Frank Ocean - Nostalgia, Ultra. (Mixtape)

Personally, this is my favorite tape of the year so far. And will probably be at the end of the year. Frank Ocean is not like the rest of his companions in Odd Future. In my eyes he has the biggest crossover appeal. His songwriting makes this tape so special.
Download: Frank Ocean - Nostalgia, Ultra. (Mixtape)

T.I - No Mercy Review

 

T.I album "No Mercy" leaked on the interview a few days ago so I thought I would listen to it and review it. Just hearing a couple of the songs you know it is a must buy. With T.I currently in jail at the moment.This album was meant to be called "King Uncaged" but the name changed. It had many release dates in the last 6 months also being pushed back. As expected there was a few features on the album T.I said in a interview he worked with Eminem and Lady Gaga. But no Gaga on the album so I dont know what happened to that song

1. "Welcome to the World" Ft. Kanye West & KiD CuDi (Produced By Kanye West) The opening song for the album and its one of the best on the album. The features from the G.O.O.D music artists make the song great with Cudi voice in the background. Then T.I and Kanye taking the raps after each other which is dope. Previous they worked on Swagger Like Us in 2009 and many people always wanted these two on a track together. The hook and beat go well together I reckon. You could ask did Ye outshine Tip on the track? My favorite line was from Ye saying "Tip Go In Wayne Go Out". 9/10

2.  "How Life Changed" Ft. Scarface & Mitchelle’l (Produced By Lil C)  Tip goes what he goes on the song like he does with all of his tracks. He gets legendary MC Scarface on the song. With Mitchelle’l doing the chorus which is a good fit to the song. The beat reminds be of abit of a 90s one maybe as you can hear the drums and that in the background. Also Scarface part was you would expect from him. 7/10

3.  "Get Back Up" Ft Chris Brown (Produced By The Neptunes) Had to listen to this song a few times to see what I thought of it. I must say not favorite song on the album. With Chris Brown singing on the song very lightly voiced until the end part where he kicks in. Nice beat solid beat buy Pharrell and Chad. Song of T.I telling a story more than anything. At the began of the song I did not really like it but the last parts are my favorite on it. 7/10

4. "I Can't Help It" Ft Rocko (Produced By Smash Factory) Just hearing the beat you can tell its a T.I track. The flow is one of Tips best on the album he kills it. Not that keen on voice after Tips first verse that much. Makes the song go down abit I think. But when Rocko does his verse midway through it makes the song go back to the level it was at the being of the song. He done well on it. 7/10

5. "That's All She Wrote" Ft Eminem (Produced By Dr. Luke) Maybe my favorite track on the whole album just the collaboration its self is dope. As they worked together before on T.I album "T.I. Vs T.I.P." in 2007 on a song called Touchdown which was not that good. Eminem said his verse on the song in 2007 it was horrible verse. So this time he came back and killed the song on both verses. The beat is very consistent and it allows both artist to rip it apart. Hopefully we see another track from these two to next time as well. I would say Em outshined Tip on it. 9/10

6. "No Mercy" Ft The Dream (Produced By The Dream and Tricky) When I saw tracklist for the album I thought I would not like this song on it. But after hearing the song I got to say I was wrong to say it. With the song name of the title album you kind of know its going to be a big song. The beat is in incredible I really like it and singing links in well. Some great verses from Tip as well. If your a Dream fan your like this song. 8/10

7. "Big Picture" (Produced By Toomp) First solo track from T.I on the album which some people want to hear more solo tracks from him. When I heard this I thought its alright but hearing it again you see T.I on about his life and whats happen abit. The beat one of them its got positive parts and negative parts to it. Tip also does the hook on it as well. 7/10

8.  "Strip" Ft Trey Songz & Young Dro (Produced By Lil C) Reminds me of abit of a club song because of Trey Songz but it does not affect the song. Not feeling it that much. The beat is by Lil C again. T.I verse were not his best I would say. Not keen on Young Dro sorry. 6/10

9.  "Salute"(Produced Jake One, Boi-1da) Another solo song from T.I here the song starts on about a salute  then it goes to be about jail. So he linked it with his time in Jail saying what it was I like im guessing. Average type beat some parts are nicer. Prefer tips nearlier to the end rather than the start. 6.5/10

10. "Amazing" Ft Pharrell (Produced By The Neptunes) This time he is back with Pharrell who is part of the duo who produced it Neptunes. I dont know about the hook which is "Im Amazing" it gets abit of annoying almost. Tips verse were nice I thought its what he expect. When you see the collaboration its like what you would think the song would be. Beat goes with the song concept I thought. Pharrell had a verse near to the end it was not bad. 6.75/10

11.  "Everything on Me"  (Produced By Danja) One of the tracks on the album which I was not feeling that much. I think as the beat kind of over goes with tips voice on it. As the beat is heavy with drums sounds. Kind of the same thing being said in the song for a while. 6/10

12. "Poppin Bottles" Ft. Drake (Produced By T-Minus) I like this song a a lot as both artists do well on the track. The beat is a killer it really goes well with T.I. Kind of tell it will be a Tip song just hearing the beat I reckon. Drake comes in on the middle of the song and does what you would expect not bad verse from it. Then Tip comes back with the last verse which is my favorite on the song. 7/10

13. "Lay Me Down" Ft Rico Love (Produced By Jim Jonsin & Rico Love) I was expecting a better beat as it was from Jim Jonsin. It was not a bad beat just thought be a bit more. Did not like the robotic voices on the hook that much. Nothing wrong with Tips verses they are all good. End part from Rico Love not feeling it a tool. 6.25/10  

14. "Castle Walls" Ft Christina Aguilera (Produced By Alex da Kid) Very interesting collaboration here I thought, it starts off with Christina Aguilera singing with no beat then the beat comes in. Which had a couple of seconds of it and T.I starts rapping on it. Then back to Christina then T.I does a new verse. One of my favorite songs on the album this might of replace the Lady Gaga rumored track. Reminds me of Live Your Life which was a song of T.I last album featured Rihanna. A must heard song this is I expect a video from it. 9/10

I would say pre order the album on I tunes or on the net. As you get other bonus tracks on I tunes which you might want to hear. Alot of features some helped out alot on the songs like Em, Ye and Christina. Some weren't that good It thought. Very strong and solid album from Tip. My overall grade would be B. Im going to listen to the bonus tracks when I get the pre order of Itunes so I update the review then.

Lloyd Banks - The Hunger for More 2 Album Review

This is Lloyd Banks third album and first one under EMI his new label. He still signed to G Unit records as well. In the last year Banks has took his music to the next level I think, I dont know how he was not in the Top 10 list. The album had a lot of features and a mixture of different producers. Still say the Queens hiphop artist is underrated.

1. Take ‘Em To War feat. Tony Yayo (Produced By Cardiak) The first song on the album is a collaboration with Tony Yayo, I like the beat on this. Its a nice track to start of the album as Banks doing a good job on it. Then Yayo comes in on a short verse of his I would say, he does what he does on it I have to say. Not the best track on the album but I liked it. 7/10

2. Unexplainable feat. Styles P (Produced By Cardiak) It features Styles P who is in The Lox and the producer for this done the first song on the album as well. Banks starts off strong in the song but it fades abit I feel and Styles P verse is not the best I would. Then the Queens rapper comes back with his next verse which is like his first I would say. 6/10

3. Payback (P’s and Q’s) feat. 50 Cent (Produced By GrandzMuzik, Bliz Money, Buda Da Future) When you listen to this song you first hear Banks rapping about hip-hop and going to his new label. Then Fiddy comes in with a few words then back Lloyd which happens a couple times in the song I like how they do it. His last verse was my favorite. 7/10

4. Home Sweet Home feat. Pusha T (Produced By Nick Speed) Nice beat to this song I feel it very consistent which allows Banks and Pusha to do there thing on it. Pusha T had a great year also and he shows it on this track. The chorus and the last verse linked in well. One of my favoruite songs on the album I would say for that I give it. 8/10

5. Beamer, Benz, Or Bentley feat. Juelz Santana (Produced By Prime) This was the first single on the album it came out in February which is hard to believe as it was so long ago. There be remixes of this and so many artists have freestyle over it. The beat is great as the lyrics of the song go with it. Its got Juelz Santana in it who does a good job on it, which you should expect really. It has had a lot of success. 8/10

6. So Forgetful feat. Ryan Leslie (Produced By Ryan Leslie) - One of the best songs on the album without a doubt I have to say. The vocals and beat from Ryan Lesli are amazing he is very talented. I thought Banks flow might not go with Ryan Leslie vocals but it does. So I was proved wrong and after hearing this a couple more times I like it more. Its not the biggest hip-hop song in the world I would have to say. 8/10

7. Father Time - I could not find who produce this sorry all, its the first solo Banks track on the album though. Really enjoyed listening to this one as it shows what he can do on a solo song. All his verses are strong and beat goes very well with it. This is why we needed some more solo tracks I feel. The chorus of it also is good. This is one you should listen to more than one. 8/10

8. Start It Up feat. Kanye West, Ryan Leslie, Swizz Beatz & Fabolous (Produced By Cardiak) This was a track which came out a while ago it leaked on the internet. As Kanye worked with Lloyd Banks on two tracks this was one of them. Some nice features on it but was Swizz Beats needed? Anyways it was dope seeing Ye on it he might of outshined everyone it. I expect most of you to heard it by now but still a good track to listen to. 8/10

9. Celebrity (feat. Akon) Could not find who produced this one as well, this was the track which was going to have Eminem on it but he on one of the bonus tracks instead. We all know who Akon is he been around for a long time and fitted the beat I reckon. I might have to listen to this a couple more times as I still undecided about it. Its original Banks on it I would say. 7/10

10. On The Double (Produced By The Watcherz) I was not feeling the beat on this that much, same about the song really. It was a solo Banks track but I just not really like it that. Its just not my type of song I would say. I give it. 5/10

11. Any Girl feat. Lloyd (Produced By Dready) This is the track right hear, the beat and Banks part at the start is dope. It reminds me of Beamer, Benz, Or Bentley abit which I reckon most would agree with. More of a Club song than anything with Lloyd in it. He does link with the beat I feel. Very different to other songs on the album but I feel it. 7/10

12. I Don’t Deserve You feat. Jeremih (Produced By J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League) A solid song here abit of a love/girl type song almost. As there rapping and singing about one. Most albums have one now a days.
Not my favorite song on the album but you can see Banks can do them type of songs as well. Jeremih just needs to work with Yayo then he worked with all of G-Unit lately. 6.5/10

13. Sooner Or Later (Die 1 Day) feat. Raekwon (Produced By Frank Dukes) Nice song here from Banks and Raekwon who does what you always a expect on a track. The collaboration is quite good hopefully see it again in the future. Last verse from Banks is a bit personal if you listen. 7/10

With still bonus track to come as well there is four of them. Which will be out in the next couple of days it includes the feature from Eminem which I cant wait to hear. I heard a few snippets and Banks verses they sound incredible. As Nas gives a grade on albums I would give this a B/B-.

Kanye West - My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy (Album Review)

First of all, I wouldn't classify this as a classic rap album, but the most creative rap album ever. I mean have you ever heard anything like this come from a rapper. Different styles of beats, instruments and samples that seem to come together nicely. Kanye has outdone himself once again and continues to push the envelop for mainstream audiences. The album features 13 tracks but 2 are interludes so you would think that it is pretty short. But in reality every song is around 5 minutes long. So it actually is longer than a normal album. After listening to this album in it's entirety I'd say that the title does fit. This is Kanye's fantasy and it is beautiful, dark and twisted. And don't forget that he produced most of these amazing songs.

1. Dark Fantasy (prod. By RZA, Kanye West, & No ID) - This song is obviously the most pure hip hop track on the entire album. With a classic RZA beat. Nicki Minaj starts off the track in a interesting fashion with her narration which I actually seemed to like, and thought was a memorable way to start the album. Kanye has so quotables on this track. "The plan was to drink until the pain over, But what's worse the pain or the hangover." 9/10

2. Gorgeous feat. KiD CuDi & Raekwon (prod. By Kanye West) - Very interesting beat. With an addicting hook from KiD CuDi. He shows some more lyricism on this track alongside Raekwon. "Got caught with 30 Rocks the cop looked like Alec Baldwin".  8/10

3. Power feat. Dwele (prod. By S1 & Kanye West) - Anyone remember this track? The first single was indeed powerful when it dropped. With an excellent beat and a catchy sample. This song pretty much was his comeback song, because it had been a while since he had put out new music. 9/10

4. All of The Lights (Interlude) - Great way to lead up to the best track on the album

5. All of The Lights feat. Rihanna, Tony Williams,  KiD CuDi, John Legend, Charlie Wilson, Elly Jackson, Elton John, Ryan Leslie, The-Dream & Alicia Keys (prod. By Kanye West) - This beat is obviously the best beat on the entire album. Hook is incredible. And the lineup is surprising. Who'd a thought he could squeeze all of these artists on a 5 minute song. In the end this will probably end up being the most successful song on the album. 10/10


6. Monster feat. Rick Ross, Jay-Z, Nick Minaj & Bon Iver (prod. By Kanye West) - First off, Bon Iver delivers a different sounding beginning and end which brings the song to another level. I've never heard a beat like this ever. It's so different and catchy. The hook is addicting to repeat. And with a surprise attention stealing verse from Nicki Minaj this song becomes one of the better on the album. "If I'm fake I don't know this cause my money ain't." 9.5/10


7. So Appalled feat. Swizz Beatz, Jay-Z, Pusha T, Cyhi The Prynce & RZA (prod. By Kanye West & RZA) - Another very hip hop record from Kanye thanks to some help with production from RZA. Every rapper takes a turn to kill the beat. Jay-Z comes with one of his best verses. "I went from the favorite to the most hated, But would you rather be underpaid or overrated." Even Cyhi The Prynce who was new to me at the time came with a well put together verse that made me rewind "I met this girl on Valentines Day, Fucked her in may, She found about April so she chose to march." 9/10


8. Devil In A Dress feat. Rick Ross (prod. Bink!) - By this time in the album you saying "Damn this is sounding like a classic". This track in particular is one of 2 songs that features no production from Kanye. It is one of the better beats on the album though. More quotables from Kanye on this with lines like "Hood phenomenon, the Lebron of rhyme, hard to be humble when your stunting on a jumbotron." Another thing that I love about this track is the guitar breakdown that plays before Rick Ross's verse. Unexpectedly, Ross does a good job flowing with the beat. 10/10


9. Runaway feat. Pusha T (prod. By Kanye West) - I'm not knocking this track in any way for giving it the lowest rating because it is an anthem type track for the douchebags, assholes, and scumbags. It's a solid track. The samples do fit in nicely to me. But the beat can get boring at times, and we all know Kanye isn't the greatest singer. Luckily, Pusha comes in with a dope ass verse which gives me a good reason to listen. If you've heard the album version of this song then you know that it drags on way too long. With an barely understandable autotuned up Kanye. 7/10


10. Hell of A Life (prod. By No ID) - Another track featuring no production from Kanye. A different style of beat but is very creative. I guess you can describe this as the Dark and Twisted part of the album. He starts off by saying "I think I fell in love with a porn star". But combine 3 clever and funny verses with one of the better hooks on the album and you another great track. 8.5/10


11. Blame Game feat. John Legend (prod. By Kanye West) - Brings the tone of the album down a bit as Kanye opens up about relationship troubles with John Legend on the hook. Song is very deep and relatable. The skit at the end with Chris Rock had me dying.  9/10


12. Lost In The World feat. Bon Iver & Alicia Keys (prod. By Kanye West) - This song sounds like something that would be playing while running through the jungle kind of like that scene in his "Runaway" film. It's amazing musically. Song starts out slow and weird. With vocals from Bon Iver. But comes in very hard. I love the short verse from Kanye. Probably one of my favorites from the album. 9.5/10

13. Who Will Survive In America feat. Gil Scott Heron - The albums comes to a conclusion with spoken word from Gil Scott Heron.

I've done a large number of reviews and this is the first one to earn the grade of an A.

KiD CuDi - Man On The Moon II: The Legend of Mr. Rager (Quick Review)

I've been trying to find any way to post more on the blog as of late. I figured I'd give a quick re-cap on Cudi's new album. My first opinion of the album is that it has a very dark vibe to it. Unlike the first one which was more upbeat. Also you will notice that there is less rapping on it than the first. On first listen some people won't understand where Cudi is going. Cudi seems as if he's experimenting too much at times. But in the end the album is still worth the listen.

Standout Tracks:
Scott Mescudi vs. The World feat. Cee-Lo
Don't Play This Song feat. Mary J. Blige
Ashin' Kusher
Erase Me feat. Kanye West
Wylin Cause Im Young
Maniac feat. Cage
Mr. Rager
The End feat. GLC, Chip Tha Ripper & Nicole Wray
Ghost!

Average Tracks:
REVOFEV
Marijuana
Mojo So Dope
The Mood
These Worries
All Along
Trapped In My Mind

Wale - More About Nothing (Mixtape & Review)

New Wale tape for everyone to check. I'm listening as of right now so far so good. His album didn't live up to the hype. But this tape sure is. Features include Wiz Khalifa, UCB, Waka Flocka, Roscoe Dash and more. Review after the jump.

Download: Wale - Mixtape About Nothing

Eminem - Recovery (Review)

Last night "Recovery" leaked onto the internet 2 weeks before it officially releases. First off, no one compare this to Thank Me Later. They're 2 totally different sounding albums. Below is a track by track review of this album. Funny how me and Brenn do 2 different reviews at the same time.

1. Cold Wind Blows (prod. By Dr. Dre) - Decent intro to the album. Not really feeling the hook. He came with the lyrics though. 7.5/10
2. Talkin' 2 Myself (Feat. Kobe) (prod. By DJ Khalil) - This is one of my favorites from the album. It's been on steady rotation ever since last night. The beat is crazy and Em goes off. 9/10
3. On Fire (Prod. By Mr. Porter) - This is song that shows his crazy lyrical ability. Don't worry about the beat or the hook cause he killed it. 8/10
4) Wont Back Down (Feat. Pink) (prod. By DJ Khalil) - Beat is nice. But I'm not feeling the Pink hook that much. Em comes with the lyrics though. 8.5/10
5) W.T.P. (Prod. By Havoc) - This track was pretty funny to me. White Trash Party? Ok. 7/10
6) Going Through Changes (prod. By Emile) - Soft sounding track that is very similar to Not Afraid. 8/10
7) Not Afraid (prod. By Boi-1da) - There is so much meaning behind the lyrics on this song. Just a reminder that Em can still make a chart topping single. 9.5/10
8) Seduction (prod. By Boi-1da) - Another solid track. That gets play. It seems like on ths album he's talking more about women. 8/10
9) No Love (Feat. Lil' Wayne) (prod. By Just Blaze) - Em and Wayne recapture their magic from "Drop The World". Both of them went off. Lil Wayne reminds of why he used to be the best. I'm definitely liking the sample. 10/10
10) Space Bound (prod. By Just Blaze) - This track has a different feel to it. Another track with a lot of meaning to it. 7.5/10
11) Cinderella Man (prod. By Eminem) - Em switches up the style once again on this track. I'm liking this joint. I'll probably use this song when I work out. 8/10
12) 25 To Life (prod. By Mr. Porter) - Starts off a little but the beat picks up. And do we even have to question whether Em killed it or not. 8.5/10
13) So Bad (prod. By Dr. Dre) - I wasn't really feeling this track that much. But I wouldn't consider it a skipper. The beat is what you would expect from Dr. Dre. 7.5/10
14) Almost Famous (prod. By Jim Jonsin) - Another track murdered lyrically. 8.5/10
15) Love The Way You Lie (Feat. Rihanna) (prod. By Alex Da Kid) - Soft track with beautiful vocals from Rihanna. It's different hearing this type of a song from Em but it's good. 9/10
16) You're Never Over (prod. By Dr. Dre) - Track is a dedication to his friend and former rapper Proof. Can't get mad at this. 8/10
17) Here We Go (prod. By Havoc) - Solid way to end the album but it could have been better. 7.5/10

In my opinion this is Em's best album since "The Eminem Show" which is one of my favorite rap albums. I wouldn't consider it a classic but we know he's back after making his "Recovery". Good/Solid album.

Eminem - Recovery REVIEW.

My review of Recovery - Eminem and there will be a review from Nas as well. So you all can see different views on the album. I wont be giving it ratings sorry all. Check the review below.


1. "Cold Wind Blows" - I like the beat on this track I think it links well with the rapping in the track. Nice metaphors in the track as well. For an opening track on the album it shows what he does best. To me its a normal Eminem rhyme on it. Almost reminds me of Em old days and it got Em singing on it as well. Last it got "Take a look at Mariah next time I inspire you to write a song" which I laughed at. It shows Eminem back.

2. "Talkin' 2 Myself" (featuring Kobe)- It starts of with Kobe doing the vocals which is the chorus and Em starts rapping after. Its an honest track as he Em says in it how he used to have thoughts of dissing Lil Wayne & Kanye West. Hatred was growing through my veins, on the verge of going insane/ I almost made a song dissing Lil Wayne.. / It’s like I was jealous of him cuz of the attention he was getting / I felt horrible about myself, he was spittin’ & I wasn’t, anyone who was buzzin’ could of got it.. / I almost went at Kanye. Which makes Eminem show his fans what could of happen but he knew it would be the wrong decision. Almost showing how honest Eminem is. The beat done by DJ Khalil and does a good job on it. Great lyrics on it and also says about how Encore and Relapse were not his best of work. Last gives T.I, Weezy and Kanye West to look up which shows he has respect and likes them artist.

3. "On Fire" - The beat is good and it has dark beat with heavy drums on it. The first real more aggressive track on the album. I thought he done a good job on it but may could gave abit more. Mr. Porter produce it and shows he is best at Rhyming. Still a strong track.

4. "Won't Back Down" (featuring Pink)- This got a rock kind of vibe to it from the beat and a lot people got mix feeling about the track. Pink done a good job with the vocals. One of the things I like on this track is when the volume gets lower and then increases it links in well with the rapping. Another DJ Khalil track. This track is growing on me since I first heard it.

5. "W.T.P." - W.T.P means White Trash Party. I know abit of a strange name for a track but its Eminem. This song is well done as lyrics goes very well with the beat which is a dope thing to do. The flow in the track is strong and kills it in certain parts. Aint my favorite track on the album but I enjoy listen to this one.

6. "Going Through Changes" - Very serious song and content of the song is so dope. I saw on an other review some one done of this track they put this, He explains how the pressures of being in the spotlight almost brought him to suicide & how hard it is to bounce back from it. Which I agree Em does explain it all. Song is produce by Emile and the sample from Ozzy Osbourne on the chorus which links very well with the flow of the song. Adds part about Proof which is dope showing a small tribute about him on the track.

7. "Not Afraid" - One of my favorite songs this year we have all heard it as it been around for a few weeks now. The video just drop and its a classic track. This song got it all great rhymes and the flow is one of Em best. Produce by Boi-1da who very talented and shows what he can do just by hearing the beat of this song. A great first single on the album and it gives you the thought that album going to be one of Em best yet. I like this song so much it got over 100 plays on my Itunes.

8. Seduction - I love this track one of my favorites from the whole album. The beat is by Boi-1da again and its like a slow beat compare to the others on the album. But Eminem flow with it is incredible and it all the way thought the track I feel. Once you hear this track it will be on repeat I think. Its a deep song like past one Em done on old album. There’s a 7 disk cd-changer in the car/ And I’m in every single slot & your not.. Aw! Watch your chick! is my favorite line from it.

9. "No Love" (featuring Lil Wayne) - Its got Just Blaze on the beat and sample’s Haddway’s What Is Love. I aint biggest Weezy fan but he does a great job on this with his verse. Both artist use strong words in the song. We are seeing this collaboration again which if you think back to a couple years ago people thought it would never happen. Now it happen three times. Shows Shady’s is back to his best and his flow is dope like normal. Just look at a part of Eminem lyricism in the song. Get these whack cocksuckers off stage, where the fuck is Kanye when ya need him?/ Snatch the mic from em, bitch I’ma let you finish in a minute, ya the rap was tight but um.. / I just spit the greatest verse of all time so you might wanna go back to the lab & um.. Shady’s in the zone right now.

10.Space Bound - Em starts abit slower than normal on this song with his flow but it suits the beat at the being. I keep listening to this one track an cant figure what its about. It could be about or a girl. One you all need to hear as it a different type track to others. This song goes well as Em links well wit the sample. One my favorite joints on the album for sure.

11. Cinderella Man - This track was a very interesting one for me as I be looking around forums on the net for people views on it. It has a strong flow by Em and his words are strong also. But the chorus of the singing saying "Cinderella Man" is catchy which is odd. I like this track and it only one like it on the album. Your all understand what Im talking about when you hear it.

12. 25 To Life - This is what the album is all about a very powerful track and one of the best on the album. Em pulled this track off as he could be talking about his ex Kim on it. Which people might argue he is not. Eminem did go in on this I feel and it one of them track which will be on repeat on your ipod. The beat is dope and you all have to hear this track. And it was produce by Mr. Porter.

13. So Bad - Its produce by Dr Dre but you all will be able to tell that by hearing the beat on the track. An dope beat by Dre and the track reminds me abit of old Em music. Its one of these tracks which might have to grow on you at first. But he did go in on it which I have to say. Not many of these on the album.

14. Almost Famous - This is the track you all need to listen to its so dope. Every single second is great no lie. I promise you all will love this track. It got to be my favorite on the whole album. Reminds be of abit of 8 Mile I dont know why. Em did kill this and its one these joints you got think how does he do it. A must hear track from my view.

15. "Love the Way You Lie" (featuring Rihanna) - Em said that Rihanna done a great job on the track a few weeks ago in an interview. Which I must admit he was not wrong he told the truth. It shows what Rihanna does best her vocals are great. With Eminem lyrics in the song are powerful and its a great collaboration. Must better than I thought it was going to be. I feel this will be a single of the album and its a collabo might I want to see again.

16. You’re Never Over - We all knew we were going to see an Proof song one day. Hear it is and it is very inspirational, motivational and emotional I feel. We all know Proof was a great artist. Great end to the album I feel. Any proof fans will want to hear it. As we all thought this kind of track would be on Relapse but it was not. So you must check this track out.

If Proof could see me now,
I know he’d be proud
Somewhere in me deep down
There’s something in me he found
That made him believe in me
Now no one can beat me now

17. Untitled track or "Here We Go" - On my ipod I got it as untitled track as I dont know the name but I saw it was "Here We Go" somewhere so I put both as I dont know if its correct or not. Its the bonus track on the album and it produce by Havoc from Mobb Deep a decent beat. A dope way to end the album.

My thoughts on the album that it is Eminem best work in a long time. You can compare it to Relapse or Encore it in a different standard to them. The album been on repeat most of the day. I got it on pre-order as you have to buy it for the quality of it. Any hip hop fan or Eminem fan got to hear it. Many different types of tracks on the album but all are dope. You cant hate on the album. Production team were so good on the album which could been a key element of it. I heard many people say its a classic but I got to hear it more. As I dont label many albums classics.

Drake - Thank Me Later (Review)

The highly anticipated album leaked last night as expected. Finally got the chance to hear it. Below is a track by track review.

1. Fireworks (Feat. Alicia Keys) (Prod. By 40). - A perfect intro to the album. A slow story telling track with great vocals from Ms. Keys. Nothing super special but it's fine. 8.5/10
2. Karaoke (Prod. By Francis & The Lights) - To be honest this is my least favorite track. The title does pretty much some it up. It seems like random singing to me, and we all know Drake isn't the greatest singer. 6.5/10
3. The Resistance (Prod. By 40 & Boi-1da) - Beat is a little boring and the hook isn't great, but the lyrics are on point. One of the stronger rap tracks on the album. "Still here with who I started wit, The game needed life I put my heart in it. I blew myself up I'm on some martyr shit, Carried the weight for my city like a cargo ship." 8/10
4. Over (Prod. By Boi-1da) - This joint had the internet going nuts when it first came out. I'll be honest, it had to grow on me. But when it did I loved it. The beat is addicting. The song seemed to describe his feelings. 9/10
5. Show Me A Good Time (Prod. By Kanye West) - This song is single worthy and it definitely is one of my favorites. A lot of people are saying that Drake has the same flow on every song, you can't say that about this song. It has a  "Good Life" by Kanye West type of feel. Kanye out did himself on the beat. 9.5/10
6. Up All Night (Feat. Nicki Minaj) (Prod. By Boi-1da) - This song is an ode to Young Money. With Ms. Minaj along for the ride. The beat is nice although it's a little generic. 8/10
7. Fancy (Feat. T.I & Swizz Beatz) (Prod. by Swizz Beatz) - I had absolutely no expectations for this joint. This song is one of the few on the album without a Drake hook. Swizz Beatz did a different type of beat and T.I. did his part as well. 8.5/10
8. Shut It Down (Feat. The Dream) (Prod. 40 & Omen) - Slow R&B joint featuring The Dream. Joint is simply about women going out and shutting it down with how good they look. Not a fan of the Drake verse at the end. 8/10.
9. Unforgettable (Feat. Young Jeezy) (Prod. 40 & Boi-1da) - One of my favorite songs off the album. Loving the Aaliyah sample. Drake did his part but he was outshined for the first time on his own album by Young Jeezy. 9/10
10. Light Up (Feat. Jay-Z) (Prod. By 40 & Tone Mason) - I was actually disappointed by this song. I expected it to be amazing and it just was good. Drake went hard and Jay went hard but the beat didn't and the hook didn't. 8.5/10
11. Miss Me (Feat. Lil Wayne) (Prod. By Boi-1da) - This song is simply the best Drake verse on the entire album and Lil Wayne yapping on a nice beat. "Drake stand for Do Right And Kill Everything". 9/10
12. Cece’s Interlude (Prod. By 40) - This is simply an interlude. Singing is alright though. Solid track. 7.5/10
13. Find Your Love (Prod. By Kanye West) - When this first dropped I initially hated it and then it grew on me. It's currently the most listened song on my ITunes from the album. The beat is different but nice and Drake's voice sounds good on it. 9.5/10
14. Thank Me Now (Prod. By Timbaland) - Good way to end an album triumphantly. The lyrics have a lot of meaning. The song seems arrogant but good. 8/10
15. 9AM In Dallas (Bonus) (Prod. By Boi-1da) - This joint needs to be on the album because it's amazing. This is my favorite Boi-1da beat. And Drake goes off on a couple haters. It's rumored that Itunes will have this as an album bonus. 9/10


Consensus - Final grade is an 8.5/10 This is a very strong album but under the level of being a classic. The leak shouldn't effect his sales I predict he'll sell somewhere between 500K and 700K in the first week. Will it do Blueprint 3/Carter 3 numbers? Who knows.

B.o.B - The Adventures of Bobby Ray (Album Review)

Check out www.newdopeaudio.blogspot.com I promise this is the last time I will change the name of my blog.



It's been a while since I've done an album review but this is probably the first album that has peaked my interest this year. When I had first heard about B.o.B I didn't expect anything special from him. This album is one of the most well put together albums in recent years and shows how creative B.o.B with his infusion of hip hop, rock, pop as well as a few other genres. The album is a great debut and the production on the album is fantastic. I give it a grade of a 9/10. A definite buy. So get it on 4/27. Below is a full track by track review.


1. Don't Let Me Fall - A soft but strong introduction to the album. Solid intro track. 8/10


2. Nothin' On You feat. Bruno Mars - What more can be said about the number 1 song in the country. Amazing hook and clever lines. Perfect radio single. 9.5/10


3. Past My Shades feat. Lupe Fiasco - This is one of my personal favorites on the album. This song needs to be a single, and its a definite anthem. And Lupe killed it. 9.5/10


4. Airplanes feat. Hayley Williams - Another personal favorite and if it wasn't for part 2 it would be the best song on the album. But when you compare this and part 2 you like it less. 9/10


5. Bet I Bust feat. T.I. & Playboy Tre - At first, I really liked this song but when you listen to the album fully this song doesn't seem to be needed. Tip killed it though so dope nonetheless. 8/10



6. Ghost In The Machine - One of the deepest songs on the album but it can get a little boring at times. 7.5/10


7. The Kids feat. Janelle Monae - I'm liking the feel of this song and the production. It's always good to have a song with a message. 8.5/10


8. Magic feat. Rivers Cuemo - This song is not usually my style but Bobby does good on it and it's upbeat. 8/10.


9. Fame - This will probably end up being the most underrated track on the album but the beat is crazy and B.o.b did his thing on it. 9/10


10. Lovelier Than You - This song is catchy and B.o.B produced a soft record talking about of course love. Shows you how much talent he has and his versatility. 8/10


11. 5th Dimension feat. Ricco Barrino - Another personal favorite from the album and it sounds single quality. 9/10


12. Airplanes Pt. 2 feat. Hayley Williams & Eminem - Save the best for last in part 2 B.o.B. comes harder with the verses and Em's verse is so incredible. Makes an already great song better. 10/10


13. Higher (Bonus) - Sounds like a freestyle. First time on the album that he is just spitting. 8/10


14. Satellite (Bonus) - If you were a fan of Bobby before the album than you know that this song is something you can expect from him. Not good as some other tracks on the album but not a skipper. 7/10

15. Yesterday (Bonus) - Haven't heard it yet but I'll give a review when it drops.

My Top 10 Albums 2009.

This is my list of my top 10 hiphop albums in 2009. The list is not in order. They are all great albums I have put on the list. This year has show the likes of Wale and Kid Cudi show what they are made of. Then the likes of Eminem and Jay Z showing they are still on top of hiphop. Even some artists who been around much longer than othrs likes of Redman & Method Man, Rakim, Mos Def. Check th list out.

Rakim - Seventh Seal was a album which showed lots of different things about it as one of the them was Rakim was back and his new style. It was almost Rakim showin this new style of hiphop which othr artist do as well. But as Rakim been away for so long it was dope to see him put out such a great album. I am a massive fan of Rakim and this album showed my Rakim is one of the best. He can do it as solo artist and in a duo. A very strong album it was I would say.

The Ecstatic by Mos Def was my fav album of the whole year. As im a real big fan of Mos Def and I love seeing him back to hiphop. It showed the true mos def and was he able to do in hiphop. A very golden age artist I would say and he is on of the best of alltime to me. This album left it mark this year to me. Mos Def is very underated in hiphop I would say. It had a track with Slick Rick which was great to see.

Method Man & Red Man - Blackout2 it was a album which showed me statement of hiphop as a whole. As these two repersent the whole 90s in hiphop to me. It was a solid albums every track was dope. It came out early in the year I think may but showed they work so well as a duo. I love listening to it.

Eminem - Relapse was an album which showed em was back and it came out early this year. It was a very strong album as it had many great tracks. I was not massive fan on " We Made you" it made me alugh though. I had to put the album in the list as it was Eminem come back. I expect eminem replase 2 will be out next year.

Before I Self Destruct by 50 Cent showed a different type of fiddy, but I still like it. It had people saying 50 Cent lost it etc. But I think he has not. I still listen to 50 cent and always will. I lik the his new style on the album. Also his track with Eminem on it I really like litening to that. Also it has the JMJ dvd with it which is a dope dvd and it showed what Jam Master Jay done for 50 Cent.

Slaughterhouse by Slaughterhouse was there first album and it showed what they had. It was a very solid album and they work well on it. It had to be on the list as it was there first and it was that good. Joe Budden a member in Slaughterhouse is my fav memeber and he killed all his parts in the album.

Blueprint 3 by Jay-Z made to be in the list it was a great album showing Jay Z on of the best still in the world. And what year it has been for him. I got the album of on the day it came out on itunes and I listen to it so many times. Many great tracks on the album but my fav was " A Star Is Born" which is not a single off it. It was with J Cole and it was dope. Hov killed the album.

Only Built 4 Cuban Linx, Pt. II by Raekwon show he can be a solo artist as well as being in a hiphop group. His album was very good and it shows Raekwon been around for a lon time and still got it. It has some dope guests on it Popa Wu, Ghostface Killah, GZA, Masta Killa, Inspectah Deck, Method Man, Slick Rick, Jadakiss, Beanie Sigel, Suga Bang Bang, Tash Mahogany, Styles P, Blue Raspberry, Lyfe Jennings, Busta Rhymes, Cappadonna. Lots of people were on it and it made a great album that way.

Man On The Moon: End Of Day by Kid Cudi was a dope album and everyone agrees. For one I like Kid Cudi music and his fasion. He is very talented artist. His album was just what I expected. It had so much hype before it came out but you know it would live up to its hype. Cant wait for his next album.

Attention Deficit by Wale has to be in the top 10 as he came a long way from his mixtapes to his first album. I really like the album but feel sorry for Wale as so many people just downloaded it from the internet when it leaked. Back to the album though it was better than I thought it was going to be. Wale shown he is able to make a good album and he has done well this year. Im a very big fan of Wale now.

Peace.

Some Albums I Cant Wait For In 2010.

Here are just some of the albums I am looking forward to next year. Others are like andre 3000 solo album, Outkaste, T.I, Eminem, Drake, De La Soul, The Roots etc. There are many albums dropping it going to be a crazzzy year. But here are some.

Nas and Damian Marley album which should drop next year in march. It will be called Distant Relatives. It will be a dope albums as the single they done in 2007 was classic. I really want this album to drop soon.

Nicki Minaj first album will drop next year and im looking forward to this. She is very gifted and its a female artists as well we have not seen much of them in hiphop last couple of years. she been killing all her tracks with Young Money.

J Cole we all know about him from his mixtapes which were fire. Then Jay-Z signed him to his label Roc Nation. Then when he was on blueprint 3 a star is born track with hov he killed it. So his first album should drop next year and he put out a sinlge called Lights Please.

Finaly Dr Dre Detox hopefully it will drop early next year rather than late. We all know what dre can do its just waiting for it. He said about this album like 2003 or something. So it has been along time since he been saying it will drop. With the likes of Eminem, Ice Cube, Game etc. On the album it should be dope.

Rakim - "The Seventh Seal" Review

This album has took me away back to the golden age of hiphop. This album is dope and I think everyone should check it out. Rakim shows off in everything single track how he still got it and showing his new style as well. His flow is still their and this album telling me check the golden age of hiphop. This album shows Rakim still got it and the game been missing him. As in the recnt years he only made cameos on a couple of tracks.

1. "How to Emcee" - the intro track in the album and its a great track to kick start the album. I think when you listen to the song you want to hear the rest of album. He uses very strong words in the song and its tellin you about emceein. Like past years he put in the song.

2. "Walk These Streets" (feat. Maino & Tracey Horton) - This was the second single off the album it drop like a of month ago. I put it on a weekend wave post I done like last month. It made me want to get the album. I think Maino done well with rakim in the track. The track is very solid one.
3. "Documentary of a Gangsta" (feat. I.Q.) - Wow this is one of the tracks I like the most. It shows a different style of Rakim more of a gangster version of him. It reminds me off 50 cent etc. Like tracks they would do. But its good to see Rakim doing a new type of track. I enjoy listening to this one as it was something new.
4. "Man Above" (feat. Tracey Horton) - I like the beat on this, as it links very well in with the song. I think Rakim goes very strong on the track as the words he uses in it. Also Tracey Horton does a good job in the song.
5. "You and I" (feat. Samuel Christian) - A solid track he done. He is rapping about some one but you can tell that from the title. He goes hard in the song and he shows his flow in it. Its good to see a track like this in the album and its a new style of Rakim.
6. "Won’t Be Long" (feat. Tracey Horton) - This maybe my fav on the album. He uses about his past in hiphop and where he has been also. And saying he still got it. This one of the key reason why I like the track. Its the second time on album Tracey Horton on a song. Its like a deeper Rakim on it.
7. "Holy Are U" - This was the first single, when I first heard it I did not know what to think of his album he was making. As the song you have mix views about it. As its such a new rakim on the track to his old work. But when I listen to it again I started to like it more. So I think it was needed in this style of the album.
8. "Satisfaction Guaranteed" - This shows what Rakim is all about how he can be away for so long and do such a great album. This song is great and shows Rakim is still the GOD. He raps about so power things like how he been away and why he is back. Which I back for doing this as it shows people why he is back. A dope song.
9. "Workin' for You" - A good track as it like the others and he says what he used to be like in hiphop. So how he has change as person fo hiphop I think. Shows how an artists knows when to have a break and improve their skills.
10. "Message in the Song" (feat. Destiny Griffin) - His flow is dope in this and he shows how he is a genuis. His flow in this song is not like any other on the album and Destiny Griffin does a great job in the song. Rakim words in it are very powerful and he shows his skill is still their. One of my fav songs I think.
11. "Put it All to Music" - Shows why he makes music and why he wants to still be here. Great song and to me it shows how he has improve as an artists. What he is doing better now on this track. This song repersents Rakim in hiphop.
12. "Psychic Love" - A other solid track on the album, as its like some of the other but still different. As he mixes his past and his love life in it abit. A good powerful track though. It shows he able to mix well.
13. "Still in Love" - I really enjoy listening to his as it is showing what the album is like as a whole. It saying what Rakim is and why he is it. The flow is in this track from the start to the end. Dope flow he has got. I think it was good for Rakim to have that long break from Hiphop now. After hearing this song. Shows Rakim back to his best.
14. "Dedicated" - This is a very strong track to finsh off the album as it shows he can do it in every track. And what hiphop have been missing in the recent years. The words are great for the beats of it. One the best songs on the album. I think after hearing his last track Rakim will have a other album for next year or year after?

Wale - Attention Deficit (Review)

Okay so last night I was doing my blog thing at about 11. And then I found out that the Wale album had leaked. I was tired after Friday night but I stayed up to listen to it. And it didn't disappoint. Just finished my second listen from beginning to end. Every track is dope on November 10th. Def gonna buy. Download: Wale - Attention Deficit

Here's a quick review:

01. Triumph (prod. by Dave Sitek) - Good album intro nothing really special about it. Decent beat Wale  comes with some good lyrics. 7.5/10

02. Mamma Told Me - Just a decent track average album cut. Talking bout how he was on his grind 7/10
03. Mirrors (feat. Bun B) (prod. by Mark Ronson) - Solid album cut. Bun.B fits the song well. Good lyrics from Wale 8/10
04. Pretty Girls (feat. Gucci Mane & Weensey of Backyard Band) (prod. by Best Kept Secret) - People gettin on him for the Gucci feature. But I love the beat and the hook. 9/10
05. World Tour (feat. Jazmine Sullivan) (prod. by Cool & Dre) - this is single worthy. Good beat good hook. Jazmine Sullivan adds some nice vocals. Wale comes with possibly his best lyrics on the album 9/10
06. Let It Loose (Inhibitions) (feat. Pharrell Williams) (prod. by The Neptunes) - Now this song can get annoying at times but is still a good track. Wale doesn't really come hard with the lyrics on this one. 7/10
07. 90210 (prod. by Mark Ronson) - Probably the worst track on the album and is still dope in its own way as he talks about a girl doing anything to make it in hollywood. 6.5/10
08. Shades (feat. Chrisette Michele) (prod. by 9th Wonder) - Wale gets a little sensitive as he talks about shades of skin. Saying he was dissed by girls as a kid for being too dark. Good track tells a lot. 8.5/10
09. Chillin' (feat. Lady Gaga) (prod. by Cool & Dre) - okay this was the first track off the album. Don't really like anymore but hey I'll take it for what it is. Amazing beat though. 8/10
10. TV In The Radio (feat. K'Naan) (prod. by Dave Sitek) - it has a nice funky beat. K'Naan provides a nice Somalia to Nigeria collaboration. K'Naan absolutely kills his part and so does Wale. 8.5/10
11. Contemplate (prod. by Syience) - Nice Rihanna vocals on the sample. Calm track I like it. 8.5/10
12. Diary (feat. Marsha Ambrosius) - Another telling track as Marsah adds great vocals. Talking about how its hard to approach black woman. 8/10
13. Beautiful Bliss (feat. Melanie Fiona & J.Cole) (prod. by DJ Green Lantern & Mark Ronson) - absolutely the best song on the album. makes you feel good. Melanie Fiona sounds wonderful. J. Cole pulls a Kanye West and totally rips his part. "At dinner Hov. Hopping he pass the baton or he just pass the patron." Made Wale seem average. 10/10
14. Prescription - Good calm track to the end the album on a good note. I love the beat. Nothing else really special 7.5/10

Gives the album a grade of a B+. Top 5 rap album of the year.

Check my blog - mathclassheroes.blogspot.com

Nas-Illmatic

I was going though my old CDs and I found Nas first album which is called Illmatic. It was made in 1994 and it rock the hiphop world. I think it is dope and it has to be one of the best albums I ever heard. Every track is HOT trust me on this one!
This album made Nas to what he is now.

CHECK IT OUT PEOPLE!!