ANIMAL AMBITION
2014
Go check it out over at www.whizcapone.com
Showing posts with label East Coast Rap. Show all posts
Showing posts with label East Coast Rap. Show all posts
Friday, 30 May 2014
Saturday, 24 May 2014
Wednesday, 19 March 2014
ONYX - #WAKEDAFUCUP
ONYX
#WAKEDAFUCUP
2014
You already know what's up! So Wakedafucup!
My only issue is Audible Doctor shoulda produced
this one like Fredro Starr's latest album.
Snowgoons are ok (not very melodic), but if you heard
"The Streets Made Me", you know Audible Doc
creates a way better backdrop.
Still though, this is insane. Onyx in 2014!
I love it and this will get played to death!
Check more out at www.whizcapone.com
Wednesday, 12 February 2014
TALIB KWELI - GRAVITAS
TALIB KWELI
GRAVITAS
2014
No need to introduce this cat. His 6th studio album
is finally here! Still need to check it out myself, but
pretty sure this is gonna appease any true hip-hop fan!
For a future review and a d/l link, check out:
Monday, 13 May 2013
N.O.R.E. - STUDENT OF THE GAME
N.O.R.E.
STUDENT OF THE GAME
2013
Always refreshing to hear some new Noreaga.
Dude never disappoints and after hearing the album
a couple times, it's clear he did it again. Even with
tracks featuring French Montana (ugh) and 2 Chainz
(retire already), he still brings that heat. On top of that
the album features some top notch standouts that
couldv'e been released ten years ago, and i love that.
Best example: Built Pyramids where Large Pro deliveres
and incredible beat. Best cut on the alb! And then there's
"Vitamins" with Pete Rock and the track with the
amazing Scarface who is always a plus on your album.
Not to mention 'Camouflage Unicorns' with Tragedy (where
you been man??) and Mobb Deep's Havoc!
There's some stink on here too though, the Parrell track
'the problem', which should've been a throwback to to good ol'
Melvin Flynt days but sadly isn't, is just ass and Pharrel is
so god damn annoying. And fuck me dead, not fuckin Lil Wayne!!
That dude ruins an otherwise dope track...jesus man...
But overall this is a great release
and joins Papoose for NY rappers doing it proper still.
But what else to expect from N.O.R.E., his style is so
damn sweet and unique. If you a fan, you a fan.
I could've done with less party tracks perhaps and more tracks
like the awesome "god's angels", but it's all good in the hood!
(Less interludes next time though homie!)
1. Kenny Smith Speaks
2. Student Of The Game 5/5
3. Tadow ft. French Montana , 2 Chainz & Pusha T 4/5
4. Hang Hang Resume
5. The Problem ft. Pharrell 3/5
6. What I Had To Do ft. Scarface 5/5
7. Victor Cruz Speaks
8. Vitamins ft. Pete Rock 5/5
9. Thirsty 4/5
10. Scot Disick Speaks
11. Fowl Niggas 5/5
12. She Tried 0/5 (fuck you lil fuckin wayne!!)
13. Camouflage Unicorns 5/5
14. Only Bad Ones 3/5
15. God's Angels ft. Mick Jones & Chris Jones 5/5
16. Built Pyramids ft. Large Professor 5/5
17. Faces Of Death ft. French Montana,
Swizz Beatz & Raekwon 5/5
18. Drunkerer
19. Dreaming ft. Mayday & Tech N9ne 4/5
And i'll leave y'all with "Built Pyramids"!
Overall Score: 9/10
Thursday, 9 May 2013
HAVOC (MOBB DEEP) - 13
HAVOC of MOBB DEEP
13
2013
1. Gone
Setting this off just right. Dope production with
quite a unique feel that gets even better with Havoc's
superb flow and bravado. 5/5
2. Favorite Rap Stars ft. Styles P & Raekwon
Fuckin awesome beat and having Styles P & Raekwon
steal the show equally, this is nothing short
of top notch hip hop. We're in for a treat! 5/5
3. Life We Choose.
I'm a big fan of Lloyd Banks and his affiliation
with G-Unit really doesn't do him justice.
He is grand on here as usual. Another
stand out track (though a lesser hook) 5/5
4. Colder Days ft. Masspike Miles
Man, this track is COLD! Prolly my fav! 5/5
5. Get Busy
Another sick beat with a perfect Havoc.
This shit is getting better and better! 5/5
6. Eyes Open
Maybe i've spoken too soon. This starts really
annoying with that sound and shitty hook.
Luckily the verses are better and Twista is
always on point. But i can't get past that one sound.
It serves no purpose whatsoever other than to annoy.
Maybe in time it will grow? Doubt it. 3.5/5
7. Tell Me To My Face ft. Royce Da 5'9"
I hate these type of snares. Should not be used in
hip-hop at all. Keep that shit for futuristic faggotory.
(we all know who i'm talkin bout...yuk).
Despite that the track itself is not bad with an ok Royce,
but seriously, with a more Mobb Deep-ish sound this
would've been much better. Or at least keep the snare
consistent and like the one used towards the end.
It makes such a big difference, snare selection. 2.5/5
8. This World ft. Masspike Miles
Much better, despite the mellow touch. Havoc could've come
harder on here perhaps, but it's all good. 4.5/5
9. Already Tomorrow
Again, this type of production should not be on a Havoc alb.
Dude, you produced Shook Ones, get yo shit together!
Overall it's an ok track though, but call me spoiled.
I want that hardcore NY rap shit son! 5/5
Edit: this grew on me big time!!
10. Hear Dat
Starts off annoying once again with that chant choir
(ugh, how fuckin ugly is that) but if you can get past it,
the track is pretty solid, but still...why??
Who produced this and what were you thinking?? 3/5
11. Gettin Mines
Back to form somewhat. Still has this overall sound that
just doesn't feel right, but this is a nice cut. 4/5
12. Long Road (Outro)
Seems more like a Childish Gambino track, so can't
hate on it at all. Shouldn't have been an interlude. 3/5
13. Can't Sleep
By this time i've had it with the snare choices.
It's pussy, it's ass, and it's not Mobb Deep.
Dope track, but i've had it. 4.5/5
Ok, so my initial excitement was obviously based on the
first five tracks. That was a great start to the album.
But the production started to get away from hip hop
after that and though the tracks itself are still good,
for me, it's not what i want to hear from Havoc.
N.O.R.E. came through, Papoose came through...
So a little disappointed in the end but Havoc
still killed it. So it depends on your preference.
quite a unique feel that gets even better with Havoc's
superb flow and bravado. 5/5
2. Favorite Rap Stars ft. Styles P & Raekwon
Fuckin awesome beat and having Styles P & Raekwon
steal the show equally, this is nothing short
of top notch hip hop. We're in for a treat! 5/5
3. Life We Choose.
I'm a big fan of Lloyd Banks and his affiliation
with G-Unit really doesn't do him justice.
He is grand on here as usual. Another
stand out track (though a lesser hook) 5/5
4. Colder Days ft. Masspike Miles
Man, this track is COLD! Prolly my fav! 5/5
5. Get Busy
Another sick beat with a perfect Havoc.
This shit is getting better and better! 5/5
6. Eyes Open
Maybe i've spoken too soon. This starts really
annoying with that sound and shitty hook.
Luckily the verses are better and Twista is
always on point. But i can't get past that one sound.
It serves no purpose whatsoever other than to annoy.
Maybe in time it will grow? Doubt it. 3.5/5
7. Tell Me To My Face ft. Royce Da 5'9"
I hate these type of snares. Should not be used in
hip-hop at all. Keep that shit for futuristic faggotory.
(we all know who i'm talkin bout...yuk).
Despite that the track itself is not bad with an ok Royce,
but seriously, with a more Mobb Deep-ish sound this
would've been much better. Or at least keep the snare
consistent and like the one used towards the end.
It makes such a big difference, snare selection. 2.5/5
8. This World ft. Masspike Miles
Much better, despite the mellow touch. Havoc could've come
harder on here perhaps, but it's all good. 4.5/5
9. Already Tomorrow
Again, this type of production should not be on a Havoc alb.
Dude, you produced Shook Ones, get yo shit together!
Overall it's an ok track though, but call me spoiled.
I want that hardcore NY rap shit son! 5/5
Edit: this grew on me big time!!
10. Hear Dat
Starts off annoying once again with that chant choir
(ugh, how fuckin ugly is that) but if you can get past it,
the track is pretty solid, but still...why??
Who produced this and what were you thinking?? 3/5
11. Gettin Mines
Back to form somewhat. Still has this overall sound that
just doesn't feel right, but this is a nice cut. 4/5
12. Long Road (Outro)
Seems more like a Childish Gambino track, so can't
hate on it at all. Shouldn't have been an interlude. 3/5
13. Can't Sleep
By this time i've had it with the snare choices.
It's pussy, it's ass, and it's not Mobb Deep.
Dope track, but i've had it. 4.5/5
Ok, so my initial excitement was obviously based on the
first five tracks. That was a great start to the album.
But the production started to get away from hip hop
after that and though the tracks itself are still good,
for me, it's not what i want to hear from Havoc.
N.O.R.E. came through, Papoose came through...
So a little disappointed in the end but Havoc
still killed it. So it depends on your preference.
Overall Score: 8.7/10
Friday, 12 April 2013
GHOSTFACE KILLAH - TWELVE REASONS TO DIE
GHOSTFACE KILLAH
TWELVE REASONS TO DIE
2013
Jesus Fuckin Christ!
It's a wrap y'all! Ghost Deini has done it! The curtains have closed!
What we have right here folks? Hands down the best Rap album of 2013!
There is, and prolly won't be no competition. I am fuckin ecstatic!
I might even be as bold and say this could very well be
one of the best albums of the last 10 years!
I mean, oh my lord! Have mercy!
If you are a Wu fan or a Rap fan in general and not
acknowledge with me right now how truly spectacular this album is,
you can take your Asap's, Tyler's, Wayne's and Future's and jump
off a cliff in front of my eyes so i can marvel at the death
of pussy faggot rap and give it all one last middle finger up! Ha!
No seriously, Adrian Younge and the almighty Ghostface Killah
have created a masterpiece here...in 2013. A masterpiece.
20 years after Enter the Wu.
For me, music to move me, has to have that one thing that
makes it all worth while: melodies...in whatever genre.
With rap, if you add the perfect flow, perfect rhymes & rhytmn,
you've got something that makes this genre one of the best
musical experiences there is. And with this album
Ghostface & Adrian nailed every single aspect.
The production, so very wu, is flat out amazing and
i think even surpasses RZA's in some way.
The choice of instruments, the melodies (!),
the vintage drum patterns and sounds, and even the
choice of opera-like approach to vocal parts.
It's all just so damn exquisite! I love every second of it!
As for Ghost, you know he's been so on point with everything he ever did
and never disappointed, but you know the production is that extra special
if you have Ghost shining like this. He kills every word, every line, and
as such a big fan, it is truly a blessing to hear something so fantastic.
This is up there with his finest work. Time will tell where the alb
stands amongst the rest of his incredible ouvre, but i have a feeling
it will be in his top 3 albums of all. And that's a tough feat!
Add to that, nothing but Clan features (Killa Sin is Wu yo!), and we finally
have the best WU release since the first clan members solo's started to
come out back in the mid 90's. Liquid Swords, Iron Man, Cuban Linx, etc...
This album could've easily been released 20 years ago and would
have blown me and the rap world away just the same
(perhaps for different reasons, but still...)
This is hip-hop at it's finest. Period.
I cannot praise this enough.
This really is a wrap.
Listen, marvel, be amazed and soak it all in.
Praise god,
and his name is Ghostface!
Overall Score: 10/10
Thursday, 28 March 2013
PAPOOSE - THE NACIREMA DREAM
PAPOOSE
THE NACIREMA DREAM
2013
After years of promising "The Nacirema Dream
coming soon", Papoose finally drops his debut album.
And so far this does not disappoint at all!
Pap's bravado and his awesome delivery. This cat
flows like there's no tomorrow! Production-wise I'm
very pleased it's right up his wheelhouse and what
a true NY hip-hop album should sound like!
1. Intro
2. Motion Picture
Straight out the gate Pap is killing it!
Just a pleasure to hear this cat flow. 5/5
3. Mother Ghetto
Keeping it Ol' Skool BK rap. The beat is
not much and though Pap's nice, it doesn't
do overly much. Still fly. 3.5/5
4. Aim Shoot ft. Mobb Deep
Great combo with the m o b b. Dope
cut that brings you back 10 years. 4/5
5. Skit
6. Cure ft. Erykah Baduh
Lovin the smoothness and Pap's storytellin.
Erykah is perfect here. Very nice. 5/5
7. Nacirema Dream
Prolly my favourite track. This is how i love it!
Great drums, melodies and a flow to match. 5/5
8. Pimpin Won't Die
Mellowed out and Pap makes it work aswell.
Kind of a Mase vibe happenin, 5/5
9. 6AM ft. Jim Jones & Jadakiss
Played out sample and an annoying sound
that's very repetitive. The features are not
helping here. Pap can't save this one. 2.5/5
10. Skit
11. Law Library Part 8
2nd fav track. Wish it was longer.
(Again hearing Mase here and i love it) 5/5
12. What's My Name ft. Remy Ma
Also overplayed samples, but it's nice yo.
Got ya bumpin ya head til the end.
Not a fan of Remy Ma though. Could've used
anyone else really. 4/5
13. On Top Of My Game ft. Mavado
Out of place. Beat is generic and Mavado's
hook doesn't help. It's not bad per se, but
along with everything else...might grow. 3.5/5
14. Faith
Thanks to the beat, you can really hear pap
shine here and killing his phrasing. Dope shit! 4.5/5
15. Turn It Up ft. DJ Premier
Glad Premier got a beat for Pap. It's no Nas/Premo
collabo, but it's still tight to hear. 4/5
16. Die Like A G
Nice little track, but the clap gets at me. Should've
had a more Havoc-ish feel to it. 3.5/5
17. Get At Me ft. Ron Browz
Oh oh, autotune alert. Why man? Thankfully the
track as a whole is pretty tight and Pap murders
his verses, so it's forgiven..kinda. 4/5
18. Where I Came From
This one seems even more outta place, but man
is Pap laying the smack down! Hardcore shit! 4/5
19. R.I.P.
3rd fav. Lovin the sample. The whole album shoulda
been more like this. Not Pap's best flow at certain spots
though, but still...very dope track. 5/5
20. Alphabetical Slaughter Part II
I mean, how else to rate this? This is greatness. 5/5
After all this time (and numerous mixtapes, which i did not
want to listen to), it's really a pleasure to have Pap come
out with his debut album. What i love the most is the fact
he didn't sell out givin it's now 2013 (the year of commercial
hip-hop wannabe faggots) and the production is true to NY rap
like it's suppose to sounds. Of course that comes with lesser
sounding tracks here and there, but again, a pleasure to hear
a retail full Pap album. I may have wished for more like
the title track type joints, but really...it's all good in the hood.
"The Nacirema Dream is here!!"
1. Intro
2. Motion Picture
Straight out the gate Pap is killing it!
Just a pleasure to hear this cat flow. 5/5
3. Mother Ghetto
Keeping it Ol' Skool BK rap. The beat is
not much and though Pap's nice, it doesn't
do overly much. Still fly. 3.5/5
4. Aim Shoot ft. Mobb Deep
Great combo with the m o b b. Dope
cut that brings you back 10 years. 4/5
5. Skit
6. Cure ft. Erykah Baduh
Lovin the smoothness and Pap's storytellin.
Erykah is perfect here. Very nice. 5/5
7. Nacirema Dream
Prolly my favourite track. This is how i love it!
Great drums, melodies and a flow to match. 5/5
8. Pimpin Won't Die
Mellowed out and Pap makes it work aswell.
Kind of a Mase vibe happenin, 5/5
9. 6AM ft. Jim Jones & Jadakiss
Played out sample and an annoying sound
that's very repetitive. The features are not
helping here. Pap can't save this one. 2.5/5
10. Skit
11. Law Library Part 8
2nd fav track. Wish it was longer.
(Again hearing Mase here and i love it) 5/5
12. What's My Name ft. Remy Ma
Also overplayed samples, but it's nice yo.
Got ya bumpin ya head til the end.
Not a fan of Remy Ma though. Could've used
anyone else really. 4/5
13. On Top Of My Game ft. Mavado
Out of place. Beat is generic and Mavado's
hook doesn't help. It's not bad per se, but
along with everything else...might grow. 3.5/5
14. Faith
Thanks to the beat, you can really hear pap
shine here and killing his phrasing. Dope shit! 4.5/5
15. Turn It Up ft. DJ Premier
Glad Premier got a beat for Pap. It's no Nas/Premo
collabo, but it's still tight to hear. 4/5
16. Die Like A G
Nice little track, but the clap gets at me. Should've
had a more Havoc-ish feel to it. 3.5/5
17. Get At Me ft. Ron Browz
Oh oh, autotune alert. Why man? Thankfully the
track as a whole is pretty tight and Pap murders
his verses, so it's forgiven..kinda. 4/5
18. Where I Came From
This one seems even more outta place, but man
is Pap laying the smack down! Hardcore shit! 4/5
19. R.I.P.
3rd fav. Lovin the sample. The whole album shoulda
been more like this. Not Pap's best flow at certain spots
though, but still...very dope track. 5/5
20. Alphabetical Slaughter Part II
I mean, how else to rate this? This is greatness. 5/5
After all this time (and numerous mixtapes, which i did not
want to listen to), it's really a pleasure to have Pap come
out with his debut album. What i love the most is the fact
he didn't sell out givin it's now 2013 (the year of commercial
hip-hop wannabe faggots) and the production is true to NY rap
like it's suppose to sounds. Of course that comes with lesser
sounding tracks here and there, but again, a pleasure to hear
a retail full Pap album. I may have wished for more like
the title track type joints, but really...it's all good in the hood.
"The Nacirema Dream is here!!"
Overall Score: 9/10
Friday, 15 March 2013
KILLAH PRIEST - THE PSYCHIC WORLD OF WALTER REED
KILLAH PRIEST
THE PSYCHIC WORLD OF WALTER REED
2013
Holy shit! A double album from KP that'll make every
Wu-Tang fan jump for muthafuckin joy!
I have to listen quite a few more times, but there's
so much goodness on here, i have to take it all in
properly and in abundance. The second disc is insane!
Overall Score: 9.2/10
Thursday, 6 December 2012
STYLES P - THE WORLDS MOST HARDEST MC
STYLES P
THE WORLD'S MOST HARDEST MC PROJECT
2012
Another dope D-Block release and a very tight
album for Styles P who never disappoints.
Full Review Coming Soon...
GHOSTFACE & SHEEK LOUCH - WU BLOCK
GHOSTFACE KILLAH & SHEEK LOUCH
WU BLOCK
2012
Never thought this would come about, but man am i
glad it's here and sounding the way it does.
It's beautiful yo. Just beautiful!
Full Review Coming Soon...
Saturday, 13 October 2012
BEANIE SIGEL - THIS TIME
BEANIE SIGEL
THIS TIME
2012
Never fully was a Beanie fan back in the days when
he was with the Roc (was more a Memphis Bleek fan).
But that changed when Roc La Familia came out and Beans
had some tight features on there that made me get into
his discography a little more. Ever since i've been looking
forward to his new releases, and when The Solution dropped
i was hooked for sure. That album was pure crack and Sigel
has been delivering every time. And again with this one.
Front to back nothing but tight tracks with only one track
that's not a a 4.5 or 5/5, the track with Akon,
which is still pretty fly but feels a little out of place.
Favourite tracks here are the intro, "This Time", "Expensive Taste",
"Kush Dreaming", "The Reunion", "Sigel Is What They Call me",
and last but not least "Dangerous". One thing though, it's too
damn short with only 11 tracks. Still, one of the year's finest!
Overall Score: 9.4/10
he was with the Roc (was more a Memphis Bleek fan).
But that changed when Roc La Familia came out and Beans
had some tight features on there that made me get into
his discography a little more. Ever since i've been looking
forward to his new releases, and when The Solution dropped
i was hooked for sure. That album was pure crack and Sigel
has been delivering every time. And again with this one.
Front to back nothing but tight tracks with only one track
that's not a a 4.5 or 5/5, the track with Akon,
which is still pretty fly but feels a little out of place.
Favourite tracks here are the intro, "This Time", "Expensive Taste",
"Kush Dreaming", "The Reunion", "Sigel Is What They Call me",
and last but not least "Dangerous". One thing though, it's too
damn short with only 11 tracks. Still, one of the year's finest!
Overall Score: 9.4/10
DMX - UNDISPUTED
DMX
UNDISPUTED
2012
The dogg is finally back and i looked forward to this for
quite some time now and really glad it's here. X is still X
and hasn't lost his touch at all. With the right production behind
him he still shines where he needs to, and shine he does!
1. Lookin' Without Seein'
2. What They Don't Know
Tight beat that fits X perfectly and he rips it 4.5/5
3. Cold War
Man i love this sample and the whole track is
just so tight to listen to. One of my favs. 5/5
4. I Don't Dance ft. MGK
Ok, it's pretty uptempo but man this is the shit!
X goes off here, gotta love him, and MGK makes
for a nice interesting feature! 5/5
5. Sucka For Love
Female type joint that works. Not bad. 4/5
6. I Get Scared
I hate when bitches sing like this, but for just one hook
i can't front, it'a allright. X singing i'm not so sure about,
but something about this track that pulls me in. 4/5
7. Slippin Again
More singing but again, the track itself is pretty cool. 4/5
8. Prayer
I love X's prayers for real!
9. I'm Back
Overused sample, but still great to hear every time.
Mase pulled it off nicely, Onyx did too and now DMX. 4/5
10. Have You Eva
Not feeling this type of vibe overly but it's not bad. 3.5/5
11. Get Your Money Up
This the type of DMX joint i really don't like. The beat
is just bad and aweful to listen to. A skip straight up. 2/5
12. Head Up
Another favourite. Great feel, tight beat and X at his best. 5/5
13. Frankenstein
Too hyper for me again, but better then 'Have You Eva'. 3/5
14. Y'all Don't Really Know
Pretty fly despite a laughable hook. Guilty pleasure i'd say. 4/5
15. I Got Your Back
Classic beat with a nice little hook. Feelin it. 4.5/5
16. No Love
Not bad, but isn't doing much for me. 3.5/5
17. Already
Great energetic closer. Typical Darkman X! 4.5/5
quite some time now and really glad it's here. X is still X
and hasn't lost his touch at all. With the right production behind
him he still shines where he needs to, and shine he does!
1. Lookin' Without Seein'
2. What They Don't Know
Tight beat that fits X perfectly and he rips it 4.5/5
3. Cold War
Man i love this sample and the whole track is
just so tight to listen to. One of my favs. 5/5
4. I Don't Dance ft. MGK
Ok, it's pretty uptempo but man this is the shit!
X goes off here, gotta love him, and MGK makes
for a nice interesting feature! 5/5
5. Sucka For Love
Female type joint that works. Not bad. 4/5
6. I Get Scared
I hate when bitches sing like this, but for just one hook
i can't front, it'a allright. X singing i'm not so sure about,
but something about this track that pulls me in. 4/5
7. Slippin Again
More singing but again, the track itself is pretty cool. 4/5
8. Prayer
I love X's prayers for real!
9. I'm Back
Overused sample, but still great to hear every time.
Mase pulled it off nicely, Onyx did too and now DMX. 4/5
10. Have You Eva
Not feeling this type of vibe overly but it's not bad. 3.5/5
11. Get Your Money Up
This the type of DMX joint i really don't like. The beat
is just bad and aweful to listen to. A skip straight up. 2/5
12. Head Up
Another favourite. Great feel, tight beat and X at his best. 5/5
13. Frankenstein
Too hyper for me again, but better then 'Have You Eva'. 3/5
14. Y'all Don't Really Know
Pretty fly despite a laughable hook. Guilty pleasure i'd say. 4/5
15. I Got Your Back
Classic beat with a nice little hook. Feelin it. 4.5/5
16. No Love
Not bad, but isn't doing much for me. 3.5/5
17. Already
Great energetic closer. Typical Darkman X! 4.5/5
Overal Score: 8.5/10
Thursday, 9 August 2012
NAS - LIFE IS GOOD
NAS
LIFE IS GOOD
2012
Life IS good, all you have to do is
bump Nas' latest and marvel at all its glory...
I gave this album more spins than anything else
and it is still growing on me despite the fact
i already love the shit out of it! Fuck Yeah!
Life is goooood!
1. No Introduction
Crazy great opener to the album.
This just feels perfect doesn't it.
J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League really came through
with production of epic proportion and Nas
shines like only Nas can shine. Love it! 5/5
2. Loco-Motive ft. Large Professor
Still not overly fanatic about this but
the lyrics and ol'skool feel make this
a great track that deserves to be on the alb. 4/5
3. A Queens Story
Great drums and Bond-like vibe with Nas ripping it.
Despite all that i can't really favour it for some reason. 4/5
4. Accident Murderers ft. Rick Ross
Loved it at first and though still a great track, i wish
maybe someone other than Rick Ross was featured. 4.5/5
5. Daughters.
A truly great song in every sense. 5/5
6. Reach Out ft. Mary J. Blige
As much as i hate Mary J Blige's singing, the hook
is so 90's throwback, you gotta love it. And that
sample will never get old! A fav. 5/5
7. World's An Addiction ft. Anthony Hamilton
More Bond-esque vibes with yet again a fantastic
Anthony Hamilton who always brings the tracks he's
featured on to another level. And of course Nas is so
good over this 'beat' that doesn't even have drums! 5/5
8. Summer On Smash ft. Miguel & Swizz Beatz
I seriously still question Nas' beat selection and god only knows
why the hell he would have Swizz on here with such
a generic and out of place track. But with that said
it grows on you and Miguel makes it stuck in your head. 4/5
9. You Wouldn't Understand
Feels like left over from Stillmatic but i still like it despite
a hook i don't particularly care for. 4/5
10. Back When
Now we're talking. Awesome beat and a great Nas. 5/5
11. The Don
Didn't really like it when it first dropped, but this is some
slick shit right here. Truly great. 5/5
12. Stay
No I.D. clearly. Would've fit nicely on Common's album
aswell, but Nas brings it home here. 4.5/5
13. Cherry Wine ft. Amy Winehouse.
She's missed for sure. And this track will live on.
Another amazing collaboration from both. 5/5
14. Bye Baby
Like Vanessa Williams, we're saving the best for last.
This track is bananas and hands down my favourite.
When the beat drops i go stupid everytime!
Thank you Nasir! 5/5
Knowing 'Life Is Good' was in the making, knowing 'Life Is Good'
was being released soon, knowing 'Life Is Good' just dropped...
All knowledge that meant a lot at the time and put a smile
on my face. And then i heard 'Bye Baby'... :) Life is Good!
Nas did it again and delivered one of the year's finest albums
in hip-hop this year and although i do have some issues and
it's not all 5/5 ratings, this album is just that good!
Life is goooood!
1. No Introduction
Crazy great opener to the album.
This just feels perfect doesn't it.
J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League really came through
with production of epic proportion and Nas
shines like only Nas can shine. Love it! 5/5
2. Loco-Motive ft. Large Professor
Still not overly fanatic about this but
the lyrics and ol'skool feel make this
a great track that deserves to be on the alb. 4/5
3. A Queens Story
Great drums and Bond-like vibe with Nas ripping it.
Despite all that i can't really favour it for some reason. 4/5
4. Accident Murderers ft. Rick Ross
Loved it at first and though still a great track, i wish
maybe someone other than Rick Ross was featured. 4.5/5
5. Daughters.
A truly great song in every sense. 5/5
6. Reach Out ft. Mary J. Blige
As much as i hate Mary J Blige's singing, the hook
is so 90's throwback, you gotta love it. And that
sample will never get old! A fav. 5/5
7. World's An Addiction ft. Anthony Hamilton
More Bond-esque vibes with yet again a fantastic
Anthony Hamilton who always brings the tracks he's
featured on to another level. And of course Nas is so
good over this 'beat' that doesn't even have drums! 5/5
8. Summer On Smash ft. Miguel & Swizz Beatz
I seriously still question Nas' beat selection and god only knows
why the hell he would have Swizz on here with such
a generic and out of place track. But with that said
it grows on you and Miguel makes it stuck in your head. 4/5
9. You Wouldn't Understand
Feels like left over from Stillmatic but i still like it despite
a hook i don't particularly care for. 4/5
10. Back When
Now we're talking. Awesome beat and a great Nas. 5/5
11. The Don
Didn't really like it when it first dropped, but this is some
slick shit right here. Truly great. 5/5
12. Stay
No I.D. clearly. Would've fit nicely on Common's album
aswell, but Nas brings it home here. 4.5/5
13. Cherry Wine ft. Amy Winehouse.
She's missed for sure. And this track will live on.
Another amazing collaboration from both. 5/5
14. Bye Baby
Like Vanessa Williams, we're saving the best for last.
This track is bananas and hands down my favourite.
When the beat drops i go stupid everytime!
Thank you Nasir! 5/5
Knowing 'Life Is Good' was in the making, knowing 'Life Is Good'
was being released soon, knowing 'Life Is Good' just dropped...
All knowledge that meant a lot at the time and put a smile
on my face. And then i heard 'Bye Baby'... :) Life is Good!
Nas did it again and delivered one of the year's finest albums
in hip-hop this year and although i do have some issues and
it's not all 5/5 ratings, this album is just that good!
Overall Score: 9.6/10
Saturday, 21 July 2012
PRODIGY - H.N.I.C. 3
PRODIGY
H.N.I.C. 3
2012
Not much good has been said about Prodigy's latest effort.
I know lyrically P isn't all that anymore, but i enjoy this
album for what it is. I have to say as much as i love
Mobb Deep and the first H.N.I.C., it took awhile
to fully get myself to sit down and bump this album.
But when I did, I was pleasantly surprised after all.
The first three tracks are killer with the kind of rawness
that sells tracks to me despite the apparent lack of
a smooth or soulful melody i'm usually a sucker for
(eg. track four 'My Angel') cultivating in straight up
dopeness with Pretty Thug. Mean mug all the way.
'Co-Pilot' has a really dope vibe to it and thankfully
Wiz fuckin Khalifa doesn't ruin it too much in the end.
(does that dude ever flow and not fuckin pause
after every 6 words? fuckin lame i swear).
Another nice cut with a really smooth vibe is
'Live' which is just awesome to just listen to.
But then tracks like 'Make It Hot' and 'Get Money'
are just a no no. This the type of bullshit that
just doesn't fit on certain rapper's albums.
The subpar production continues with 'Life Is...'
though it's slightly better than previous two tracks.
Still, not good P. Whack hook on top.
'Award Show Life' is getting there again, but really
this feels like a filler joint that doesn't offer much.
When Havoc finally comes to play, it's all good again,
though i did expect a lot more...but it's a nice cut.
The rest of the album continues to just sit above
mediocre with the only real stand out 'Let Me Show You'
though it's still not classic M.O.B.B. The last track with T.I.
is an odd pairing but so was P & B.G. and that was tight .
1. Without Rhyme Or Reason 4.5/5
2. Slept On 4/5
3. Pretty Thug 5/5
4. My Angel 5/5
5. Co-Pilot 4/5
6. Live 5/5
7. Make It Hot 2.5/5
8. Get Money 2.5/5
9. Life Is What You Make It 3/5
10. Award Show Life 3/5
11. Who You Bullshittin ft. Havoc 4/5
12. Skull & Bones 4/5
13. Smack That Bitch 3/5
14. Let Me Show You 4.5/5
15. Gangsta Love 3/5
16. What's Happening 4/5
Overall is not a bad album per se but with lackluster lyrics
and one half of the album mediocre production this album just
doesn't rise above what P should've been able to deliver here.
Mobb Deep and the first H.N.I.C., it took awhile
to fully get myself to sit down and bump this album.
But when I did, I was pleasantly surprised after all.
The first three tracks are killer with the kind of rawness
that sells tracks to me despite the apparent lack of
a smooth or soulful melody i'm usually a sucker for
(eg. track four 'My Angel') cultivating in straight up
dopeness with Pretty Thug. Mean mug all the way.
'Co-Pilot' has a really dope vibe to it and thankfully
Wiz fuckin Khalifa doesn't ruin it too much in the end.
(does that dude ever flow and not fuckin pause
after every 6 words? fuckin lame i swear).
Another nice cut with a really smooth vibe is
'Live' which is just awesome to just listen to.
But then tracks like 'Make It Hot' and 'Get Money'
are just a no no. This the type of bullshit that
just doesn't fit on certain rapper's albums.
The subpar production continues with 'Life Is...'
though it's slightly better than previous two tracks.
Still, not good P. Whack hook on top.
'Award Show Life' is getting there again, but really
this feels like a filler joint that doesn't offer much.
When Havoc finally comes to play, it's all good again,
though i did expect a lot more...but it's a nice cut.
The rest of the album continues to just sit above
mediocre with the only real stand out 'Let Me Show You'
though it's still not classic M.O.B.B. The last track with T.I.
is an odd pairing but so was P & B.G. and that was tight .
1. Without Rhyme Or Reason 4.5/5
2. Slept On 4/5
3. Pretty Thug 5/5
4. My Angel 5/5
5. Co-Pilot 4/5
6. Live 5/5
7. Make It Hot 2.5/5
8. Get Money 2.5/5
9. Life Is What You Make It 3/5
10. Award Show Life 3/5
11. Who You Bullshittin ft. Havoc 4/5
12. Skull & Bones 4/5
13. Smack That Bitch 3/5
14. Let Me Show You 4.5/5
15. Gangsta Love 3/5
16. What's Happening 4/5
Overall is not a bad album per se but with lackluster lyrics
and one half of the album mediocre production this album just
doesn't rise above what P should've been able to deliver here.
Overall Score: 8/10
JOEY BADASS - 1999
JOEY BADA$$
1999
2012
Dude is only 17 and oozes classic Hip Hop
thanks to some amazing production that brings
you way back the Illmatic days...good lord, this is sick!
Not even doing a track by track review cuz
basically it's the same all over: Tight beats
that take you way back with awesome flows
from Joey and his Pro Era camp (T'nah Apex is great).
It's so refreshing to hear the true new york
hip hop sound from the 90's again. Boom-Bap!
(and great Pac sample on Waves btw!)
1. Summer Knights 3/5
2. Waves 5/5
3. FromdaTomb$ 5/5
4. Survival Tactics 5/5
5. Killuminati 4/5
6. Hardknock 5/5
7. World Domination 3.5/5
8. Pennyroyal 4/5
9. Funky Ho'$ 4/5
10. Daily Routine 5/5
11. Snakes 5/5
12. Don't Front 4/5
13. Righteous Minds 5/5
14. Where It'$ At 4/5
15. Suspect 5/5
Not even doing a track by track review cuz
basically it's the same all over: Tight beats
that take you way back with awesome flows
from Joey and his Pro Era camp (T'nah Apex is great).
It's so refreshing to hear the true new york
hip hop sound from the 90's again. Boom-Bap!
(and great Pac sample on Waves btw!)
1. Summer Knights 3/5
2. Waves 5/5
3. FromdaTomb$ 5/5
4. Survival Tactics 5/5
5. Killuminati 4/5
6. Hardknock 5/5
7. World Domination 3.5/5
8. Pennyroyal 4/5
9. Funky Ho'$ 4/5
10. Daily Routine 5/5
11. Snakes 5/5
12. Don't Front 4/5
13. Righteous Minds 5/5
14. Where It'$ At 4/5
15. Suspect 5/5
Overall Score: 8.9/10
Thursday, 5 January 2012
CHILDISH GAMBINO - CAMP
CHILDISH GAMBINO
CAMP
2011
Totally let this fly by me. Heard good things about it
but the cover made me go nah. That was dumb.
After realising this is Donald Glover, Troy from Community,
I went back to peep it out and boi was I wrong.
This album is something special seriously.
Once you get passed the fact that this is Troy and you
can take the album serious, you're in for a treat.
1. Outside
Not my favourite joint but it's a nice song
that really shines when the beat disappears and
you're engaged in Donald's raps and the hook. 4/5
2. Fire Fly
Feels like I've heard this before, but regardless
it's a nice lil track that doesn't stand out. 4/5
3. Bonfire
Donald goes off! Love this one. Not usually my
type of track, but it's Mr. Glover that gets the nod.
Great verses and sick beat. Love the rawness. 5/5
4. All The Shine
Like the first two tracks this a pretty dope song, but
wouldn't call this a favourite. Still great. 4.5/5
5. Letter Home
No drums, no rap, but having this on in the background,
I still like listening to it. 3.5/5
6. Heartbeat
Wasn't into this at first with the uptempo beat and
then that heavy club synth coming through but
this is one of the best cuts of the album. Donald's
verses really make this awesome. Great hook. 5/5
7. Backpackers
Sick song. Period. Love the verses and Donald's
whole flow and delivery is dope. 4.5/5
8. L.E.S.
One of my favourite joints. The hook is catchy as
and the verses are truly great. Top notch. 5/5
9. Hold You Down
Hands down my fav track. Proves what talent
Donald Glover really is. Best beat, musically aswell.
Add perfect verses and hook to top it off. 5/5
10. Kids (Keep Up)
Sounds soft right? Still, this song is awesome.
Another definite favourite thanks to the verses.
Lovin all the strings throughout these tracks. 5/5
11. You See Me
A 180 with the previous track. Still dope, because
it is Donald Glover. He goes off on the last verse!
Any other artist on this and I woulda hated it. 4/5
12. Sunrise
One of my least favourites.Not feelin the hook
nor the beat. Donald is great but I can't get past
the beat or that annoying hook. 2/5
13. That Power
Last song and what a song it is. It starts off as a little
mediocre but after 1:50 something happens to the
track and it is just amazing. And then when the track
comes to and end we get an outro like Kanye's off
his first album (or Kia Shine's who did the same) or
even more so, Tela's intro to his classic album
"the world isn't enough", where we get a story told
over a truly dope instrumental track. I love these
type of songs a lot, especially if the beat is that good.
Which is the case here aswell. And I love this bus
story. Typical Donald/Troy (had to say it). 5/5
Looking at the individual scores, you might say
this is a good album, might say great. But really
that is not the case. It is way better than that. The fact
is when you listen to this album as a whole and truly
listen to everything and just sit back and relax it is,
well fantastic. I had to get used to the a-typical rap
and the fact Troy from Community is rapping,
but really Donald Glover deserves praise. For everything
he does and he is a great lyricist and producer.
He might channel Kanye West in his songs and style,
but after a dozen listens, you forget that feeling.
The album has its own merits. That says a lot.
Overall Score: 9.5/10
Overall Score: 9.5/10
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