Reviews (19)

heed the word of the brother sissy
love this cd i hate x clan played out the world was'nt ready for their message. x clan used so much p-funk samples i could have swore they were children of the watts prophets.i love this if any rap fans want to hear old skool rap about africa, what it means to be black in america pick up this-then check out public enemy, bdp, paris, kam,to start you off with some knowledge.

A rap classic
In my mind this has to be one of the top 5-6 rap CD's ever recorded, along with "gorillas in the mist" by the Lench mob, "fear of a black planet" by PE, "Amerikkka's most wanted" by Ice Cube. The lyrics are strong and mystical, glued together by the repetition "to the East my brother, to the East...". Brother J is one of the smoothest rappers ever, while Professor X balances things with his rough delivery. The music was very ahead of its time (1989) and sounds excellent even today. The whole CD is a gem and is full of good funk down to the last beat. X Clan made just one more CD which is good but not as good - "Exodos". They are missed these days. Anyone who likes real rap, and I'm not talking Puff Daddy now, should get this CD.

AWESOME ALBUM
This CD album was not excepted because black teenagers and adults reject there own culture and religion, and "ALWAYS DISS>" so to speak! they diss it! which is a shame ! they do not study any philosophical book .All they want is "Sex and perpetrating like they the mack or the pimp" and flaunting there "Im tough" attitudes , but like I said : The blacks around my way diss it! they like Snoop Dogg for example as he always rap about partying and getting with some woman in a bed him and others as if thats the only goal in life! But as for me ......I give this album 6 stars if there was a such thing as six stars !!!!

Fresh, Very Fresh
This album is very good. I could go on about this album. When I first purchased and heard this album, I realized that I was a sleeper. I needed to wake-up to reality. The fact that blacks have lost our culture(s), language(s), and even our god. We only know what is popular or what our parents taught us. X-clan brings us the truth.

P.S. I can never get enough the Red, Black, and Green.

THIS CD- IS PERFECT!
You know whats funny? This X-Clan CD was ignored in the 1990s all the FM radio staions focus on LL cool J.back then , Brother J is religious and a philosopher! and quess what? The humble old school artists did not make near as much money as the so-called new school artists today, and these guys sound and teach better than these new hiphoppers in 2004 teaching and glorifing "PIMPIN, and SEX "-Brother J perfers to live the humble life- they can keep there titles,belts, and 12 cars.....suckers! Hay! check out the movies: THE GODS MUST BE CRAZY 1 + 2 1984 this movie will teach every one about the BUSHMAN! Little people that live in Africa - check it out someday! ... Read more

Amazon.com

In Luniz lingo, you got your playa (i.e. "player") and you got your playa hata ("player hater"). And when the twain doth meet, well, you have two things: trouble and fodder for a new rap. In fact, the Lunz's second single from this 1995 collection was "Playa Hata." The Luniz are self-proclaimed playas. Notes to the Luniz's debut CD posit the duo as crown-princes of the "crazy, comical, wild-side of gangsta hip-hop," but it's fair to say they're not loony in the Bugs Bunny sense of the word. The group's logo is a scowling cartoon figure draped in a used condom and wielding a handgun. Operation Stackola, is a loose concept album about the protagonists' criminal and sexual exploits as they go about accumulating money "by any means necessary." The twosome's contrasting rapping style and the booming beats assembled by eight different producers make for an involving album, but you don't have to hypersensitive to be bothered by the misogyny of "She's a Freak. And the N-word surfaces enough in the album's 16 tracks to make Mark Fuhrman feel at home.--Steven Stolder ... Read more

Reviews (23)

Bay Area Classic!!!
In my opinion the Luniz are the best rap group to ever come out of the Bay Area. Even though this isn't quite as organized or as developed as "Lunitik Muzik" it's still a great album. On this album the Luniz are just tryin' to do their thing the best way they can. The production is great, all the beats are bangin' with that West Coast flavor. There are some of the Bay Area's best rappers featured on this album; Dru Down, Richie Rich, and Shock G. This is the album that brought us the legendary "I Got 5 On It" along with a bunch of other great songs; "Put The Lead On Ya", "Broke Hos", "Pimps, Playas & Hustlas", "Playa Hata", "Broke Niggaz", "Operation Stackola", and "Yellow Brick Road". This is a great album for any fan of West Coast Hip-Hop.

The Luniz- Operation Stackola
The Luniz, the oakland duo Yukmouth & Numskull 1995 release "Operation Stackhola" was a success. Mostly due to the fact of the world wide hit single "I got 5 on it" one of those tracks that you can replay over and over again. To date its their only track thats been regarded as a hit and was a hiphop anthem. "Playa Hata" is nice as Yuk and Num drop gangster verses interwined with R & B. "Broke Niggaz" is a grimey track with a nice beat. "900 Blame a Nigga" talks about racism, police and hate. The album is themed around making money by any means. The Luniz a one hit wonder, you be the judge of it, "I got 5 on it" is definetly a track to remember, the album however is not.

Is this the best or what!!!
I believe that this cd is one of the greatest cd's ever made! If I could, I would reccomend that Luniz win an Emmy, Grammy, an Oscar, and a Music Award! It is a must own album that every rap fan should have!

Great
Though I dont listen to much rap, this band and this CD are among my rap favorites the song are catchy and not too mention theres a touch of humor in some songs.

OPERATION STACKOLA
"Operation Stackola", the debut album from the Luniz is one of the hardest rap albums I own. At first, I bought the album for the song "I Got 5 On It" (which went all the way to #8 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1995.) Then I went further into the album. My three favorites are: "Broke H*'s", "Playa Hata", and "900 Blame a N***a". If you want to buy a tight rap album, and be slightly nostalgic at the same time, buy "Operation Stackola"! ... Read more

Reviews (27)

Another wonderful piece of Timbaland-produced work
Static, Smokey & Black are one of the most hottest R&B groups out there. I'm so glad that Timbaland chose such talented individuals like them. Their album, "Cheers 2 U", is bangin'. They got appearances by Timbaland & his Family: Magoo, Missy & Aaliyah. They've also got a special appearance by Foxy Brown on the joint, "I Gotta Know", but I don't like that song. I really wanted to see an appearance by Ginuwine b/c he rolls with Timbo & his fam. I like the following jointz: "Don't Stop The Music" "All The Way" "Together" "I-65" "Cheers 2 U" "Ms. Parker" (featuring Missy) "One Man Woman" (featuring Aaliyah)

I especially like that "Derby City Interlude" w/ Maggo. So, in conclusion, Playa's album is da fly ish & u need to go buy it.

Raw Talent!
Playa brings to the black music industry what has been lacking...raw talent! The threesome writes and produces their songs, and they do it well. And their Southern flava is unresistable. Before the album's debut, Static co-wrote Ginuwine's hit single "Pony" with producer Timbaland. Playa's Smokey produced all but one track on "Cheers 2 U", and all members coordinate vocal arrangements for themselves as well as artists Aaliyah and Ginuwine. They have definitely made their mark in this business. Everybody's heard their work in songs by Aaliyah and Ginuwine, and now they're making some hits for themselves. The album is incredible. They harmonize like no other group. Check it out!

The best album i heard in my life
Well its march 2004 and i still listen to this cd. I will never get tired of it. They really put there heart and soul into the songs thats why it has this much staying power.Ive been waiting from something new from them. Its a shame they waste good publicity on bad acts and screw the good ones.

Still Jams
This album was slept on, period. Simply an excellent piece of work. All I ask is where are they now?

Cheers 2 Playa
This is a very good and extremely underrated cd! Still, they should've put on "Your Dress" from the Dr. Dolittle Soundtrack instead of the "I Gotta Know" closer w/ Foxy Brown.... Then this beautiful CD would've definately been a five star effort. Peace out to Playa and Timbo! Cu around soon! ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Cube best album
This is Ice Cube's best album, easily. While Chuck D and KRS 1 are undoubtedly great rappers with a political twist, I feel that Cube did them 1 better because he was a great MC. For all his anger and shouting, he knows how to ride a beat. What a shame NWA split up, and by that I mean Dr.Dre and Ice Cube, because the rest were not really that talented, though Eazy-E had the most Charisma. Cube is one of the smartest lyricist ever, and has you chuckling at some of his ramblings. The use of the word "cracka" is funny to me. In short, that brilliant group NWA, for a time anyway, and some of their associates like The DOC released some of the finest records, not just rap records, in history. Straight Outta Compton, No One Can Do It Better, then later on after they split, Amerikkas Most Wanted, The Predator and The Chronic. What a time.

Ice Cube "Top Five Rapper Of All-Time"
First he was Amerikka's Most Wanted, then he gave us his Death Certificate, now the Predator. On all my reviews so far, I have given him 5 stars and if you don't know about Cube, better ask somebody!! The intro starts off this captivating CD with prisoners getting checked in prison. Then he had me sporting black boots on When Will They Shoot. Today Was A Good Day was a cruising song in the car and not worrying about the police. Now I Gotta Wet Cha', The Predator, and Say Hi To The Bad Guy shows the dark side of the gansta Cube. Don't Trust'em, Check Yo Self, Who Got The Camera, 24 wit the L, and U Ain't Gonna Take My Life are the message songs Cube gives us on every CD that he has made. My favorite song is Dirty Mack, this song was made for haters who were hating on other peoples game. Ice Cube is on fire on his third album and is sitting on top of the highest order of rap. Now if you wanted to be a great rapper, Ice Cube is a rapper you had to study. The king apparently wasn't treated with that same respect on the source which gave it 4 mics. Maybe they didn't want him to get three 5 mic CD's in a row or something. Maybe a misprint because this definitely deserved 5 mics. If you don't have Ice Cubes first three CD's and you are a huge rap fan, you need to cop them!!!!!

Ice Cube The Master
este album , es sin duda el mejor de Cube, ya que contiene producciones de Dj Muggs (de Cypress Hill) en canciones como el clasico Check Yo Self y mas....y el super single Wicked, este rapero ah sido influenciador de otros como W.C., B Real, Everlast, MC Eith, KoRn, Deftones, limpbizkit, Zack de la Rocha, etc

ONLY GOOD ALBUM!!!!!!!!!
Anyone who says otherwise, can mess off. Death Cerificate was the WORST album, saying "Oooooh, look at me, I'm Ice Cube, and I'm mad" Get over it. Gangsta s**t is over. He was trying to be the voice of over 400 years of oppression, which in my opinion was good back then. The Predator was nothing short of flawless, as he uses humor, and movie samples, instead of the average Blacksploitation bigotry, followed up with another," Hey he's white, let's get him." This album had research, and that is why this album sold more, got played more, and is more respected than any other album he has.
(...)

The start of the end
Ice Cube - The Predator (Priority, 1992)

After AmeriKKKa's Most Wanted, Kill At Will EP, and Death Certificate, all classics, this album was a step down. Cube didn't really bring it like he did in the past. Ironically, this is the one of his most successful albums due to his singles "Wicked" and the the smash "It Was a Good Day". There are other good songs on here such as "Now I Gotta Wet'cha" and "Check Yo' Self" (the original, which is better than the more popular remix). Whatever fans Cube lost with this album, he sure gained a lot more. -EJR ... Read more

Album Details

The Debut Album from the Artist who Describes Himself as 'a New Improved Jay-Z'/. ... Read more

Reviews (42)

Suprisingly REAL GOOD!!!!!!!!!!!!
Bleek drops a tight album. Better than i thought it would be.Its not a classic but its a Banger.Every track is tight."Stay Alive in NYC" is the best track. Album features hot appearences by Ja Rule,Jay-Z,Noreaga,and Beanie Sigel.Up there with Gza for album of the year.Worth the money!!!!!!!!Go buy this along with GZA's BENEATH THE SURFACE !!!!!!!!!Peace NB4Ever!!!!!!!

Memphis Bleeks debut album shows some 'Coming of Age'
Memphis Bleek's debut album does show some coming of age for the young rapper. His debut includes many many hot beats along with solid guest lyricists like Ja Rule, Jigga, Beanie Sigel, and Noreaga. Bleek hits you with hot sh*t like 'What You Think of That' and 'I Won't Stop'. At times Bleek's lyrics can seem uninspired and just about nothing , but the beats in it save the weak lyrics. This album is something to pick up and bump real loud in your ride.

Memphis Bleek- Coming of Age
Memphis Bleek's first album "Coming of Age" (1999) is an average release with a few bright moments. Early tracks dont standout much, then a hungry sounding Ja Rule helps pick things up with "Murda 4 Life" a track which would also appear on his debut album. My favourite track on this one is easily "Stay Alive NYC", Bleek talks about the drug game, backed by a brillaint beat and a memorable chorus. Bleek then drops some decent grimey sounding tracks with "You a Thug Nigga" and "N.O.W." feat. Da Ranjahz. Beanie Sigel and Bleek team up for "My Hood to Your Hood" a New York/Philly collabration from what were two of the Roc's young gunz at the time. The problem I find with alot of these later tracks is they are to similar in content and lack strong production. Fortunately the album closes off well with the mellowed out "Regular Cat", Bleek shines on this one while talking about his life,repping Marcy and addressing the haters. I think this was a decent entrance into the game for a young rapper who had to deal with the larger then life title of heir to the throne. Lyrically Bleek has never been great (and sometimes subpar), but once and awile he does have his moments. Would only recommend "Coming of Age" to big time Bleek fans.

OK album
Memphis Bleek is, in my opinion, one of the most under rated rappers out. This is Bleek's first album. One of my favorite songs is "Memph Bleek is". He gets alot better as the years go on. This album is worth a listen, and his other albums are a must in any hip hop fan's collect. Also, Bleek is from Marcy Projects in Brooklyn, not Queens, like someone suggested.

Bleek's Best
At first I thought Made was better but the more i Listen this is better. It is more creative and has more lyrical content.What also shocked is when they said he was 16 when he recorded this. When this came out they should of treated it better. Lil Wayne and all them wack dudes came out at 16 and got more love then Bleek and he is 80 times better than them. ... Read more

Album Description

True to BBE's tradition of releasing compilations compiled by Hip Hop and Soul’s most forward thinking producers, they have enlisted the Wu Tang Clan's RZA for the second installment of their new "Kings of" series. Along for the ride is the original "Legendary of Deep Funkster", DJ Keb Darge sharing duties on this 2xCD set of hard-to-find classics.

Keb Darge has been passionate about music since birth, in the 70’s, he was a regular visitor to legendary ‘Northern Soul’ (a term which is attributed to Godin) nights at The Wigan Casino, in the 80’s he turned his attention to funk, and is solely responsible for the Deep Funk movement.RZA is a member of Wu Tang Clan, an actor (Coffee & Cigarettes, Rhyme & Reason) and film composer (Kill Bill Vol I, Ghost Dog -The Way of The Samurai).

The Kings of... series releases are homages, not to ‘lost’ musical genres, but to music that ‘fits’ within a specific genre, which may have either been forgotten, or may only be remembered for the first time. This compilation serves up some of the most badass funk tunes you’ve ever heard! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

The Kings of Funk Reign Supreme
The second installment of BBE's "Kings Of..." series is a fine piece of work.It compares in a lot of ways to Keb Darge's "Funk Spectrum Series".Similarly the album's tracks are split up between Darge and a legendary guest.The songs are always hard to find obscurities that never really got much play when they were released.He's a certified perfectionist when it comes to digging up "lost" tracks - just check his track record on Amazon.

In the past Darge has teamed up with renowned crate-diggers/producers DJ Shadow and Pete Rock.For "Kings Of Funk" Darge shares the spotlight with the RZA, who is known for his use of uncommon samples from both music and films in his Hip-Hop productions.While the average music fan might not associate RZA for his crate digging abilities and more so for his involvement in the Wu-Tang Clan, any true head has known he's got a phenomenal ear for music.His sampling skills involve tracks so rare and implicit that they become almost unrecognizable amidst the full production.

All right, enough about their credentials... without a doubt this is an excellent collection of tracks, mostly thanks to the RZA's selections.RZA's disc (the first one) might be the best out of any in the "Funk Spectrum" series or for that matter any funk/soul compilations in the BEE catalogue.Of his 40 mins of funk, 95% is outstanding.Hank Ballard's "From the Love Side" gets the album off to a funky James Brown esq. kick-start.RZA's disc contains four incredible instrumentals: "Jasper Country Men", "Ain't No Sunshine", "Climax", and the 8 min epic "Melting Pot".The latter two are definitely the best, just straight up funky jam sessions.Ken Boothe shows some reggae/funk that Bob Marely would be proud of on "Because I'm Black".A live version of Lyn Collins' "Do Your Thing" is simply powerful (blowing the more familiar Isaac Hayes version out of the water!).Ann Peebles brings it all to a tremendous close on a track that's just laced with famous hip-hop samples (I recognize the guitar part in particular, but I'm still trying to figure out from where, I'll put it up soon).
Really the only fault is Sly & The Family Stone's "Small Talk", mostly because it suffers from a loud crying baby throughout its entirety.But, that small misstep aside, the RZA's disc is a perfect collection of rare funk tracks.
(Note: The track listing above is incorrect.Neither Jimmy Ponder's "While My Guitar" & the Ohio Players "Singing In The Morning" appear on either disc.)

Keb Darge's disc is pretty good.Most of the tracks on this disc fall in the middle of the road - laid back and chill.There aren't as many simply stunning stand out tracks like RZA's disc, but it serves its purpose quite nicely and is easily enjoyable.A few do make you stop and listen up.Sharon Jones's swagger hits the funky groove of "Genuine" to perfection.Zebra's "Simple Song" and MFSB's menacing "Family Affair" are two excellent instrumentals (excluding four lines in the former).The album also ends on two superb soulful jams "Will You Love My Child" and the memorable lyrics of Dee Edwards on "(I Can) Deal With That".The rest of the second disc is by no means weak, but to Keb's credit, he's been putting together collections for a number of years and has probably used his best offerings long ago.The remaining four, satisfy but aren't unforgettable.

BEE went the extra step and did a tremendous job with packaging "Kings of Funk".It has excellent liner notes, with full descriptions of the tracks as well as Keb's personal opinions on each.The two disc package costs as if it was only one.Both hip-hop sample heads and funk/soul fans will love this collection.So, you're probably running out of reasons not to get this album.Don't resist too much, cause it's one of the best collections of rare funk/soul tracks out there.

The RZA's Disc: (9.5/10)
Keb Darge's Disc: (8/10)
Overall Package: (9/10) ... Read more

Reviews (88)

bad boys.......
ok, this is an excellent produced hip hop soundtrack. its one of the very few hip hop soundtracks this year that came out hot. there's plenty of hot tracks on this one. my personal favorite on this album is excuse me miss again (la la la) by jay z, that beat is super sick, its a real hot beat, i mean a real tight beat, and the lyrics to the so song are hot too and the lyrics fit real well with the beat. other hot tracks include...shake ya tailfeather by nelly, p.diddy, and murphy lee, gangsta sh*t by snoop dogg and loon, girl im a bad boy by fat joe and p.diddy, realest nig*az by 50 cent and biggie smalls, flipside by freeway, and why by da band (a.k.a. the making the band 2 squad). this album is a must buy to any true real hip hop fan. dont miss out on this album, buy it next time you hit the store, cause its one of the new soundtracks this year that is living up to its hype.

Jus like the movie...
1. Intro
--a intro>> no rating

2. Show Me Your Soul - P. Diddy, Lenny Kravitz, Pharrell
Williams, Loon
tight track with a great beat but diddy sucks>> 4 stars

3. La, La, La - Jay-Z
Neptunes produced track features Jay-Z, not as good as Excuse Me Miss but also tight>> 3,5 stars

4. Shake Your Tailfeather - Nelly, P. Diddy, Murphy Lee
Diddy again, his rap style is really bad but nelly & murphy make the song worth>> 4 stars

5. Girl, I'm A Bad Boy - Fat Joe & P. Diddy featuring Dre
propably the best song on the album>> 5 stars

6. Keep Giving Your Love To Me - Beyonce
this track sucks, beyonce can do better>> 2 stars

7. Realest N*ggas - Notorious B.I.G. & 50 Cent
50 cent thinks he's the best, but he ain't>> 3 stars

8. Flipside - Freeway
good track>> 3,5 stars

9. Pretty Girl Bullsh*t - Mario Winans featuring Foxy Brown
mario winans sounds good on this one, foxy not>> 3,5 stars

10. Model - (Interlude)
no rating

11. I Love You - Justin Timberlake
it's not "I'm lovin' it"!; don't like this one>> 2 stars

12. Relax Your Mind - Loon
loon is propably the smoothest rapper>> 3,5 stars

13. Didn't Mean - Mary J. Blige
i hope she didn't mean to take this one serious>> 2 stars

14. God Sent You - (Interlude)
no rating

15. Why - Da Band
da band sucks, they can't rap/sing>> 1,5 star

16. Shot You - (Interlude)
no rating

17. Gangsta Sh*t - Snoop Dogg w/Loon
one of the best>> 4,5 stars

Best soundtrack of the year!
I don't usually buy soundtracks, but I happened to give this a try after watching the movie, and it is absolutely awesome! Bad Boy Records has not released an album as tight as this since the Biggie "Life After Death" and Puff Daddy and the Family "No Way Out" era. The songs on here capture perfectly the hot Miami South Beach vibe of the movie. From my experience, soundtracks are usually a way for artists to drop their throwaway non-album tracks to make extra money for the label, but "Bad Boys II" is different, because most of the songs are strictly A-list. "Show Me Your Soul", featuring Lenny Kravitz and Pharrell Williams, is my favorite hip hop track of the year. "Shake Your Tailfeather" is, of course, a club anthem, and it continues to make me dance along everytime I hear it. Other standout tracks include "La La La" by Jay-Z, "Girl I'm a bad boy" by Fat Joe & Diddy, and "Relax your mind" by Loon. The 2nd part of the album slows down considerably for some sexy R&B, with Beyonce's "Keep giving your love to me", Mary J Blige's "Didn't mean" and "Love don't love me" by Justin Timberlake keeping the jams rolling. Overall, this is a great album you can listen to long after the movie ends. Probably the best soundtrack of the year. P. Diddy sure has scored another winner!

Very consistent party album!
This is a very good party album! Loads of funky songs with P Diddy, his Bad Boy artists, and other surprises. Diddy was right last summer when he promoted the soundtrack--this album is HOT! It's very consistent with the street themes on here. Not a lot of ballads on here, but the few that are on here are that good. The Justin Timberlake song is cool, the Mary J. Blige song is funky, the Nelly/P Diddy/Murphy Lee song is just as funky too. And the opening track with Diddy, Lenny Kravitz and Pharrell of the Neptunes is superb--how many other soundtracks out there can bring those artists together in one song? I still want to play that soundtrack again, because it keeps your attention all throughout!

Bad Azz track
I liked the movie so much I bought the CD and was not disappointed. I still am looking for a song I've heard in several movies but can't find it in any soundtrack. It's in this movie - it's a latin beat, and it comes out when they do a fly over of Tapia's house in Cuba? ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Thizztastic
I have to admit that I was hesitant to cop this cd when I first heard about it.But I heard a couple of people tell me how good it was and I had to see for my self.In my opinion Mall kinda fell off after Untouchable, so I wasn't really feelin it.However, I was very surprised when I listened to this CD that man came sick (Especially on maca-frama-lamma #11) . As for Andre Macassi there was no doubt he was gonna come with it and he did fa sho. This whole CD is slap from 1-12. The hottest track has got to be Dredio(#12) with a surprising visit from from the other V-town legend e-40. Ever since I bought this CD I haven't listened to anything else. If you don't have this one you're dead wrong.Go cop it!!
Thizz In Peace MAC DRE

RIP TO THE KING OF THE NATION OF THIZZLAM
I had never bought a mac dre cd before this one and had only heard about him from my friends. after listening to some of this cd's tracks at a friends house i knew i had to get this cd!!!!
every single track is doooooooope!!!! if you dont feel this cd you dont know about the yay!!

Da Illest
this officially the illest cd of the year, go cop it if u dont have it rready.

SICCEST CD EVER!!!
this cd slaps soo hard! from song one to twelve. mall and dre together are hard as hell. dre's rhymes are unbelievable. fav songs 4,5,6,9... sh** all of em are hard

ANOTHER KNOCKER from MD (RIP)
From start to finish this ablum is heat.Mall & Dre come with amazing/clever lyrics and tha beats R slappn!!! Great apprearances too from J Diggs, Dubee, PSD, Rydah J Klyde & E-40! This wont be tha last from MD either so keep ya ears n eyes open! RIP MacDre THA GrEAT ... Read more

Amazon.com

When a Rastafarian MC stole the show on Gang Starr's posse cut "I'm the Man" (from their Daily Operation LP), rap fans took notice. And they were not disappointed by Jeru the Damaja's aptly titled debut, The Sun Rises in the East. His ability to drop rhymes filled with Biblical references and simultaneously speak out against the C.R.E.A.M credo that permeates hip-hop is unparalleled. The Brooklyn mic fiend's vast vocabulary and clear delivery are on display on "Mental Stamina," where he gloats that he's a "Phoenician with more stamina than a Christian," as he introduces the world to rhyme partner Afu Ra. And the street anthem "Come Clean" features DJ Premier--arguably hip-hop's best producer--at his finest (check the drippy faucet sample). This album isn't without controversy, however. On "Da Bichez," Jeru draws a distinction between what he calls "bitches" and "young ladies" over a hot horn loop. But in spite of some inconsistencies in his stance as a prophet, this 40-minute album contains no filler, and remains his best work to date. --Dalton Higgins ... Read more

Reviews (22)

The sun rises in the east
This is another certified Headbanger in Rap this one is by the Dirty Rotten Scoundrall and this is his 1994 Classic the Sun Rises in the East and it contains some good material on it.I would recommend it to any serious rap listener like my self.
Here is the song by song review of this album that is good.
1.The Intro/Life-This is a great introduction
2.D.Original-The Dirty Rotten Scoundral him self 9/10
3.Brooklyn Took it-This is another good rap song 9.5/10
5.Mental Stamina-This features Afu-Ra this is very nice 10/10
6.Da B*****Z-Has classic samples from DJ Premier 10/10
7.You can't stop the prophet-called a concept classic 9/10
9.Aint the Devil Happy-what a beat by Premo classic 10/10
10.My Mind Spray-This is a classic what sampling 9.5/10
11.Come Clean-such a good and timeless song this is great 10/10
12.Jungle Music-Has some good jungle backgrounds 9/10
13.Static-The last song on this album a great album 9/10
This is a great album and you will not be dissapointed it is
Jeru the Damaja doing his style and DJ Premier doing his production like he is always is doing a nice album
Lyrics 10/10 Production 10/10 X factor 10/10 Style 10/10 Voice10
Music 10/10 Innovative 10/10 Classic 10/10 Guest 10/10 Blends 10
Overall=100 wich means a 5 Mic Classic ***** Classic

Jeru the Damaja- The Sun Rises in the East
Jeru the Damaja's (Kendrick Jeru Davis) debut album "The Sun Rises in the East" (1994) is a memorable release. Getting a DJ Premier track on ones album is almost like a blessing these days, so to have a whole album produced by him is excellent. Jeru's flow and delivery are impressive throughout. From the first line "Life is the Struggle between Dynamic Opposites..." of the intro I knew I was listening to something special. Jeru comes out rugged on the dark "Brooklyn Took It" a track laced with crazy beats. Afu Ra & Jeru drop a nice collabration with "Mental Stamima", lyrics and beat to this track are ill. Jeru's storytelling skill excell on "You Can't Stop the Prophet" and my favourite track the ominous sounding "Ain't the Devil Happy". Jeru's Wordplay on "My Mind Spray" is memorable, and he controls the Mic like Fidel Castro on "Come Clean". "Statik" is a strong closer to a powerful release. Jeru's lyrcism on this release is as good as Premo amazing beats and the album has impressive continuity. This is Jeru's best album in my opinion, another reason I enjoy it is Jeru does not hold back whether he is creating controversy, delivering complex rhymes or making enemies his music is his. "The Sun Rises in the East" is a unique release an example of pure raw Hip Hop at its best.

If You Don't Know I Aint Gonna Tell Ya
One word...Primo...
Classic DJ Premier production and knowledge droppin from Jeru on a solid debut...no filler here,just straight mind expanding hip hop with the best producer in the game behind the boards...Afu-Ra slides thru on the album with some lyrical kung-fu and "Come Clean" is a hip hop classic...buy it if u aint got it...

Sonic fire from the underground
"The Sun Rises In The East" is one of the true centerpieces of the mid 90's east coast underground resurgence. It also resides in the pantheon of astonishing debut albums keeping company with era classics such as "Illmatic" and "Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)." Showcasing some of the best production of DJ Premier's career (outside of his group Gang Starr) the dense, bass heavy, jazz influenced backdrops are at once subtle and engaging. The production while very formidable only serves to amplify the intensity Jeru's lyrical proposals bring forth. Nearly verging on being a braggart (it's a line he deserves to approach, if not step over, given his well known slept on status) he explains in vivid detail why he is an alpha class lyricist, and why his views on topics such as ignorance, jealousy, black on black crime, and money hungry other halves are the most accessible and correct to any black man who truly gives them thought.

Highlights include the masterpieces "Come Clean," "Ain't the Devil Happy" and "You Can't Stop The Prophet" as well as the absolute guilty pleasure (given politically correct attitudes) "Da Bitchez" and "D.Original." Succeeding albums by Jeru The Damaja did capture similar moments of excellence, but none were as seamlessly electrifying as a whole. Listening to this album is an outright prerequisite to anyone who claims to really know, or want's to really know, what the ABC'S of hip hop are.

A classic debut album
1994 was another great year in that awesome era for hip hop. And Jeru The Damaja was right in the mix when he recruited DJ Premier to craft the beats for his debut album, 'The Sun Rises In The East'.

Jeru was a great, fresh emcee with a real nice style. Stern and intelligent, but also witty and observent. His style of rapping matched Premier perfectly, who laces him with some deep, heavy production that rocks hard. That beat on 'Come Clean' has to be one of the craziest beats ever constructed. If that was released in todays scene it would surely be a major hit. This is truly one of hip hops all time classic joints but the whole album is just as fresh and powerful.

'BS-Free' and uncut, pure hip hop. An essential album from hip hops greatest era. Wow how i miss those days (My wallet doesn't though). ... Read more

Reviews (70)

The Lox is HOT!!!
I don't care what anyone says, The Lox are one of the best trios in the rap game today. Every single one of them, whether it be Shiek, Styles or Kiss, bring the heat on every verse on every track, and with Swizz Beatz on the production side of things, you got one dope album!!! If you ask me, Shiek, Kiss and Styles are the best in the Ruff Ryders clique. What sets them apart from other rap groups is that they all have their own unique styles (no pun intended). Each of them come hard and it just seems like they all put a lot of effort into this album, and it pays off because you don't have to skip tracks because every track is tight. The beats on this album are also some of the tightest around. Don't listen to other people who diss The Lox just because of their previous relations with Puffy. Go buy this album today if you already don't have it. Trust me, you won't be disappointed...

Disappointment
Let me just say that I'm one of Jadakiss' biggest fans. I count down the days until his solo CD comes out so in my mind calling this album a disappointment is an understatement.

I have 2 major problems with this album. 1) The beats are pretty weak with a few exceptions. 2) Sheek is HORRIBLE. The LOX need to consider cutting it down to 2.

"F*** You" is a great way to start off the album. Hot beat and pretty good lyrics except for Sheek which becomes a trend all over the album. "Breate Easy" is just as good. Neither of these songs are excellent but compared to some of the other songs, they are masterpieces.

These songs include "Can I Live" and "Felony Niggas" beats are so boring that you just lose interest in what they are saying. "U Told Me" is just as bad with an annoying beat and a boring hook. By the time you get to the last 3 songs you really start to realize Swizz was totally overworked on this album, much like Eve's debut. "We Are the Streets" is the best of the last 3.

I'm done trashing the CD now because there are some pretty hot songs on here. We have all heard "Wild Out" and we all know its hot. Lyrically it's nothing new from what the LOX have said so far but theres something about it that makes it phat. Yea I know the beat sounds exactly like "Jigga My Nigga" but they pull it off pretty well anyway. But the 3 songs that really make this CD worth the money are "Ryde or Die, B****", "Recognize," and Jadakiss' solo track "Blood Pressure." Kiss absolutely destroys every tracks as both are excellent beats. Timbaland gives the LOX an excellent beat on "Ryde or Die, B****" and Swizz finally gets a beat right on Kiss' solo. Premo provides the beat for "Recognize." Need I say more?

All in all, this album is a disappointment. Styles comes alright on this album. Nothing great or horrible. Sheek is easily one of the worst rappers ever and Jadakiss totally tears up every song if you can stand listening to the bad production thats behind him. [....]

Classic Classic Classic
This in my opinion is the best group rap album ever.
Jada got the best flow, styles is the hardest, and
sheek is just a mad man. They all had a solo so that
u could see their indivual skills.Even though there at there best when all together. U can just put this in and not skip one song its thats good.

L.O.X. WUDDDUP D BLOCK WUDDUP
We are The Streets is the best gangster rap cd ever made. Sheek Louch Wuddup S P DA Ghost WUddup JADA MUYA Wuddup

Wow!
I heard this album was good, but wow. The Lox keeps it real. They didn't go commerical on this album, this is straight street. With these three how could go wrong. Best songs are

2. F*ck You
5. Breathe Easy
6. Felony Niggas
7. Wild Out
8. Blood Pressure (Jadakiss Solo)
9. Recognize
11. Y'all F*cked Up Now
12. Scream L.O.X.
15. Ryde or Die, B*tch (produced by Timbaland)
18. We Are The Streets ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Hey im being straight up . . . please read if you arent sure
Hey i like the outlaws. There 2nd album the 'collide wit us' one . . . WAS CRAP!! There was like 2 or 3 good songs . . and they aaaalways taked bout pac.
Yo dont get me wrong . . I luv these cats but that album was straight up crap. . . . an i gotta say i thought young noble was a fag. . i always thought he destroyed a song with his ugly voice . . BUT when i saw this in the store . . . i thought . . hey what the hell, ill give it a listen.
After i pressed play. . . . .an I ONLY HEARD THE 1ST SONG AND HALF OF THE 2ND SONG . .I BOUGHT IT! hahaha yo im serious!
I thought the outlaws were finished!BUT it looks like they have changed TREMENDOUSLY!!! EDI was my favorite . .. . NOW ITS YOUNG NOBLE!!! His lyrics and his NEW (thank god) SOUND OF VOICE is much better!
They dont have cheap budjet beats like the other album. . . this album is a MUST!
Edi has got amazing lyrics too . . its looks like . . . one day they all sat around and thought deep an hard bout what they want to achieve. . . an now they are finally doing it ON THERE OWN.
So hopefully we can get this album out there to enough listeners and so we can get another outlaw album.
Oh an just while im at it . . . . . i think kastro makes the outlaw look bad how hes got on a cheap beani an looks ruged whilst the other two look . . . . . . REBORN
Buy the album straight up

Best Lawz release!
Outlawz are back!!!!! with just three members left they have done it again, there's no stopin them. This new album proves just why they are the best rap group ever and the best rappers out there today. They have grown a lot on this album and don't use Pacs name too much they doin it on their own. I've been waiting for this album for ages and it is imposible to get it here in London so i ordered it on the net and have been patiently waiting for this but when i recieved it i must say that it was worth the wait.

1 REAL TALK - 10/10 Strong opening, one of the best songs on the album and all the members drop some memorable verses

2 CAN'T TURN BACK - 9/10 Good song with a good beat and some great lyrics, Young Noble comes the strongest here

3 CELEBRATE - 10/10 the first single and what a great one it is, i heard this song for like 200 times and i still want more, all the members drop great, great verses. one of the best Lawz songs ever.

4 BIG BALLIN - 7/10 this one is a good song, it features Bun B and Stormey. Some good verses tho but nothing too special.

5 THEY DON'T UNDERSTAND - 9/10 Great song with a great chorus , but i must say that Kastros verse is weak, EDI comes the strongest here but all the members drop good lyrics.

6 LET IT BURN - 9/10 Now most people hate on this song i don't know why, i think it's a great one with good production. Features Chair Krazy and all of them drop great lyrics

7 IF YOU WANT 2 - 9/10 good party song with a good beat, i like the chorus and they all come strong.

8 THESE ARE THE TIMES - 10/10 Great song, one of the srongest points of the album, the chorus is just mind blowing and Young Noble drops one of his best verses and all of them they do great here.

9 GHETTO GOSPEL PT 2 - 10/10 my second fav on the album, when i first heard this song it just made me crazy, it has a great message and a great beat and all of them drop one of their best verses ever.

10 SMILIN FACES - 10/10 One of the best on the album, Kastro is not here but Noble and EDI do great toghether, good beat and they both drop great lyrics

11 I DARE YOU - 10/10 the best song on the album and one of my fav Lawz songs ever, the beat is just mind blowing man, Young Noble's verse is as good as it can get, Kastro drops one of his verses and it'll be great of he drops more verses like this and EDI is just great.

12 DON'T GET IT - 9/10 this one is good, i like the beat and they let their anger show on this one, all of the come strong here.

13 SACRED VOWS - 8/10 more darker song but a great beat and they all come strong here.

14 BETTER IT GET - 7/10 don't like this one that much but still listenable, the beat just doesn't go with their style

15 Interlude - no rating

16 LISTEN TO ME - 10/10 great song, the beat is more like a Jazz beat and they all do great here, really good message to the young kids.

17 LOSIN MY MIND - 9/10 good song to close the album, great beat and they all do great.

Overall this album gets 10/10 for me. The best Outlawz album ever. SO go get it if you don't have it and supporn the Lawz. Peace out.

OUTLAW $ LIFE

Best Outlaw release to date
I remember when Ride Wit' Us or Collide Wit' Us came out in 2000 I was really pumped up about that. And then when Novakane dropped I bought it the day it hit the stores. The problem with those albums is that they talk about 2pac a whole lot. I am a huge 2pac fan but you don't make your voice heard by talking about 2pac on most of your songs, you do it by spittin' that RAW type of sound.

This new album Outlaw 4 Life is exactly the type of stuff I've been waiting for from the Outlawz. One thing is for sure, they have jumped out of Pac's shadow and they are puttin' it down. EDI is rapping very similar to Noble on atleast one of these songs for sure. It's not really that bad but I have followed the Outlawz since they were Dramacydel and it's very noticable. I liked it when EDI and Noble did the same raspy voice thing on "the Uppercut" on the new 2pac album Loyal to the Game. That song was hella tight. The only thing that I don't like about this album is that Napoleon isn't here or even mentioned but they really do a good job without him. Big Ballin' is a change for the Outlawz because they usually don't rap like that but unlike some of their previous releases and their solo projects, to me all the songs on here are hot. I think this album will really get people's attention. If you haven't already, I recommend picking up Ride Wit' Us or Collide Wit Us, Novakane, Kastro and EDI - Blood Brothers and Young Noble - Noble Justice, just to name a few. That way you can see how much they have grown as individuals, a group and as artists. And I also strongly recommend this album Outlaw 4 Life, this is the best Outlaw album of them all.

A.P. doesn't do it justice
Finally the Outlawz have jumped out of 2pac's shadow and brought thier own style to the table.This album is excellent with each song bringing a different flavor, a sigh of relief in today's hip-hop scene.

Ryde or Collide??? (I Ryde!!!)
The positives about this album has to be the lyrics.Each member pulls from their souls (or somewhere) and cook up some real lyrics.The producation is above medicore but could have been better. But the the beats are so grimey that they fit the mood of the lyrics.

Another positive is they are getting out of Tupac's shadow. Meaning they still got mad luv for him, but they are not dropping his name on every song, hook, lyric, and interlude like some of the other albums.

Only negetives I can find in my opinion is vocals and guest. Some songs it sounded like Edi was rapping in the same raspy tone as Noble. If u are not fimilar with the Lawz u won't catch it, but us that know them will.
The guest thing my problem is with Stromy some new cat down with them. He's not a bad rapper, but he is not good enough to be on so many songs. When I buy Outlawz let me hear Outlawz.I know everybody has to eat, but not on every plate.Napoleon is missed but he is also easily 4gotton because u can tell they moved on. This is a good buy for anyone looking for that "real". Hotep!!! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Busta Rhymes opens his second album with a ridiculous monologue predicting global destruction before the year 2000. The only thing in danger of vaporizing over the next two years is Rhymes's career. Listening to Busta's gruff voice for well over an hour is an endurance test of the highest order, especially after MTV and radio have relentlessly subjected listeners to his "Woo-haa!" battle cry. Thankfully, Busta makes his pipes contort in every way possible on When Disaster Strikes... From mellow to wild, over an eclectic mix of samples that range from Seals & Croft to KC & the Sunshine Band to Henri Mancini. Sean "Puffy" Combs produces a track called "The Body Rock" that sounds like an old-school Tribe Called Quest cut, while Erykah Badu helps Busta forget the rampant sexism and violence for a minute as the unlikely duo gets spiritual on "One." Disaster avoided...for now. --Aidin Vaziri ... Read more

Reviews (33)

This Is Serious
Love him or hate him (I've found there's hardly any middle ground), Busta Rhymes is definitely a one-of-a-kind MC. To some that is a great relief but to others, it is disappointing.

The man clearly knows how to make both the language and his vocal chords work very well (usually in conjunction with each other) and here he demonstrates this very well.

The main single from this album is the Grammy-nominated "Dangerous". With its breathless lyrics cross-referencing everything from Oil Of Olay to Wyclef Jean and the off-kilter delivery from Busta, it is easy to see why it was noiminated.

Unfortunately the rest of the album only lives up to that promise every so often ("So Hardcore" is one of the examples) but it does maintain a rapid cohesion throughout its length, somewhat negating that problem. "So Hardcore" with its bizarre opening sequence ("yo yo yo yo/yo yo yo yo/yo yo yo yo yo/yo yo yo yo") and the stuttering delivery of the chorus "so hardcore/like Quickdraw McGraw/F___ what you've heard/You ain't heard this before" is a real gem.

Many of the other tracks are slightly too short - often down to the 2 minute mark - which does create some problems in continuity of the track.

In short, an album well worth purchasing. Not quite as coherent as it should be but it does hang together. The 4 stars are for Busta's skills, unmatched by most other MCs, and his delivery - similar to Mad Lion in the ragga/rap crossover nature of it.

disaster strikes
WARNING: Don't forget to breathe while listening to this album (its easy to do when all of your attention is focused on Busta's rapid-fire, stream-of-consciousness raps). I suggest you buy this LP no matter who you are or how you feel about rap music in general. Never mind that the "Final World Front" that Busta Rhymes predicts on numerous occasions throughout the album for the year 2000 didn't come true. Instead, focus on his ceasless energy and verbal creativity. Even the lesser songs here hold up after repeated listenings thanks to the boundless verbal, and vocal inventiveness of Busta Rhymes and his Flipmode Squad (Serious has a particularly bizzare and jarring rapping style). Hilarious and frightening, this is a must have for those who favor the zanier side of hip-hop.

Not his best album but a must for Bus a Bus fans
This album gives flipmode fans their first realy taste of what is to come."We could take it outside" is a classic flipmode track with some amazing rhyming from Rampage etc. I have every single Busta Rhymes and FLipmode Squad Cd and this is one of the best. The beats, at the time, were new and inventive and are still great today-but if you want a first taste of Busta Rhymes' music this is not the cd for you,i would suggest either E.L.E or the classic "Imperial " album by FLipmode squad which i think is an amazing album.

Disaster!
Great cd. Busta's first cd was great and this is his follow up. Dangerous has to be the best song on this cd. Disaster Strikes when busta comes out with a new cd. Rap artists get scared by their competition. Busta kept me listning to rap still even though todays rap aint the same as the early 90's [stuff] (People like BIG)Well Busta has it and will have it for a while. Buy IT!

Great CD!
This is one of the better Busta Rhymes CDs that I've purchased. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

$hort Dog's first platinum album
This is Too $hort's second album on Jive Records. It was released in 1988 and it was right away a huge success - in fact it was the first Bay Area rap album to sell a million copies (it sold more than a million, like many of Too Short's later albums). It is a real rap classic with Too $hort once again spitting nothing but mack game all over the album. Ask any true West Coast rap fan about songs like "I Ain't Trippin'", the classic cut "Don't Fight the Feeling", the hard hitting "Cusswords" or the pimp anthem "Pimp tha Hoe" and you'll see what I mean. The album is timeless. Never mind it's from about 13 years ago - it's tight every time I listen to it. Good music never really gets old.

Anyone who listens to pimp-style rap, needs this album!
This is one of Short Dog's top three albums. It has some of the funkiest beats ever made. This was $hort's first album to go platinum, and definitely deserves it. The best song is "Cusswords"; He flows for seven minutes straight, over a thumping beat that stays in your head for a long time. Other great songs include "I Ain't Trippin'", "Don't Fight The Feelin'", "City of Dope", and "Pimp the Ho." The whole thing is off the hook, so get buy it.

Life Is Too $hort
This Is A GREAT Album. It Is A CLASSIC, AND Has Some Of Too $hort's Best Songs Of All Time. The Beats are perfect, so are the lyrics. GREAT ALBUM.

A real classic
This album may be played out for a few, but it is a necessary addition for any complete old school collection. Too $hort was a revolutionary for the gangsta rap movement and his beats are original. If you havn't heard this album, you are missing a key piece of Rap history. Many have taken ideas from this album and incorporated it into their works.

It Takes Courage
Are you tired of the same old rap, rock, alternative, funk, heavy metal and those little paper things that go around a cup of coffee that are supposed to keep you from burning your fingers? Then you have got to get "Life Is...Too Short". Just 2 words: guaranteed awesome stuff! Look at the bargain. Forty-minutes of music just like their last album, which was just like the one before it. Not a hint of originality or inspiration - just awesome. Besides, I think that "sincerity" is way overrated.

I would like to examine the warp and woof of Mr. Too Short's biases. You see, I indubitably believe that there are deeper issues afoot here. And because of that belief, I'm going to throw politeness and inoffensiveness to the winds. In this review, I'm going to be as rude and crude as I know how, to reinforce the point that if we let "Life Is...Too Short" step on other people's toes, then greed, corruption, and racialism will characterize the government. Oppressive measures will be directed against citizens. And lies and deceit will be the stock and trade of the media and educational institutions. Taking that notion one step further, we can see that he would not hesitate to suppress controversy and debate if he felt he could benefit from doing so. Mr. Short practically breaks his arm patting himself on the back when he says, "It takes courage to go down into the muddy trenches and leave helpless citizens afraid in the streets, in their jobs, and even in their homes." As if that were something to be proud of. Okay, there's no reason for me to be illogical, so I'll leave you with this concept: I am merely pointing out what I have observed.

I must passionately disagree with all the negative comments. Open your ears. Buy "Life Is...Too Short". Wait a second - buy the CD first, then open your ears. You'll hear some awesome words and some GREAT music. I don't care if you're a Christian or a Republican, this music is for you. Your mom and dad might not like it, and some of the songs will chase the pets out of the house, but it's still fantastic. That's "Awesome" with a capital "A." If you can afford only one CD this year, I feel sorry for you, but get the BEST CD of the century. One day, the greatest hits from "Life Is...Too Short" will be put on the "Greatest Hits" album - all of them. Awesome. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Do we have to compare Nas to Jay-Z? Probably not, but skirmishes between New York’s premier MCs make it difficult for us to stop. Nas’s God’s Son may fall victim to Jay Z’s more polished Blueprint 2 on the battlefront, but as far as Nas releases go, this one's not that bad at all. In fact, there are some striking stand-out selections. "Made You Look" and "Last Real Nigga Alive" (Nas’s inevitable "why Jigga is wack" track) are white hot for the streets, and the Alchemist-produced "Book of Rhymes" showcases the type of witty yet introspective rhymes that Nas fans crave. Still, one can't escape the impression that the album suffers from a bloated track listing and quite a few unnecessary guest appearances, including yet another "collaboration" with the long-dead 2Pac. We also could have done without the tired misogyny of the limited-edition bonus track, "P***y Kills." Oh, and Salaam Remi’s beat on "Zone Out" deserves a doper rhyme than the one it supports. But for the most part, Nas’s flow is on point. --Rebecca Levine ... Read more

Reviews (434)

God's Son is what Hip Hop has lacked for....Years..
Nas has been busy over the past year or so. Dropping the classic "Stillmatic" and "The Lost Tapes" were breath taking but now "God's Son" Not since A Tribe Called Quest has an MC/Group released three classic albums in a row. This CD starts with the street banger "Get Down" and heads will love this joint. This track is followed by the Eminem produced "The Cross", "Made You Look" and the introspective "Last Real Nigga Alive". These are some nice tracks but it's the "Book of Rhymes" where Nas is reading his lyrics on paper and dissing himself. The concept is dope. Other standout tracks include "Warrior Song" produced by Alicia Keys, "I Can", "Dance" and "Mastermind" Man, there are so many dope songs on this album. I replayed the track "Heavan" several times the first day I heard the album. God's Son does have two mistakes. The always wack Bravehearts stop by on the weird song "Zone Out" and the bonus tracks could have been better. Regardless of those minor blows, "God's Son" is an album that is very personal and real to perhaps the greatest and most vivid MC of all time....Nasty Nas

STOP IT, STOP IT, STOP IT!!!!
...Stop comparing all of Nas' other albums to Illmatic. When someone makes an album as great as Illmatic, its hard to live up to that again... Anyway, Nas has never made a wack album. NEVER!!! Even Nastradamus had it's high points (ignore the commercial songs "Nastradamus" and "You Owe Me"). God's Son is an exceptional album. It starts off very strong with "Get Down", which is a sample from an old James Brown song. The Eminem-produced "The Cross" doesn't have the nicest beat you will ever hear, but REAL hip-hop listeners look past the beat and actually listen to the lyrics (woulda been nice if Em had added a verse on there himself though). "Made You Look" was a good single to start out with. "Last Real N---- Alive" may be the best track on the album. At first I didn't like "Zone Out", but after listening to it a few times, it wasn't that bad (quit dissin G-wiz & Jungle, they aint that bad). "Hey Nas" was decent. I never thought I would hear Kelis sing on anything other than a Neptune track but theres a 1st time for everything.
"I Can" is good for the kids. Nas always manages to put one real creative song on each of his albums, and "Book of Rhymes" is the newest edition. I don't need to say anything about "Thugs Mansion" as it speaks for itself. "Mastermind"... good stuff. Alicia Keys... "Warrior Song"... Who knew? "Revolutionary Warfare"... amazing. I won't comment on "Dance". It's a dedication song. Everyone needs those. And finally... "Heaven"... didn't really like the singing in it. But the flow is nice. Overall. Very good album.

The King or Rap?
Is the man of mutiple reinventions possibly the rap game's best rapper ever? He makes an excellent claim to this title. Emboding the essence of rap, hip hop, old school, and being a man period. This guy mught just be the best there ever was. Overall I think Nas is the best rapper ever. His weakest point in his game is club bangers (but they are still decent), but he surpasses that weakness with possible the best subject mattter, storytelling, and all out barrage of lyrics. This cd is probably one of the best of this new millenium, bowing to his own Stillmatic. Illmatic-strikes the hood life in an unparalled way. It Was Written-the don music with the slickest storytellin. I Am...-the trials of being famous. Nastradamus-his weakest but still relevant in lyrics (Shoot em up, come, get me, last words) Stillmatic-definitive statement about his personal struggle with fame, rap, and enemies. Lost Tapes- unbelieveable collection of lyrics and stories that weren't on albums. God's Son- Peranlly, emotionally, spiritually on another level from any other mc (except Rakim, 2Pac, Common, Talib, Mos Def, Outkast, Lauren Hill, Queen Latifah and a few others) Every one of his albums are classic in there own way and if not then have classic tracks, whether one acknowledges it or not.

good to be a classic
man, this is a great album to listen and enjoy. this album is mostly a special album to NaS because the death of his mother and beef he had w/ gay-z. for other people that like NaS, this is an album you have to own.

*get down 8.5/10 pretty good beginning to the album but it's aight.

*the cross 9/10 good beat produced by eminem, nice start of the song by NaS.

*made you look 9.5/10 i like this song, in my opinion it talks about himself still being the best and NaS is back, but very good song and the ending ends very well.

*last real nigga alive 10/10 nice beginning from the end of (made you look)nice beat and good lyrics. this song mostly talks about his past w/ other rappers or people that he knew and the beef w/ gay-z.

*zone out 4.5/10 i'm not really a braveheart fan but this song in my opinion wasn't really that good.

*hey NaS 8.0/10 aight song, this song talks about the problems he had w/ women mostly his (wife) and trys to get he's style back.

*i can 9/10 very good song and nice beat. this songs talks about that young living kids can do anything if their not afraid.

*book of rhymes 10/10 very well done for the song and very talented to make this kinda of a song, very nice beats. talks about his rhyme storys. i give alot of credit to NaS.

*thugz mansion (n.y.) 6/10 this song is not bad but i think it would better to leave it to the orignal by 2pac.

*mastermind 7/10 all i can say that this song is alright.

*warrior song 9.5/10 very good start and talks about how hard it took him to make it this far. the point of the song is never give up.

*Revolutionary Warfare 10/10 very well done song w/ lake, that's all i have to say.

*dance 10/10 i feel NaS on how he feels on the pasting of his mother.

*heaven 10/10 nice beats and good song, this song talk about if heaven was a mile away.

A Solid CD. A New 1 From Q.B.'s Finest
As I can say, Nas is so far the greatest lyricist from the Queensbridge projects. Nas sounds like he matured during the death of his mother and his to-be-fiance, Kelis. Nas is more confident now. Now let me define all the songs of this prophet.

1. Get Down. This song describes the cout trial about his cousin which is stunning and startling.

2. The Cross. As a hit produced by Eminem, I think Slim's really soft on this track, which is nice of him writing this verse: "we could give coats to the poor/And give hope to the lost and live"

3. Made You Look. Nasty Nas has done it again! Talkin about rolling in the NY streets.

4. Last Real Nigga Alive. Nas gets really emotional here, talking about his relationship with BIG, and dissing Jay-Z.

5. Zone Out. A gangsta track with the Bravehearts.

6. Hey Nas. This should be a book for ladies who keep watching WAITING TO EXHALE

7. I Can. Definetly to encourage children who suffer ups and downs.

8. Book Of Rhymes. A really humble track about gangsters who have "values of so poor/values are no good" and to teach the rich "if money is your religion live life"

9. Mastermind. A great track, but Nas is getting kind of monotone here.

10. Thugz Mansion (N.Y.) I thought Nas shouldn't have try to reinvent his new version of the late 'Pac's song

11.Warrior song and 13.Dance. Nas really gets deep about how much he misses his momd

12. Revolutionary Warfare. Another song to help the shortys out there

14. Heaven. if heaven was a mile away i would bring all of my homiez to heaven just like nas ... Read more

Reviews (174)

VICTORIOUS DMX !...REIGNS SUPREME ON "GRAND CHAMP"
DMX BRINGS IT TO US- AND THE VICTORY IS CERTAINLY HIS FROM START TO FINISH. -IF YOU LIKE IT ROUGH AND RAW- TRY "SHOT DOWN" FEAT. 50 CENT AND STYLES P, "F**K YA'LL", "DOGS OUT" "WE GO HARD" W/Cam'Ron, "BRING THE NOIZE" AND THE NOW BONIFIDE STREET ANTHEM "WHERE THE HOOD AT" AND THESE ARE JUST A FEW OF THE HOTTEST JOINTS ON THE CD. ANOTHER BLAZING TRACK IS "WE'RE BACK" FEAT EVE, AND JADAKISS DEFINITELY SOMETHING MELODIC FOR YA HEAD. IF YOUR INTO BANGIN DANCE TRACKS, THAT'S HERE FOR YA - TRY "GET IT ON THE FLOOR" FEAT SWIZZ BEATS AND "WE BOUT TO BLOW" FEAT BIG STAN -BOTH REMINICENT OF THE CLASSIC "PARTY UP". DECENT VOCAL PERFORMANCE FROM R & B DIVA MONICA ON "DON'T GOTTA GO HOME" AND IF YOU WANT INSPIRATION "THE RAIN " IS INTENSE! LISTEN FOR YOURSELF- AND DMX'S VOCALS AND RAP DELIVERY ARE SMOOTH AS EVER ON "A'YO KATO" A MOVING TRIBUTE TO HIS BEST FRIEND-DMX AND FLUTES SOUND GOOD TOGETHER. WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT BOTH HE AND PATTI LABELLE COULD PULL OFF A DUET? WELL, THEY DID JUST THAT! DMX AND PATTI LABELLE SHINE ON THIS GEM- NOT ONLY IS "THANK YOU" POWERFUL AND UPLIFTING-BUT AMAZINGLY EFFECTIVE AND "PRAYER V" IS ONE OF DMX'S BEST YET- THIS IS THE FINAL LAP FOR ONE OF RAP'S MOST AMAZINGLY TALENTED AND INCREDIBLE ARTIST...THE WINNER AND "GRAND CHAMP" ....DMX !

Still the Champ
This is straight up DMX at his rawest. There are some cuts you can pass on, but overall this CD is a banger, and I don't even listen to most rap anymore because these rappers suck and sound the same and doing the same things. I listen only to the elite and the creative and different nowadays. Heres my track by track opinion:
1. Dog Intro (I dont rate intros)
2. My Life (Straight X! Pain and heart!)
3. Where The Hood (Raw X! Givin it to them suckas!)
4. Dogs Out (Banger!)
5. Get It On The Floor (This one makes you do what it says!)
6. Come Prepared
7. Shot Down (With 50 Cent, oh my lawd this is hard!)
8. Bring The Noize (I can't remember this one)
9. Untouchable (Can't remember this one either)
10. F*** Y'all (One of the best on the CD! Bangin!)
11. Ruff Radio (Skit)

12. We're Back (With Eve and Jadakiss, beat is crazy!)
13. Ruff Radio 2 (Skit)
14. Rob All Night (I wasn't feeling this one)
15. We Go Hard NOT GOOD (With Camron, its good)
16. We 'Bout To Blow (Can't remember this one)
17. The Rain (Whoo! So much pain! A hot one!)
18. Gotta Go (Skit)
19. Don't Gotta Go Home (A cool R&B song)
20. A'Yo Kato (This one is cool, bangin beat!)
The last 3 songs I ignored or havent listened to. But with minimum 12 songs you can bang out of the 19 on here, thats a solid rap CD when most only have 3 or 4.

Has Its Good Moments
Overall I would say I was not satisfied with this album, but it does have its good moments. However, these are not really songs that I woud listen to over and over again; hence, I would not recommend this album.

i dont give a what!?
good songs, all of them. too bad this is his last albume =(

Boring
This is not DMX. It's the person, but it's not the spirit that we've felt in his previous albums. Almost every song on here is either album cuts or filler. These are the only songs I like.

"My Life"- This is a good song despite what other critics may say. It's the theme for "Never Die Alone", DMX's new(best) film.

"Where The Hood At"- Tight beat and good two verses, but the third is so brutally explicit that it's not even interesting to hear.

"Shot Down"- Probably the only good guest appearences(with the exception of Eve and 'Kiss) from 50 Cent and Styles P.(the most underrated rapper of all time). Nice three verses from all rappers.

"We're Back"- A good song with fellow RuffRyders Jadakiss and Eve. Very tight song.

"Ayo Kato"- The most decent song on the album. X talks to his dead friend.

Overall, these are the only good songs. This is a horrible album, but these songs are pretty good. Overall though, DMX needs to study the material of his old days, and figure out what the problem was on this trash.

Was this review helpful to you? ... Read more

Reviews (55)

4.5 - Hauntingly dark and beautifully crafted
The Mobb's 3rd release may take a couple listens to fully appreciate, especially considering it was the follow-up to the certified classic "The Infamous." But make no mistake about it, "Hell On Earth" is one of the darkest, grimiest albums ever. Havoc does an amazing job behind the boards (and on the mic), while P spits street tales like only he can.
The album kicks off with "Animal Instinct," which sets the tone nicely for the rest of the album. The cuts that follow, "Drop A Gem On Em," "Bloodsport," and "Extortion" (featuring Method Man), are all classics, which will have you noddin your head and hittin rewind, as will just about every other track on here. Raekwon stops by on the bangin "Nighttime Vultures." And who can forget the classic title track? It ranks right up there with other Mobb classics such as "Shook Ones" and "Quiet Storm."
While the majority of this album is bangin, there are a couple mishaps such as "Still Shinin," which really don't hit hard. But when there's so much other solid material, these mishaps can be easily overlooked.
If you're into most of the bling-blingin hip-hop that's out there today, then this album is DEFINITELY NOT for you. But if you crave grimy, street-edged, hardcore hip-hop, this is an essential to your collection.

A BANGIN follow up to The Infamous
Mobb Deep can be best described as one of the greatest duos in hip hop history. They BLAZED hip hop in 1995 with the CLASSIC album, The Infamous, and they returned one year later with an album that's just as good as that album is, Hell On Earth. Havoc and Prodigy continued with their trends of hype, rebellious, East Coast gangsta music that would define their sound, and on this album, they did it with gusto, VERY SLIGHTLY even more so than on The Infamous. Here's the review:

Album Highlights: Every song on this album is worth a listen, but the ONLY songs that could've been left off is "Can't Get Enough Of It" and "Get Dealt Wit."

Production: Thumbs way up. Havoc's sound definitely reaches the apex(not its peak) on this release.

Lyrics and Subject Matter: Thumbs up. Check out Prodigy's show-stealing verses on "Nighttime Vultures", "G.O.D. Pt.III", and "The Apostle's Warning."

Originality: Thumbs in the middle, leaning towards up. Nothing new from the mobb.

The Last Word: Let's set the record straight. 1)Is this album better than The Infamous? NO!!! It's a HARD follow up, but not better than the first album. 2)Is this album worthy of 5 stars? Sadly, no, but it's ALMOST there. This album is excellent, as it's Mobb Deep in their true form throughout. You don't get any better than that. Strongly recommended.

Some Hard-core Missing Today
Since hip-hop has gone on somewhat of a downhill after the deaths of 2Pac and Biggie, we are left with rappers searching to sell records in the most common way [maybe easiest too]--mainstream. Some even began on the trend of hardcore but chose what sells more. Mobb Deep is a dynamic duo that will always endure the game because they stick to the trend of what they are best at--hard-core tales from the street. They don't stray but only try to make what they already know they can do even better than before.
The Infamous was a classic and so is this. There is not really a distinguishing element from either but simply a varied sound. More classics are made on this cd which includes Drop A Gem On Em which is a straight 2Pac diss. Next comes Nightime Vultures with Raekwon which just has a dark beat and some sick rhymes. Then there's G.O.D. pt 3 which is probably the best song. Prodigy's verse is amazing and the beat matches up. Lastly there is Hell On Earth [Front Lines] which is simply put, brilliant. The songs highlight exactly what it is that Mobb Deep has to offer.
Mobb Deep is my favorite rap group and mostly due to Prodigy for his immensely thug-persona. He emmulates real hip-hop. Hopefully Amerikaz Nightmare can match up when it comes out in nearly a month. It is my most anticipated summer-album and after hearing Got It Twizted, it made it even more hard to wait.

QB Hip-hop
It's perfect ! (One of) the best hip-hop cd ever. "Animal Instinct", "Hell On Earth", "Drop A Gem On Em"...

The Mobb's Finest Work
This has to be the Mobb's Greatest album, even better than their critically acliamed "The Infamous". Tracks like Animal Instinct, Drop A Gem On 'Em (which was diss track towards Tupac), Bloodsports, Extortion, More Trife Life (which Havoc did the track solo), Can't Get Enough Of It, Nighttime Vulture, The G.O.D pt. III, Give It Up Fast and Still Shinin'. All I Can say is that it's a great album! ... Read more

Amazon.com

If you want street beats, clever rhymes, and top-notch guest appearances, then Cam'ron's sophomore effort, S.D.E. (the title stands for sports, drugs, and entertainment) is worth every cent you pay for it. It's a jambalaya of strings, keys, and heavy bass lines: Cam gives the listener an album strictly for the streets. Destiny's Child add background to Cam's autobiography on "Do It Again." A Jay-Z vocal sample cleverly adds to the gutter flavor of the title track, and ODB adds a late plea to free Mike Tyson on "Violence." Cam demonstrates true lyrical dexterity on cuts like "That's Me," and "My 'Hood," which borrows a hook from Edwin Starr's War. Even Mobb Deep's Prodigy adds a complementary hand on the eerie "Losin' Weight." Sure, a few tracks lag, but as a whole, S.D.E takes Cam'ron a few steps closer to musical greatness.--Kenji Jasper ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Cam'ron S.D.E.
Cam'ron's 2000 release "S.D.E." (Sports, Drug and Entertainment)
is an ill album, and one of Cams best releases. "Thats Me" is a ill start to album, blazing track, where Cam lays down the law, hardcore track. "Do it Again" feat. Destinys Child is a track about Life, got upbeat sound to it, as Cam reps about his life and a lost friend, with background piano and nice vocals. "Come Kill Me" and "What I gotta Live for" keep the album rolling, with nice beats, and Cam laces nice lyrics on both tracks. "Losin Weight" is one of the best tracks on the album, Prodigy of Mobb Deep comes through, and Cam and Prodigy kill this track, to sick background beats. "Sports, Drugs and Entertainment" is my favourite track on the album, Cam reps his his rise in the game, to ill beats, and a jay-z sample, and Notorious B.I.G. vocals. Very memorable track, with great replay value. Follow up to this track is "What means the World to You" a song for the mainstream audience, its similar to one of his songs that blazing on radios at the moment (Hey Ma). "Where Im From" and "My Hood" close the album off nicely, and keep you looking forward to more from Killa Cam. Harlems Greatest, good to see him getting noticed two years later, even got a movie coming out.

THE Most underrated M.C. in the game.
Killa Cam has a crazy flow, we all know it. He's the guy everybody heard on mainstream hits like "Horse and Carriage" and "What Means the World to You". Even though those songs are great, Killa is so much more. He compares rhyme-wise (not yet musically) to Jigga and Eminem, don't believe me, just listen to "That's Me" where he just destorys a dramatic track produced by Self. The other hot songs are The autobiographical title track, "Do It Again" feat. pre-Bootylicious Destiny's Child, the solemn "What I Gotta Live For", the one and only Ol' Dirty wilds out on "Violence", the forgotten first single "Let Me Know", "Double Up" and "Losin' Weight" feat. a sick flowing Prodigy of Mobb Deep round out the hot song list of this unbelievable sophomore effort Roc-a-Fella's newest soldier. He might even become their biggest star when it's all over. Watch ya back Jigga.

CAMRON SHOWIN C.O.C capibilities word up
YO
camron i thought was totally weak after his first LP
im a huge CHILDREN OF THE CORN fan
camron=killa cam
mase=murda mase
mcgruff
big L
bloodshed
DIGGA

back in those days cam and mase spit fast furious rymes not
the mase and cam the public know but they were hotttt
u kno mase takes em 20 second to say a sentence and well on cams
come home with me its like the jeperdey theme song
but this join cam spits quicker than on any other lp hes got
and dope lines dope lines
and digga from the C.O.C group did the the prduction
ur asking me what that means???
some reallll sick beatss
camron comes correct on his best offical LP he ever has made
if ur a real rap fan like me cam might have some talent left
c what money does to ya now!
KILLA CaM u gotta come back
but cant hate on this release
R.I.P.
Bloodshed
BIG L

PEACE
mcgill909

THE most underrated emcee in the game.
Cam'ron is the guy behind mainstream hits such as, "Horse and Carriage" and "What Means the World to You". But Killa Cam is so much more. Lyrically (not yet musically), he is on par with guys like Eminem and Jay-Z. Don't believe me, check out "That's Me" where he destroys a dramatic track produced by Self. Other hot ones include, the before mentioned "World to You", the autobiographical "S.D.E", the solemn "What I Gotta Live For", ODB wildin out on "Violence", pre-Bootylicious Destiny's Child add some flavor to "Do It Again", and Prodigy checks in on the bangin "Losin Weight". This should have been Killa's break-thru release, but his record label let him down. Hopefully, his jump to the R-O-C resurrects this talented emcee's career.

THE most underrated emcee there is!
Cam'ron has had his share of crossover hits, i.e. "Horse and Carriage" and "What Means the World to You." But Killa Cam is so much more than that. Lyrically (but not yet musically), he's on par with heavyweights such as Eminem and Jay-Z. Don't believe me, listen to "That's Me." Killa destroys this dramatic track produced by Self. This is the best song on the cd. Other hot ones are the before mentioned "World To You", the autobiographical "S.D.E", the solemn "What Do I Gotta Live For", ODB wildin out on "Violence", The Prodigy featured "Losin Weight", and "Do It Again." This album is amazing and this should have been his break out album, but label problems hampered him. Hopefully his move to The R-O-C will jumpstart his career. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

1989's Straight Outta Compton, by Dre's previous outfit N.W.A., may have shined the public spotlight on the genre, but The Chronic legitimized it. That is not to say that Snoop Doggy Dogg (The Chronic marks his debut) and Dre's raps are for everyone; the subject matter is the sex, drugs, violence, and politics of South Central Los Angeles, and the phrasing is explicit, to say the least. But The Chronic's real genius is the music. By breeding hip-hop, jazz (studio instrumentation includes saxophones and flutes), funk, and soul (sampled artists include Parliament, Donny Hathaway, and Isaac Hayes), Dre creates downright intoxicating grooves. If you can't feel The Chronic pulsating through your veins, maybe your heart's not pumping. --Bill Crandall ... Read more

Reviews (109)

This CD Ain't Nuthin' But A "G" Thang Babyy.....
Many people say this is the first G-Funk album. Many also say Dr.Dre invented G-Funk. Some people think he didn't. The best songs are "Nuthin But A "G" Thang" is one of the greatist rap songs of all time and "Dre Day" is where Dre and Snoop diss Eazy-E, Ruthless records and even Luke of the 2 Live Crew very badly. Just listen to Snoop's remarks to Eazy-E and Luke at the end of that song, which maybe funny to many people. Other Gangsta songs like "Let Me Ride", "Ratta-tat-tat", "B----ez Ain't S--t" which is a hidden track, and "N---a Wit'a Gun" are just to name a few. On this debut album by Dre, there are many guests, all from Death Row. Execpt 2Pac, Who isn't found anywhere on this album or on Snoop's "Doggystyle" album. If you love that G-Funk, than by this or by rap albums from Death Row. If you don't, than don't by it.

Best Ever
I just wanna say that this is the best Hip Hop album ever. I've read all the reviews of this album and I can't stand all those bustas that's hatin on Dre, cuz he dissed Eazy E. There are even people who have reviewed this album who don't even like Hip Hop. Man F*** y'all!!. This is the best album ever and it has the best rap song ever: "Nuthin But a "G" thang" and of course "F*** wit Dre Day", "Let Me Ride", "Lil' Ghetto Boy" and "Bitches Ain't Sh*t". What am I sayin? Every Track is the bomb, and don't forget that Dre brought Snoop to the Rap scene, so get this one if you wanna hear REAL gangsta rap. Oh yeah, get "The Chronic 2001, No Seeds", I don't think that it's gonna be just as good as this one, but it's gonna be some real s**t.

Dr.Dre/Chronic
This is one of the greatest hip hop albums of a time! It must be a classic with cuts like: Nuthin' But A "G" Thang, Let Me Ride, Dre Day, and Lyrical Gangbang. The only thing I didn't like about this album, was the number of skits there were. There was only a few songs that didn't have a long skit in the beginning of it. But besides that. this is a must have album.

Dr. Dre- The Chronic
Dr. Dre's (Andre Young) "The Chronic" (1992) is a classic West Coast Hip Hop album. Primarily a party album this one has been often imitated, never duplicated. My favourite track on this one has always been Dre & Snoops collabration the now famous "Nuthin' but a "G" Thang". I enjoy every track on this release, some more favs for me include: Grammy award winner "Let Me Ride", "Lil Ghetto Boy", & "Stranded on Death Row". Snoop Dogg's appearances definetly helped make this a great album, back in 92 he was just another young cat on the rise, a year later he blew up. Dre delivered music to party to while not hesitating in getting controversial on tracks like "Bitches Ain't S**t". This album appealed to both the mainstream audience and hip hop heads alike. Dr. Dre's excellent production, memorable lyrics, choice guest appearances and sick beats all helped make this a classic. "The Chronic" is an album I would recommend for any rap collection.

The Birth of Gangsta Rap
This album is a true classic. When somebody says the words "Gangsta Rap" this is the CD that should pop up in your head. Every track on this album completely amazing, the beats are phenomonal and the fact that the lyrics aren't strikingly deep doesn't really matter. Sure there is isn't too much here that is truly meaningful (this is mostly a party album) but each rapper's style and delivery is mostly flawless (especially Snoop). If you are a fan of West-Coast Hip-Hop and you do not own this album there is something seriously wrong with you. ... Read more