Album Review: Nappy Roots - "Nappy Dot Org"

By Hardcore Critic
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

On their latest album, Nappy Roots returned as if they never left. Nearly a decade has passed since their original run on the top of the charts. On their latest album, Nappy Roots continued the "country boy" theme they originated in 2002.

However, on Nappy Dot Org, Nappy Roots was not alone. They recruited Organized Noize to be a part of their album. Together, all the artists recorded eleven unforgettable tracks. Those who are searching for lyrical hip hop will be a bit disappointed.

While lyrical ability is not a selling point for Nappy Dot Org, creativity is. Organized Noize has long been one of the most-creative figures in hip hop. Their creativity paired with Nappy Roots' unforgettable "country boy" sound created one of 2011's most-memorable albums. Nappy Roots delivered "real rap" on their latest album, which makes it a must-listen.

Hip Hop Vibe's Rating: 7/10

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Album Review: Styles P - "Master of Ceremonies"

By Hardcore Critic
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

While fans continue to wait on The L.O.X. to release a new album, the members are solo, once again. Yesterday, Styles P released his fourth studio album, Master of Ceremonies. The album is a follow-up to his 2007 album, Super Gangster: Extraordinary Gentleman.

Fresh off the mixtape scene, Styles P enters Master of Ceremonies poised and confident. Teaming with Avery Storm for "How I Fly," the opening track off the album, Styles P flows over a track many owuld never expect him to touch.

Brilliant wordplay and versatility keep Styles P ahead of the game on Master of Ceremonies. Switching from gangster to gentleman is something Styles P masters on his new album. Not many rappers in the game have the ability to switch their styles and still manage to be convincing. While Styles P has a number of collaborations on Master of Ceremonies, the show is never stolen from Styles P.

Master of Ceremonies provides several street anthems and is a classic Styles P album. But, it is clear P has grown as a lyricist, and an overall artist, on his new album. Styles P also unites with the L.O.X. family on two tracks, "Street Shit," with Sheek Louch, and "It's OK" with Jadakiss. Sadly, Styles P did not deliver on a true L.O.X. anthem on the album.

Still, Master of Ceremonies is a must-have album, the first true hardcore, gritty, album of 2011. For those who wanted the "street shit," Styles P truly provides this, with a touch of gentleman sprinkled throughout the album.

Hip Hop Vibe's Rating: 7/10

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Album Review: 9th Wonder - "The Wonder Years"

By Hardcore Critic
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Outside of J. Cole, not many people are aware of the hip hop scene in North Carolina. Because North Carolina is in the South, most expect the typical Southern sound. However, this is not the case. 9th Wonder was among the many North Carolina rappers releasing their debut albums.

9th Wonder continues to buck the trends, on his album. Already a famous producer, 9th Wonder proves he is no slouch behind the microphone either. While his album likely will not receive the same commercial support as other artists, it is definitely worth a listen. 9th Wonder's best talent is his ability to fuse different genres of hip hop together.

One of the best tracks off The Wonder Years is "Enjoy," which features Warren G, Murs, and Kendrick Lamar, as 9th Wonder is able to switch it up and come with a West Coast flow. 9th Wonder proves he is one of the most-versatile rappers in the game with his debut album. Many rappers love rapping over R&B beats, but few actually master this. Not only does 9th Wonder master rapping over an R&B beat, he also holds his own against veteran rappers, Raekwon and Masta Killa.

The Wonder Years is a creative opus and it is obvious 9th Wonder put in the quality time and effort in order to make this album happen. While other albums may be better, few will have the sheer sincerity of the debut album from 9th Wonder. Years from now, or possibly sooner, hip hop critics will hail The Wonder Years as one of hip hop's classic albums.

Hip Hop Vibe's Rating: 8/10

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Album Review: Z-Ro - "Meth"

By Hardcore Critic
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Over the past decade, critics have pointed out how the quality of hip hop music has decreased. What has been overlooked is the work ethic of several rappers. Houston rapper, Z-Ro, has been among the hardest working rappers in the game.

Z-Ro has released an album a year, or more, for the past seven years and has shown no signs of slowing down. The latest album in his drug series is Meth. The new album comes on the heels of his 2010 drug-themed release, Heroin.

With Meth, Z-Ro continues his trend of melodic flows over the Southern beats. Despite other Houston-area rappers gaining more media attention, Z-Ro cements himself as one of the best rappers from Houston, of all-time. A decade ago, rappers became comfortable with singing on their records. Many rappers continue to sing, many off-key, but not Z-Ro, as he shows he can do both at ease.

Z-Ro has anthems, such as his "H-Town Kinda" and street songs, such as the Bun B-assisted "Ro and Bun." Those songs are what keeps the album creative and shows Z-Ro's diversity as an artist. Meth is one of the best albums of 2011 and it will likely go unheard by the masses. The album is currently in stores and is well worth a listen.

Hip Hop Vibe's Rating: 7/10

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Album Review: Myster DL - "Unknown Territory"

By Hardcore Critic
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Earlier this week, Myster DL released a free album, Unknown Territory. On his latest album, the Space Cadetz affiliate does go into "unknown territory." Hip hop began as a way for people to express themselves, telling what they know.

Myster DL does just that on Unknown Territory. On the new album, Myster DL provides his "stoner tracks," however he also discusses the problems in the hip hop game. The hunger of Myster DL is shown on his track, "Back Againt the Wall."

Unknown Territory the most-unique album of 2011, and one of the best albums of the year. One of the biggest positives of the album is the independent sound. The tracks on the album reflect the things going on, with an unstable economy. Myster DL reflects on the choices in life on "Throw Away the Key" and also shows off his harmonzing abilities.

Overall, Myster DL has provided 2011's most-unique album and his creativity leaks off each track, regardless of the subject matter. Myster DL questions why things are the way they are on Unknown Territory and he calls it like he sees it, which makes the album a must-listen.

Hip Hop Vibe's Rating: 8/10

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Single Review: Lil Wayne - "How to Love"

By Hardcore Critic
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Towards the end of May, fans were gearing up for the release of the long-awaited Tha Carter IV from Lil Wayne. "6 Foot 7 Foot" had been dominating the radio for months and "John (If I Die Today)" was becoming a big hit. Lil Wayne was preparing to change things up.

"How to Love" was released and it immediately touched the hearts of fans around the world. Not only was the song different from other songs from Lil Wayne, at the time, it also had a powerful message. This goes without mentioning how Lil Wayne sang with no auto-tune.

The lyrics of "How to Love" describe a beautiful woman who made the wrong decisions in life. Now a single mother, she is stripping to support her family. In the video, which is reminiscent of 2009's "Prom Queen," the woman is shown to have turned a guy down in high school, which led to her contracting HIV while stripping. But, in the alternate ending, when she dates the guy, she is stable, successful, and discovers she is pregnant, as opposed to having HIV.

While the song's theme may have heavily borrowed from "Prom Queen," "How to Love" does stand on it's own legs.

Hip Hop Vibe's Rating: 7/10

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Album Review: Gucci Mane and Waka Flocka Flame - "Ferrari Boyz"

By Hardcore Critic
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Ever since 2009, Gucci Mane has received a boost in popularity and this helped Waka Flocka Flame. Ever since his 2010, Waka has been a fan-favorite. Neither rapper is praised for their lyrical abilities, instead they are known as two of the most-popular party rappers.

When Gucci Mane and Waka Flocka Flame announced their collaboration album, Ferrari Boyz, they received a mixed response. Fans were excited because the dynamic duo were coming out with an album. Critics, on the other hand, did not want to hear another horrid album.

But, the Ferrari Boyz album serves its purpose. When a person picks up a Gucci Mane or Waka Flocka album, they know they are not getting lyricism. As great has heavy lyrics are, how many times has that type of music been used for a party? The Ferrari Boyz album is one of the best party hip hop albums of 2011, but suffered from being released the same day as The Throne (Jay-Z and Kanye West).

Ferrari Boyz is nothing like Watch the Throne and is a good release, in its own right. Such songs as the released singles, "Pacman" and the title track, have become two of the biggest club anthems in a little over a month being released. While the album's primary theme is party, there are a couple of tracks up there for the ladies and some tracks that chart into other territory.

While Gucci Mane and Waka Flocka Flame attempt to branch out, they are at their best when they stay in their lane. Overall, the Ferrari Boyz album is a good listen, especially on a night when a party is going on.

Hip Hop Vibe's Rating: 5/10

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Album Review: Ace Hood - "Blood, Sweat, & Tears"

By Hardcore Critic
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

The third album from Ace Hood is hands-down the most emotionally-driven album of his career. During the time between Gutta and his latest album, Ace Hood nearly lost everything. It was then when he questioned even staying in the rap game.

Following a conversation with DJ Khaled, late in 2010, Ace Hood decided it was time to re-enter the game. Early in 2011, Ace Hood proclaimed he was the Derek Jeter of hip hop. Many scoffed at those claims, but no one is mocking Mr. Hood now.

Ace Hood officially returned in February of this year with "Hustle Hard." The song quickly became a minor hit, but the "Hustle Hard (remix)" with Rick Ross and Lil Wayne went on to become one of the biggest anthems of the year. Fans were eagerly waiting for Blood, Sweat, & Tears. The album is full of twelve, very entertaining tracks.

The downfall of Blood, Sweat, & Tears is the "Go N Get It" single. The song is definitely a good song, but it is a cheap imitation of "Hustle Hard." Given the music Ace Hood has delivered in the past, he is much better than that. Still, the album is very entertaining, as Ace Hood did not forget his softer side with such songs on the album, such as "Body 2 Body," "Letter to My Ex's," "Beautiful," and "Spoke to My Momma."

While it is not the best album of the year, Ace Hood's Blood, Sweat, & Tears is far from the worst album of the year. More than anything, the album shows Ace Hood's growth, as a man, as opposed to his growth as a lyricist. Given the profile of his singles, this album is expected to fare better, commercially, than his previous albums.

Hip Hop Vibe's Rating: 6/10

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Album Review: "Self Made, Vol. 1"

By Hardcore Critic
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Rick Ross sought to prove he could take over the rap game and he did just that. Following his 2010 onslaught, Ross sought to prove he could become a top hip hop executive. Expanding his Maybach Music label by over 100%, Rick Ross proved just that.

The results of his labor were all laid out on the Maybach Music compilation album, Self Made, Vol. 1. Because these artists were only assembled a few months ago, the chemistry is lacking a bit. But, the distinct styles of each artist is what helps make the album.

While the album is introducing the new artists, meaning Rick Ross should take a backseat, Ross almost sounded as if he "phoned in" his verses. Because the leader of the crew came off a bit uninterested, the album lacked the synch any album should have. Overall, Self Made, Vol. 1 is an interesting album and very entertaining.

Fans of Rick Ross should definitely check the album out.

Hip Hop Vibe's Rating: 5/10

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Album Review: Wiz Khalifa - "Rolling Papers"

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Wiz Khalifa released one of the most complete albums of 2011. For the 2010-2011 period, Rolling Papers is definitely a must-have. From the beginning to the end, the album is quite entertaining.

Obviously, Wiz Khalifa is not the best lyricist in the world, but he is good at what he does. Khalifa raps about what he knows and what he likes. Because of this, Rolling Papers is a fitting title.

Despite turning heads for several collaborations and a partnership with Snoop Dogg, Wiz keeps the focus on himself on this album. He said he wanted the fans to get to know him before he had many guest appearances.

However, the appearances from Too $hort, Curren$y, and Chevy Woods of Taylor Gang were fitting and not intrusive to the overall album.

Track listing

  1. "When I'm Gone"
  2. "On My Level" (featuring Too $hort)
  3. "Black and Yellow"
  4. "Roll Up"
  5. "Hopes & Dreams"
  6. "Wake Up"
  7. "The Race"
  8. "Star of the Show" (featuring Chevy Woods)
  9. "No Sleep"
10. "Get Your Shit"
11. "Top Floor"
12. "Fly Solo"
13. "Rooftops" (featuring Curren$y)
14. "Cameras"

After listening to the album, all the way through, it is clear Wiz Khalifa knows how to make hit records. The album is a good listen, especially on long distance trips.

Hip Hop Vibe rating: 6/10

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Album Review: Saigon - "The Greatest Story Never Told"

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

After being released from prison, Saigon returned to the streets of New York. Before going to prison, he was one of the major street thugs. Once he returned to the streets, however, Saigon shifted his focus to being a positive influence.

Saigon rose to become one of the top mixtape rappers in the New York area. Along with 50 Cent, he was one of the most-hyped underground rappers in the game. Saigon and 50 Cent formed a friendship that almost landed him with G-Unit.

One year later, Saigon seemingly got his big break when Just Blaze signed him. Soon, Just Blaze helped him land a deal with Atlantic Records. At the time, it appeared to be a blessing, but it ended up being years of torture. His debut album, The Greatest Story Never Told, was due for release in 2005.

Following six years of frustration, Saigon and Just Blaze were able to leave the label. Soon, Saigon had another deal on the table with Suburban Noize Records. Back on the independent scene, Saigon had no trouble landing a secure release date. Six years of anticipation boiled down to days and, last month, Saigon finally released his album. Unlike most hardcore hip hop albums, Saigon is actually sending out a positive message.

On The Greatest Story Never Told, Saigon raps as a man who has actually been a gangbanger. He was one of the toughest of them all. However, Sai learned his lesson when he ended up behind bars. Now, his aim is to educate young men, and women for that matter. Saigon wants to show them there is so much more to life than living the street life. During his younger years, Saigon lived the street life and it got him nowhere, he tells his story without preaching, which makes it all the more better.

While giving a positive message, Saigon also has one of the wittiest flows hip hop has seen in years. Saigon is easily one of the best rappers in the game on a lyrical level. For years, he has been telling his story and it is finally official. The Greatest Story Never Told is the first album of its kind and will definitely go down in history as a classic. Most rappers are afraid to go out and do what Saigon has done, go out and rap about something positive.

Such songs as "The Color Purple" and "Better Way" are songs to check out from the album.

Hip Hop Vibe's Review: 9/10

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Album Review: Lloyd Banks - "H.F.M. 2 (The Hunger for More)"

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Four long years have passed since the last time a new album came from Lloyd Banks. Following a weak effort in 2006 with Rotten Apple, Banks had to prove himself. It was after his album release that the G-Unit movement began to fall off.

Because the Banks release signaled the end of a big moneymaker, Interscope Records never gave him a solid release date. Last year, Lloyd Banks had enough and left the label. After leaving Interscope, he returned to the mixtape scene.

Long before G-Unit made it into the mainstream, they dominated the New York mixtape scene. As a soldier for G-Unit, Lloyd Banks was one of the most popular mixtape rappers in the years before G-Unit exploded onto the charts. In need of a boost, he returned to his grind and built a following.

Early this year, Lloyd Banks recorded the mixtape single, "Beamer, Benz, or Bentley." While the song was catchy, no one expected it to become the hit it has become. The song was so popular that 50 Cent decided to have Lloyd Banks release an album. 50 Cent used the popularity of this song to market G-Unit to a new label. Throughout the summer, there were rumors of the label heading to Def Jam, but in the end, EMI agreed to distribute the next few releases from G-Unit Records.

With a solid record deal behind him, Lloyd Banks recorded an album to support his hit single. The feeling he had when he went in the studio was hunger. Six years ago, Lloyd Banks was so excited as he put together his debut album and he simply wanted more. Despite being a veteran in the game, Banks still wanted more and to take things back. This was the reason he ended up naming his album The Hunger for More 2. Not only was it a return to his rawness, but it was a return to the hunger he did not have on Rotten Apple.

As more songs were released from the album, anticipiation built for the new release. Lloyd Banks promised he would not let the fans down with this album. Banks felt as if he really had to come through for his fans because he has been overshadowed by Kanye West and Nicki Minaj. In an effort to push the creativity, he decided to feature West on the album. Unlike his other two albums, H.F.M. 2 (The Hunger for More) is star-studded with appearances from Ryan Leslie and Juelz Santana.

Lloyd Banks hoped to prove he could handle himself with other heavy-hitters by collaborating with so many artists. What time Banks was heard on the album, he held his own, but the album comes off as more of a compilation because more of other artists are heard instead of Lloyd Banks, himself. But, every artist on this album came with their best, including Banks. Because of this, the album is still very good, but it appears more as a compilation instead of a solo release.

The album was filled with verses from other artists, but Lloyd Banks held fans down, even after being overshadowed on his "Beamer, Benz, or Bentley" by Juelz Santana. The Hunger for More 2 is definitely a good album and worth the listen.

Hip Hop Vibe's Rating: 6/10

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