set the tone, the group follows him up. When Ross is out the song, it seems like they are doing their best NOT to lose the lead. The production is so tight on this one; I think that made up for the average lyrics from the squad.

Break It Down
Featuring Bun B; Produced by Best Kept Secret & Nasty Kutt
Once again the crew gets dealt some nice production and they put in some nice work on the song. Of course the stand out verses belonged to Ross and Bun. Ross is doing a good job carrying the team so far.

Go
Featuring Birdman; Produced by Schife & OhZee
Four songs in a row with nice production is making this album very listenable. Ross again sets the tone for the song, I can’t complain, it has been working, STICK WITH IT. This is the first single from the album and this isn’t a bad one to come out the gate with.

We Getting’ It
Produced by Schife & OhZee
All of the momentum of the album came to a standstill on this track. This song didn’t fit in with the flow of the first four songs. The hook on the song is a problem, the production could have been better, and since the production wasn’t that good, some flaws got exposed with the group. Ross couldn’t save this one.

Trick’n Off
Featuring Gucci Mane; Produced by Drumma Boy
The album swings back on track with an appearance of one of the hottest dudes in the street…GUCCI! You can tell Ross dumbed his lyrics down for Gucci. Triple C’s sound more comfortable rapping on these topics. HOT SONG.

Throw It In The Sky
Produced by The Olympicks
Ross sets the tone again on the track over some pretty good production provided by The Olympicks. This would do some good spins in the club because of the hook and the topic. I like the feel of this one.

Erryday
Featuring Young Jeezy & JW; Produced by Schife & OhZee
Schife and OhZee bounce back after their first slip up to release a BANGER. When Triple C’s get good production, it disguises the fact that they might not be the best MC’s out there, but they do better when they stay in their lane.

Customized
Produced by Schife & OhZee
This is one of those songs that sound so FLORIDA that it’s screaming on the production. I’m on the fence with this song. Half of me likes it, and half of me hates it. The song just doesn’t do enough to win me over.

Gangster Shit
Featuring Game; Produced by Rich Harrison
Game lends a hand on this track and he does what he usually does, but this time he went first and Ross batted clean up on this track. The production does sound like some gangster shit. This song has some good moments, but it’s obvious that this is a one man team.

Finer Things
Featuring Masspike Miles; Produced by The Olympicks
This sounds like your typical Ross track, only problem is that everyone isn’t on Ross’ level. The crew took the Boss’s lead and did enough to keep the listener entertained after Ricky’s verse. The Olympicks did their best J.U.S.T.I.C.E League cover on the production. No diss just noticed.

Chick’n Talk’n
Featuring Mack 10 & Warren G; Produced by The Olympicks & The Dream Team
Don’t adjust your eyes, yes Mack 10 and Warren G are still rapping. This song reminded me why I never listened to Mack…I hate his delivery. What were they thinking with this collab? FAIL.

Diamonds & Maybach Pt. 2
Featuring Suede Royale; Produced by Bink!
Ross is always good for a nice smooth one for you to ride clean to. I can’t even get mad at Ross on this one. Yeah, it’s long (PAUSE), but it’s so smooth that you have to let it ride out. I really like the hook on this one. HOT.

Hustla
Featuring Masspike Miles; Produced by DJ Khalil
They change up and let Gunplay open up on this one and to my surprise he sets it off for the crew. Is this Lloyd on the hook? Sure does sound like him. The production on this one is pretty good, and the Cartel did some good work on this one.

Yams Pt. 2
Featuring Yo Gotti; Produced by Drumma Boy & Zaytoven
“Grandma Kitchen/cooking yams/same pot/she use for the yams”. I guess you know where this one is going. Yo Gotti has become one of the more popular dudes in the streets. If you like dope boy lyrics, this will be one that you jam EVERYDAY. If you are tired of the drug rap…skip this one. I like drug rap when it is executed well, and they did just that on this one.

Bottom Line:
Ross and Triple C’s had a respectable debut album. It was evident that Ross had to be on every track and on most of those tracks, he carried them. Not like his shoulders were not strong enough to do it, but he did get help from the supporting cast, had some nice features, and got a big help from the production. The album will not push a ton of units because it is still being marketed towards the streets. We all know the “streets” don’t buy albums, and as long as that is your targeted audience…you will not do numbers.

nappyPicks: “White Sand”, Trick’n Off, “Erryday”, “Diamonds & Maybachs Pt. 2”, “Yams Pt. 2”

Download: Triple C’s feat. Yo Gotti – “Yams Pt. 2”

When the Hip-Hop world thinks of Olubowale Victor Folarin, aka Wale, the first thing that may come to mind is DC. And then maybe Maryland and Virginia. And then Go-Go music. Yep, Wale has been waving the DMV flag hard ever since he broke though in 2006 with the local hit “Dig Dug (Shake It)”. Now after releasing buzz singles (“Back On The Go-Go” & “Nike Boots”) critically acclaimed mixtapes (The Mixtape About Nothing, 100 Miles & Running, & Back to the Feature), getting numerous magazine co-signs (Named one of the XXL’s “The 10 Freshmen”; cover of URB), and multiple push backs, Wale’s debut album, Attention Deficit, is finally here. But the question still remains: Is this album worth your attention?

1. Triumph
Produced by Dave Sitek
Backed my announcing horns, the first track off this album proves to be a fitting opening for Wale. He spits boastful rhymes as well as his realizations of a new kid on the block; “I ask Mr. West for a little bit of help/Realize us new niggas got to get it ourselves/…And the only thing I fear is Iovine’s shelf”. Good start.

2. Mama Told Me
Produced by Best Kept Secret
The beat on this track is what I honestly expected on this album; it’s still go-go flavored but updated (Plus it’s well produced). I’m feeling the hook and the beat but for some reason around the 2nd verse I starting to loose interest. Wale rhymes okay, just nothing to hold the attention here like it’s needed on this beat. Hey, it could be that I already heard this beat before. It was used for Birdman & Rick Ross’ “Shittin’ On Them” featuring Busta Rhymes. And honestly they did a better job on it too (Yeah, I said it). Wale’s version is still one to check for though.

3. Mirrors
Featuring Bun B; Produced by Mark Ronson
Wale grabs the surviving member of UGK to ride shotgun here. Wale shows versatility and adopts a stutter flow to explain his point; “M-m-m-mirror, tell me I’m the realest/Since all these other nigga g-g-got gimmicks and l-l-lyrics/It’s all gun busting and such a lack of the subject…” Over a mellow and guitar heavy beat, Bun B makes a good showing and Wale holds his own against with certified vet. The back and forth hook was a nice touch too.

4. Pretty Girls
Featuring Gucci Mane & Weensey; Produced by Best Kept Secret
Like I mentioned previously on “Mama Told Me”, I think Wale maybe at his best when he goes back to his Go-Go roots. From the Weensey chorus to the crown interaction towards the end (“Ugly girls be quiet. Pretty girls clap like this.”), this song is a surefire hit. Then again, I basically speaking on the first version released on internet without the Gucci Mane verse. I understand why he was added to bring buzz but did Gucci really add anything to the track? Besides that, “Pretty Girls” was a good pick for the album’s third single.

5. Award Tour
Featuring Jazmine Sullivan; Produced by Cool & Dre
This is the song that further sparked my interest in this album. If you on a plane going to another city/state/country; how is this not your theme music? The piano laced beat by Cool & Dre does the trick as Wale gives “definition of a jet setter” and Jazmine (Proving once again that she is a force on the rap hooks) kills it with the hook and adlibs. If you haven’t checked for this one, get from under that rock and do so right now. Side note: It seems like this song was slightly rearranged for the album.

6. Let It Loose
Featuring Pharrell; Produced by The Neptunes
When I saw this song on the tracklist, I was eager to see what The Neptunes and Wale could come up with. Then I listened to it and I remembered that The Neptunes hasn’t been the Neptunes in a while. Maybe it’s just me but it’s just what I expected. Maybe I need more time with but as of now I’ll pass.

7. 90210
Produced by Mark Ronson
I’ll give it to Wale, he definitely shows he can mix up the subject matter; here he tells a story of girls lost in the city of Beverly Hills (90210). I’m surely not the demographic he’s going for but that not to say it’s a bad thing as the lyrics are well done; “And she throws up, whatever she eats/She leave the bathroom, with a nose bleed…” The beat is somber and makes you think of a bedtime story, which fits the whole “all that glitters…” theme.

8. Shades
Featuring Chrisette Michele; Produced by Best Kept Secret & JuJu
Speaking of subject matter, Wale jumps on a taboo one and brings Chrisette Michele to go in about the subject of skin prejudice in the Black community; “I never fit in with them light skins/I felt the lighter they was, they better that they life is/So I resented them/And they resented me.” Introspective stuff. Adding to the mood is great production as well as Chrisette on the hook (“From a light skinned sister to a drark skinned brother”) this track shows that Wale isn’t afraid to be vulnerable.

9. Chillin’
Featuring Lady Gaga; Produced by Cool & Dre
For some reason, I never got into this song. I understand it’s purpose, a radio friendly crossover single, but it’s still not my cup of tea. Funny thing is if this song had came out much later (Seeing as how Lady GaGa is way more popular now) this track would have much bigger and received much more attention. You should have heard this one by now. Side note: It seems like this song was slightly rearranged for the album also.

10. TV In The Radio
Featuring K’naan; Produced by Dave Sitek
This is another one that I was eager to listen to seeing that the previous collaboration between K’naan and Wale was bananas (“Un Ricka” off Back To The Feature). I wasn’t initially feeling this track but a few more listens it grew on me a bit. It’s not mind blowing but it is unique. That may be due to the awkward beat provided by TV On The Radio’s David Sitek (*Thinks about the song title*) Oh…

11. Contemplate
Produced by Syience
When I first heard this track, like a lot of people I thought it was a Rihanna feature which would have been a great look for Wale. Well, turns out it’s a sample of Rihanna’s “Question Existing” which is not to say that takes anything away from the song. The sample fits the theme of “contemplating” your reasons and actions. In the first verse Wale deals with his girl who wants the fast life and in the second he questions his own quest for glamor; “One day everybody applauding/The next day you is everybody’s target/Why bother?”

12. Diary
Featuring Marsha Ambrosius; Produced by The Sleepwalkers
On this track Wale tries to get a woman to let go of her past troubles with bad relationship and possible open her heart to him; “Every problem that you have with another man I gotta face/Started off on thin ice/I’m still here but I can’t skate”. He switches up the cadence here also to go with the dreamy production. It’s definitely better than what we usually get with rappers theses days dealing with the opposite sex (Even though towards the end he does sound a little pimpish). It’s a good song but I can also see how the beat could get repetitive. Side note: Does Wale have one of the illest lineups of R&B hook women on this album? Yes.

13. Beautiful Bliss
Featuring Melanie Fiona & J.Cole; Produced by DJ Green Lantern & Mark Ronson
Motion picture shit. The beat courtesy of Green Lantern and Mark Ronson truly sets the stage for the feeling of being on top of the world. Wale verses serve the purpose but J. Cole steals the show; “My punchlines like gut checks/I’m raw dog, I’m rough sex/I’m on deck, I’m up next/I’m god bless, I’m success/So fuck stress/You can get the fuck from round me/And if you listening know you wondering where they fuck they found me.” Whoa.

14. Prescription
Produced by Best Kept Secret
The chemistry between Best Kept Secret and Wale proves true again and this song is a fitting exit to Attention Deficit. Wale gives the listener reasons why he is the “Prescription” to listeners sick of the current state of Hip-Hop (“I breathe life in the game/They are Kevorkian”). He also cleverly sprinkles medical terms to illustrate the point. The beat, like the two previous produced by Best Kept Secret, uses go-go elements that blends well with Wale’s style. Good ending

Bottom Line:
Wale delivers a solid album with Attention Deficit and seeing that it’s his official debut, it’s impressive. He shows ranges of subject matter as well as rhyme talent that other rappers don’t show on their 10th album. You may not love every single track but you can respect the distinct voice used. One of my few disappointments with the album as a whole is that I’m not sure if it surpasses his mixtapes like The Mixtape About Nothing or Back To The Feature. Besides the minor drawbacks, Attention Deficit should hold the interest of listeners looking for good Hip-Hop. DMV stand up! Wale’s gotcha. Update: Changed rating. The 4 Stars never felt right.

nappyPicks: “Triumph”, “Mirrors”, “Pretty Girls”, “World Tour”, “Shades”, “Beautiful Bliss”, “Presciption”

Download: Wale feat. John Mayer – “Letters” [Not On The Album]

Download: Wale feat. Travis Barker – “OGz” [Radio Rip/Bonus Track]

Download: Wale feat. Weensey – “Pretty Girls” [No Gucci Mane Verse]

It’s been awhile since Cormega has dropped a solo record. You can say this is his third official studio record. Who Am I? is a soundtrack album; The Testament was a shelved by Def Jam which was suppose to release around 1996; And Legal Hustle was a compilation album for his record company. Now the Queensbridge native has finally returned with Born And Raised. Unlike his previous albums, Mega comes through with an excellent production lineup which includes: DJ Premier, Pete Rock, Large Professor, Easy Mo Bee, and many other superb Hip-Hop producers. Matter of fact, EVERY SINGLE TRACK is produced by a Hip-Hop prodigy. It doesn’t stop there. The album also features many legendary guest appearances, such as KRS-One, Big Daddy Kane, Tragedy Khadafi and more.

Believe it or not, this is one of my most anticipated releases for 2009. Cormega has always been a highly underrated emcee. The Realness and The True Meaning are two of my favorite albums. These two records are superior because they showcase Mega’s lyrical abilities and his great flow. I hope this album does the same.

1. Prelude/Intro (The 3rd Coming)
Featuring Marley Marl; Produced by Khrysis, Cormega, & Bear One
The legendary Marley Marl starts off the album with a few words about Cormega’s street credibility. Is it just me or are there a lot of ’09 albums that start similar to this? After the prelude, the record officially starts with the “Intro (The 3rd Coming)”. Mega takes no time to point out the struggles he’s gone through growing up in Queens. This is a nice way to start the album.

2. Girl
Produced by L.E.S. & Cormega
I wasn’t really feeling this song after a couple listens. I felt that Cormega could’ve come harder with the flow (no homo). However, now I see why his delivery was calm. This helps shape the mood of the song. Take some time to listen to the lyrics, and I promise it will grow on you too. It’s a great metaphoric song about the dangers of cocaine. One of my favorite lines from the track, “She burned Richard Pryor when he piped her raw”.

3. Love Your Family
Featuring & Produced by Havoc
This is a song that explains why blood is thicker than water. Cormega starts off speaking on his daughter, and clarifies all the love he has for her. Havoc grabs the mic and touches on his love for his mother, sister, and grandmother. Then, Mega goes into the deepest part of the song when he tells us how good of a mother he had. For those of you who don’t know, Cormega witnessed his mother’s murder at four years old. Although, I’m not sure if that verse was intended for his mother or stepmother. The chorus sums up the theme of the song. It’s not as heartwarming as you may think.

4. Get It In
Featuring Lil’ Fame; Poduced by Easy Mo Bee
Easy Mo Bee drops a nice up-tempo beat that fits the energy of Lil’ Fame and Cormega on “Get It In”. Lil’
Fame makes the track sound like it should be on a M.O.P. album. He also takes a shot at Kanye West, “I’m so far beyond these hoes, with flows tighter than Kanye’s clothes”. However, Cormega outshines Fame as he comes with that nice flow and lyrics that bring you back to ’01.

5. The Other Side
Produced by Fizzy Womack & Cormega
Fizzy Womack (Lil’ Fame) returns this time with a jazzy beat. It’s a surprise to hear Fame come with a beat this laid back, but it don’t matter as long as it works. This track displays the ups and downs in life. However, this song seems out of place after the hard hittin’ “Get It In”.

6. Live And Learn
Produced by Pete Rock
Pete Rock and Cormega team up for “Live And Learn”. I thought this would be a definite standout on the album, but I felt they could have both done better. The beat isn’t bad, but sounds a little plain. Mega drops some words of wisdom on how to live for the future, not the past. Once again, still a good song, but should’ve been better.

7. Make It Clear
Produced by DJ Premier
This track is ridiculous. DJ Premier created the perfect beat for Mega’s style. Perfect samples and scratches (as always). Plus, the hard felt lyrics do not disappoint. I wish more songs were similar to this. This flow is untouchable. Too many quotables to insert here.

8. Journey
Produced by Large Professor
First, DJ Premier, now, Large Professor. This is another faultless beat by one of Hip-Hop’s finest. Cormega speaks on how life has been a journey for him. In this song he also shows great appreciation to New York (he shouts out AZ’s Doe Or Die and Big Pun in the video), and how it made him who he is today. “Hip hop never died, it’s just sick of the drama”. Here is a link for the video, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RDmQqJpr3….

9. Define Yourself
Featuring Tragedy Khadafi & Havoc; Produced by DR Period
Tragedy Khadafi and Havoc join Cormega for “Define Youself”. This is yet another track about life and how it identifies you. I would rank Cormega as the best emcee on this; followed by Tragedy and Havoc last. This track is not bad, but I felt it was too short for two guest appearances.

10. What Did I Do
Produced by Nottz
I’m feelin’ the sample Nottz used for this beat, but he could’ve done better with the drum loop. Another mishap about the track is how short it is (2:54). Cormega speaks on certain people and how they are abusing themselves. I wouldn’t consider this filler, but I felt Mega could have done better with his lyrics and flow.

11. Dirty Game
Produced by DJ Premier
The album finally picks up again on Premier’s “Dirty Game”. This is one of the best songs that explain the struggles of being born and raised in Queensbridge. His lyrics about the hip hop game and prison let us know why he is considered a street poet. This along with “Make It Clear” and “Journey” are my top three standouts on the album. They bring you that 90’s New York hip hop mentality.

12. One Purpose
Mega drops a short, but nice accapella. This is nice, but I feel that it belongs on a mixtape, not an album.

13. Rapture
Produced by Ayatollah
Where have I heard this beat before? (edit: Willie Hutch – “Mama’s Theme”, Cam’ron – “D Rugs”, Lupe Fiasco – “Coulda Been”, emc – “U Let Me Grow”) It’s all good if he took this sample from somebody, because we all know that his sample for Cormega’s “Rap’s A Hustle” has been jacked plenty of times. I also like how Ayatollah throws a sample of Big L at the end of the verses. This track also shows how good of a lyricist Cormega actually is.

14. Mega Fresh X
Featuring DJ Red Alert, PMD, Grand Puba, KRS-One, & Big Daddy Kane; Produced by Buckwild
This song was leaked over a year ago titled “Fresh”. The only difference here is the producers. Emile produced the first song, and Buckwild remixed it for the album. My favorite thing about this song is that there is no chorus. Just a lyrical ambush by some of hip hop’s legends. On a side note, Big Daddy Kane murders this track.

Bottom Line:
This is definitely an album that takes a little time. Many people won’t have the patience, but the more you play it, the more it will grow on you. However, I do feel that Cormega could have done better with his delivery. Yes, his lyrics are nicely done, but delivery is the next important thing for an emcee. The other issue I have with the album is how short it is. It only has fourteen tracks (one being a short accapella), and only two of those are over four minutes long. On a production note, this was a pretty good album. Although, I felt this album should have been better by the list of producers. Nevertheless, it’s still a good album, and should be copped if you’re a fan of New York hip hop.

nappyPicks: “Girl”, “Love Your Family”, “Make It Clear”, “Journey”, “Dirty Game”, “Rapture”, “Mega Fresh X”

Download: Cormega – “Make It Clear”

As an artist, the thinnest of lines are the ones between growth, signature style, and success or failure. Camp Lo hit the music scene hard with the debut album Uptown Saturday Night which featured hit singles like “Lucihini (This is it)”, “Coolie High”, and “Black Nostaljack.” However, since then, they’ve been trying to recapture that fame. This album is at least a return that formula after releasing Stone & Rob: Caught On Tape, an album that seemed to focus solely on being a sound in efforts to grab more fans. They abandoned the sound that we are familiar with and the cinematic quality of the composition of the previous 3 albums. The disconnect can largely be attributed to the absence of Ski and his ability to create a complete sounding album (he only produced one track…and even that didn’t sound like what we’re used to for this group). Now that he’s back, let’s see if how this screenplay comes together and if those lines are noticeable.

Another Heist
Produced by Ski
Staying true to from, we get a high energy, head-nod track to start the album. I liken this track to the action sequences of the Blaxploitation flicks they emulate not only in sound, but naming convention and method. I can see them kicking in doors, yielding weapons, and demanding the respect that has seemingly escaped them up to this, their 5th “Audio Picture”. The guitar licks don’t stop and the simple drum pattern plays well to blend with the music and let the guitar and the deliveries take precedent on this intro.

Uptown
Produced by Ski
This is one of those scenes that if you miss part of it, no one is going to reach for the remote and rewind it. It’s not a bad song, but after such a funky kick off, this track sounds like a tertiary thought to seemed to be the mood and thought process of the intro song. Cheeba does a fantastic job of weaving words together into what is known as one of the smoothest deliveries in the game. Other than his contribution to this one, there isn’t much to note about this song itself. Scene.

Satin Amnesia
Produced by Ski
Hello signature sound. Smooth track, melodic celebration of chords, harps, and xylophones, this song sounds like the montage of sex and good times between the protagonist and the object of his affection. Not coincidentally, the song is lyrically about the same setting. I think the hook could have been done a little better, but I’d be nitpicking. I really enjoy how this track feels and the picture painted when it all converges on this track.

Get Em Lo
Produced by Ski
This episode finds our duo draped in bongos and more 70’s excellence as they play the vigilantes to fake ones in the game. I think this feature has the most action in this movie with a frenetic pace and relentless action. This is one of the most captivating songs on this album.

Boogie Nights
Produced by Ski
We arrive as The Lo get ready to hit the streets. Sped up sample in tow, more bongos and drums, they pack up and provide another song that I can almost see the video for as well imagine using this to set the table as we pre-game for the night. Ski typically plays with instrumental samples and chops, but this singing on this one is a nice injection into an already enjoyable sound. With a hook that tickles us old heads that remember those Martini and Rossi Asti Spumante commercials and a dance between the different flows, this caper goes off without a hitch.

Son Of A…
Produced by Ski
Make no mistake, this is an action sequence in the movie. From the funk of the bass and the anthemesque chords that frame this track to the noticeably absent body of the sound this one will leave you waiting for the other shoe to drop. Don’t get too close to the edge tho, at a brisk 1:36, this is merely a interlude/bridge to the next scene…

Good Green
Produced by Ski
…which kicks in with a smooth transition and retains the kick and knock of the previous song even though the tempo is drastically different. The title leaves no mystery as to what this one is about, just depends on how you hear it. Green typically means one of two things…. That aside, while the song is cool, it’ doesn’t really seem to fit the rest of the album.

Beautiful People
Produced by Ski
As Sonny, Geechi, and Ski enter the disco, I picture the scene complete with velvet, bell bottoms, and powerful Afros. Don’t forget the band on stage dippin’ in synch as the club patrons two step with each other like the best choreographed video. This song is almost a direct port of the 70’s show tune sound and the Blaxploitation era that the crew uses to inspire and drive their careers in the biz.

Bionic
Produced by Ski
I get the attempt on this one, but I don’t like it. With so much soul being present in the rest of the album and a distinct harmony from track to track, this track’s slightly off melody and dragging beat make this one better left on the cutting room floor. Not that it’s a bad song, but it is terribly out of place. This is even more evidenced by the lyrics that seem to go on, but not really tell much. There seems to be an attempt at painting a scene but the missteps of dragging out the word A-A-A-A-ATUMN make this song come off as a lazy filler.

Black Connect 3
Produced by Ski
They really could have used this song to end the album. This song paints the illest scene on the album and is definitely one of the songs I’d use to make a Best Of album. With tag team style reminiscent of the great Hip Hop duos like EPMD, Run DMC, Nice and Smooth, and others, they really are at their best on this one. The sample and meticulously musical orchestra make this track one of Ski’s most enjoyable music offerings to the group. Even at 4:27, I’m not ready for this one to end when it does.

Love It Then
Produced by Ski
I don’t know if it’s possible to go wrong with a Stevie sample, and thank god they don’t prove otherwise. The music on this one is really on par with the last one and even tho the hook isn’t solid, the scene is flawless as our crew hits the city again with the ladies in tow. Again, nothing bad to say about this one other than the hook being a problem, but the song is dope as hell. With songs like this, what the hell were they thinking with that last album?

Uptown (Remix)
Produced by Ski
It’s been a minute since I’ve heard 3 songs come off as strong as these last 3 have for this album. Like I said above, this song should have been THE version for the album and the previous offering should have been edited out. The El Debarge sample on the hook and this being the slowest song on the album almost lead your right back into the first song which is the second fastest offering on the movie that we are calling Another Heist.

Bottom Line:
I’ve never thought growth was a product of abandoning your style, but more-so the child of perfection of what you’ve been doing. I support expression and changes in pace, but it doesn’t always lead to success. We could almost do an entire week on artists who tried to “grow” while doing something different and ended up stifling that very aspiration in the process. Every group can’t be Outkast and consistently reinvent themselves on a level where others are still trying to achieve with familiar surroundings. This album is a great return to from and the cohesiveness and style that made us fall in love with the group when we went Uptown Saturday Night. They don’t capture lightening in glass again with this album, but they do provide another enjoyable movie to the Camp Lo studio and leave us looking forward to yet another offering. There are some definite signs of the magic that we remember, and I already can’t wait til the next soundtrack comes out.

nappyPicks: “Satin Amnesia”, “Get Em Lo”, “Black Connect 3”, “Love It Then”, “Uptown (Remix)”

Download: Camp Lo – “Get Em Lo”

Download: Camp Lo – “Black Connect 3″

Fat Joe is a Hip-Hop pioneer in his own right, having put YEARS in the game, rapping with some of the illest MC’s out (D.I.T.C), and he had a couple of protégés under his wing (Big Pun, Remy Ma). But times have changed and so has his crew. Long gone are the days of Pun, Remy is doing a bid, and Joe has been in a public skirmish with 50 Cent years. Joe has not given his fans that “personal” album that they have been waiting on. This is the year of sequels (Blueprint and OB4CL2); will Fat Joe’s be considered on that list of “New Classics”? Let us find out!

Winding On Me
Featuring Lil’ Wayne & Ron Browz; Produced by Ron Browz
Fat Joe didn’t take long going after the younger club crowd with this one. This shouldn’t be a surprise considering this is the same guy that brought you “Lean Back” and “We Thuggin’”. I know people give Ron Browz a hard time, but I kind of like this song, maybe the Wayne feature helped. This beat sounds similar to “Pop Champagne” but the club crowd will still eat it up.

Joey Don’t Do It
Produced by DJ Infamous
The production on this song is SICK! I’m pretty sure this is a sample from some Doors Hendrix song, (guessing) but DJ Infamous did his thing on the track. I can’t sit here and act like Joe didn’t do the production any justice, he did, just wish the song would have been longer than 2 minutes.

One
Featuring Akon; Produced by The Inkredibles
It seems to me that every song Akon is featured on sounds the same. This is Fat Joe’s ode to keeping it real with ONE woman. I can dig it; I just don’t like Akon on the track. WHY? They could have gotten a legitimate R&B singer to do what he did on the song.

Aloha
Featuring Rico Love & Pleasure P; Produced by Rico Love
I guess Joe is keeping up with the ladies with the last two tracks. On this track it sounds like Joe is endorsing TRICKING. I really don’t like the featured artists on the song, they could have been left out, and maybe been replaced with Ne-Yo.

Put You In The Game
Featuring T-Pain & OZ; Produced by Schife, G-Boi, & Joe Boom
Three straight songs aimed at the females? This one is executed better than the previous songs with T-Pain on the track. What stands out to me is the production. The bass will have the sound systems working overtime. I can see know this will be a favorite by the females.

Congratulations
Featuring Rico Love & T.A; Produced by Eric Hudson
I like the feel on this song, but this might not be a crowd favorite. This production is simple, but sometimes simplicity makes good songs. The hook is on some “Empire State of Mind” or some Kanye influenced music. Whatever you want to call it…I’m feeling it.

Porn Star
Featuring Lil’ Kim; Produced by Jim Jonsin
Only two people could have done this song, Trina or Lil’ Kim. They have the latter on the track. Joe breaks out the Auto-Tune for this one, and to keep it 100 with you, I don’t want to visualize Joe doing the dirty. I’m not sure about this one; I can’t give it a co-sign.

Cupcake
Featuring Benisour; Produced by Schife
Now Joe is going back to his Young Jeezy roots. I know this is what is hot in the streets right now, but certain things Joe is too old for. This is one of them topics. I don’t want to hear 40 year old rappers talking about moving work. Leave that to the new cats out there, you better than this Joe.

Ice Cream
Featuring Raekwon & T.A; Produced by T-Weed
This is the song I have been waiting for from Joe. The production on this one is Johnnie Walker Black SMOOTH. Once again Joe’s subject matter is going at the females, which is okay, but the production makes up for the questionable subject matter. Raekwon doesn’t sound too enthused about rapping on the track, but maybe that is the way he sounds.

Okay Okay
Produced by Andrews “Drew” Correa
Joe has gotten some good production on this album, and he didn’t waste the opportunity to make decent songs. The only problem I have with this one is the hook. Joe could have done much more considering the subject matter and the production. The song is still FIRE though.

Blackout
Featuring Swizz Beatz & Rob Cash; Produced by J Buttah
It’s kind of funny seeing Swizz featured and not behind the boards on a song. This time Swizz does his best to get the crowd amped on this one. The beat will have all the girls off the dance floor, and nothing but the LIVE NIGGAS will be left standing. Joe definitely mixed some South and North on this one. DOPE.

Music”
Featuring Cherlise; Produced by DJ Infamous & Slick
FINALLY, Joe gives a song that lets us into his life. Joe doesn’t understand that he is a likable guy that his fans really don’t know him. Joe drops some gems on this one, “They say Joe too selfish, he won’t let us in the door/I say, Shit, I could’ve left Pun in front of that store/Could’ve left Remy Ma ass in Castle Hill/Where every other day another nigga get killed?/They say, What’s Cool without Dre?/I say, Shit what if them niggas never met Jose?/LV was a great DJ/Now he produced “Roc Boys”, headed for a Grammy/What if I would’ve told Khaled to stop buggin’ me??He’d probably never be president of that company/Shit, you probably would have never heard the movement/I ain’t gotta talk, I ain’t gotta prove shit/Scott Storch was the best, they kept sleepin’ on him/’Cause he’s a white boy, he kept ghostbeatin’ for ‘em/Dropped “Lean Back”, and that shit hit/And guess what? I made the nigga rich, cocksuckers.”

Bottom Line:
Joe still didn’t give us THAT album that we wanted, but don’t let that sound like this album is a failure. I don’t know what album Curly was listening to, but this one is ABOVE AVERAGE. Joe did go at the ladies on a third of the album, but seeing what his recent successes with the singles have been, I can’t fault that at all. I really don’t believe he had any major slip ups, just some questionable features, but the songs I felt weren’t the strongest were some of the songs aimed at the ladies. All in all, Joe can be happy with this release, and with the right timing with the singles, he may come home with a Gold plaque.

nappyPicks: “Winding On Me”, “Joey Don’t Do It”, “Congratulations”, “Blackout”, “Music”

Download: Fat Joe feat. Cherlise – “Music”

Download: Fat Joe – “Hey Joe” (”Joey Don’t Do It” Original Version)

It’s been nearly ten years since Brother Ali’s debut album Rites Of Passage (Which I’m still trying to get my hands on) was released. Little has changed since then. He is still putting out superior albums release after release…even his EP’s stay positively consistent. What makes Brother Ali albums different from others is that he puts all of his heart into these records. Some of his songs like “Picket Fence”, “Walking Away”, and “Faheem” are some of the deepest songs I have ever heard. This is just a sample of his personal songs. He also has the lyrical abilities to put out down-to-earth gems like “Forrest Whitiker”, “Daylight”, and “Good Lord”. Furthermore, there are songs where he can just talk shit, “Missing Teeth”, “Bad Mu Fucka”, and “Lookin’ at Me Sideways”. The bottom line is that Brother Ali is a truly gifted emcee who has blessed the hip hop game. Now let’s get into the album.

1. Brothers & Sisters
Featuring Chuck D & Stokley Williams; Produced by Ant)
The album starts off as righteously as it possibly can with a lovely gospel handclap. As the choir kicks in, the legendary Chuck D drops some words of wisdom to introduce Brother Ali. This is a great and beautiful way to start the album.

2. The Preacher
Produced by Ant
Ant takes no time to “turn it up!” as the late great J Dilla liked to say with the loud horns and electric guitars on “The Preacher”. Ali opens up telling you a little something about him and what he’s all about. Ali is best known for his superb lyrical skills, but here he shows that he has delivery as well. Nice solid track.

3. Crown Jewel
Produced by Ant
The horns return on “Crown Jewel”, but the bass has improved compared to the last track. The lyrics on here are dazzling with metaphors. This is a great song that’ll help you get through a stressful day. Probably not a standout for most people, but one for me.

4. House Keys
Produced by Ant
The real storytelling starts on “House Keys”. Ali tells us how he moved to a smaller apartment downstairs (of the same building) to save money on rent. He has new neighbors upstairs who are apparently drug dealers. Through many nights of unruly behavior upstairs, Ali decides to rob the place when they are gone with his old house keys haha. Favorite track so far. Once again, Ant displays why he is one of today’s most underrated producers. The beat reminds me of a dream. On a side note, this beat would really fit a Del Tha Funkee Homosapien song. I would like to hear them together.

5. Fresh Air
Produced by Ant
Ant uses yet another diverse approach on this beat. This time he brings a more soulful jazz sound for Ali to spit. Ali goes on to talk about life and what he has gone through (especially in the last two years – marriage, birth of his daughter, etc). This is a nice song that goes along with the album.

6. Tight Rope
Produced by Ant
Ali is really starting to master the art of storytelling. On “Tight Rope”, he comes with three different stories about unwanted kids. The first story is about a girl that is having a hard time being accepted into the American society after moving from her native country (Somalia) because of a civil war. The second story is about the difficulty of a boy growing up when his parents are going through a divorce. The final story is about a homosexual boy, and the cruel reality of how he is treated because of his sexual orientation. This is just the start of deep songs coming off the album. Standout.

7. Breakin’ Dawn
Produced by Ant
Brother Ali’s storytelling continues on the bluesy “Breakin’ Dawn”. This is a detailed story about a man who discards the likes of success to stay true to his roots. You don’t hear many songs like this, but Ali does an incredible job with it and to get his point across.

8. The Travelers
Produced by Ant
This is another moving song about racism and the harsh actuality of our (slavery) history. Not only does Ali touch on topics that most emcees won’t do, but he constantly does it in an intellectual way. His words paint a picture for us to see and recognize.

9. Baby Girl
Produced by Ant
Baby Girl starts with an emotional -type beat, and Ali gradually begins to narrate about a female who was raped at a young age. What makes Ali’s narratives superior to others is that he does an excellent job of explaining how the person in the story feels. For example, “How can she find peace in her mind when love means returning to the scene of a crime?” Another brilliant thing about this song is how he responds after every verse, “Only one thing I can say in truth – got to deal with the demons before they deal with you”. The realest line(s) in this entire song.

10. Round Here
Produced by Ant
Ali breaks away from the storytelling for a minute to hit us with a nice laid back track. Once again, he shows you that he has delivery by how well his flow fits the beat. Besides that, there is nothing too significant here compared to the rest of the album. Although, it still puts out good musical vibes, and I consider it solid.

11. Bad Mufucker Pt. II
Produced by Ant
This is the sequel to the same titled track on his extended play, “Champion”. This one has a different method compared to the last. On this song, he is flat out telling you he is a bad mufucker, whereas the first song explains why he is. I’m going to relate my opinion like the ending words on the previous song “Round Here”, “Brother Ali, you a bad mufucker man”.

12. Best @ It
Featuring Freeway & Joell Ortiz; Produced by Ant
This is a lyrical ambush. They all came with it, but I have to say Joell Ortiz slaughtered (no pun intended) the track. He has an ill metaphoric line bar after bar on this and clearly shows why he’s the best @ it. Another thing I like about the track is how Ant slightly changes the beat for when Brother Ali comes on…worked well.

13. Games
Produced by Ant
This is an additional song about life and the numerous struggles people go through. He makes a good point that there are people out there willing to make their lives better compared to others who stay shackled up. Here is a short example from the chorus, “It’s like chains on your neck with a tight grip/Use your brain and shit, you might live”.

14. Slippin’ Away
Produced by Ant
“Slippin’ Away” is a song about one of Ali’s friend who got caught up in the street life. Ali starts off explaining how he moved to Minnesota and his early childhood. He goes on tell us about the friend – how they met, how they became friends, and their last conversation together. I’m not going to tell you the last part of the song. I’d rather have you listen to it yourself to find out what happens. A really deep and personal song by Brother Ali. Another one of my favorites from the album.

15. You Say (Puppy Love)
Produced by Ant
Ant drops a lovely loop (drums, sample, everything) for Ali to express his emotions of puppy love. Ali changes the direction one last time expressing how he feels for a certain somebody through his lyrics.

16.Us
Featuring Stokley Williams; Produced by Ant
The album returns to the same handclap vibes on “Brothers & Sisters”. The only difference here is Brother Ali chooses to rhyme over this one. The lyrics on this help explain why he named this album Us. Perfect way to end the album.

Bottom Line:
Sixteen tracks later, and I can say there is absolutely NO filler on this. Brother Ali has once again released a significant album for the year. What more can you ask for? – Great beats, superb lyrics, and outstanding concepts. What I like about Brother Ali is that he doesn’t straight out tell you what his stories are about. You actually have to listen & get hints, and the story comes together in the end. It’s an impressive way of writing. So do Hip-Hop a favor and pick this up. It’ll be worth the fifteen dollars. On a side note, Ali is a great performer too. I saw him at Paid Dues this year and was pleased. He is currently on the Fresh Air Tour with Evidence. Check it out if he’s coming to your city. Peace.

nappyPicks: Every song is good in its own way, but if I had to pick 5, it would go a little somethin’ like this…“House Keys”, “Tight Rope”, “Baby Girl”, “Bad Mufucker Pt. II”, “Slippin’ Away”

Download: Brother Ali – “Tight Rope”

Given the current state of Hip-Hop music in 2009, a resurgence of “real” Hip-Hop music and return to the lyricism as heard on classic albums of the 90’s has been seen with recent releases like Raekwon’s Only Built 4 Cuban Linx… PT II, KRS-One & Buckshot’s Survival Skills, and Marco Polo & Torae’s Double Barrel. Since his debut in 2006 with the 9th Wonder assisted Cloud 9: The 3 Day High and follow-up mixtapes including Corner Store Classic and The Power Of Words, Skyzoo has undoubtedly noticed the declining state of Hip-Hop music and has been on a mission to bring things back to the way they once were. This is evident with an album titled The Salvation, as the term “salvation” by definition is the saving of humanity from death or eternal damnation. With this album Skyzoo is set on saving listeners and the genre of Hip-Hop from death via untalented artists with limited skills and abilities on the microphone (I won’t go into names here… everybody has their own list). With producers along the lines of 9th Wonder, Just Blaze, Black Milk, Illmind, Nottz, and Needlz, and the credible history of Skyzoo as an intellectual, lyrical emcee, this album looks good on paper to be a success, but in the end does that translate to a quality product.

1. The Opener
Produced by Cyrus The Great
In relation to the album title, the opening track starts off with a gospel interlude followed by some piano playing the leads into some piano driven production by Cyrus The Great. The production plays its role as Skyzoo immediately lets listeners know what they’re getting with this album in the form of lyricism and a return to real Hip-Hop music. This track is a good introduction to the rest of the album that follows.

2. Return Of The Real
Produced by Just Blaze
Speaking of a real to Hip-Hop music, that’s exactly what this track is about as stated by the song title. Skyzoo enlists music producer extraordinaire Just Blaze for this track as he delivers with one of the most energetic beats on the album. After a trademark Just Blaze introduction, Skyzoo gets right into it over the head-nodding beat in speaking about how he’s one of the last few lyricists remaining in the game and is destined to bring the realness back to the genre. This is a track that definitely knocks on the system, as Skyzoo does a good job on his intentions with his convincing lyrics and flow.

3. The Beautiful Decay
Produced by 9th Wonder
This track stood as the first official single for the album with an accompanying video released a few months back that provided excellent visuals to compliment Skyzoo’s lyrics describing the inner city life in a positive manner by name it “The Beautiful Decay”. 9th Wonder supplies Skyzoo with one of his signature soulful beats that fit his lyrics and flow like a glove and sound like something you might have heard from their sessions back on the Cloud 9: The 3 Day High project. This is an excellent track that shows Skyzoo in his zone in speaking about city life and its surroundings.

4. My Interpretation
Produced by Best Kept Secret
On this track Best Kept Secret provides some airy flowing production as Skyzoo gives his interpretation of “getting lifted” with his head in the clouds on his journey to the top. The soulful production once again fits nicely with Skyzoo’s rhyming, as he doesn’t sound one bit out of place with his vivid descriptions and portrayal.

5. Popularity
Produced by Nottz
Getting back to the energetic sound that was heard a few tracks ago on “Return Of The Real”, Skyzoo recruits Nottz behind the boards of this track as he supplies some bouncy production while Skyzoo proceeds to let listeners know why he’s one of the most popular emcees on the rise in the game and doesn’t show any signs of being stopped. Being the type of rapper that Sykzoo is, this is the closest you’re going to get to hearing a potential commercial song receiving radio play, and honestly a song of this kind is one I wouldn’t be opposed to hearing compared to the likes of “You’re A Jerk” or “Money To Blow”.

6. Like A Marathon
Produced by 9th Wonder
9th Wonder returns to the scene with some more soulful production for Skyzoo to deliver some words of inspiration to those on the road to pursuing their dreams. “Like A Marathon” is clever wording which ultimately translates to never giving up and quitting as life and the roads to our goals can feel similar to running a marathon. It’s quite clear to see how Skyzoo and 9th were able to put together a quality project in three days as their chemistry is unlike many other emcee/producer pairings. This track is another gem to be found on the album that listeners are sure to enjoy and relate to with their own lives.

7. The Shooter’s Soundtrack
Produced by Cyrus The Great
After six tracks this is the first track on the album that I’m not really feeling and probably won’t get many repeat listens from me. Cyrus The Great provides some nice production on the track but it sounds dull and gets repetitive after a while of listening. From Skyzoo’s lyrics (which aren’t his best delivered and sound a bit boring like the production) this track is meant to be the soundtrack for those in the streets living the crime life. Ultimately compared to the previous tracks heard, this track sounds more like it was meant and would fit better on a mixtape than an album. The skit/interlude of Skyzoo and his girl’s phone conversation does well in setting up the scene for the next track but sort of goes on too long.

8. Under Pressure
Produced by 9th Wonder
9th Wonder comes through again, this time utilizing the same sample (“Walk On By” – The Undisputed Truth) used by J Dilla on his Donuts album cut “Walkinonit” to a good degree for the production on this track. Skyzoo takes note from the sample’s song title in dropping lyrics about being under pressure in a relationship while doing what’s necessary and providing for both, but realizing that it can no longer work in the end. This is another good song of relatable virtues and values that are realistic in the lives of many going through relationships and difficult times.

9. Penmanship
Produced by Black Milk
In a recent Q&A session (“Ask Skyzoo”) with Skyzoo on 2dopeboyz, he replied to a question that there were two producers that he had to have on his debut album being Just Blaze and J Dilla. As heard on the previous track “Return Of The Real”, he was able to accomplish ½ of his goal with a Just Blaze produced track, but unfortunately due to the untimely passing of J Dilla he wouldn’t be able to have a track produced by the late great Detroit legend. Insert music producer Black Milk who in his own right is one of the best up-coming producers in the game and becoming a Detroit legend in his own right. Having some similar qualities of J Dilla to his name in terms of production and sound, Black Milk provides Skyzoo with the closest rendition to having a Dilla produced joint on his debut album. Black’s production consists of a pulsing organ riff backed by off-beat drum programming that might throw some listeners at first, but is head nodding none the less. On the track Skyzoo gets down in delivering lyrics pertaining to his lyricism and tight pen game. This song reassures listeners that Skyzoo is no here today gone tomorrow type emcee, and his lyrics are some of the nicest out of the rest of the next generation rappers.

10. Dear Whoever
Produced by Illmind
From the previous up-tempo track, Skyzoo decides to slow things down a bit with “Dear Whoever” in which he rhymes lyrics in the form of a letter addressed to past girlfriends (no one in specific) that he went through the same circumstances with. Speaking about being in a relationship where he lowered his guard and put all of his feelings out in the open for his significant other, only to realize that them being apart was better for them than being together. Illmind’s soulful production on this track fit comfortably well in complementing Skyzoo’s lyrics and the track’s subject matter. This song seeming so personal from Skyzoo’s lyrics is a gem to be found on the album.

11. For What It’s Worth
Produced by Eric G.
After a brief interlude of wise words from the late great Tupac Shakur, we’re hit with one of the most heartfelt tracks on the album. Eric G. beautifully samples Dee Dee Bridgewater’s “My Lonely Room” as the perfect backdrop for Skyzoo to deliver lyrics about living life for what it’s worth in the time given while battling between making a living on the block within the drug game or facing the struggles of the legal life to reach dreams. When Skyzoo is in his element of tracks describing life’s trials and tribulations he is one of the realest emcees behind the microphone. In the case of where that’s seen with “For What It’s Worth”, it stands as one of the best tracks on the album.

12. The Necessary Evils
Produced by Needlz
Those who have been following Skyzoo’s career since his start in 2006 through the various mixtapes he has released will recognize this track from his 2007 mixtape Corner Store Classic. Needlz produces a dark, sinister sounding beat for Skyzoo to deliver lyrics about the necessary evils of the street life that seen as everyday living for those involved. Much like the previously heard “The Shooter’s Soundtrack”, this track doesn’t standout in comparison to some of the other strong production found on this album and feels out of place on this album since it was previously featured on a mixtape from two years ago. This is another track that won’t receive much play from me and is one that could have been left of the final track listing.

13. Easy To Fly
Featuring Carlitta Durand; Produced by 9th Wonder
This song features the only guest appearance to be found on the album with Carlitta Durand supplying the hook in gracious vocal styling. 9th Wonder supplies soulful, floating production that fits well with the song’s topic as Skyzoo drops lyrics about a girl that he’s trying to take away from her current bad situation into a better relationship with him. Topic wise this track hold’s the same weight as most of the female tracks we’re used to hearing on rappers’ albums, but the track’s production and guest feature give it an edge from falling totally into the cliché standing.

14. Bottom Line
Produced by Eric G.
Off his fantastic production heard on “For What It’s Worth”, Eric G. returns with some more soulful sounding production on “Bottom Line”. On this track Skyzoo spits lyrics about being on your grind in whatever you do and how it comes so easy if the grind is something you’re consistent with. This is a good track to be heard and stays in tune with most of the soulful tracks heard throughout the album.

15. Metal Hearts
Produced by 9th Wonder
Mr. Douthit returns for the last and final time on the album with some lively, soul production in sampling Barry White’s “Never, Never Gonna Give Ya Up” to good results. Skyzoo uses the nice composed beat to speak about his dedication and devotion to the grind in doing whatever is necessary to see success at the end of the day.

16. Maintain
Produced by Nottz
Skyzoo brings things full circle and ends off on a similar note and mood that was heard on “The Opener”. With the sound writing on the paper in the background, he speaks maintaining in life and in the music industry. Talking about making it to a point that not many people taught they would be him at in delivering an album and having a record deal after three years of diligence and never quitting in the process. This track does a good job in closing our the album on a peaceful vibe that gives listeners the idea that Skyzoo has finally made it to the point in his career that he has been striving for.

Bottom Line:
Many people outside of the underground Hip-Hop scene might not be well familiar with Skyzoo as an artist and his works, but one thing is sure after listening to this album and that is that Skyzoo will be a name that people all over will be familiar with in due time. With an album dubbed The Salvation, Skyzoo’s intentions of bringing the rap game back to its respectable nature of quality music and strong lyricists are evident, and he succeeds in doing that with this album. Skyzoo is an emcee that isn’t afraid to go against the grain of popular dances and trendy gimmicks in providing listeners with the quality, “real” Hip-Hop that has been a missing element for so long now. While he isn’t the only one on this quest and making the necessary steps with an album of this kind (see: Only Built 4 Cuban Linx… PT II, Double Barrel, Slaughterhouse, The Ecstatic, etc.), Skyzoo definitely makes the movement strong with the addition of his debut album. During a time where artists’ albums sound more like compilations with guest features just for the popularity of a name (ex: Lil Wayne, Drake, Jay-Z, etc.), Skyzoo realizes that his is his show and uses the platform to showcase himself to listeners with only one guest appearance on the whole album. Aside from a couple of choice songs that threw off the flow and cohesiveness, The Salvation is a prime example of good Hip-Hop that so necessary nowadays. Much like Hip-Hop albums in the 90’s featuring one of two main producers, this album has that feel cohesiveness, as most of the tracks are able to flow easily into each other. With some further work, Skyzoo is on the verge of releasing a classic album in given time. Those searching for quality Hip-Hop outside of the blitz of commercial radio albums and singles should look no further than Skyzoo and The Salvation. When it seems like too many rappers “forgot how to be real and remembered how to be wack”, it’s good that Skyzoo is vice versa.

nappyPicks: “The Beautiful Decay”, “Like A Marathon”, “Under Pressure”, “Dear Whoever”, “For What It’s Worth”

Download: Skyzoo – “The Beautiful Decay”

Bonus: Skyzoo – “Return Of The Real”