I just checked out the documentary series, 'Kings from Queens: The Run DMC Story', and I realised I hadn't listened to all of Run's discography. As expected for an '85 rap album, this one is a mixed bag. 'Can You Rock It Like This' bangs as does the title track to a lesser degree, with the final electro influenced 'Darryl and Joe (Krush-Groove 3)' being worthy or replays too. However, the opener just feels like an introduction and not a complete song, 'Jam-Master Jammin'' is average, as is the reggae flavoured 'Roots, Rap, Reggae'. 'It's Not Funny' sounds like a sequel to 'It's Like That' only it isn't as good. There is more variety here though which isn't a feature of their debut. Run and D.M.C aren't writing Rakim level raps yet, but they are extremely commanding MCs which was their strength out the gate. I feel like with these early rap albums you have to be a bit kind and imagine yourself in that era when this dropped. I can see it being something fresh back then, and to be fair, some of it has aged better that lots of rap released later into the '80s. Beats: ★★★ Rapping/Bars: ★★★☆ Hooks: ★★★☆ Best Tracks: King of Rock, Can You Rock It Like This, Darryl and Joe (Krush-Groove 3)