HipHopDx Reviews
The Alchemist - Alchemist's Cookbook EP
It's a very solid release, and aside from one instance, there isn't much to complain about. As with all EPs, there's little room for error.
Beyonce - I Am...Sasha Fierce
I Am...Sasha Fierce would have worked so much better as an EP, instead of the double disc LP it is now. It's bloated and as her lover Jay-Z can attest, quality is better than quantity
Crooked I - The Block Obama II EP
You'd be hard pressed to actually find anything wrong with the Block Obama II, other than the fact that it's an EP as opposed to a proper album. As such, you can't help but wonder if he's holding back some of the real fireworks for later
Jurassic 5 - Deluxe Reissue
Ten years later and few producers have the knowledge of records demonstrated by Cut Chemist, the mix and programming techniques employed by Nu-Mark, the deft alto flow of Chali 2na or the collective harmonic chemistry that J5 brought
GMG - Who$ Got Next
We all know how fickle the music industry and it's consumer can be; so that's even more reason for Twista to stick to his innovative roots and deliver an album where we can hear his rapid, signature voice prominently and clearly.
Sadat X - Generation X
As a fan of Sadat X's previous work, this album at times felt like a mixtape, or an if you ever wondered how his voice would sound over other classic tracks, well here you go type of scenario
Jedi Mind Tricks - A History Of Violence
Stoupe's sprawling soundscapes could score a Genghis Khan biopic, and with Vinnie swinging his axe at everything in sight he rides along in stride
Sweatshop Union - Water Street
Groups like Sweatshop Union that are turning emotionally inward and exploring the listlessness of modern suburban life might just be the next thing to keep the genre from falling into stagnation.
LoDeck & Omega One - Postcards From The Third Rock
Postcards from the Third Rock does not beg for many new listeners. Still, it is a conceptual piece and should be applauded or even obtained by those who love the duo, but there are drawbacks, as well.
Trick Trick - The Villain
You'll be hard-pressed to find and emcee these days with as much intensity and gritty, violent subject matter and the r
Above Ave - Mission
On their first full-length, Mission, the Bay Area collective known as Above Ave. are attempting to shift the paradigm of street slangin' unfairly associated with the music of their hometown.
D.I.T.C. - The Movement
When Big L ripped his verse on 99's "Day One," seven years after it started, every listener knew what D.I.T.C. was about not by telling, but by showing. 9 years later, "Time Travel" proves it's more about telling these days.
Kurupt & Roscoe - The Frank & Jesse James Story
If you're a loyal DPG enthusiast, The Frank & Jess Story won't disappoint. It's not a must-have, but it's a respectable addition to their distinguished catalogue.
DJ Unk - 2econd Season
What UNK's second campaign lacks in substance, it makes up for in a rejuvenating spirit for those who just want to tap their feet and snap their fingers; not concerned with breaking down the metaphoric meaning of every bar spoken into the microphone
T-Pain - Thr33 Rings
Hip Hop head or not, T-Pain's omnipresence guarantees you will encounter Thr33 Rings at the club, the party and on numerous cell phones, via the ringtone market, well into the early part of 2009.
Illa J - Yancey Boys
Yancey Boys is no classic. However, it's an enjoyable ride that is filled with some great J Dilla production. Illa isn't the most talented, but he does show glimpses of potential in and around the album
Q-Tip - The Renaissance
Disregarding The Renaissance when you don't hear "Scenario 2008" will only make you feel silly when you finally learn to appreciate it in 2018.
Big Shug - Other Side Of The Game
For a fan of Big Shug, and the Gang Starr Foundation in general, there are plenty for cuts for you to enjoy on here. Just don't expect to play it after the next release comes around.
88-Keys - The Death of Adam
Judging by his recent history, 88-Keys has put off his outside production work in favor of his own career and if this is what he'll do with his time instead, it's a reasonable trade.
The Knux - Remind Me In 3 Days
The fact that they produced and rapped/sung on the entire album also sets them apart. There's no one in their class because they have their own lane. The sound is a blend of a lot of past successes, but the result is uniquely theirs
