HipHopDx Reviews
The Game - LAX
LAX, simply put, is a good album. However, it's just not the type of album to end a career on, as he has suggested on several occasions.
40 Cal - Mooga
It's hard to dismiss Mooga completely because there is some talent under the surface. But, it's hard to love it because one has to dig through a lot of dirt to find it.
GZA/Genius - Protools
Chock full of intelligent musings, creative literary devices and cinematic explication, Pro Tools is a definitely a much needed sonic relief for the more discriminating listener who is sick and tired of hearing mindless Rap music permeating the airwaves.
Ice Cube - Raw Footage
Ice Cube's Raw Footage is cinematically orchestrated, moody and insightful. Cube's eighth wonder is a more polished collective in comparison to 2006's Laugh Now, Cry Later.
Daz Dillinger - Only On The Left Side
Only On The Left Side might appear to be a low-carb companion to Snoop's Blue Carpet Treatment, but Daz's latest venture proves to be more than just Crip Hop.
Nappy Roots - The Humdinger
If anything, The Nappy Roots seem to have deepened their connection to Hip Hop, making their return sweeter than jelly jar iced tea.
Elzhi - The Preface
In terms of no frills, "golden era" Hip Hop, Elzhi and Black Milk display the type of emcee/producer chemistry that hasn't been seen since the days of Pete Rock & CL Smooth or Gangstarr.
Re-Up Gang - Clipse Presents Re-Up Gang
The Clipse Presents The Re-Up Gang is a messy hodgepodge of colorless production and recycled verses that notably taints the group's previously flawless catalog.
Green City - Brand New Money
Green City's Brand New Money is a disappointing affair and one that should be erased from having any connection to Uncle Face's legacy as a trailblazing emcee and proud member of the south.
Lloyd - Lessons In Love
Lloyd sings of sexuality within the confines of true love, a concept his counterparts have all but forgotten. And that within itself, takes Lessons In Love to the top of its class.
Opio - Vulture's Wisdom Vol 1
Opio's second album loses its ability to captivate listeners due to the lackadaisical approach to beat-making, making this joint unworthy of being heard more than once.
Murs & 9th Wonder - Sweet Lord
With their third outing, the 9th and Murs pairing continues to excel. Their chemistry rivals some of Hip Hop's greatest as their consistency and willingness to try new things continue to bring forth memorable moments.
Fakts One - Long Range
Although this particular album is not necessarily going to push him to superstar status just yet Long Range is a very good start and is just one small step in a long and illustrious career.
NY Oil - Hood Treason
While Hood Treason (Deluxe Edition) is long winded at times--and probably better off as a single CD--NY Oil delivers a solid album for fans longing for Hip Hop with some substance.
Reks - Grey Hairs
Like Termanology, Reks is another hard spitter from the patriot state that utilizes expert production from Primo, Large Pro & Statik Selektah to bring back that roughneck rap that lives these days both in blogs and boomboxes.
Tech N9ne - Killer
His approach is a bit heavy handed, but Tech N9ne is demanding to be taken seriously. Killer is definitely worth checking out.
Shawn Jackson - First Of All
Undaunted by the long journey ahead, Shawn Jackson is an emcee poised to break free from obscurity with the release of his debut full-length, First of All.
Skillz - Million Dollar Backpack
Despite some lame beats, Skillz is lyrically flawless on this one and successfully manages to give us a peek inside the priceless accessory that made him who he is.
Keak Da Sneak - Deified
The bottom line is that Hyphy lovers can rejoice but those who aren't fond of the sub culture will not see him as a deity.
Invincible - Shapeshifters
You'll find plenty to like here musically, but a fair amount just won't impress. Fortunately, her incredible lyricism and content will let you overlook the album's shortcomings.
