Reviews (13)

Controversy Sells
Paul and Koopa both rip it up on they raps.Great job from both of em.Dude from their old record label talkin is annoying as hell.Neither of these two geniuses are signed to the label that put this cd out anymore and they have both moved on to bigger and better things apart from each other.This cd is basically raps from the two of them mashed together and thrown over some beats to make a short cd.There is no chemistry between paul and cham like there is on GET YA MIND CORRECT, which by the way is a CLASSIC, go buy it.There are some catchy beats on here though and their lyrics are tight as hell so grab this cd if ya see it.TRUE, Still, and House of Pain, are my top 3 songs from this cd.

Paul Wall kicks R. Isidro's racist butt
R. Isidro is a chump.Stick with the reviews your feeble mind is suited for...like rating Barney books. I'm sure you're way ahead of most New Yorkers.

Great cd
chamillionaire definately is the star of this album, and it never leaves my cd player

The Dynamic Duo
When you put Paul Wall & Chamillionaire together, you're gonna get more punch lines than a Dave Chapelle episode. I never get tired of these two. Contreversy sells is a good album to listen to. Oh and if you got a bang in ya trunk, you might as well go ahead and click dat button. Great album, and a must-have for any fan of Paul Wall & Chamillionaire.

Get Ya Recording Correct.......
I Bought this because I never seen a CCK album anywhere but Texas. And of all places I found it in Iraq! Anyway, this is NOT anywhere near GYMC, but not bad ether. If the cat from Paid in Full would just keep quiet until the end, this would be alot better. He [talks] about Camillion then introduces the next track. Very lame.... I could have burned this but I like 2 support good music and of course, the TX. 2 bad that the beats weren't on par, maybe next time.... ... Read more

Reviews (3)

The Notorious' Classic Redone
With head bangin' singles such as "Juicy", "One More Chance", and the playa anthem "Big Poppa" who can deny that the young Brooklyn rapper's first CD "Ready to Die" was going to be a temendous hit. Not only are the singles alone worth buying the CD, tracks like "Unbelievable" and "Warning" show off the great rappers skill with good lyrics. The remastered version only amplifies what was already a great CD. The addition of "Who Shot Ya" and temendouly hilarious "Just Playing(Dreams)" make this CD truly worth getting, especially if you haven't bought it already. Not only are there two extra tracks but the whole CD is digitally remastered and a DVD is included that has 4 of Biggie's video's and unreleased live performance. This is a true collector's item and a great album to boot. If you're a Bad Boy fan, go get this immediately. And if you haven't gotten the first Ready to Die yet, you should have been at the check-out with the CD yesterday.

"Ready To Die", reborn.
If a rapper is lucky, or any musician for that matter, they leave the world with one classic album. This is that album from "The Notorious B.I.G.". It's less bloated and commercial than "Life After Death" was, and is just track after track of top shelf rap. The hits on here are just slightly better than the rest, those are "One More Chance", "Big Poppa", and the infamous "Juicy". I also like "Machine Gun Funk" and "Unbelievable". The bonus here is a couple more sweet tracks, and a DVD of the videos and extras. Well worth buying again if you're a fanatic. I'd say until he has a proper collection out, this is definitely the best of "B.I.G.".

Ready to Die (W/DVD) Remastered
Almost a decade ago rap legend The Notorious B.I.G. (Christopher Wallace) dropped a Hip Hop classic with "Ready to Die". Biggie was a very talented, versatile Rapper who brought the East back into the limelight with this release and whos influence still exists today (Just look at the rappers who have followed in his footsteps). The remastered version (2004) features two first class bonus tracks in "Who Shot Ya" and "Just Playing" (Dreams). The DVD contains the Notorious music videos for this album (Big Poppa, Juicy, Warning, One More Chance) and a live performance of "Unbelievable". This album is a masterpiece that should be in every Rap collection, full of tracks that became anthems to a whole generation. I have listened to thousands and thousands of songs and have many favourites but "Juicy" is without a doubt my all time favourite Rap track. One thing I like about this being rereleased, is that hopefully a whole new generation of Rap fans will pick this up and appreciate. One Love ... Read more

Album Details

Freestyle, house music's close cousin, exploded in popularity during the early 1980's. With artists like Stevie B, Trinere & TKA cranking out memorable jams like 'Party Your Body', 'I'll Be all You Ever Need' & 'Maria', fans went absolutley wild. This 1997 SPG label four-disc set captures the essence of the freestyle genre, featuring the hits from the artists mentioned above, plus songs by Nice & Wild, Pebbles, X-Posed, Debbie Deb & much, much more. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Freestyle fans this cd is for you
Freestyle was a sound different from the mainstream.It was a latin hip-hop sound in which at times seem like sugar to the ears.But it was the sound that with help shape the eurodance sound of the mid to late 90's.Freestyle was the teen pop of many latino and non latino kids in the city.Withs its theme in love and heartbreak over latin flavored hip-hop.It was a moment in time and a sound of the late 80's teenager. Even know it never got as big as new jack swing it did leave its mark on dance pop.If you listen to the eurodance artists like amber,the real mccoys and labouche you will hear the keyboard licks of freestyle.As an Dj i'm always asked what music did i start playing first when i started djing 16 years ago.Freestyle was the first music i spun back in the day.All the songs on this cd was what i spun and they were popular.For me this cd really gives you the flavor of freestlye when it started going mainstream.Also when the sound started to die out.So pick it up and party your body

where's Coryne Eyse?
This Album could be so much better if u added the song"A little bit of luv" By Coryne Elyse realesed in 1991 on OnnaRoll records!The song is on Metroplolitan presents the best of Onnaroll Vol. 1

An Essential For Freestyle Fans
If you're anything like me and love freestyle but want diversity in the voices you hear - this is the CD set for you! You get all the classic freestyle hits from tons of artists without buying tons of individual CD's. You get some of the best freestyle songs ever made and for around [price]. If you find better -- let me know!

freestyle greatest collecton.#4 cds.
I came from my country in 1985. And I didn`t speak or understand english . I started to listen the radio in english,at that time the music that was playig, it was freestyle.Like I say I didn`t understand english,but all the beat`s,the music,the voices of the singer`s,made me love it till know & forever I used to like disco music,like the BEE GEES,DONNA SUMERS,GLORIA GAYNNOR,THE COMODORES,K.C &THE SUNSHINE BAND.They were good, but like the decade of freestyle,it`s never going to be.I just hope,we the people who like freestyle we never let`it died

A must-buy 4 freestyle fans
This cd set is the best deal around. For under 30 bucks you get 4 cd's with all old school freestyle classics. If you're a freestyle fan you have to get this cd. ... Read more

Amazon.com

It takes a few listens to sink in, but on Aquemini, Outkast have pulled off a rare feat in hip-hop: they've made a good record that's a masterpiece of subtlety. What's more, it's their third record, and they've yet to fall into a rut--and that alone puts them in line for an award. The Organized Noize production crew is sublime, working with live musicians and crafting hook-filled soundscapes that complement Big Boi and Andre Benjamin's melodic patter. (See "Rosa Parks," "Chonkyfire," and the epic "Liberation," which features Erykah Badu, Cee Lo, and Big Rube--and clocks in at just under nine minutes.) Classy and intelligent, Outkast haven't sacrificed anything in their quest to make challenging, innovative hip-hop that forgoes idle boasting for the duo's message. A sample, from the title track: "Now, question: Is every nigga wit dreads for the cause? / Is every nigga wit golds for the fall? Naw / So don't get caught in appearance." --Randy Silver ... Read more

Reviews (246)

Outkast- Aquemini
Outkasts(Andre Benjamin & Big Boi) third album "Aquemini" is a classic. Love the innovation, entertaining lyrics,and sick beats on this album. Executive produced by ONP, A. Reid, K. Edmonds and Outkast. Guest appearances come from: Raekwon, George Clinton,Cool Breeze,Lil Will, P.Brown,J.Gillian, D.Killings, Witchdoctor T-Mo, Big Gipp, Khujo, Cee-Lo (Goodie Mobb)and Erykah Badu. Album starts off with "Return of the G" a banging track where Outkast talks about what they represent, and what they have faced. "Rosa Parks" is the track that got alot of radio play off this album, funky track with a funny hook, with use of Haromica. "Skew it on the Bar-B" feat. Raekwon is a nice adrenaline laced track. The title track "Aquemini" is a sad track where Outkast goes deep while talking about their hometown. "Synthesizer" Feat. George Clinton is a funkified track, with a whole different feel to it. "Slump" is a sick track, where Outkast talks about the Cops,Drugs and representing the South. Big Boi comes out solo on "West Savannah" a track where he talks about growing up, and his roots, love it, and the hook on it. "Da Art of Storytellin" (Part 2) uses sick background beats, and Outkasts flow is deadly and banging on this one. "SpottieOttieDopaliscious" uses trumpets, mixed in with impressive R&B vocals from P. Brown, relaxed track, which like its name is dope. "Y'All Scared" feat. Goodie Mobb, is a dark track, about Drugs and Death. "Liberation" feat. Cee-Lo is a soulful track, Outkast comes out deep and memorable on this one. Album ends with "Chunkyfire" a strong closer, to a great album from Southern Raps best rap group. Like all there releases, "Aquemini" is definetly an album worth getting.

Aquemin-amazing!
No, you won't find any bad puns like "Aquemin-amazing" while listening to Aquemini, you would probably be too engulfed in the hypnotic beats and catchy lyrics to notice. Aquemini is easily the best rap album I have ever heard. I know that's a rather bold statement, but it's so amazing that you won't even mind the after-song skits, usually wastes of time, but not in this case. Aquemini reminds me of a mix of ATLiens and Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik, Outkast's 2 albums that came before Aquemini. The crunk beats of Southernplayalistic are here (Slump, West Savannah, Y'All Scared), but on the other hand, some parts of Aquemini have the same low-key, compelling dark beats of ATLiens (Return of the "G", title track, Da Art of Storytellin' 1 & 2).

It's wonderful to see that Outkast was only moving forward at the time, and it was obvious with "Rosa Parks", the hip-hop anthem of '99, and "Spottieottiedopalicious", a 6-minute long super-funky spoken word joint. Though the guest appearances are at a minumum (Goodie Mob is present, and Raekwon spits a sick verse on "Skew it on the Bar-B"), Outkast pushes the creativity to a maximum. The last track on this album, "Chonkyfire", complete with a nice guitar riff, is absolutely unforgettable and it's a perfect way to close out this remarkable album. The only albums that come close to Aquemini are albums by Outkast themselves. If you're looking to climb out of the trash bin of mainstream rap today, turn off MTV, throw out your radio, and buy Aquemini. It's all you need.

ThErEs JuSt SoMeThInG aBoUt It
This album is beyond amazing.I'm really getting into Outkast's music-I have three of their albums now(this one,stankonia,and speakerboxx/luv below) and all three of them r classic.This one is just the most original.But its still cool!That's what you'll love about it.It doesn't matter what kind of music you like, you'll love this album.Obviously Andre is one of the best rappers ever-his verse on da art of storytelling reminds me of how Biggie was-u know how they could rap about something they experienced and you'd feel like you were there experiencing it with them?That's it.Big Boi is great too-but if u really wana hear the best of him listen to speakerboxx.andre always stands out on their albums together.rosa parks was a huge hit-and i can see why it has a nice beat,catchy hook, and unbelievable verses-especially andre.GOD,he is good.But anyways-return of the g has a nice fast delivery and it has an orchestra on it-how many other rappers can rap over an orchestra?then theres skew it on the barb which is another nice track with raekwon,aquemini-which sticks in my head alot-is classic,synthesizer is weird but it grows on u.I luv slump-tht is a great song 2 jus chill2,same 4 west savannah and the funky,mellow spottieottiedopalicsious.I wish theyd rapped on that song,tho.I enjoy most every track,I like the guitar on chonkyfire-tho i like mostly rap,I'm a sucker for guitars,i actually play bass.To close,this album is just a classic up there with life after death,reasonable doubt,and all eyez on me.To represnt the South in their classic record report,the Source chose this record.Im not surprised-its soooo great.If u like rock,funk,rap,hiphop,soul,r and b,hell music period...youll love this record.CLASSIC.

The reviews are right on this one
this is a great album. I have to admitt that i never bought an outkast album before speekerbox/thelove below (i actually think it's brilliant because it's different). Anyway back to this album i love every song and to anyone dissapointed because it's not mainstream enough, outkast's first few album's aren't nearly as commercial as the new ones. Even though the new ones are good these are classics.
There are also great guest appearances especially in "Liberation" which features outkast singing alongside erykah badu and see-lo.
This is one of the best albums i own and i own over 300 albums

Almost as good as ATLiens!!!
you would have to have skill to come back from ATLiens and still be good. The songs are soooooo different from other rap cds. its a must have whether or not you like rap. Some of the things to remember is they do more storytelling in this album then in there others. In my opion the energy in this album is huge, this is where Andre starts his hyper stage in some of the songs even though his energy in Stankonia and The Love Below is even higher. This Album is up there with Illmatic, and Resonable Doubt in my opinion. The only album i would recomend more than this one is ATLiens, or possibly Illmatic(except Illmatic is really short). Nearly a flawless album. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Along with spiritual brother and surf buddy Jack Johnson, Garret "G. Love" Dutton has quietly but reliably lead a campaign for laidback but funky blues and R&B- inspired folk music. Now recording for Johnson's Brushfire label, the Philadelphia native stays tactfully on course for The Hustle, moving through the expected ballads ("Loving Me"), reggae-lite jams ("Give It to You"), and saucy BBQ anthems ("Booty Call"). It may prove disappointing to some fans that have been waiting for Love to truly stretch out the sound he debuted over 10 years ago, but it's a minor gripe. There's no faulting consistency. --Aidin Vaziri ... Read more

Amazon.com

After he gained legendary status rapping on Doug E. Fresh's "La Di Da Di," it was only a matter of time before the world would clutch British-born Ricky Walters to its heart. Rick had already fancied himself a rabid storyteller (and a mighty good one) on Fresh's track "The Show," and Great Adventures became Slick Rick's novella. Not content with one perspective, Slick Rick often employed tag-team rhyming with himself as his own partner ("Mona Lisa," "Teacher Teacher"). His cautionary tales ("Hey Young World," "Children's Story," "Teenage Love") work much better than his freaky tales ("Treat Her Like a Prostitute," "Indian Girl"). Still, it doesn't take a musicologist to appreciate the complex rhyme schemes and scenarios of "The Moment I Feared," "Children's Story," and "Mona Lisa," and his slight accent heightened his distinctiveness. Despite lukewarm response to his follow-up--as well as a stint in the pokey--Slick Rick will always be remembered for his Great Adventures, an essential B-boy document. --Todd Inoue ... Read more

Reviews (43)

THE BEST "STORYTELLING" RAP ALBUM
Ooh-wee! This record is THAT good. This is one of those classics that is described as "timeless". Probably no one was, is, and will be a better griot than the infectious and intriguing Slick Rick. Check out socially-conscious songs like the reggae-flavored, child-advice-driven "Hey Young World" and "Children's Story", the latter in which he tells the tragic cop-chasing story of a teenage criminal, with that trademark humor, although he reminds us of the seriousness of the matter: "...don't you dare laugh". Then there are the songs in which he just gets dirty and humorous. In "Treat Her Like A Prostitute", Slick Rick gives three examples to support his theory on heterosexual relationships: Be cautious of your mate. Then there's "Indian Story", a cativating, highly hilarious tale of a fictional, sexual relationship between Davy Crockett and a Native American damsel, although Slick stops it from being perfect at the end by bad stereotyping. And in "Kit (What's The Scoop?)", Slick is caught up in a conspiracy to cause his fall from the hip-hop throne, although he ends up victorious "'cause [he's] the king of this"...In fact there is no single weak cut in this LP; the weakest one is probably "Teenage Love" in which the Ruler makes a little-bit-above-average effort to talk about love. Sure, he ain't no LL, but this record is hot as hell; one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time. Buy it, pop it in, and enjoy.

Great '80s hip-hop
The Adventures of Slick Rick was his debut and is a great old-school hip-hop album. This album is a good balance of both hip-hop and more laid back songs bordering on R&B. Slick Rick's lyrics and his British accent are very distinctive to some of his hip-hop counterparts. Some of the lyrics are downright hysterical, particularly on the lewd and crude "Treat Her Like A Prostitute" and "Indian Girl (An Adult Story)". There's also other strong tracks here like "The Moment I Feared", "Mona Lisa", and the inspirational "Hey Young World". The best tracks are two hip-hop classics. "The Ruler's Back", with its melodic horns and laid-back delivery, and "Children's Story", with its chilling lyrics and melody, are two of the best hip-hop songs ever. The only misstep on the album would have to be "Teenage Love", a slower R&B ballad, which seems out of place with the rest of the album. The other tracks on the album are pretty decent. Definitely worth checking out, especially for "The Ruler's Back" and "Children's Story".

Essential Classic
One of, if not the best, hiphop albums EVER. If you call yourself a rap fan and dont have this, then your opinion is garbage, because every TRUE rap fan/hiphop head HAS THIS. NO EXCEPTIONS. IF YOU DONT HAVE IT, YOU ARE A POP FAN (Feminem, She-12, 50cent, ja rule, jay-z, lil jon, ETC). To put it in a more simple way for those hipPOP $h!t d%cks, without The Great Adventures of Slick Rick, you ARE NOT A RAP FAN. YOUR A PRETENDER. And if you go out and get it now, you still aint a rap fan, coz its taken you 16 years to get it.

Anyway, this album goes down as probably the best, if not it is one of. His storytelling is hilarious, every song has awesome lyrics, and the beats are TOP-NOTCH. Just listen to this album and you will see how every rapper these days bite slick rick. Even rappers from the mid-90's stole some of his lines. For example, Biggie Smalls "Hypnotize", the chorus is straight up taken from Slick Rick's classic La-di Da-di w/ Doug E. Fresh. Anyway this is absolutely essential to own, best songs would have to be all the songs. They are all GUARANTEED CLASSICS. But my favorite would be Indian Girl - The storytelling is incredible and the lyrics are HILARIOUS. My other favorites are Children's Story, another song with fantastic storytelling, and Let's Get Crazy - another incredible song, the beat is off the hook.

Forget all these other rappers, eminem, jay-z, ja rule, d12, lil jon, all these MTV and radio d!ckr!ders. Look at TRUE hiphop, not this modern bull$h!t POP garbage. You will be blown away by The Great Adventures Of Slick Rick.

One of the last legendary MC's to be respected...
I was only 11 when I first bought this on a cassette and remember playing it to death that the tape was so worned out that you could hear static in the background from so much usage. What is there to say about this word salad MC/story teller? For starters, being a London-native and then facing possible deportation charges presently, Slick Rick got his break from Doug E. Fresh and the rest was history. In this album you will notice that this is one of the first rap albums to be put with the PARENTAL ADVISORY sticker on.

From the classic bedtime story 'Children's Story', to the adolescent-conscience song 'Hey Young World', Slick Rick has proved to be versatile and yet stong with his message to my generation (Generation X) and for the next generations to come. 'Teenage Love' is a classic ballad of love lost and how we used to yearn for that special someone to be true to us. If you love stories that involves violence (for example, Biggie Smalls stories of blazing and killing people) 'The Moment I Feared' is a classic story that put us right in his world to see what he was doing before he was big!

I HIGHLY recommend this to anyone kid out there that loves stories and can appreciate TRUE hip-hop that really meant something. Not to be dissin' all the other great MC's like 2Pac, Jay-Z, Biggie Smalls, and Eminem to name a few. But these were the real deal that was all about love and respect. And for any TRUE HIP-HOPPER that loves classic rap at its best!

The BLUEPRINT for STORYTELLING!!!!
NO ONE who listens to any form of hip hop can deny Slick Rick's strength when it comes to storytelling. It wouldn't be a form of any type if The Ruler didn't set the stage for it all. With the release of his debut album in 88, he did it with SUPREME finesse, like no other BEFORE him and certainly AFTER him(maybe with Nas, Jay-Z, Kool G.Rap, and others). This album truly defines what storytelling in hip hop is supposed to be like. Here's the review:

Album Highlights: EVERY song on this album is BRILLIANT, nuff said.

Production: Thumbs up, most people to this day don't have any clue that some of the beats on this album was handled by Public Enemy's own Bomb Squad.

Lyrics and Subject Matter: Thumbs way, way up. Like I said, Slick Rick set the blueprint for storytelling in hip hop.

Originality: Thumbs up, no one, other that Kool G. Rap, was coming with such profound storytelling in hip hop in 88.

The Last Word: ANOTHER landmark moment in hip hop. It was pregnant with landmark moments in 88. This is album is EXCELLENT in every sense of word, and you owe it to yourself to own this album. A STRONG RECOMMENDATION from me. If you like hip hop in ALL of its true glory and form, this album is for you. ... Read more

Reviews (112)

An album that was ahead of its time
This album was the last that we would hear from Tupac while he was alive. Although released after his death, his presence was more than felt on this one. With his combination of prophecy (Blasphemy, Hail Mary), political and social issues (just like daddy, white man's world) and of course battling and anger which is what was expected on here (bomb first, life of an outlaw, against all odds). This album is filled with hits and also leads on many people to still think he is alive to increase the shock value. His brilliant use of the metaphor comes on "Me and my Girlfriend" where he lays down a track about his gun (the girlfriend) and how it will help him survive. He fires diss rhymes like Mussolini from the balcony on Against all odds and Bomb First where he mentions Nas, Biggie, and Mobb Deep. The Outlaws drop in for the tracks Hail Mary and Life of an Outlaw and help 2pac along with getting his point across. I especially love the intro because it sets the tone for an extremely dark and gritty album. This shows you how serious tupac was about the situation and how it affected him. He still finds time to include more of his political stands on White Man's World. Also finds time to include a track for the clubs in Toss it Up, one of my favorite tracks. This classic does not miss by anyone's standards. This is the last great tupac album that we will ever experience. If you want real tupac, do not pick up anything after this album. With the exception of one released album, "Until the End of Time", they falter badly and are not the real tupac. This is the real deal.

Another long line of classics by Pac.
7 Day Theory, 2pac's first postumous cd, is his war album. Anybody he believes wronged him in anyway.Beware!!!He gets a lot of rappers, Bad Boy label, Mobb Deep, Nas(I don't know why), Jay-z (my least favorite rapper) and anybody he just didn't like:

1.Bomb First(My Second Reply): If the disc started off like this everybody in the room would be tired by the seventh song. One of the greates intros. He doesn't just settle for a 3 second intro to the disc this is a full fledged "i'm coming for you" song.5/5
2.Hail Mary: Classic, nuff said.5/5
3.Toss It Up: Filler.2/5
4.To Live & Die In L.A.: Just think of California Love.3/5
5.Blasphemy: Mysterious song with some of 2pac's best lyrics (first verse). This song is one of 2pac's prophet songs.5/5
6.Life Of An Outlaw: Catchy hook, Pac delivers on all accounts. The Outlawz wasn't half bad.4/5
7.Just Like Daddy: Not a big fan of this song.2/5
8.Krazy: "Time goes by/Puffing on lye/Hoping that it get my high/Gotta a nigga going krazy". Sometimes the message is unclear but listen to the song. Beautifully done.5/5
9.White Man'z World: Pac trying to survive in the world of the white man. Another obstacle for 2pac to cross over. One of his more down to earth songs.4/5
10.Me and My Girlfriend: Remake the song all you want(Jay-z) it will never beat the classic of 2pac making his "one and only girlfriend" a gun. It's ingenius. It seems like he is just having a great time with this song.5/5
11.Hold Ya Head: Listen only if your listening to the whole disc. Not one of his best.1/5
12. Against All Odds: The disc ends with a bang. It doesn't slack up at the end it leaves you disappointed, because it leaves you hanging and wanting more. He disses a lot of the biggest rappers without remorse,including Nas(why he didn't like this man is beyond me a man he was cool with). It just shows that Pac didn't give a [...].5/5

All-N-All not better than Me Against The World but so close.

Too haunting to listen to .....
Brings back too many bad memories from years 96 and 97. If you can get past the that, it's probably Pac's #1 or #2 best album.

#1
Tupac is my all time favorite rapper; hands down. However the the funniest thing about that is there are rappers that have better metaphors and sicker lyrics (Jay-z, Biggie) rappers with better flow (Nas) but only tupac can make you feel him in your chest and your heart. Honestly if im really pissed off it is not a good idea for me to listen to tupac I might do something i will regret. Anyway, Makaveli is the culmination of everything that makes Pac the greatest of all time and puts him in the class of genre and race transcenders like Marvin Gaye and John Lennon. His passion, anger, love, fears, and demons are all vividly displayed in this album. Its so dark and raw that I hate to admit that it his best but damn it is undeniable. Anyway I love it its the best.

Pac's Best Album
This album has a polarizing effect on many people, including plenty of Pac's biggest fans. Some (like me) believe this is the greatest rap album of all time. Others rate it as middle of the road among just Pac's anthology.

Pac drops the party atmosphere that was constantly portrayed on All Eyez On Me and strictly gets down to business on this album. What follows was an album that he (miraculously) completed in 7 days, a majority of which was done in 3 days.

This album captures the essence Pac being a living contradition of "thug angel," a gangsta with an introspective, soft side. The album is monochromatic, switching from disses and hard tracks right into introspective, soft tracks. The production on this album is better than All Eyez On Me, peaking of course with Hail Mary, and Pac's lyrical abilities as an MC were improving up to the night of September 7th, 1996.

In addition to the music, there's one other reason this album will forever remain timeless. With Pac laying extra vocal layers and talking throughout most of the tracks, and some possible additions by Death Row itself, it takes multiple listens to catch every word or hear everything in a track. There was a debate over the intro of Hail Mary, the intro of Hold Ya Head, and still nobody is sure what's said at the beginning of Bomb First. This album is mysterious, engrossing, hard and soft all at the same time, without a skip in the album.

If All Eyez On Me cemented Pac as a rap god and the biggest name in rap history, the Makaveli CD may have cemented Pac as the greatest rapper of all time. ... Read more

Album Description

The 'pack is back! Critical raves from Entertainment Weekly, Rolling Stone, Interview, Blender, Spin and many more are greeting this cheeky pop/dance/hip-hop album. The songwriting and sass are back in full effect. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

C. U. Next Tuesday!!
I just got this album, and it's fantastic! Yay. Best album of the year. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Nas is incredibly talented, but he can't really justify the heft of a double album any more than Jay-Z or Wu-Tang could. Still, most of Street's Disciple is as impressive as anything he's done in the previous few years. He's still hip-hop's most compelling and sophisticated lyricist (sorry Eminem, Jigga), and more than a few tracks here burn with his verbal heat–-a flood of phrases and metaphors that inspire imagery as rich as in any movie. Unfortunately, Street's Disciple is twice as long as it needs to be, especially with insipid fare like "The Makings of a Perfect Bitch" or tired club cuts like "No One Else in the Room." You wish Nas had forced himself to cut a single album because half of this double-CD set is truly hot. --Oliver Wang ... Read more

Album Description

Bringing aboard likeminded collaborators of the past, Itstrumental plays out like a party of hilarity and hotness born from Prince Paul’s Long Island studio. Black Italiano The Popmaster is praised over a harmonious backdrop on "My Friend The Popmaster". Steinski provides lessons in picking up girls on "Flattery", while MC Paul Barman pleads for the redemption of a failed relationship on the haunting "The Night My Girlfriend Left Me". From the rugged, dancehall bop of "The Boston Top" (an ode to donuts) to the inventive"And The Winner Is?" a hypnotic piece that finds the Prince playing all instruments (drums, electric guitar, keys and more) and re-sampling them into one strong composition.

With the MVA (Mental Victims Unit) of the New York City Police Department hot on his trails throughout the release, Paul drops one crazy beat after another, only to further solidify his position in hip-hop as one of the sickest, most vital producers still thriving. This is Paul’s first true go around at creating an instrumental album, and it never fails to keep all corners of interest in the listeners mind awake and aware that they’re witnessing something, very special. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Ay, Paul...I got a job for youz
It seems that his depression and period of confusion turned out in his favor. Creatively, this is Prince Paul's best effort (since the 21st century started). You can just hear the insanity he went through while making these songs.Fun stuff.It reminds me of how fun Hip Hop used to be, back when we all didn't take ourselves so seriously. Then again, Prince Paul has always been a looney oddball, aiming shots directed at himself to personalize the tone of his humor.

The intro, and other MVU skits, are a satire of Law & Order (with that trademark theme sound)."It's a Stick-Up" is a playful tune, taking me back to the early days of his production work. I especially love the guy threatening everybody, making them take their stuff off."Flattery" is a gem, which kinda has that Handsome Boy Modeling School feel to it (because of the instructional host, and the theme of a guy spitting some WACK game to a woman). The sample he uses is lovely. "My friend the Popmaster" has the same beat and sample-loop from Princess Superstar's album (her song "I hope I sell a million records by Christmas" or something). Hearing this song cracks me up everytime. The Black Italiano is back, and he's even funnier this time around.I can't get enough. "Inside your mind" is just plain sick. SICK I tell you! The beginning is just too funny. You gotta hear it for youself.Paul must've really been trying to work out his inner-demons. LOL The guy who yells the hook is hilarious.He says "...when I R. Kelly on your belly..." The instrumental track, "El Ka Bong", is dope. It doesn't have any talking or singing.The beat just rides.Beautiful.I had to program that track for repeat play. "Yes, I do love them Ho's" and "What are you afriad of?" are decent tracks, but they don't really stick out. "I Want You (I'm an 80's man)" is funny only if you keep in mind that its a mockery of those 80's R&B songs. "The Boston Top" is kinda catchy, as it is a reggae riddim, but with humor. "The Night My Girlfriend left me" is one my favorite tracks.The end, where Barman starts crying and spazzing out over his girl walking out on him, is ridiculously funny."Live @ 5" is my FAVORITE track.People here may disagree, but I love it because it's different. Prince Paul plays all the instruments himself, and it has a funk/psychedelic/'70 rock vibe to it. Its a simple song. No vocals. Switches up only twice, but loops over and over again. Its groovy. Real groovy.

Paul wasn't kidding when he wrote (in the liner notes) that he didn't want to make an instrumental album that was boring. So, as a result, he made a "SKITstrumental" album. I just hope that he doesn't have to succumb to depression any more, in order for him to make a dope album. He needs our support, and we need HIM! ... Read more

Reviews (16)

H.N.I.C. of Georgia
My boy P.T. brought it back with dis one right here, off top it's a five star, better than By Any Means Necessary, which was okay, but he goes back to "We Ready I Declare War" on dis one when he was out after Mastr P, which was his best cd yet as well as I am DSGB, Face Off, Pastor Troy for President, this one would be da one to Put Troy back on da map with da others, for whoever slept on him, Troy was before all these clown's claim they king of dis and running dat, never da one to hold his tongue or take any thing from anybody, Troy let's them know off top, this cd is a must have for any down-south fan, DSGB forever!!!

Best ATL artist
if you say this album sux, if you say pastor troy sucks, then you must have mental problems........just another BLAZING HOT ALBUM from ATL's #1 artist... pastor troy.

1- intro
2- 8.0
3- 9.0
4- 8.5
5- 7.5
6- 7.0
7- 8.0
8- 7.0
9- 8.0
10- 9.5
11- 9.5
12- skit
13- 7.5
14- 8.5
15- 9.0
16- skit
17- 7.5
18- 8.5(old classic)

Thirtysomething White Lady Actually Likes the Pastor!
I'm a high school teacher.I'm white and most of my students are African-American.Not long ago they were talking about Pastor Troy and said I should listen to him, teasing me that it was "good gospel music."I found out the truth but told them I would listen to the CD anyway if someone would let me borrow it.Well, one of my students did bring it in for me. I haven't stopped listening to it and still haven't given it back!Much to my surprise, I actually like it.I've never really been into rap but thought I should listen to what my students like.I really like the beat of the music and I find PT's raps very creative.Some of his lyrics have even made me laugh out loud!Yes, he curses excessively but I can get past that.I'm going to have to get my own copy of this CD.PT has a new fan!

Da Pastor brangin nuttin but dat fie!!!!!
This cd was a surprise to me.After hearing the last P.T. cd, I was not expecting him to crank it back up like this.P.T. been my boy from the jump and he redeemed himself fa sho wit Face Off pt 2.I would've gave him 5 stars if it wasnt for ridin big pt2(But even that song is growing on me).I usually let the whole thang ride out.The beats are hittin hard and he spits that rawness sorta like he used to.he did a complete 180 with this album and I tell anybody who'll listen to go and cop dat Face Off pt2.

Same Ol' Pastor
This ain't one of Pastor's best but it still rolls.I don't really have a favorite track.He got beats out the a** though and anyone with speakers in their car will definately feel that.3 stars for the Down South Georgia Boy.One Love ... Read more

Amazon.com's Best of 1999

They've long been hip-hop's best band, for whatever that's worth, and in their amazing live shows they've shown an ability to pay homage to the past and look to the future--all while living firmly in the now. But on Things Fall Apart, the Roots finally pull their promise and ability together, and the world's started to pay attention. --Randy Silver ... Read more

Reviews (198)

Buy this CD!!!!!!!
If you have never heard of The Roots or admired their soulful beats, it's probably because the septet doesn't go out on a limb to make an image for themselves. But it's not having an image, which defines them and makes them different from others. Unlike other hip-hop groups who preach about how "dope they are," the group is less self-absorbed and more self-aware.

Three years after dropping their second album Illadelph Halflife, The Roots have returned with a new 16-track album entitled Things Fall Apart, which perfectly exemplifies the distinct essence of what hip-hop is about. The combination of lyrical genius provided by Black Thought, beats, supplied by drummer ?uestlove, background mixes by the infamous Godfather of Noize, Rahzel, and the unfaltering message of their songs, make possible a creation that only The Roots can offer.

The LP guides us throughout the streets of Philly, where their music originated, and carries us through the lives and thoughts of each member: each song tells a part of their own story. The CD's first full song, "The Next Movement," features DJ Jazzy Jeff "cuttin and scratchin'" in the backdrop accompanying a full background bursting with keyboard and bass tones provided by Kamal and Hub the pianist and bassist. In "Double Trouble," Black Thought shares the limelight with fellow rap phenomenon Mos Def from Black Star rapping over simple beats provided by ?uestlove. On the following cut "Act Too (Love of My Life)," Black Thought expresses the role hip-hop has played in guiding him through his life. Thought rhymes, "Sometimes I wouldn't a made it if it wasn't for you/hip-hop, you the love of my life and that's true."

The album finishes off with "You Got Me," which Rolling Stone refers to as, "possibly the greatest love song in hip-hop history." Featuring Erykah Badu's sulky, but silky sounding voice playing the role of a love lost, she reassures Thought, "If you were worried 'bout where/I been . . . baby don't worry you know that got me." As the song progresses, the two lovers are separated but still proclaim their love for eachother. In the end, we are left hanging as ?uestlove enters with incredibly fast beats strictly played on the high-hat. The song, the album, the group, basically everything about The Root's Things Fall Apart is a success. I definitely recommend this record to anyone no matter what your taste in music: the album is truly universal. I only hope that they don't wait another three years to release their next album . . . I couldn't wait that long.

Simply Amazing
I'm seen The Roots do lots of innovative things over the years but this has to be the sum of those hard years toiling. This album is wide range. "The Next Movement" can bang in clubs. "Act Too: Love of My Life" can hold you down when you relax at home being introspect. "Without a Doubt" is the ideal track when you want to remember old-school hip-hop without having to dig through your crates. This album does soooo many different things and encompasses soooo many different moods, but at no time does it seem thrown together like a compilation album. It remains coherent partly because each track was sequenced to almost queue up the next song. The interludes flowed smoothly in and out without breaking up the feeling of the overall composition. The band was at their best. Even the human beatboxes (Scratch & Rahzel) were employed thoughtfully. While Black Thought was at the top of his game as the group MC, guest appearances by Common, Mos Def, Dice Raw and Eve were strong enough to be memorable but sparse enough to not take away from the groups efforts. Even secondary group MC, Malik B, lends expert verses where necessary. And to close out the album, Ursula Rucker tells her most chilling and personal poem ever. Point blank, THIS ALBUM IS DOPE!!!! If you don't get your hands on Things Fall Apart, you are doing yourself a great disservice. (P.S. keep listening after Ursula Rucker's poem)

"One Of My Top Five Hip-Hop CD's Of 1998-99!!"
This CD here was the ultimate bomb back in
'98 & '99 when I was still living in NYC!!

That was the year of Lauryn Hill's "Miseducation",
Redman's "Doc's Tha Name 2000", The Black-Eyed Peas debut
"Behind The Front" and Jay-Z's "Hard Knock Life"...
a great & original time for hip-hop since of course the
true heyday!! (1979-1995)

The Roots, along with all these other aforementioned
hip-hip acts, along with the then flowering neo-soul
movement(ala Erykah Badu, Maxwell, D'Angelo & Angie Stone)
were breaking new ground in urban music
and becoming a hybrid sound all it's own!

"Things Fall Apart" will be looked at as a classic
as the years go on by this generation!---Buy It!

Advanced Hip Hop
If you're looking for the standard fare, you'd probably be better off looking elsewhere. The Roots ooze talent in each and every track of grass roots hip hop they put out. Intelligent lyrics and amazing musicianship are the hallmarks of this essential album. You can seperate your friends with great taste from those without just by asking them if they own this album.

great album
The Roots are, without a doubt, one of the best hip hop performances to date. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Here's a little something to tide you over until Jay-Z decides to come correct. Then again, Roc-A-Fella Records could release Sean Carter Sings MC Hammer's Greatest Hits and watch it ship platinum. So, it really doesn't matter if Dynasty seems to be a rather half-hearted effort from the man who many consider to be the best rapper this side of Rakim. Although presented as a solo album, Dynasty showcases the Roc-A-Family, giving extensive mic time to Beanie Sigel and Memphis Bleek, who gets a whole track (the Ja Rule-esque "Holla") to himself. Amil, whose own solo album, All Money Is Legal failed to reveal her inner queen, turns up to rhyme the hook on the posse cut, "You, Me, Him & Her." Jay-Z keeps his flow fairly straightforward here, and the beats neatly reflect his icy, relatively soulless lyrics. But of course, as the man himself has said, you "can't knock the hustle." --Rebecca Levine ... Read more

Reviews (146)

betta than volume 3
i thought jigga took it back to the streets more on this one talkinmore about everyday life than bling-blingin and fast cars. this is betta than volume 3 but falls short of volume 2 hard knock life. the whole rocafella crew is on here and memphis bleek eben has a solo track here is what i thoguht of the songs: 1. intro 3/5 stars- ok intro but takes a while 2 get started

2. change the game 5/5- classic jigga with beans and bleek

3. i just wanna luv u 5/5- first single. catchy tune.

4. streets is talking- 4/5- tight rappin with an average beat

5. this can'tbe life 4/5- scarface makes up 4 lame jigga verse

6. get your mind right mami 5/5- dope lyrics with nice beat

7. stick to the script 4/5- great song butdj clue's interruptions are annoying

8. u me him and her- 3/5- whole rocafella crew on here but none spit venom on this track

9. guilty until proven innocent 4/5- r. kelly adds to this meaningful rappin which lacks a beat

10. parkin lot pimpin 5/5- jiggaeill never stop pimpin lil mo adds vocals to chorus

11. holla 3/5- bleek solo is somewhat dissapointing

12. 1-900-hustler 5/5- hilarious song with beans as operata

13.the roc 5/5- proves beans and bleek can rap betta minus jigga

14.soon youll understand 5/5- down to earth song about real life obstacles

15. squeeze 1st 3/5- ill beat stupid rhymes

16. where have u been 5/5- MY FAVORITE TRACK! beans and jigga take it to their street about their abandoning dadz

overall this is an above average cd with thewhole rocafella camp. if u like hip hop pick this up. peace out

it's the ROC Family!!!!!!!!!!!!
Roc-A-Fella Y'all!!!!
Dynasty is a Hot album, but it's not a Jigga Solo actually,
this album contain many artist from Rocafella,
like Beanie Sigel, Memphis Bleek, and first Introduction of one of my favorite artist from Rocafella- FREEWAY!

"Intro" - Freestyle Rap Intro, but I don't like the beat!
3/5

"Change The Game" - Head Banging Beat! HOT and TIGHT!!!!
5/5

"I Just Wanna Love U" - Another HITS! HOT again!!!
5/5

"Street Is Talking" - NICE BEAT, I LIKE THIS SONG!
4/5

"This Can't Be Life" - A Sad song, talk about a Jay lost his unborn baby, Jay-Z and Scarface drop a Great Verse!
5/5

"Get Your Ming Right Mami" - Nice song with Bleek and Snoop Dogg!
4/5

"Stick 2 the Script" - a good song but DJ Clue voice is EXTREMELY AGONY!!!
3.5/5

"You, Me, Him, Her" - a so-so song with Bean, Bleek and Amil, you can skip it!
3/5

"Guilty Until Prove Innocent" - A nice song with R.Kelly!
4/5

"Parking Lot Pimpin'" - Nice Beat!
4/5

"Holla" - Filler

"1-999-Hustler" - GREAT Song with Bleek, Bean and The First Time Introduction of Freeway! Freeway Verse is Really Good!
5/5

"The R.O.C." - another Classic Rocafella Style Filler, you can skip it!

"Soon You'll Understand" - The Beat is Scary! A sad Story talk about Jay and one of his girl, it's prove Jay-Z is one of the BEST Storyteller at the game!
One of The BEST SONG in this album!
5/5

"Squeeze 1st" - a ok song
3/5

"Where Have You Been" - Jay and Bean got something to talk about their father!
4/5

Great Album with Extremely Great Production! Get it!!!

Its The S**t
When I first heard this album I wasnt really feelin it, but the more ive lessoned the more better. Some people just rushes through the album without paying close attention to the lyrics nor the production, which is a example why people dont think of it as a good album. As a MC myself ive paid close attention to this album and as far as Im concerned the lyrics and productions including the track quality is straight I dont give a f**k what anybody say.

To me this album is a little simalar to "The Blueprint" but not as better, but it has the juice to be one of Jiggas best next to "The Blueprint" not mentioning "Reasonable Dout" nor the "Black Album" believe me.

1.Intro-Everything freestyle, thats the way to start off an tight rap album 5/5
2.Change The Game-Tight Jigga Memphis combination,raps clean 4.5/5
3.I Just Wanna Love You (Give It To Me)-Best lyrical song on the album, everybody heard and saw the video 5/5
4.Streets is Talking-yall understand this song if yow from the hood or the cities of the eastcoast, Deep Lyrics 4/5
5.This Cant be Life-Similar to "Never Change" of "The Blueprint", both deep in lyrics and slow pase 5/5
6.Get Yow Mind Right Mami-An hard felt song for the ladies, clean beat 4/5
7.Stick To The Script-Agressive lyrics but to old school 3.5/5
8.You, Me, Him and Her-The R.O.C. Came hard on this one, clean beat 4/5
9.Guilty Until Proven Innocent-More of a public single, entrance by R Kelly, everybody heard it and saw the video 5/5
10.Parking Lot Pimpin-These are the type of pimpin lyrics ya need to hear coming from The Jigga Man, wasnt really feelin the production 3/5
11.Halla-Halla at me on the production of the R.O.C. 4.5/5
12.1-900 Husla-Husling lyrics ya dont know about 4/5
13.The R.O.C.-Wak production of the R.O.C. 3/5
14.Soon Youll Understand-Deep lyrics, scarry beat but clean 4.5/5
15.Squeeze 1st-Worst lyrical song on the album 3/5
16.Where have You Been-Thats a way to finish off an album, the Jigga Man and Beenie take there fathers to thier lyrics, clean beat 5/5

Kinda Disapointing
Not as good as reasonable doubt, or volume 1, favorite songs are: Streets are talking, Where have you been, and soon you"ll understand. But for the most part this album sucks and jay-z should actually start putting more effort into his albums. His slacking off because he thinks of himself as the king of N.Y, which he isn't nas is. This album is all about pimping and hustling without good rhymes, he thinks he can get away with making a half-assed album, it shows because its nothing special.

Jay-Z does it with the R.O.C.
After coming off of the subpar release of "Vol.3 Life and Times of S.Carter", Jay-Z decided to place the emphasis not only on himself, but on Beanie Sigel, Memphis Bleek, and Amil. So, TECHNICALLY, this IS a Jay-Z album, although not solo in certain terms. But, let's cover the bases:

1) Jay-Z can PROVED he can hold an entire album by himself without the assistance of too many artists(even though he slipped badly with that on his third album).

2)Beanie Sigel can flow and get aggressive at times.

3)Memphis Bleek is MEDIOCRE at best. This guy is NO lyricist.

4)Amil is like Foxy Brown, all talk, no substance.

And that's where we come to The Dynasty Roc La Familia album. It's an excellent album, as Jigga succeeded (and failed) at trying to elevate his fam to higher levels. The result was a fine album. Here's the review:

Album Highlights: Change The Game, Streets Is Talking, Stick 2 Da Script, This Can't Be Life, Parking Lot Pimpin, 1-900 Hustler, Soon You'll Understand, and Where Have You Been. Everything else on this album is either mediocre at best or filler material.

Production: Thumbs up. Jay-Z hooks up with The Neptunes for the first time here. Just Blaze, Bink, and others shine as well.

Lyrics and Subject Matter: Thumbs up. Check out Where Have You Been and Soon You'll Understand.

Originality: Thumbs in the middle, no new ground broken here.

The Last Word: Here's the deal. This was a successful album for Jigga, as "I Just Wanna Love You" became a hit and the album went double platinum. Beanie Sigel was already well-known when this album dropped. Memphis Bleek showed A LITTLE improvement here, but it was short-lived. Amil BOMBED on her first album, never really being considered something special. Overall, this is a great album from Jay-Z, and even though there's a little filler found here(there should NEVER be a Bleek SOLO on a JAY-Z album), it's still a decent effort from Jay-Z. Recommended. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Multiculti Los Angeles-based 10-piece Ozomatli is more than the sum of their parts: hip-hop, salsa, and funk crash head-on in this surprisingly natural collaboration. Their self-titled debut makes Ozomatli sound like one of the world's great live shows--a party band with a brain--and they pull it off deftly. Rapper Chali 2na ("Charlie Tuna," get it?) has an authoritative voice and a way with words, mixing references from Edie Brickell to Ed McMahon; just he and the Cut Chemist (both of Jurassic 5), who lends his turntable skills to the proceedings, would make for an entertaining album. But it's the way that the two--when they're even featured--build on and blend into the grooves of the wah-pedal-and-brass-section-powered ensemble that sets Ozomatli apart. Danceable and engaging, they've made a promising debut. --Randy Silver ... Read more

Reviews (80)

From the 14 year old who played with OZO...
Ozomatli was very impressive when I saw them open for Carlos Santana in Cleveland in June 1999. They called me up on stage and I played a guitar solo in front of 16,000 people. Mainly I was gonna go on Amazon.com later that night to go buy their CD, but they gave it to me, along with a T-shirt. The tracks on this CD combine latin music and hip-hop. "Cut Chemist Suite," "Oh Le Le," "Super Bowl Sundae," and "Cumbia" are prime examples of this superb mixture of urban hip-hop and pure, smooth latin music. OZO rules! Wazzup to Chali 2na, Raul, Wil-Dog, "El nino," Cesar, and the rest of the guys from OZO! Thanks for letting me play with you! This CD deserves to be at the top of the Billboard charts, these guys appeal to everyone! Rock, Rap, Soul, Reggae, Latin, Blues Jazz, R&B, New Age, and even Pop! Ozomatli is a great band and is here to stay!

Ozomatli is in the house - don't you know that by now?
I love this CD - there's a lot more to it than any record I've heard for some time. A ton of different styles are here - from the good-time sunny day party music that's so fun (Como Ves) to some for-real knowledge about our world (Coming War) to fantasic tomfoolery with the mixer (Cut Chemist Suite). Plus, I'm hearing some beautiful guitar work - not unlike the repetitive style from west African high-life - and of course Latino styles a-plenty along with just amazing lyricism and beats. Everything goes well with everything - you will believe it when you hear it.

Simply Astounding
This is one of the best Latino cd's I am proud to play in my rotation 6 years after the album was released. I first heard Ozomatli when they opened for Santana in Montreal and I was like woah! I was on my feet dancing throughout their opener. They were so pumped and hyped that no matter what mood you are in they just get you in this partying and dancing mood that you cannot resist. If you are the kind of person who loves those smooth Latino beats blended with a bit of everything for an ultimate summer driving cd be sure to pick this up!!!

Such a refreshing change
As a fan of J-5, the release of this album made sense, in that Jurassic 5 make a point of putting their music first and image last. Ten piece band 'Ozomatli' seem to work perfectly in tandem with Chali 2na an Cut Chemist, blending all of their styles so well that it sounds as if this is how hiphop should be- a fusion of a wide variety of styles. When this album came out, i would listen to it over and over again, and because of the albums' diversity, it never felt tiresome. It is very difficult to put into words how successful this collaboration is, buy it and you will understand. For those who dont want to buy it, download track such as:
cut chemist suite, o le le and cumbia de los muertos

hits.
I think this cd is great. and sets path for rock en espanol. Ozomotli is of the charts with there wicked instrumentals and meaninful lyrics! ... Read more

Reviews (187)

Ludacris
I absolutely love this album its bad. Heres my track review.

1. Coming 2 America - Wait to start the album off with a bang. Really funny but the talent and production is there too. 5/5

2. Roll Out - Was awesome right when it came out, now its just seems old. Still good though. 3/5

3. Go 2 Sleep (Featuring I-20, Three Six Mafia, & Lil' Fate) - If you like Three Six Mafia you will love this song. The chorus is kind of annoying, I still like it though. 4/5

4. Cry Babies (Oh No) - Swizz Beats lets it all out with this ridiculous beat. Ludacris does a great job rapping on this one. 5/5

5. She Said (Featuring Lil' Fate) - Some people don't like this song, but I do. The chorus is copyed from a line in the song "Love In Your Mouth" a song by Kilo Ali. Fates verse is awesome. 4/5

6. Howhere (Skit) - If you don't like skits, Ludacris will change your mind, all of his are hilarious. This one just says ho a lot, it ends I'm in the middle of Howhere. No rating.

7. Area Codes (Featuring Nate Dogg) - Still a good song, I have never heard a bad song with Nate Dogg, but again old and overplayed. 4/5

8. Growing Pains (Featuring Lil' Fate & Keon Bryce) - One of the best songs on the album, real slow. Luda & Fate tell bout there old times in College Park where they grew up. Should have been a single. 5/5

9. Greatest Hits (Skit) - Again hilarious, white people doing Luda's best hits.

10. [Move B***h](Feauring Mystikal & I-20) - Another single, don't listen to the clean version because it [is not good]. This one is awesome. 5/5

11. Stop Lying (Skit) - Hilarious

12. Saturday (Ooh, Ooh) (Featuring Sleepy Brown) - Another single, awesome production, awesome rapping, awesome song. 5/5

13. Keep It On The Hush (Featuring Jazze Pha) - Slow, alright production, horrible chorus, but Luda's rapping is still good.
3/5

14. Word Of Mouf (Freestyle) (Featuring 4-Ize) - Awesome freestyle mostly by Ludacris, 4-Ize verse is ok. 4/5

15. [Get the F*** Back](Featuring I-20, Lil' Fate, & Shawwna)- Has the DTP Crew in it, pretty good, awesome hook, average rapping. 4/5

16. Freaky Thangs (Featuring Twista & Jagged Edge) - Twista is the fastest rapper ever. It's crazy. But anyways a good song, Luda & Twista go well together. I love it. 5/5

17. Cold Outside (Featuring Chimere) - Long hook, long song. Not as good as Growing Pains, but still good. 4/5

18. Block Lockdown (Featuring I-20) - Featured on Funkmaster Flex's 60 Min Of Funk Vol. 4, good song weird beat, crazy rapping.

Bonus Track Welcome 2 Atlanta (Featuring Jermaine Dupri) - You all know it. JD stinks at rapping but Luda is awesome.

That's it for Word Of Mouf.

Check out new & upcoming stuff from Ludacris & Disturbing Tha Peace:
Chingy - Jackpot (Has a song with Luda & Snoop Dogg)
Ludacris - Chicken N Beer (Guest appearances from 50 Cent, Snoop Dogg, Missy Elliott, & The DTP crew)
Various Artists - 2 Fast 2 Furious Soundtrack (Love Act A Fool & Peel Off)
Shawwna - Worth The Wait (I can't wait for this)

Woh
Woh! This CD is truly amazing. I gotta give it to my hometown boy 'Cris cuz this CD is tight! In this CD we learn that Ludacris has emotions, not just sex in his mind with track #8 "Growing Pains" with great accompany in this song.
This cd starts off great with "Coming to America" which has a good beat. Next is "Rollout" which doesn't impress me; nor does the next track. But "Oh no" "She Said" "Howhere" "Area Codes" and "Growing Pains" follow respectively and all these songs are tight. I don't care about what you think about Area Codes, that song is awesome with my man Nate Dogg doin his thing. "Greatest Hits" track 9 is so freaking funny! The first two sentences explain it all. Track 16 is tight and so is the bonus track. The DJ did a nice job on the bonus track; BUT WAIT;
"welcome to atlanta" is a bonus track so wait a few seconds for that and you'll hear some more of Ludacris' talent.
This is why the five stars:
1) Excellent rhymes
2) Excellent beats
3) Good artists featured (Jagged Edge, missy, mystikal, djs, its all good)
4) Excellent and hilarious skits
5) Hes from Atlanta so it should get a thousand ************************************
I cant wait for 'cris new album. I bought 'cris first album in july and his second in november and i still listen to them every time possible! good work cris

I Love Listening To Rich Rapper Posers
This guy aint from da hood. He gots da gold and da SUVs and ain't gots no trouble with payin' fo gas, yo. But he has trouble spelling and with being a poser who makes crappy music about crap no one cares about. Go listen to some real hip hop like Jurassic 5, Dilated Peoples, Public Enemy, or Mos Def. Cerainly not this crap. This is nothing but a big bowl of wrong.

I love hearing this being played in the large SUVs of rich white boys. It seems everyone else is smarter.

If your looking for s**t...
you can find ludacris at the bottom of music's crapper, the dirty south hip hop scene

l love Ludacris, and Carson Daly
If you are in middle school, this album is for you, literally. If you're not, (or even if you are) you don't have to listen to what MTV and Pepsi tell you to. Check out some real hip hop: Blackalicious, Talib Kweli, MF Doom. Ludacris sure does make me want to buy jewelry and american made SUV's though! ... Read more

Reviews (70)

Get this one for sure.
Since everyone in the entire world is stupid except me, and Paul's Boutique was NOT the commercial blockbuster smash that the Beastie Boys' record company had hoped, the boys went back into the studio and thought, "Well, we gotta try SOMETHING new. Otherwise we'll get dropped again and it'll be over for good." So they started playing their own instrunents, something that hadn't been done in rap EVER (at least I can't think of anything off the top of my head that sounds like this). Yes you get several awesome wonderful fuzzed-out riff rockers like "Finger Lickin' Good" and the two MTV megahits "So Whatcha Want," and "Pass The Mic." HOWEVER, you also get some lazy "dub" and "funk" instrumentals like "Lighten Up." Now I know that these instrumentals offer a nice break between the rockers, but the fact remains that there are simply too many of 'em. I also don't really like the Sly Stone cover. But it's only like two minutes long, so as soon as you get sick of it, it's gone.

Coolest sample on the album: RIGHT THERE at the end of "Finger Lickin' Good" the Beastie Boys rap about something and end it with "stuff," and then Bob Dylan's voice comes out of nowhere and sings "I'm goin' back to New York City I do believe I've had enough" (from "Just Like Tom Thumb's Blues"). A great moment.

When they were good...
Now that the Beastie Boys are a trio of aging activists, it's time to look back at their career in a retrospective manner. Check Your Head is easily their most diverse and accessible album. One song that stands out as an example to their multiple talents is Gratitude. It's a catchy, funky little rock song with a punk attitude, and it has about as much to do with rap as my grandmother. The first time I heard this album in completion, I was trying to guess what kind of music the next song would be. I was wrong half of the time. There's even some old school hardcore punk from the Boys' earlier days. It took a long for something to replace this album in my stereo. I was addicted to the bumping guitar chunk of "So Watcha' Want?", the mixed bag of bass lines on "Pass The Mic", and Adrock's rhymes on "The Maestro". Sad to say, we may never see these days again. The Beastie's are out there playing the political game now, forgetting that there are lots of fans over here that remember the days when they could make you "Shake Your Rump". I heard about their new album coming out, and honestly, I don't even want to hear it. I'd rather have them be remembered for this masterpiece instead of some anti-Bush soapbox album. Check Your Head will never be regarded as one of the top Hip Hop albums of all time, but it should definitely be known as one of the top albums of all time period.

Check Your Collection
"Check Your Head" by the Beastie Boys is their 3rd full length LP, released in '92. Songs like "Jimmy James" "Pass the Mic" "Gratitude" and "So What'cha Want" really make this album stand out. The rhyming is good, the beats are catchy, and when they play their own instruments, King Ad Rock, Mike D and MCA play them well. The song "Gratitude" is possibly the best song lyrically on this album as well as a funky bassline and powerful guitar chords and words from Ad Rock. A very good song, a very good album. Pick this one up, you won't be let down.

Uh-mazing!
I love this CD. Seriously, it has it all: some great funk, heavy bass, a little bit of hardcore, mixin' it up with distorted vocals, great instrumentals, well I could just go on for forever really. Paul's Boutique showcased the boys range in the field of hip hop (Said range being off the charts and unparalleled.), while Check Your Head is a great (if scaled down) blend of that amazing range, their own prowess with instruments and some pulsating funk. LOVE. IT. Also, there is an emergence of a social conscience via MCA that becomes more prevalent as time goes by.

Hat trick!
The first three Beastie Boys CDs were solid masterpieces. I can't decide which of the three is the best--LICENSED TO ILL, PAUL'S BOUTIQUE or, this, CHECK YOUR HEAD. Does it really matter? They're all marvels of funk, rock, and hiphop. What set this CD apart were the jazzy sections, played by the boys themselves (with some critical help on keyboards). For more than a decade, this CD has earned a permanent spot on my tray, and has quite easily held its place on my "What ten albums would I want if I were stuck on an island (preferrably Manhattan island)?" list.

My personal favorites are "So What'chu Want?", "Pass the Mic" and "Something's Got to Give". One of the shining moments to me, as for several other reviewers, is hearing Dylan's voice singing "I'm going back to New York City, I do believe I've had enough" on "Finger-Licking Good". Which brings me to one other observation: The Beastie Boys are to New York as The Beach Boys were to California. CHECK YOUR HEAD, like all other Beastie CDs, is a tribute to their hometown, and they projected an image of it that is uniquely theirs. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

PE's third album is dense, heavy, and urgent as a bullet. Fear of a Black Planet single-handedly added half a dozen phrases to the language, and not just from Chuck D.'s troop-rallying bellow--Flavor Flav's "911 Is a Joke" is as catchy an indictment of urban policy as anyone has ever come up with. The Bomb Squad's music is complicated, challenging, terse, and totally funky, and Chuck matches it with one impassioned pronouncement after another: on Hollywood's racism, on miscegenation, on "real history / Not his story." The album ends with "Fight the Power," the group's ultimate statement of purpose, from its pounding, atonal sound collage to its furious politics. Put Black Planet on, and it's always a long, hot summer. --Douglas Wolk ... Read more

Reviews (66)

Avant Garde
Those are the only 2 words that best describe the rush of sounds, voices and ideas collected on P. E.'s third studio LP. While "Nation Of Millions..." was a stunning release that completely re-wrote the rulebook in hip-hop, this 1990 followup is easily the most artisitc record in thier canon. "Fear..." works more as a sound collage and sonic painting than merely a collection of hits and filler, as most rap albums still are today. "Brothers Gonna Work It Out" samples Prince's shrieking guitar solo from "Let's Go Crazy" over a whomping rhythm section and enough background noises to drive less adventurous listeners crazy. "911 is A Joke" is also another great tune that, deliberately or not, proves that Flavor Flav really can't rap at all. My personal favorite on this LP is the interracial dating diatribe "Pollywannacraka" with Chuck D.'s raspy, deep, drawling delivery coming as a real jolt and his views on dating outside your race may surprise some. Overall, "Fear..." is a lot less accessible than it's predecessor and that's a good thing, this LP makes you think and work a little for the big payoff. This is Public Enemy's real masterpiece, a sprawling, eclectic record that knows no boundaries. Essential Listening.

Revolutionary Generation
"Fear" is the best rap album ever made. It was made at the right time, when sampling didn't cost artists so much. It allowed Terminator X and the Bomb Squad to produce the most radical apocalyptic hiphop assault on the ears. "Brothers Gonna Work it Out" swirls with immediacy (sampling Prince's "Let's Go Crazy"), same with "Power to the People" (and you thought the beat slowed down) and "War at 33 1/3." I like this album slightly better than "It Takes a Nation of Millions," because this album is so much more chaotic and dense. The beats are huge, adn Chuck D is full of fury (scary as hell). I would agree that Flavor Flav was more fun on "It Takes a Nation of Millions," but he shines on "911 is a Joke."

Fear nothing
This is a landmark in the hip-hop genre. Chuck D and Flava Flav really stick it to... everything in this masterpiece. The beats, the messages, the mood, it all adds up to an essential record. If you're looking to expand the variety of your collection, pick this one up.

Excellent, powerfull album !
Simply one of the best rap record of all time ! If you simply like music, jazz, rock, whatever... Youy will love this record !
A must for all music fans in general ! And it's got a lot of ATTITUDE !!!

Another CLASSIC Public Enemy album
1990 was a TREMENDOUS year in hip hop, and this album is one of the reasons why. Public Enemy hadn't released an album in over a year, and they returned with a vengeance. Fear Of A Black Planet is a great listening experience. Once again, Chuck D gave us his narratives as only he can, Flavor Flav was the charismatic sidekick, and The Bomb Squad offered more classic production. Here's the review:

Album Highlights: Although this album has NO filler, the highlights are 911 Is A Joke, Welcome to the Terrordome, Burn Hollywood Burn, Who Stole The Soul, Fear Of A Black Planet, Revolution Generation, Can't Do Nuttin For Ya Man, War at 33 1/3, and the CLASSIC Fight The Power.

Production: Thumbs Up, more Bomb Squad classics.

Lyrics and Subject Matter: Thumbs up.

Originality: Thumbs Up.

The Last Word: Man, what an album. From beginning to end, Public Enemy delivers the goods, on the THIRD album STRAIGHT. Not too many people can say they've done that. But overall, this album is a MUST HAVE. Another strong recommendation. You won't be disappointed if you purchase this. ... Read more

Reviews (65)

My Favorite CD Ever!
I love this CD! I can play it on repeat forever without skipping any tracks! There's songs that make you happy, dance, calm down, feel good or just feel sexy. 112 delivers it all! Before there was "Anywhere" and "Peaches & Cream", there was "Now That We're Done" and "Can I Touch You". I think this is one of the most underrated r&b albums (and group) so if you're a huge r&b fan and you don't have this album, you are definitely missing out. This is a must-have classic. Their sounds are soulful, sultry and sexy. They even have a gospel-sounding track, "This Is Your Day", that's a really great feel-good song to lift up your spirits when you're having a bad day. This is 112's best album to date, in my opinion and even they can't seem to top it themselves. I guarantee you won't be let down once you pop this in your CD player.

Songs to look out for are "Cupid", "Only You"... Wait what am I talking about? The whole album is hot!!

112 review
1.112 intro-good way to start off a cd, i like it 4/5

2.Now That We're Done-great song, slow and sensual, slim did great 5/5

3.Pleasure and Pain-good message, songs ok 3.5/5

4.Why- great intro to a song, should've been right before Why Does 4/5

5.Cupid-i luuuuv this song, a well established classic 5/5

6.Call My Name-kinda boring, ok song 3/5

7.Come See Me-not much to say, nice song 4/5

8.Sexy You-nice intro 3/5

9.Can I Touch You-shows of slims high pitched range, all in all great 5/5

10.I Cant Believe-nice vocals by faith evans, ok song 3.5/5

11.Keep It Real-great ballad, stupid message though

12.Only You-two words:Biggie Smalls 5/5

13.I Will Be There-great slow song, great message 5/5

14.In Love With You-beats sucks song sucks 0/5

15.Just a Little While-kinda sappy but i can sit through it 3/5

16.Why Does-love this song, one of the best on the album 5/5

17.This is Your Day-ok song, beat is kinda sappy 3.5/5

18.Throw It All Away-i liked it 4/5

19.Only You(Clean Radio Mix)-beat is softer than the other one but Biggie is still there 5/5

One of the best slow jam albums of all time.
How can you possibly go wrong with this CD. Every song from top to bottom is a classic. I bought this CD years ago and it still plays in my cd player. I believe every song anyone can relate to whether it's love, sorrow, or heartbreak. If you don't have this CD, do yourself a favor and buy it. You won't hear a classic R&B album like this for years to come.

You may be surprised
Believe it or not, I had never heard, nor heard of 112 until the song Peaches And Cream first came out. I really liked it. So I decided to get their first CD. I didn't think i'd like it all the much, I figured it would be mostly about sex because of the message in Peaches and Cream. But I was surprised, it is mostly about love. They have beautiful voices that flow together in such a great way. When I first listened to the CD, I knew I had to get their others. Now I have all four of their cds and I am completely satisfied with all of them. If you like music, you should like this. Very good, 5 stars isn't enough.

Don't Judge a song by its name....
I've had this Cd since 2000. And this is gonna sound so ignorant but I never actually listened to it until just a week ago. The reason I bought it was becuz of Cupid my boyfriend told me to get it cuz it was a good song so I just bought the whole cd and listened to only that song. Then the other day i popped it in and just listened to it, don't get me wrong its an excellent cd but my absolutely favorite 112 album is Part III. Its more my style. But Becuz I am a loyal fan and I luv 112 so damn much I give it 5 stars. All their albums are awsome if you don't already own them all u better get them soon. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The hiatus is back off, again, for the Beastie Boys, and music lovers will bob their heads with insuppressible glee. With its Nice & Smooth impersonations and shout outs to Brooklyn's Albee Square Mall, To the 5 Boroughs, their first album in six years, harkens the return of the trio to the city that made them who they are today. It's an up-tempo yet surprisingly homogenous assemblage of vintage electro-style party beats, and it's a strictly Beastie affair: the Boys co-wrote and produced each track themselves, which means that it sports none of the sonic fripperies and quirky collaborations that distinguished previous classics such as Paul's Boutique. Finally jelling after two years of on-again, off-again recording, To the 5 Boroughs will appeal to those fans old enough to remember the Licensed to Ill tour. Those old-schoolers are sure to appreciate the album's mostly off-the-cuff lyrics and minimal-to-the-extreme musical landscape--even if its stripped-down sound may leave others longing for the days when the Boys were California dreamin'. --Rebecca Levine ... Read more

Reviews (389)

To the 5 Bur... oh, these lyrics suck!
Let's just say, some of the beats on this album are outstanding, the already released single "Ch-Check it Out", "Right Right Now Now", "We Got The", and "That's It, That's All" are some stand outs. The problem, though, is that the Beastie Boys are rapping over these beats.

Basically, there are two problems with the lyrics. We have the Beastie Boys current "left-wing, political hellraisers (although still politically correct!)" lyrics... if you heard their free internet release last year, you know what I'm talking about. The second problem? Lack of originality. The Beastie Boys keep referencing the same damn things, making their lyrics seem less and less fresh with each outing. Where's the clever wordplay? Seem's the Boys are content to rehash their old references, and have completely replaced all their witty wordplay with crappy politically correct messages.

I liked 'em more when Mike D's name was Clarence... the new Beastie Boys would say "Hey **** You" to that, then back track and say they love all people of all races and sexual preferences and that war is wrong. Thanks, but I'll pass.

Bottom Line:
Only the beats save the CD,

Beastie Are Back
This is a classic Beastie Boys CD. The sound is a mix between their old stuff (like License to Ill) and then their newer stuff (Hello Nasty). As hard as it is to rank their CDs, this is surely a keeper. For the Beastie Boys to be able to stay on top of the game for as long as they have, and keep coming up with new, fresh sounds while staying true to their roots and themselves, makes these guys amazing. I would highly recommend this CD to anyone who likes the Beastie Boys or their style of music.

And I don't even like rap
Ok, I have to start by saying that I am pretty open to different musical flavors, but it's not like I'm going to by a Ludacris album or something. I'm a heavy metal guy that back when I was about 8 years old got Licensed to Ill on LP. Yes I had old fashioned records when I was a kid. Back then the Beasties seemed kind of rock & rap and it was cool. Around the same time Run DMC did their thing with Aerosmith. My friends and I loved Beasties and Run DMC and also listened to Metallica and Megadeth. Weird combination.

I started thinking about the Beasties again years back when I saw Intergalactic on MTV. I thought to myself "I'm not supposed to like this anymore, but I can't help it." They're just great musicians. They have a sense of humor that is great. I love the sounds that they create as well as the way their three very different vocals combine into a tight weave that is very cool to listen to.

So a couple years ago I picked up the Sounds of Science figuring it would probably be the last album I'd buy, but it had all the hits that I liked as a kid and Sabotage and Intergalactic. It ended up growing on me, especially all the ones I had never heard. Remember, I went from Licensed to Ill straight to Intergalactic on MTV. Now, I picked up this album, and yes, I,Metalhead, am hooked on it. It's been in my cd player for three days now. This goes to show that the Beastie Boys have an appeal beyond typical rap fans.

My favorite songs on the album are Check it Out and An Open Letter to NYC. So if you don't think rap is for you and you think you should only listen to what you usually listen to, just listen to some samples of this album. You'll like what you're missing.

it takes time to build
My first few reactions after listening to the beasties cd was 'too old school- outdated;' and 'kinda boring beats' and 'too political'. But, I kept thinking this is the M.F. Beastie Boys, so I gave it a few more try's.

After listening to it over and over and over the better and catchier it gets. Its one of those CD's where the more you listen to it, the better it gets. Its an awesome CD and you can tell they put a lot of time into their lyrics (rhyming, rythem, and pitch); I love this CD and I refuse to remove it from my CD player. Old school stuff like this, with a sort-of new electronical-space sound is wayyyy better than the s..t most rappers are coming out with today. We get a taste of the 'real' Beastie Boys in this CD, along with the fun B.B. stuff too.
I recommend reading the lyrics and trying to rap/sing with them. Its way fun.

Beastie Boy Consistency
Like some other reviewers I will have to agree that this is not their best album. What I will say is that it is no less enjoyable than any if the others. When I first heard the single "Ch- Check it out ", I had mixed opinions on how this album would sound, but I knew that I would enjoy it simply because it is by the Boys. After I bought the album and read the lyrics, I immediately heard the difference in this album. Primarily, there is much more profanity than there was on hello nasty. (Which I must add was thier worst album). This album has amazing beats that are repetative, but very delightful even after the fourteeth time I listened to the album. As I ride in my car, I find myself laughing out loud to some of the lyrics as simple as they are. It is in my opinion that these guys are getting older, but unlike 13 years ago are not taking the "Hard" approach to hip-hop, simply having fun, and enjoying what they do while laughing at themselves. In one song MCA is rhyming about a sandwich,"I'd like a lettuce, tomato and muenster on rye. All this cheese is gonna make me cry. Gorgonzola, provolone, don't even get me started on this microphone." WTF? I listened carefully and just started laughing and imagined how funny it must have been to hear that while recording. There are some songs where they take the political approach, but at least they have opinions unlike so many other people in this country. And they have a right to state there views in any way they can. Think about it, hundreds of songs that they have rhymed over and sometimes there are other things to talk about, unless you would like to hear them rhyme about bling or bitches, wait... they did that 18 years ago and they have gotten past that... Right?. Here is a question for the pessimistic; What would you like to hear them rhyme about?....? Anyway, I am not trying to sell anyone on this album, but I certainly am enjoying it. As for you guys that are getting older like me and sit back and listen to Check Your Head, reflecting on how cool you were back then, and wish you could time warp to that era by another Beastie Boys album such as that.... Get Over It! It will never happen again, you are CHANGING and so are they.That album was a classic and should remain unique and not copied or supplemented. These guys changed music 15 years ago, they have done their job now there job is to do nothing, but give us the same reliable consistency of music that they have given us for years. This album is rough and hard and unlike hello nasty doesn't sound like they are going to retire anytime soon.

Listen, by this album if you are a Beastie Boys fan and if you do not enjoy it, keep it simply because it is a Beastie boys album. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

De La's debut represented a new path for hip-hop, a reaction to conventions that had turned into clichés. It was friendly and playful enough to cross over to a pop audience (thanks to Prince Paul's production, which found the funk hiding inside Steely Dan and "Schoolhouse Rock"), but complicated and tough enough to be hugely influential in the hip-hop world. Cryptic but ecstatic, and sometimes sexy (especially the ingenious double-entendre "Buddy"), Trugoy and Posdnuos's lyrics invented a "new style of speak," dense with self-invented slang and metaphors. The hits, including "Say No Go" and "Me Myself And I," are delightful, but the little sketches and sound-experiments between them make the whole disc flow effortlessly. --Douglas Wolk ... Read more

Reviews (55)

This Is Exactly Why I Hate New Hip Hop
Ah yes. New York, 1989. Beastie Boys, De La Soul, Tribe Called Quest, Run-DMC. This was possibly the best time for hip-hop music ever. The music had a vibe like no other, as well as keeping its roots and adding more funk than any other style. Great times, good music. Fast forward ten years or so. Rappers like Eminem, Dr. Dre, and Juvenille have young audiences screaming their names on MTV every day. Millions of their records are sold. The music has lost its edge, the funk and soul are gone, and instead, childish little songs and backbeats appear frequently. Hip hop has deteriorated and is now mainsteream. Sad, isn't it? De La Soul represent everything that was good about hip hop. Keeping African rythmns, adding the funk of Parliament, and rapping in a style that was (and is) easy to get into. This was their breakthrough album. There is not a bad song on this record, and I can easily get into it whenever I want to. This record makes me wonder why people even like new hip hop. This is smarter and funnier than anything Juvenille could ever come up with. I think my favorite tracks on 3 Feet High And Rising are Change in Speak, The Magic Number, and A Little Bit Of Soap. Quite possibly the greatest hip hop album ever made.

Three Feet High and Rising-De La Soul (Tommy Boy-1989)
If you translate "De La Soul", you'll get "From The Soul". That's exactly what this is: from the soul. Some songs will leave you laughing out loud ("Can U Keep A Secret" and "Delacratic")while others will make you wonder how they mixed two styles of music together so well (For example,rapping and yodeling on "Potholes In My Lawn")
Here's my review:

Intro: A little game show start to the album.

The Magic Number: It's 3. The magic number is 3,I mean.This is just a good,fun song.

Change In Speak: What can I say? A normal hip-hop song,with fun lyrics,and a cool beat.

Cool Breeze On the Rocks: An array of samples involving the word "rock". I'd like it if De La made it a bit longer.

Can U Keep A Secret: GOD IS THIS FUNNY! Sometimes I find myself whispering "Posdnuos...has dandruff."

Jenifa Taught Me (Derwin's Revenge): A fun,strange,and weird song about,um,sex.But it's pretty good.

Ghetto Thang: Just like what I said about Change In Speak.

Transmitting Live From Mars: Huh? It's really confusing.Aparrently,a french tape is played over a sort of creepy beat.Enough said.

Eye Know: Exactly like what I said about Ghetto Thang.Except there is a little bit of love in the song.

Take It Off: All these people are telling someone to take all these things off.I just don't understand it.

A Little Bit Of Soap: Another one I don't understand. But it's funny. Listen-"Just take your big a** to the bathroom and please use a little bit of soap!"

Tread Water: A good song with funny lyrics and a bob-your-head beat.

Potholes In My Lawn: This is one of my favorites. It's mix of yodeling and rapping is clever,with a cool beat. Just a great song.

Say No Go: It has a great beat (I mean a really good beat that makes you want to dance)and cool,sometimes fast-paced lyrics. Just good. 'Nuff said.

Do As De La Does: 2nd of the three super funny songs on this album. (The first: "Can U Keep A Secret".)

Plug Tunin': Three words:Totally original hip-hop.

De La Orgee: Are they doing what I think they're doing?

Buddy: Pure hip-hop. That's it.

Description:De La and others describe themselves. (By the way,who decided to name that guy Granny?)

Me Myself and I: My favorite. Bob-your-head beat,fun lyrics,this song's got it all.

This is a Recording: Not my favorite. That's pretty much all.

Delacratic: If this does not make you laugh out loud,you've got a problem. The third of the three super funny songs on this album.

D.A.I.S.Y. Age.: My least favorite. De La should make the beat (and the lyrics) way way way faster.

Plug Tunin' (Original 12" version): Exactly like what I said about the first "Plug Tunin'".

Well,that's my review. Altogether,it's pretty good. Original,pure,hip-hop. It dosen't matter if you like or hate rap,just buy 3 Feet High And Rising. What are you waiting for? Go get it!

rising and rising
next to the beastie's paul's boutique, my favorite rap album. it's just so celebratory and fun. just as with most rap albums, the skits are interesting and occasionally humorous the first time around but get exceedingly tedious upon subsequent listens. nevertheless, there are PLENTY of actual songs here, and the vast majority of them are fantastic.

Hip Hop Classic
This is right up there with It Takes A Nation of Millions, Straight Out of Compton, and Raising Hell as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time. It's a very unique album, as it's full of humor, silly characters, and a message of peace and love that is sort of a throwback to the Woodstock generation. There are a lot of great samples on this albums as well, and after you listen to this you should take the time to seek out the original artists that this group used. If you do that you'll have a greater appreciation for good funk and 70's soul.

a very long joke...
It's hard to hate on this CD. It's impossibly euphoric, experimental in a youthful and drunken manner instead of a artistically arrogant way. If you don't mind that EVERY OTHER TRACK IS A F---ING INTERLUDE, and there are probably less than ten full length rap songs on the entire thing, you should be able to get into the real spirit of this album. The most interesting part of the whole thing are the cryptic symbolism of tracks like Tread Water, which show off the underplayed and unique calculated nature of De La Soul's lyrical style and subculture. Each version of Plug Tunin', as well as Buddy (also check out the single version found on the recently released Timeless collection) are very complex bits. This group can be very thought provoking without flaunting it, but since it can be very hard to see past the joking atmosphere of this album, many people misconstrued the constant references to daisies and thought De La Soul was not to be taken seriously. This is obviously not the case. Their unabashedly innovative forms, as well as the far reaching sampling sensibilites, are proof of their place in the rap hall of fame. ... Read more