Kidz In The Hall have made changes on every album. With their debut album School Was My Hustle they were on the cusp of making a huge impact on Hip-Hop’s underground scene. On the sophomore album, The In Crowd, it seem they were ready to step up their profile (Including features from Pusha T, Travis McCoy, & Bun B) but still were overlooked even with the hit “Drivin’ Down The Block “. Now on their third album, Land Of Make Believe, rapper Naledge & producer Double-O look for another change in terms of sound. Gone now are the soul samples as we see producer Double-O make a sonic shift to synth heavy sounds and no samples. So did Land Of Make Believe turn out to be a change for the better? Let’s find out…

1. Intro
Produced by Double-O
In the beginning the first track has this sleepy feel to it. But as it progresses more instruments are added to make it really feel like your beginning a journey. Naledge drops line too: “Jill Scott said live life like it’s golden but Goldie said don’t be made at the chosen”. The album starts off on a good note.

2. Traffic
Produced by Double-O
The new sound direction is evident as this track is big on the synth. While there’s no problem with the beat (It gets better towards the end), the track as a whole doesn’t seem to go anywhere. Plus I could have doen without that hook: “Don’t get like Mike nigga, just get like me”. Average track. Coldhard of the group Crucial Conflict does the talking in the beginning and end by the way.

3. Flickin’
Produced by Double-O
This was probably the first track I heard off this album. I didn’t like it then and I’m still not feeling it now. The whole happy upbeat feel of the track really throws me off as well as the heavy Auto-Tune singing chorus. There have been songs like this that work but this one wasn’t done very well. Meh…

4. Out To Lunch
Featuring The Kid Daytona; Produced by Double-O
Minimalist production is used here. For a minute there I could have sworn this was The Cool Kids. This isn’t bad but for tracks like this, the lyrics have to take center stage. I don’t think Daytona and Naledge accomplished that here and track ends up boring.

5. Bougie Girls
Featuring Russoul; Produced by Double-O
Here Naledge big ups the upscale sisters. According to him that means reading books for Oprah’s Book Club, correcting grammar, and having good credit (Who doesn’t want a woman with a high credit score?). It seems like they were going for an anthem for these kind of women but it falls flat and sounds a little silly. The guitar riff on the beat is okay, but once again kinda boring.

6. Jukebox
Featuring MC Lyte; Produced by Double-O
Since I saw a video for this, I’m assuming that this is the first single. This is obviously aimed at the clubs (“Let me see you shake your little thang…”). I guess it works. I definitely like a little better after seeing the video (It’s not great but it helped). The beat sounds a bit dated; like “Can I Get A…” by Jay-Z dated. And where the hell was MC Lyte? Please don’t tell me all she did was that short ass hook.

7. L_O_V_E
Produced by Double-O
More synths here as well as more softness. Not to say that’s necessarily a bad thing, but the last three tracks have been like this and I don’t think it’s working. I’m was close to hitting the skip button there.

8. Will II Win
Featuring Marsha Ambrosius; Produced by Double-O
Finally. After three duds The Kidz bounce back. The track starts of simple but when the melody finally hits it makes the track complete. Plus you can’t lose when you have Marsha Ambrosius on the track. Naledge even sounds more inspired over this as he explains the struggle to get where he is now. Him talking at the end of the songs drives the point home even more (He also explains the album title). Check for this one.

9. Take Over The World
Featuring Just Blaze & Colin Munroe; Produced by Double-O & Just Blaze
Now this has the feel of an anthem. This is the kinda track you play to get inspired. Not to take away anything from Double-O, but this may have a lot to do with Mr. Justin Blaze co-producing the track. Colin Monroe provided the right voice for the hook too (Just Blaze with the Auto-Tune not so much). This is standout track.

10. Fresh Academy
Featuring Chip Tha Ripper & Donnis; Produced by Double-O
I know that Double-O previously said in an interview that the comparisons to groups like The Cool Kids & Pac Div were unfair, but the production on this track plus the fact that Chip Tha Ripper sounds a little like Mikey Rocks here, it hard not to compare this to a Cool Kids’ track. I happy to see Donnis get some shine here. Average track.

11. Simple Life
Featuring Amanda Diva; Produced by Double-O
This is basically Naledge singing on the whole track about “The small things we forget…”. I can honestly see this track being featured on Nip/Tuck (If you watch the show you get what I’m saying). At first listen I didn’t like this track but after a few listens, the sleepy production makes this very suitable for chill out time.

12. Running
Featuring Tim William; Produced by Double-O
Bouncy synth production here (Think Janelle Monae or Andre 3000). The track is okay but I’m still not sure if Naledge’s voice is right for this new direction. Tim William nails the hook and fits perfect though.

13. Do It All Again (I Am)
Produced by Double-O
Naledge reflects on mistakes of the past and how it would be if he could relive he past, “My selfish ways/I’ll never change/The lost of love/The price of fame”. Double-O provides a bigger sound this time and with the introspective of both the beat and lyrics, I’m surprise this isn’t the track they ended the album on. Still notable none the less.

14. I Am (Reprise)
Produced by Double-O
Over piano loop, Naledge spits what may be his best lyrics on the album; no hooks just him spitting for almost two minutes: “Please take heed/Still in the lead/If things get rocky then I’m Apollo Creed/Method to the madness/Smiling over sadness/Chip on my shoulder just from fucking with this rap shit”. This is actually what I was hoping for when I heard about the new sound for this album.

15. Rise & Shine
Featuring Russoul; Produced by Double-O
The Kidz end off on a good note with the last track. The songs puts a bow for the theme of the album (Land Of Make Believe = What you think fame is). Rossoul almost steals the show with his cameo (Which is much better than his first appearance on the album). With this track and the one before, they pick up the slack towards the end of the album.

Bottom Line:
Through most of the beginning of this album I thought that what Land Of Make Believe had to offer barely had anything interesting. Thankfully business picked up towards the middle and end. Kidz In The Hall should get a pat on the back for going in a new direction. But when trying new sounds, as an artists you has to remember what you are good at. This album wasn’t terrible but the sound they are going for is already being made better by other artists. You also have to note that Kidz are still trying to establish their brand. While there is some good music to check out here and this album may be liked by fans; some may want to get off the train before it heads to the Land Of Make Believe.

nappyPicks: “Will II Win”, “Take Over The World”, “I Am (Reprise)”, “Rise & Shine”

Download: Kidz In The Hall feat. Marsha Ambrosius – “Will II Win”
Download: Kidz In The Hall feat. Just Blaze & Colin Munroe – “Take Over The World”

I’m reaching back a bit and showing my age here but, “I remember when…” Luda was Chris Lova Lova on Hot 97.5 in Atlanta, and I’m not saying that from reading, I was in ATL then. I remember him announcing he was working on something with Timbo then he played it and wow. “Phat Rabbit” was comedy rap but it was evident that dude had talent. Here we are 12 years, 7 albums, and 11 platinum plaques since then, talking about his latest album.

Intro
Produced by Xcel
I’m typically over intros’ on albums. There was a time I liked to hear the artist set the table for the album but after everyone started doing it, and failing, I just got to a point where I’d rather them just get into the music. This intro however, I wished were longer. The beat is dope as hell and as an indication, this one is for the 12’s. Luda’s frenetic flow is at home over the Southern bounce of this Xcel beat. Not to mention that the call/response hook of “Now the ladies, they aite but they ain’t hittin’ on nothin’ do my fellas run this muthafucka ( helllll yeaaaaaa)/Now the fellas, they aite but they ain’t hittin’ on nothin’ do my ladies run this muthafucka (hellllll yeaaaaaa)” seems very appropriate based on the title.e.e.e.e.e.e.e.e..

How Low
Produced by T-Minus
The lead single off the album exploded onto the scene. He did this at the BET awards, and I remember being impressed by the song, his flow and stage presence on this one. This is def a club banger…strip or dance, take your pick, either club will do. Shout out to Body Tap, Strokers, Blue Flame, and of course, Magic City.

My Chick Bad
Featuring Nicki Minaj; Produced by The Legendary Traxster
Second single, and it appears we have a problem on our hands with this album. Not only has Luda set his sights on the club/strip scene HARD this time, he’s executing this with precision. The Legendary Traxster offers up simplistic head nod excellence on this track. I can hear ANYONE rapping on this beat easily. I do expect a few remixes of this track.

OK, I thought I’d pretend that I wasn’t going to mention my girl Minaj being on this song. Y’all know how I feel about her, so do I really need to say anything? OK, carry on.

Everybody Drunk
Featuring Lil’ Scrappy; Produced by DJ Montay
This song isn’t bad at all, a lot slower than the previous offerings and I think that is what turned me on it. We still get the southern bounce but it’s placed after two blazing songs and a incessant intro. It’s like trying to hit a John Tudor change-up after 3 straight Nolan Ryan fastballs. Still, I can see “Miracle” doing her thing to this one on stage.

I Do It All Night
Featuring Shawna; Produced by B Crucial & Tony Dinero
I’m not much up on the hip hop drama and backstory on a lot of things, but apparently, Shawna and Luda were going to do this entire album back and forth. Between then and now, she ended up “Disturbing the Peace” and leaving Disturbing the Peace. It’s a shame to, because her appearances on this album, starting with this song, are shining moments. To further cement the transition to slow songs after the heat of the first 3 songs, this one is offered up in the 5 slot. This is a pretty cool song, worth checkin’ out.

Sex Room
Featuring Trey Songz; Produced by Kajun
There are a few, very few, flat out sex raps that I like, so take my thoughts on this one with a grain of salt. It’s a cool sound and while there isn’t any beating around the bush on this one, no pun intended, this song is pretty elementary as far as lyrics and interest go. So, if you like overt slow sexual raps, this may be right over your alley.

I Know You Got A Man
Featuring Flo Rida; Produced by Infinity
I’m happy to hear the tempo pick back up with this song. I like the way Luda flows a little slower on this beat and changes his inflection for emphasis on his flow this time. What’s even more interesting than that is the fact that I don’t hate Flo Rida’s flow. Matter of fact, I REALLY like it. What in the hell…but yea, dude did a good job on this one. I would have liked to hear a chick flow in response to the fellas to complete the song rather than just being on the hook, but I can’t hate this song at all.

Hey Ho
Featuring Lil’ Kim & Lil’ Fate; Produced by Khao
Yes indeed, we have another club/strip club murderer on our hands. The hook may incite a riot and some spike in alcohol abuse and slapping incidences, but I’m sure there will be an dramatic increase to the number of women that dance and ignore the word “Ho” being chanted when this one comes on. Lil’ Kim goes hard for the ladies asserting that they cheat better than men, and she’s right. I could go without Fate’s verse and just got longer offerings from Kim and Luda though.

Party No Mo
Featuring Gucci Mane; Produced by Bangladesh
This beat is no “A Millie” by any means. In all seriousness, outside of the deep bass, I don’t like the track. The hook is terrible and it’s essentially a bland offering. Problem with that is that Luda really brought his A game lyrically on what is, essentially, a throw away song. He saved it from being a skip with lines like “Ya got mo’ dough, then homie ya gon hafta show me/You never say it rains like Tony Toni Tone/My Chevy’s outside and it’s sittin’ on Kobe’s/And I keep the hood with me like Obi OneKenobi”.

B.O.T.S. Radio
Featuring I-20 & Shawna; Produced by The Runners
I’ll let the cat out of the bag on this one right now, I-20 killed this song hands down. He went with straight bars, no metaphors or extra reliance on similes and wordplay, just flat out lyrics that work and flow. Luda and Shawna do good jobs, but he really set this song off. Musically, it just sounds like an extended intro or interlude that never really takes off. It goes with the concept of the song though so it works.

Can’t Live With You
Featuring Monica Produced by Khao
I have a feeling, that with Monica’s own project coming out, and the radio friendly vibe of this song, this will be the next single if there is a next single. There’s something off or flat about the hook on this one. Everything else is a nice song and is basically a blueprint of how to make a good song that is radio ready.

Feelin’ So Sexy
Featuring Shawna; Produced by Gaggie
We already discussed how I felt about overt sexual rap songs right? Ok…this is another. As you were.

Tell Me A Secret
Featuring Ne-Yo; Produced by Swizz Beatz
Um, a Swizz Beat? This song is damn near an R&B track. I’m impressed he can do something like this. Now unlike the previous songs sex raps on this album, I dig this one. The smooth laid back flow of Luda’s delivery, the beat, and Ne-Yo’s singing on the hook really make this a good song.

My Chick Bad (Remix)
Featuring Diamond, Trina and Eve; Produced by The Legendary Traxster
LADIES. Why you wait for Luda to coordinate this shit? The beat, as discussed, dopeness. The ladies flow and arrangement, insane. How is it that my flat out fave song on the album is the chicks version? I don’t know, but Diamond set it up nicely. Trina comes on and does Trina, you know what you’re getting here. Eve shocked me with not only her appearance on the album, but her verse. She finishes this one off nicely. Dope remix.

Sexting
Produced by The Neptunes
By definition, this is “Phat Rabbit 2010″. This song is a parody of Tiger going to sex rehab and the message he left one of them chicks about taking her name off her voicemail. Now, it doesn’t go along with the album sound like, at all. But it’s a really fun song and is a LOT more creative than the sound would make you think.

Bottom Line:
The title of the album is a bit misleading I think, but the fact that Luda features so many features on this album (15) and doesn’t lose in the expected quality of his music is a win. If you look at his record sales, he’s been fighting the battle against the download phenomenon as is languishing as everyone’s favorite underrated rapper. While his Conjure mixtape left a bad taste in our mouths, this album is definitely the right night cap for your evening. From the crib, to the club, the the car, the crib, it takes care of you quite nicely.

nappyPicks: Support the South’s secret weapon

Download: Ludacris – “Sexting”
Download: Ludacris feat. Diamond, Trina, & Eve – “My Chick Bad (remix)”
Download: Ludacris feat. Pitbull & Ciara – “How Low (remix)”

DJ Khaled has let it be known who he was and what he was trying to push from the gates. “We The Best”, “Listen”, “We Global”, “I’m So Hood”, along with other phrases. One thing you can say about Khaled is this, he puts on for his city and the whole South. Who else can get Jeezy, T.I., Luda, Rick Ross, and Weezy on a track at one time with no problems? This is Khaled’s fourth studio album, with each album being better with release. I wonder what kind of strings Khaled will pull this time to claim that Victory.

Intro
Featuring Diddy & Busta Rhymes
Khaled doing a dialogue for the intro to his album. If you are one of the people that hate on this man for whatever reason, you might want to skip this.

All I We Do is Win
Featuring Ludacris, T-Pain, Rick Ross, & Snoop Dogg; Produced by DJ Nasty
The first song off the album sets the album off. T-Pain doing what he does best…hooks and Luda proving that he is at the top of his game and it’s time for people to take notice. My boy Ross comes through and SMASHED his verse. Snoop also recited a verse pretty well. WAY TO START THE ALBUM OFF!

Put Your Hands Up
Featuring Young Jeezy, Rick Ross, Plies, & Schife; Produced by Schife
Now this one for my GOONS! I think I busted an audible nut when I saw this. Plies, Jeezy, and Ross? WHAT? This song right here…FLAME! Ross is really on his shit right now. This song didn’t disappoint at all. BANGER!

Fed Up
Featuring Usher, Young Jeezy, Rick Ross, Lil’ Wayne, & Drake; Produced by The Runners
The first single off the album, and how could you go wrong with that line up? This song HAS to be a hit. Look at the features. Do I really have to say this song is HOT? You should already know. But what stood out was Usher’s verse at the end. Check it out for yourself.

Victory
Featuring Nas & John Legend; Produced by The Inkredibles
John Legend knows how to make a song, and God’s Son comes through spitting some of that stuff that made you remember why he is one of the top MC’s ever. DAMN. I guess being behind in child support will make you spit some dope shit.

Ball
Featuring Jim Jones & Schife; Produced by Schife
Certain beats work for Jimmy; this is one of those beats. Niggas hate on Jim (B-Easy) but Capo does the same thing that Gucci does, so why can’t he get any props? BUMP THIS SHIT! “I got these bitches dunking dicks like Sheryl Swoopes, when they see me pull up to the spot in several coupes.” JIMMY!!

Rockin’ All My Chains On
Featuring Birdman, Bun B, Soulja Boy Tell Em’, & Schife; Produced by Schife
I have to tell you that this production on this album has been DOPE! This beat here…FLAME! Bun B jumps on the beat and did his usual damage. I really think the beat overshadowed all the artists on the track. But the song is worth listening to either way.

Killing Me
Featuring Bounty Killer, Buju Banton, & Busta Rhymes; Produced by The Runners
Busta got in touch with his inner Jamaican and got with some Dancehall icons, Buju Baton and Bounty Killer, to make this club banger. I can see some women dancing seductively to this.

Bringing Real Rap Back
Featuring Rum; Produced by The Runners
DJ’s have a way to sneak their new artists on albums like this. This dude sounds real raw, on some Plies shit, but a little more realer. I’m interested into hearing more from this dude.

Bring The Money Out
Featuring Nelly, Lil’ Boosie, Ace Hood, & Schife; Produced by Schife
Dang Nelly, you on a song with Boosie and Ace Hood? Not saying that’s a bad thing, you would think he would rap with someone in his age range. All that aside, I really like Boosie’s and Ace Hood’s energy on this song. If Ace keeps it up, he is going to be a problem.

On My Way
Featuring Kevin Cossom, Ace Hood, BallGreezy, Desloc, Piccalo, Ice “Billion” Berg, Bali, Gunplay, Rum, & Young Cash; Produced by The Runners
I guess this is Khaled letting the whole crew get off on this song. One again Ace Hood is really going HARD!

Rep My City
Featuring Pitbull & Jarvis
After I reviewed a Pitbull album, I had a different respect for him. This song is one of that will change your mind about him. He is more than the dance songs that he gets credit for. This song shows you why PItbull is called “Mr. 305”.

Bottom Line:
I have to say that Khaled kept the progression with this release. From top to bottom, this is a solid release. You have nice production, killer features, and the final result was a really good release. The good thing that Khaled did on this one was to scale it down and have 12 good songs, instead of 12 good songs with 5 or 6 alright songs. Khaled was correct when he titled this one Victory. KHALED WON!

nappyPicks: This whole joint RIDES.

Download: DJ Khaled feat. Young Jeezy, Rick Ross, & Plies – “Put Your Hands Up”
Download: DJ Khaled feat. Nas & John Legend – “Victory”
Download: DJ Khaled feat. Birdman, Bun B, Soulja Boy Tell Em’, & Schife – “Rockin’ All My Chains On”

The Philadelphia born rapper returns with (what I’d like to say) his first official release since his departure from Roc-A-Fella records. Freeway dropped his first two albums with Roc-A-Fella: his highly acclaimed Philadelphia Freeway in 2003, followed by Free At Last in 2007. Now, the emcee has chosen to go with powerful independent label – Rhymesayers Entertainment. Some might shake their heads, but I find this as the perfect fit for Freeway. Rhymesayers will do their best to accompany their artists needs (producers, tours, etc.), and most importantly, let them make the music they want.

Freeway has always had a talented list of producers on his albums (Kanye West, Just Blaze, & Bink! to name a few). However, I felt his last album didn’t have enough chemistry and was off-balance. This time around he turned to the up and coming producer Jake One. This isn’t the first time they collaborated with each other… first, on Free At Last and again, on Jake One’s White Van Music. All three of their previous tracks have been fire. Hopefully this album will be the same, and give people that incentive we need.

1. Stimulus Intro
Featuring Beanie Sigel; Produced by Jake One
We get a preview of what the album is going to sound like in the first thirty seconds. Jake One lays down a nice track with a perfect mix of drums, strings, and pianos. Beanie Sigel lets the beat build, and then drops a hot verse. Freeway finishes the intro reminding us how well they sound together. Too bad this is the only track Beans is featured on. Nevertheless, this is still a great way to start the album.

2. Throw Your Hands Up
Produced by Jake One
The record starts to bang on the amplified “Throw Your Hands Up”. This is the perfect beat for Freeway, and of course he’s not going to disappoint us on a track like this. Here are a few of my favorite lines, “We’re bringing ya original flava, raised off De La, kept Black Moon in my boombox playa. Back in the day, I use to steal that nigga Rakim’s style when I flowed & I didn’t say may I”. Another quotable, “I remember when I was first trying to be a rapper guy, like Pharcyde, the labels kept on passing me by. Nowadays, when I hit them with the flow again, they like there he go again – the dopest Ethopian”. True rhymesayer!

I also love the props he gives to the legends: Gang Starr, Naughty by Nature, Pac, Big, Tribe, Black Sheep, Leaders of the New School, De La, Black Moon, Rakim, Wu-Tang, Pharcyde.

3. One Foot In
Produced by Jake One
Another banging beat from Jake One. Freeway recalls on his way into the game, and how he still has one foot in the streets (the other in Hip-Hop). Nothing too significant here on a lyrical view, but Freeway’s flow makes it work, “I feel sorry for your mother, he missed the kick, I feel sorry for the punter”.

4. She Makes Me Feel Alright
Produced by Jake One
We’ve all heard the Rick James’ “Mary Jane” sample a handful of times. Nevertheless, we haven’t heard it from Jake One and unsurprisingly he finds a way to make it work. He definitely knows how to mix the sample in with the strings & drums. Freeway has some nice lines, but the beat is what really stands out.

5. Never Gonna Change
Produced by Jake One
“It’s like the Biggie Warning” are the first words on the track, and that’s exactly what it is. However, this song is Freeway’s version. He showcases some great storytelling that fits with the beat. On a production note, the beat is nothing less than amazing. This time around he shifts the drums around, and Freeway does a great job adjusting to them.

6. One Thing
Featuring Raekwon; Produced by Jake One
Jake One doesn’t stop bringing the heat, and this sample couldn’t get any better. Freeway starts the track and does his thing, but the highlight of the track is Raekwon. The Chef completely murders this shit. When was the last time Raekwon put out something, and it wasn’t fire? This is by far my favorite track on the album.

7. Know What I Mean
Produced by Jake One
This is the shortest song on the album (excluding the intro). The beat is good, but it falls short compared to the rest of the album. Freeway drops some decent lines, but nothing that stands out. I’d still rate this as an above average track though.

8. The Product
Produced by Jake One
Freeway compares himself to everyone’s own choice of drug. To this point of the album, that’s exactly what this record has been to me – a drug I can’t resist. He has some nice comparisons here, “I can make you act right, just put me in the crack pipe, everybody want to see you back on the mic, you need a… energy boost, you need some smack in your life”.

9. Microphone Killa
Featuring Young Chris; Produced by Jake One
Fellow Philadelphian rapper Young Chris joins Freeway on this up-tempo beat. Freeway spits some nice lines, but once again the track’s highlight comes from the guest appearance. Young Chris takes no time to body the track, “Microphone killa, no Cam’ron, bomb like land mine, I don’t ask shit, I demand mine”. Freeway should really thank Beans, Chef, and Young Chris for bringing some of their best stuff to the table.

10. Follow My Moves
Featuring Birdman; Produced by Jake One
If you haven’t heard, Freeway supposedly signed with Cash Money Records as well. And having Birdman on this album doesn’t make it hard to believe. Birdman sticks to his formula about money, cars, & weed, and Freeway follows. I felt that Freeway could’ve done better on the mic, but at least he didn’t get outshined this time around.

11. Sho’ Nuff
Featuring Bun B; Produced by Jake One
Freeway keeps it in the Dirty South for one more track. Jake One does a nice job on the beat too. Is it just me or does this beat sound like it will fit perfectly on a UGK album? Freeway does his best to keep up with Bun B, but it’s not the easiest thing to do against a Hip-Hop veteran. This is a nice track to ride out to.

12. Freekin’ The Beat
Featuring Latoiya Williams; Produced by Jake One
Things start to really slow down on the soulful “Freekin’ The Beat”. However, in a way the lyrics stay rugged. Freeway takes on a different approach of freekin’, and gets down on the beat. His lyrics do a fine job of making you think he’s speaking on a female. If you’re not a good listener, you might even think this is a love song. Hip-Hop needs more concepts like this.

13. Money
Featuring Omilio Sparks & Mr. Porter; Produced by Jake One
Jake One seems to get back on pace with a nasty set of drums. Freeway spits first recalling his past hustles to earn a dollar. Next, Omilio Sparks spits on a related point of view, and lets us know what his main purpose is money (Porter is on the hook). Freeway finishes it up on the third verse, and tells us how he’s in the same type of struggle as much of the economy is. This is a song the album needed to fit its title.

14. Free People
Produced by Jake One
“Free People” is another song about how the recession is hitting a lot of people hard. Jake One throws on a nice smooth beat Freeway can spill his thoughts over. This goes out to all the people lost right now with no money, job, or hope.

15. Stimulus Outro
Produced by Jake One
It’s to the part of the album were you can tell it’s nearly done from the sound of the beat. Freeway responds to a few fan letters and lets us know why he named the album The Stimulus Package; “It’s the reason why we named our album Stimulus Pack, all the fans givin’ us love and we givin’ it back. I’m not going to hate on the state of Hip-Hop; in fact, all I’m here to do is give ya real rap”.

Bottom Line:
Two months into the year and I’ve only listened to two albums. The first was In Search Of Stoney Jackson which featured superb production by Madlib. Then, Jake One hits me with The Stimulus Package. I can only hope that the production for the rest of the year is even close to these two records. Not only was Jake One on top of his game, but Freeway shaped this album for the people without losing that “Philadelphia Freeway” touch. In conclusion, this is a banging album that NO ONE should pass on. Furthermore, the album comes with a free instrumental download that is a gift considering how hard this album bumps.

On a side note, Brent Rollins designed the album’s creative artwork and packaging. This alone is a good reason to buy the album. He also designed Blackaliscious’ Nia, Mos Def & Kweli’s Black Star, Spank Rock’s YoYoYoYoYo, Gang Starr’s Full Clip & Moment In Truth, Evidence’s Weatherman LP, Boyz N The Hood logo, and a handful of other great art. Click here to get an example.

One more thing, Jake One & Freeway got selected to perform at this year’s Paid Dues Festival in Los Angeles. If you happen to live in that area, I highly recommend catching this year’s show. Peace.

nappyPicks: “Stimulus Intro”, “Throw Your Hands Up”, “She Makes Me Feel Alright”, “Never Gonna Change”, “One Thing”, “Microphone Killa”, “Money”, “Stimulus Outro”

Download: Freeway & Jake One feat. Raekwon – “One Thing”
Download: Freeway & Jake One – “She Makes Me Feel Alright”

The DJ steered compilation album is nothing new in Hip-Hop. In recent years people like DJ Khaled and DJ Drama have held down this lane. Why can’t Kayslay get some love too? Well, it looks like after checking his Rolodex and calling in some favors (And getting some Straight Stuntin’ models for the album cover) Kayslay releases his official album More Than A DJ.

1. Intro
Featuring Busta Rhymes; Produced by DJ Scratch
Busta Rhymes comes in and helps Kayslay start off the album. DJ Scratch provides a beat that fits an intro track. Busta’s rambling flow, while not spectacular, does the job with one long verse and no hook.

2. Men Of Respect
Featuring Tony Yayo, Papoose, Lloyd Banks, Jim Jones, & Rell; Produced by Amadeus
It’s still weird seeing Tony Yayo & Lloyad Banks on a track with Jim Jones & Papoose. What’s even more weird is that I feel Yayo had the best most entertaining verse on the track; nothing quotable just better than his peers here. Actually, the beat is the real star. Without that the track would probably stay grounded. Plus Rell on the hook stalls thing s a bit.

3. Bad Girls
Featuring Jackie-O, Remy Ma, Hedonis Da’ Amazon, & Avanna Irish;Produced by Neo Da Matrix
Kayslay says he has “the best” women MC’s on this track. Naw. Sadly that title probably goes to whoever is featured on Ludacris’ upcoming Battle Of The Sexes. Aside from that track being average, Jackie-O sounded better that I previously heard her and the Remy Ma verse sounds a little dated too (She’s still in jail right?). The beat samples David Axelrod’s “The Smile” (Royce Da 5’9” used it on “Shake This”).

4. Blockstars
Featuring Yo Gotti, Jim Jones, Busta Rhymes, & Ray J; Produced by Street Radio
Most of the time if I see Ray J’s name on a song I immediately hit the skip button, but I got to give the track an honest listen right? It’s boring. I give props for putting a different mix of rappers together but there is energy and cohesiveness here. Plus the Ray J feature ain’t helping (Sorry, I tried).

5. Monster Muzik
Featuring Cam’ron & Vado; Produced by AraabMUZIK
With KIlla & Vado on a AraabMUZIK track, you’d think this a leftover track off of Boss Of All Bosses. Naw, but it could fit there with no problem. I personally am not feeling Cam’s music as of late, but if you do you’ll like this: “They had to hated/Agitated/Cash related/I tell you bitch grab my dick/Huh now mastibate it”. Meh…

6. Layed Out
Featuring Bun B, Twista, Papoose, Dorrough, Young Chris, & Jay Rock; Produced by Sparkz Tha Trakman
Another eclectic mix of rappers here. This time if works better seeing that the talent is raised. The hard hitting beat provided by Sparks Tha Trakman could be a soundtrack to getting knocked out to in the club. Papoose does a good Twista impersonation too. Good track.

7. Gangsta Shit
Featuring OJ Da Juiceman, Papoose, & Yo Gotti; Produced Zaytoven
Holy shit! OJ fucked this beat up! No, I not saying he killed it in a good way. I mean he messed up a beat and a song that had potential. Why give him the first verse? Papoose and Yo Gotti are not talented enough to save it after that. If I was Zaytoven I’d double dip resell this shit to another rapper.

8. Straight Stuntin’ Magazine Photoshoot (Skit)
Featuring Bianca Simmone
Ha! I thought this was gonna be a sex skit with how it started out. It’s actually Straight Stuntin’ model Bianca Simmone trying to prove she can sing. Okay. Blame Lola Monroe for this.

9. Let’s Ryde Together
Featuring Trick Trick, M.O.P., Trae Tha Truth, & Tre Williams; Produced by The Alchemist
It seems Kay wanted to get all the MC’s who will most likely rob you all on the same track. Okay then why put this Eddie Kane Jr. sounding hook on it (And I think Tre Williams is talented). Is it about a relationship? Is it about riding out? Lack of direction takes this song down a few notches.

10. Thug Luv
Featuring Maino, Papoose, Red Cafe, & Ray J; Produced by Statiq & Denaun Porter
Most of the time if you sample Luther Vandross you’ll win; it works here too (Especially using “Don’t You Know That”). All the rappers involved fit bill, keep in on topic, and turn in good verses (According to Maino he’ll beat a bitch!). Did Kayslay just book Ray J for one day and have him do as many hooks as possible? Check out the music video here.

11. Building With The God (Skit)
Featuring Popa Wu
Pop Wu dropping gems…in front of a stadium crowd?

12. See The Light
Featuring AZ, Raekwon, & Ghostface; Produced Sean C & LV
Best. Song. On. The. Album.
From the beat, the parings of AZ, The Chef, & Starks; this all makes sense. This is also the first track that made me look forward to More Than Just A DJ. The Sean C & LV production here stands out as it mixes all of the styles involved. Be sure to check this one out.

13. Hustle Game
Featuring Bun B, Webbie, Lil’ Boosie, & Nicole Wray; Produced by The Alchemist
Yea, the combination of Alchemist with Webbie and Boosie had me scratching my head too. But the results weren’t bad at all; it’s actually good to here the Trill Entertainment boys over a beat like this (Boosie probably had the best verse). Not bad at all (Reminds me of the P$C/Alchemist joint).

14. God Forgive Me
Featuring Joell Ortiz, Jae Millz, & Saigon; Produced by DJ Infamous
This track changes up the mood and goes more introspective. It may seem boring to some but you need tracks like this on this album. Okay, it is kinda boring but it’s not bad. You may need to give this a personal listen to make your own judgment.

15. Kay Slayed ‘Em
Featuring Uncle Murda, Mistah FAB, & Grafh; Produced by Drew Correa
This track is based of the Kanye line “Cause after all of the drama, K slayed ‘em” from “Can’t Tell Me Nothing (remix)” (It switches up during the hook and verse). Nobody “slays” the track (Uncle Murda shines though) but it’s still a run of the mill track.

16. Make The Block Hot
Featuring Nina B, Mike Beck, KI Grip, Lucky Don, GI, & Nutso; Produced by Drew Correa & Laurent “Slick” Cohen
I think this “new cats” that’s on almost every Hip-Hop DJ compilation. I have heard of Mick Beck; he was the rapper (From the group K.A.R.) who was shot and killed last year. Even though the song is forgettable it was a good nod having him feature him.

17. You Heard Of Us (remix)
Featuring Sheek Louch, Styles P, & Ray J; Produced by Swiff D
Another Ray J chorus? Mix that with 2/3 of the LOX that doesn’t feature Jadakiss and the results are awkward (Did Brandy’s brother say he would bust a nigga’s head?). Not to completely write off this, I like Styles verses plus the sample is recognizable. The feeling of the track just doesn’t mesh well (The video has the same feeling too).

18. Street Credibility
Featuring San Quinn, Big Rich & Hood Stars; Produced by Swiff D
Bay Area is in the house on this track. It’s good that Kay is giving room for the Yay to shine, but I’m surprised the placing of this track; it kinda doesn’t fit here. But hey, even though I barely recognize the names here, the hometown love track is okay. The hook? Not so much.

19. Blockstars (remix)
Featuring Busta Rhymes, Sheek Louch, Rick Ross, Papoose, Cam’ron, Vado & Ray J; Produced by Street Radio
Same beat with added verses doesn’t really change my thoughts of the song. Check for the Ross verse though.

20. Building with the God Pt. 2 (Outro)
Featuring Popa Wu
Popa Wu closes it out.

Bottom Line:
The main problem with this album is that it follows the DJ compilation directions but not very well. It has a varied cast that’s not really all-star caliber. It has some notable names for production but not enough a-list work. While there are brief moments that show promise, in the end the product feels unpolished. Good thing Kayslay has a magazine & radio shows to fall back on. Hey, I guess he is more that a DJ.

nappyPicks: “Men Of Respect”, “See The Light”, “Thug Luv”, “Hustle Game”

Download: DJ Kayslay feat. Tony Yayo, Papoose, Lloyd Banks, Jim Jones, & Rell – “Men Of Respect”
Download: DJ Kayslay feat. AZ, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah – “See The Light”

Anybody that knows my preferred preference when it comes to the genre of Hip-Hop/Rap music knows I care more for the underground scene than the mainstream/commercial that dominates radio and television. Underground Hip-Hop/Rap has always had a special place in my heart, maybe for the fact that many of the artists and music are relatively unknown to the masses and you get a good feeling have known about said artist before they reach that higher level in their career or possibly because most of the songs are just of better quality in terms of production and lyricism, and still hold the culture and art above the money and fame. I believe the latter reason holds to for an artist like Statik Selektah who obviously still views Hip-Hop/Rap as an art as evident in his music, which preserve an authentic feel of “real Hip-Hop” that is seemingly missing in most of the music the genre’s most celebrated artists. 100 Proof (The Hangover) serves as Statik Selektah’s 3rd studio album with Spell My Name Right (The Album) (2007) and Stick 2 The Script (2008) preceding it. Statik Selektah is a proclaimed student of the game, having taken influence from the likes of DJ Premier and Pete Rock as heard in his production, and he usually uses his albums as a chance to pair artists together with tailor-made beats. Statik’s first two offerings have been those of superb quality in comparison to albums from his peers in the industry. In a time where quality Hip-Hop/Rap is needed more than ever, does Statik deliver on this strength of his alcohol-based album title…

Inside A Change (Intro)
Produced by Statik Selektah
The “Intro” whose song title borrows from the 2009 Rik Cordero indie film Inside A Change, serves to interpret the album title 100 Proof (The Hanger) as the narrator talks about human relationships as being either toxic or nourishing similar to the effects of alcohol (depending on choice). Along with some dramatic production value, Statik uses this track to put the listener in the proper mindset for the rest of the album.

So Close, So Far
Featuring Bun B, Wale, & Colin Munroe; Produced by Statik Selektah
Things start off on the right foot with a motivational track built off some mellow, jazzy production from Statik Selektah as Bun B and Wale deliver lyrics focused on better days and how they can seem close within reach but still far from realization. Vocals from Colin Munroe prove to be fitting for both the mood and message of the song.

Critically Acclaimed
Featuring Lil’ Fame, Saigon, & Sean Price; Produced by Statik Selektah
Just as things seem to be mellow and calm Statik turns up the heat with this track, which proves to be a certified head-nodder. The hard-hitting drums combined with the energetic sample provide the perfect backdrop for featured guest Lil Fame, Saigon, and Sean Price to drop lyrical bombs on as each emcee spits with something to prove.

Night People
Featuring Freeway, Red Cafe, & Masspike Miles; Produced by Statik Selektah
For a producer as diverse as Statik Selektah, matching artists with production comes easy as he creates a soulful composition for Freeway and Red Cafe to drop bars over. Philadelphia Freeway comes correct as usual (Stimulus Package coming soon) as he sounds very comfortable on Statik’s production with Red Cafe dropping a quick verse of equal quality. The hook sung by Masspike Miles completes the song and gives it a feel that could easily be heard on the airwaves (If radio was brave enough to play a song like this… Thanks Sirius/XM).

Follow Me
Featuring Smif N Wessun; Produced by Statik Selektah
Things take a turn with this track as the mood of the album get dark and sinister from fitting production as Statik combines pulsing synths, strings, and piano keys for a horror-styled beat. Smif-N-Wessun proceed to deliver rhymes that are suitable but far from memorable, which can be said about this track overall. The production on this track is average for a producer with the track record of Statik Selektah, and comes of sounding like something you could’ve heard from AraabMuzik for Cam’ron on Crime Pays or the Diplomats post-Diplomatic Immunity.

Do It 2 Death
Featuring Lil’ Fame, Havoc, & Kool G Rap; Produced by Statik Selektah
Statik picks things back up following a misstep with the previous track as Lil’ Fame returns with Havoc and Kool G Rap joining the list of guests for some authentic street rap. The production from Statik is fitting on this track all three emcees deliver fitting rhymes that serve their purpose. Not too much to say about this track other than it being a solid offering.

Come Around
Featuring Termanology & Royce Da 5’9”; Produced by Statik Selektah
When I heard this track on Shade 45 and heard it was off Statik’s new album my interest and anticipation grew even more. Getting back to the laid-back, smooth production that was heard in earlier tracks, Statik delivers a fantastic beat for Termanology and Royce Da 5’9” to let loose on. Fellow Boston representative Termanology delivers a respectable verse, but it’s Royce who steals the show with his metaphor-driven verse backed by a superb flow.

Drunken Nights
Featuring Reks, Joe Scudda & J.F.K.; Produced by Statik Selektah
Statik proceeds to slow things back down with this track themed about nights spent with a bottle as the closest companion. Statik keeps things smooth with a jazz-styled beat that fits nicely with the rhymes from guests Reks, Joe Scudda, and J.F.K. Much like “Do It 2 Death” this track ends up being another solid offering on the album, not really standing out much from it’s purpose.

Life Is Short
Featuring Consequence; Produced by Statik Selektah
On this track Statik picks up the pace and hooks up with G.O.O.D. Music’s Consequence for a song detailing how life is too short to not enjoy it while you can. Cons uses his verses to tell about his own life indulgences and why you won’t catch him letting life pass him by. This is a good track that brings some life back to the album after the slow-paced previous track.

100 Proof (Interlude)
Featuring J.F.K.; Produced by Statik Selektah
Ten tracks into the album, this track serves as the halfway mark with J.F.K. speaking some words of wisdom over some vintage Statik Selektah production. This track reminds me of something that could have been heard from DJ Premier on Group Home’s Livin’ Proof album.

The Thrill Is Gone
Featuring Styles P & Talib Kweli; Produced by Statik Selektah
Getting back to the program we hear what I think is the best song on the album as Statik provides some trademark production in which we hear Styles P and Talib Kweli drops gems about the industry’s ills and problems of the world. The pairing of Styles and Kweli wouldn’t seem typical but it works quite well on this track. The scratched Biggie vocals on the chorus serve as a nice completion to this album’s highlight track.

Get Out
Featuring Skyzoo, Rapper Pooh, Torae, & Lee Wilson; Produced by Statik Selektah
This track features some basic production from Statik as well as some of rap’s most potent lyricists in Skyzoo, Rapper Pooh, and Torae as they speak about their journey away from the street life to something better. While Rapper Pooh and Torae drop good verses, Skyzoo displays exactly why he’s one of the nicest up-and-coming rappers to be on the watch for. Lee Wilson provides a suitable hook on the job that does its job.

Laughin
Featuring Souls Of Mischief; Produced by Statik Selektah
Statik gets back into his regular form on this track with some lively sampled production suited for 90’s-famed rap group Souls Of Mischief who don’t sound like they have lost a step since their “93 Til Infinity” days. This track sounds like one that would have been perfect to start off the album but fits nicely here as a refresher for the listener with SOM droppin’ some well-placed verses.

The Coast
Featuring Evidence, Fashawn, & Kali; Produced by Statik Selektah
Even though Statik Selektah represents the East Coast as a native of Boston, he hasn’t forgot about his brethren on the West Coast that are holding it down for Hip-Hop. Statik provides some nice, subtle production as Cali veteran Evidence and Left Coast rookie Fashawn along with Kali properly represent their home state.

Fake Love (Yes Men)
Featuring Reks, Kali, Termanology, & Good Brotha; Produced by Statik Selektah
This is the kind of track that’s so necessary right now for the Hip-Hop industry and should serve as a guide for a new rappers trying to get in the game or building a name. Backed by some mellow production from Statik, the featured artists speak on one of the most dangerous factors to an artist in “yes men” who agree to whatever and are foreign to constructive criticism. Next to industry rule #1080, should be this song for artists to take notice of for their careers.

Eighty-Two
Featuring Termanology; Produced by Statik Selektah
Fittingly this track serves as an acknowledgment to Statik Selektah and Termanology’s born year, which sees Term rapping about his growth as a youth to his current status as well as the things he had to go through to reach said point. Statik keeps the mood consistent with from the previously tracks with more smooth production that keeps your head nodding before you realize how short the track is.

Walking Away
Featuring Kali & Novel; Produced by Statik Selektah
Statik decides to finish off the album with a more serious themed track backed by some piano driven production that hears Novel and Kali speaking about several issues that they’re facing in life and knowing when it’s time to walk away from those issues in hopes of a better situation. I think this is a good way to end the album as it gives a sense of closure and completion for the listener and all that has been heard.

Bottom Line:
Keeping the same formula that brought him successful results on his first two albums Spell My Name Right (The Album) and Stick 2 The Script, Statik Selektah produces another quality album that showcases his ever improving production skills and knack for matching it with the right artists. Listeners who are in the crowd of those that prefer lyricism and production value over club hits and dance tracks are who this album is for and it shows as Statik isn’t trying to make it to #1 on 106 & Park or have the hottest song in the club. Statik is a producer/DJ that recognizes and acknowledges the music that influenced him and is focused on making the same kind of the music that will hopefully influence other young listener the same that listen to his music. Once relatively unknown for his producer role and more on the mixtape circuit as a DJ, Statik Selektah is quickly evolving into one of the top producers in the game equipped with the skill and talent of diverse productions to match a plethora of rappers. As long as Statik continues to produce quality albums, I don’t see a need for him to change the formula that has worked three consecutive times in his favor.

nappyPicks: “The Thrill Is Gone”, “Critically Acclaimed”, “Come Around”, “So Close, So Far”, “Eight-Two”, “Fake Love (Yes Men)”, “Life Is Short”, “Night People”

Download: Statik Selektah feat. Freeway, Red Cafe, & Masspike Miles – “Night People”
Download: Statik Selektah feat. Styles P & Talib Kweli – “The Thrill Is Gone”

Seeing that we don’t usually review mixtapes, most things with DJ Green Lantern attached to it would normally be filed under that label. But after some research and some e-mails, it seems that The Green Ghost Project by Styles P & DJ Green Lantern is an official release. Besides the album art reminding me of the Buckshot & 9th Wonder album, I’m interested in what the project has in store. So let’s see what The Ghost & The Evil Genius cooked up in the lab.

1. Nothing To Lose
Produced by DJ Green Lantern
On the opener, Styles goes over and simple yet fitting production by Green Lantern and lets fans know he still spitting hard: “Boys turn to men/Right over the night though/Then they get killed you wonder where did they life go”. Is the hook a Fat Joe sample? Let me know.

2. Double Trouble
Featuring Sheek Louch; Produced by DJ Green Lantern
SP goes and gets LOX member Sheek to tag team the beat. The Chuck D sample on the hook along with the frantic boom bap beat makes this song. All three participants fit together here. Not great but good.

3. Callin’ Me
Featuring Tre Williams; Produced by Scram Jones
This is one they probably could have left off. The R&B chorus doesn’t fit and sounds off. The beat also gets redundant halfway through the first verse also. I almost hit the skip button too.

4. Send A Kite
Featuring Dwayne Collins; Produced by DJ Green Lantern
Styles gets his “One Love” on with this track. Even though songs like this have been done many times before, it’s actually a pretty thoughtful dedication to the love ones behind bars (“I don’t need you currency/I ain’t trying to complain cause you ain’t see me currently/You should be outside where the big face hundreds be”). It’s hard for me to get past that chorus though (Terrible). The music video helps a lot though.

5. Make Millions From Entertainment
Produced by The Alchemist
The first lines is this track shows you Styles is going for the neck: “You wanna MTV list?/I put your brains all over your MTV crib/Whoever wrote that XXL list/I’ll XXL whoever you felt spit”. Alchemist provides and menacing beat as well as a well-placed Nas sample on the hook (“I make millions from entertainment”). Check for this one.

6. Invasion
Featuring Junior Reid & Jadakiss; Produced by DJ Green Lantern
Tuck in ya chains punks! Green Lantern’s production is just as gangsta as the lyrics spit here and make this a good example of NY street music. And of course Jada steals the show: “Get the tape outta the camera/Whoever make a false move is getting hammered/After that hogtie the whole fam up/We ain’t got long so keep checking the scanners”. Yea son!

7. Time Will Tell
Featuring Raekwon; Produced by Buckwild
Yea, I was ready for a back and forth between Styles P and The Chef back and forth (“Broken Safety” anyone?), but Rae only does the hook and the song seems kinda boring. Nothing really stands out but I may needs more listens.

8. Pablo Doe
Featurng N.O.R.E. & Uncle Murda; Produced by DJ Green Lantern
As soon as I hear the Group Home’s “Supa Star” sample in the beginning I’m sold. Okay, they only used it for an intro but still; the actual beat sounds like it’d be on a Noreaga album. The song as a whole all works from the features to the productions (Including Uncle Murda was a good choice too).

9. Real Ghostly
Produced by Dutchez Beatz
I didn’t like the keyboard heavy beat off the rip as well as the term “Real Ghostly” (A term Styles says describes his exsistence). Not terrible but not my thing.

10. Pretty Little Thing
Featuring June Summers; Produced by DJ Green Lantern
When first I saw this song on the tracklist, I wasn’t looking forward listening to the “love” song of the album. But you know what? It wasn’t that bad at all mostly due to Green Lantern’s good use of samples. Styles doesn’t go all mushy on us either.

11. Shadows
Produced by Statik Selektah
A big reason this album got reviews is this track. Statik Selektah comes through and produces the best track off the album. The somber feeling of he beat matches SP’s paranoia fueled lyrics: “If they coming tell them come now/Sunset sun down/I don’t put my gun down and I ain’t trying to run clown”. Like I said, the best track off the album.

12. Legal Money
Produced by Vinny Idol
I was ready to write this off as album filler but halfway through the track switches up and woke me up (Actually it does it for every verse). I applaud the changes but all the beats where average. Good try though.

13. That’s Me
Featuring S.I.; Produced by Dame Grease
If this was the late 90’s, I’d be hype to see the combination of Dame Grease & Styles. But listening to this, obviously those times are gone. And what’s up with all these wack ass R&B hooks?

14. Bang Time
Featuring M.O.P.; Produced by DJ Green Lantern
This came out in the middle of last year as a M.O.P. track and it still holds up and will probably make you rob somebody. Green Lantern captures the spirit well too.

15. Born In These Streets
Produced by Poobs
I probably wouldn’t have ended with this track but seeing how most “gangsta” albums end with introspective tracks, I see why it does close out the album. Well not THAT introspective: “Kicking in your house with a mag and a clip nigga/Probably on the rag cause we know you a bitch nigga”. The beat was a little too 80’s for me as was the hook (I think I spoke too may time already about the wack R&B hooks right?).

Bottom Line:
I guess DJ Green Lantern proved that he came make good music with a LOX member beside Jadakiss. Not to say that this album is a clear-cut winner. While the lineup of producers and features looks great on paper, but the dark spots than bright on The Green Ghost Project make this an average album. I feel they were stuck in the middle on most of the album on whether to go strictly street or not. But the times they do make up there minds the results are success. If you’re not a fan of Styles P & Green Lantern, this won’t sway you over but if you are, you probably already are a participant in The Green Ghost Project.

nappyPicks: “Make Millions From Entertainment”, “Invasion”, “Pretty Little Thing”, “Shadows”, & “Bang Time”

Download: Styles P & DJ Green Lantern – “Make Millions From Entertainment”
Download: Styles P & DJ Green Lantern feat. Jadakiss & Junior Reid – “Invasion”
Download: Styles P & DJ Green Lantern – “Shadows”

I didn’t think we’d end up reviewing this one since it’s not technically Hip-Hop; Plus most of you have had this album for the past couple of months anyway (Shout out to Amazon!). But we all love Weezy over here, so we figured why not. Lil’ Wayne has been pulling out the guitar like crazy right around the time C3 came out; now he’s here to prove that he can actually play it. Well, kind of. Most of the instrumentals on the album come from other producers with Weezy playing on a few songs. Let’s see if Rebirth was really worth waiting for.

American Star
Featuring Shanell; Produced by DJ Infamous
Lil’ Wayne jumps on an epic guitar intro, Auto-Tuning as usual. I don’t know how I feel about this one: Part of me thinks he’d sound a lot better if he left the Auto-Tune alone and actually tried to sing a little bit. The Auto-Tune/guitar combo doesn’t really work too well to me. Shanell makes the hook really hot (“Dope-boy with a guitar!”) and the track works very well, courtesy of DJ Infamous. The track kind of falters towards the end where Weezy pretty much loses control and starts yelling with the Auto-Tune. Overall, OK song.

Prom Queen
Featuring Shanell, Produced by DJ Infamous & Drew Correa
This was the first single off the album. This was the song that had even King Jerm questioning what the fuck Weezy was thinking. It must have aged well, because I kind of dig it now. I said KIND OF. Tt still has some of the stupidest lines I have ever heard (“I love her fancy underwear…”), but overall I think it’s an OK song. This is an example of a song where Auto-Tune actually works with rock, which makes it a notable song on the album.

Ground Zero
Produced by Patrick Stump
This is one of those songs that I really wanted to like, but it got good way too late into the song. The lyrics don’t mean much until the end of the song; Where society is going and how it seems like we’ve reached ground zero. It sounds really good, except for the hook which sounds like it was thrown together at the very last minute. Other than that, another OK song; nothing too notable.

Da Da Da
Produced by Cool & Dre
I gotta give Weezy props on this one; he did it here. The first of the song had me scratching my head, mainly because he cranked the Auto-Tune up so damn much I couldn’t hear anything he was saying. The hook seems lazy at first, but it gets to be catchy when combined with yet another flawless Cool and Dre production. Check for Weezy’s last verse on the song and you can’t tell me you can’t wait for C4. Plus, he actually plays an instrument on this song: the bass, which has its own solo in this song. First song off the album I co-sign fully.

Paradice
Produced by Kevin Rudolf
Kevin Rudolf of “Let it Rock” fame made the beat behind this one. I like the message of this one (Live your life, the price of fame, etc.).  Still, can’t get behind this musically. SKIP!

Get A Life
Produced by Tha Bizness
This sounds like Jonas Brothers…I’m not lying. Well, Jonas Brothers with f-bombs. I feel like they locked Weezy in a room full of syrup, weed, and various other drugs with Auto-Tune, and this song came out of it. SKIP!!

On Fire
Produced by Cool & Dre
Alright, I’m not gonna lie and say this song isn’t hot when it is. Cool & Dre production on this one sounds right at home. Wayne sounds a lot better on this track just straight up spittin’ rather than the auto-tune tracks he was trying to put together previously. Also gotta give Weezy props for the guitar solo at the end of the song, despite the fact that it was 2, maybe 3 chords at most. I’m surprised this didn’t make more of a splash on the Hot 100. Good track.

Drop The World
Featuring Eminem; Produced by Hit-Boy & Chase N. Cashe
I don’t think I have to say much here. Only thing I wish is that he would’ve saved this track for Tha Carter 4. The obvious stand-out track from the album, nothing else on here compares. Eminem blazes his 16 on this one:

“I came up from behind and pretty much snuck up
And butt fucked this game up
Better be careful when you bring my name up
Fuck this fame, that ain’t what/I came to claim
But the game ain’t gonna be the same on the day that I leave it
But I swear one way or another I’m a make these fuckin’ haters believe it”

This will be in my Top 5 songs of 2010, believe that.

Runnin’
Featuring  Shanell; Produced by J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League
This another song I really liked off this album. It proves that Weezy needs to leave the singing to singers and just keep on rapping. Shanell does an excellent job with the hook on this song, providing some much needed emotion that was lacking on a couple of the previous tracks. J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League is great here and gives something Weezy can actually flow pretty well over.

One Way Trip
Featuring Kevin Rudolf; Produced by Travis Barker
Travis Barker brought the drums with him on this one and Kevin Rudolf with the guitar definitely completed the song. The drums allow Weezy to let loose lyrically and let Rudolf take care of the chorus, which makes the song one of the highlights of the album. It sounds like at the point in the album Weezy realized he’s a better rapper than he is a guitarist.

Knockout
Featuring Nicki Minaj; Produced by J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League
Another great 90’s sounding guitar riff courtesy of J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League. Nicki Minaj isn’t as much singing as she is talking, but her voice sounds nice over the slower riff the song goes into for the hook. She also gets to spit a little bit with the Auto-Tune, which sounds lil’ fucked up, but it goes with the whole punk-rock thing that the song’s got going on. This sounds really similar to Jonas Brothers/Nickelodeon but it works here for some reason. Good song.

The Price is Wrong
Produced by Chase N. Cashe
Yeah, I’m not feeling this one at all…SKIP!!

Bottom Line:
Let’s be honest with ourselves: While some of us can applaud Lil’ Wayne for trying something a little different, I don’t think any of us can say that this was a good album. I’m probably only going to keep about 3 or 4 of these tracks on my PSP. I feel like if Weezy had dropped this album riding off the buzz of Tha Carter 3, this would have been a huge success, good music or not. But it’s on track to only sell 150K it’s first week, a far cry from “A Milli”. Because this album came out almost 2 years after C3, your fans are gonna expect a real album, not an experiment gone wrong. I just hope that after this Weezy drops the guitar for good and continues to show us why he’s known as one of the best rappers alive.

nappyPicks: “Drop the World”, “Knockout”, “Da Da Da”, “One Way Trip”

Download: Lil’ Wayne feat. Gudda – “Fuck Today (Rebirth Mix)” [NOT ON ALBUM]
Download: Lil’ Wayne feat. Nicki Minaj – “Knockout”

Coming out of California’s underground scene, Strong Arm Steady (SAS) returns with their official second album In Search of Stoney Jackson. This time SAS has producer Madlib behind the boards on all the tracks for Stoney Jackson. What this does is make a cohesive sounding album where all the songs fit with each other. With the abundance of features of the album, Stoney Jackson also sometimes feels as if it’s a Madlib compilation instead of a Strong Arm Steady album.

Tracks like the Phonte featured “Best Of Times”, Talib Kweli on “Get Started”, & the Planet Asia & Fashawn assisted “Questions” are all great tracks but the supporting cast outshines the supposed stars. Another standout track with great features is the posse cut “True Champs” featuring Montage One, Evidence, Oh No, & Roc C. Not to say Strong Arm doesn’t have tracks where they are the main attraction (“Cheeba Cheeba” & “Smile” are the only tracks that doesn’t have features), but even then, the star of the show is Madlib. For my money “Two Pistols” is hands down the best song off the album due to the beat (The beat on “Ambassadors” is worth a listen too).

There are some parts in which the album stalls and seem boring (“Pressure”, “New Love” & and the interludes like “Chants” could probably have been left off) but in all, it’s good ride while looking for Stoney Jackson. The main problem is that I didn’t have a feeling that this album would make first time listeners seek out for more SAS material. The talent is there but on the next album, the search sound be for the spotlight on themselves.

Download: Strong Arm Steady feat. Planet Asia & Fashawn – “Questions”
Download: Strong Arm Steady feat. Montage One, Evidence, Oh No, & Roc C – “True Champs”
Download: Strong Arm Steady feat. Mitchy Slick – “Two Pistols”

To be honest, I’m not really into instrumental CD’s. Of course there are some exception like Dilla’s Donuts, but for the most part I much rather have lyrics over beats. So you can see how the task of reviewing RJD2’s new album The Colossus would seem a little daunting to me. Add on the fact that beside the theme from Mad Men and few other occasions, I really haven’t given his previous albums or music serious listens.

But hey no problem, I just did some research (Yea, we do research at nappyafro) and checked out his previous albums such as Deadringer (2002), Since We Last Spoke (2004), The Third Hand (2007) plus some assorted cuts for EP’s and collaborations like The Horror, Magnificent City with Aceyalone, & Things Go Better With RJ And AL with Blueprint. What I did come away with from checking our music from RJD2’s catalog is that he’s a talented instrumentalist and his work if not anything is interesting and thought out.

The Colossus is actually a departure from his last album, The Third Hand, where RJD2 stepped from behind the boards singing and playing live instruments on nearly every track. He does it sometimes here on Colossus to mediocre results; both “The Glow” & “Gypsy Caravan” sound like music I’d here at the Gap. Not bad but not my cup of tea. When RJD2 does go get assistance, the results are better. On the Phonte featured “The Shining Path” the production gives the Little Brother member a soulful but  good change from the superb R&B he’s been recently doing with Foreign Exchange. “Game You Can Win” has singer Kenna backed by keys and synths to arguably the best song off the album. Aaron Livingston also makes a good showing on “Crumbs Off The Table”.

When RJD2 breaks out the instrumental productions, you see he still crafts them with care and detail. The first track off the album, “Let There Be Horns”, starts off the album with a bang and had my iPod on repeat noticing all the intricacies put into it (The music video for this is crazy too). The spacey “A Spaceship For Now” and “Giant Squid” (Which for some reason reminded me of Rick James) also show RJ’s skills; I didn’t love the last two tracks mentioned but I can see the talent.

The lone rap track on the album, “A Son’s Cycle” featuring The Catalyst, Illogic, & NP, shows new listeners that RJD2’s complicated productions can still be complemented with lyrics.

Bottom Line:
Out of the 14 tracks (Not including the iTunes bonus track), I think most open minded listeners will find a lot of things to like about The Colossus. There may be moments that will have some hitting the skip button but for the most part you can appreciate the work. It’s not “colossal” but it does the job.

nappyPicks: “Let There Be Horns”, “Games You Can Win”, “The Shining Path”, “A Son’s Cycle”, “The Stranger”

Download: RDJ2 – “Let There Be Horns”
Download: RDJ2 feat. Kenna – “Games You Can Win”