Raekwon: The Lex Diamond Story

I’m not going to kid you or myself, “Only Built 4 Cuban Linx” is one of my favorite albums of all-time; top 10, top 15, on any given day. Now, I know Rae will never make another Cuban Linx; it just isn’t in the cards. My review of this album is in no way levied against his magnum opus. I suppose there is a chance that Cuban Linx is so ingrained in my consciousness that I am biased and I don’t even realize it, but I doubt it.

RZA Presents... Northstar

It was only a matter of time until the Wu-Tang empire marked its territory in California. Quite frankly, I’m surprised it took this long. Unfortunately, the empire is crumbling, and it has been for years. Many will argue that it was albums such as this one that played a pivotal role in bringing the kingdom to its knees; the Wu-Tang b-teamers. I don’t subscribe to that theory but I certainly don’t argue the point that too many mediocre albums have featured the ‘W’ stamp of approval.

Memphis Bleek: M.A.D.E.

So enter Memphis Bleek, the young protégé tipped from the beginning days of the label to be the future of the Roc. The prediction seemed like it could be true with Bleek’s solid 99’ debut “Coming of Age.” By his second album, 2000’s The Understanding , it was widely assumed that he would establish himself as a heavyweight platinum artist. But even with the Timbaland-produced radio smash, “Is that your chick,” the Memph man never really caught fire. So after a long hiatus, numerous limelight stealing signings to his label, the recent retirement of his team’s franchise player, Bleek is back with his third album, MADE to claim his spot as the Roc’s H.R.I.C. (Head rapper in charge).

Da Band - Too Hot For T.V.


After a long and tedious road Bad Boys' Da Band has emerged as one of the hottest new groups in hip-hop today. Group members Sara, Dylan, Young City, E Ness, Frederick and Babs have all shown that they deserve the chance to shine in the spotlight. Only time will tell if these band members are really built for the rap industry.

Jay-Z - The Black Album

Say what you say, feel how you feel, but don't front. Listen to his entire catalog and try and say he is one dimensional; try and say every song is about jewelry and money; try and say his flow isn't mind blowing; try and say that he doesn't flip some incredibly clever lines; try and say he isn't say he one of the greatest emcees of all-time. The bottom line is, if you front, you're wrong. It isn't a matter of opinion. Skill is skill, and when it comes down to it, few have more than Shawn Carter. Ever.