"Tony Montana rest in peace"
I just reviewed an R&B album by Tyrese that basically sums this album up as well. There are lots of 7-8/10 songs but there is nothing that blows me away. The production is stronger than the rapping with a number of recognisable samples being featured. With a better rapper some of these probably could've been those 9-10/10 songs that I'm looking for.
Beats: ★★★☆
Rapping/Bars: ★★★
Hooks: ★★★
Best Tracks: The Shit is Real (DJ Premier Remix)
'Ocean Drive' (maybe their best song) particularly along with 'Lifted' really standout here. Those aside, it's a laid-back, chill listen, but nothing else grabs me.
Best Tracks: Lifted, Ocean Drive
An okay mixtape from Chrisette Michele where she sings over more hip hop/trap production that we're used to hearing. Many of these songs were released on the deluxe edition of her album, 'Milestone'. It's not surprising that the best moments are when she is in her usual lane. There are also two acapella covers of Adele and Justin Bieber songs respectively with 'Hello' and 'Sorry'. The tape is worth checking out for fans, but there are too many songs I won't be rushing back to.
Best Tracks: My Body, Edge of the Bay, Top of the World
This was an underwhelming listen. Swizz must have photos of many people in the industry. As a producer, he shouldn't have the connections and name in hip hop that he does based on what he's created. 'Runaway' has Nas, so it's not terrible, but he has done much better including on 'Hip Hop 50, Vol. 1' with DJ Premier. Lil Wayne brings his annoying delivery on 'This Sh*t Right Here'. Scar Lip is the best thing on 'Take Em Out' backed by above average production and some DMX adlibs that are always welcome. 'City Sound Like' has wack rappers on it. 'Say Less' is okay. Jay does nothing to surprise on 'Khalas.'
The production is average at best, there is nothing catchy, the lyrics aren't interesting, and for the most part the rappers don't impress.
Beats: ★★☆
Rapping/Bars: ★★
Hooks: ★★
Best Tracks: Runaway, Take 'Em Out
Not a bad return from Day26. The album gets better as it runs after an uninspiring opening with club-R&B songs like 'Touchdown' and to a lesser extent 'R&B Singer'. When they do what they do best though, which is R&B with some build up, the results are worth going back to. The final five songs from 'You're Worth It' are enjoyable.
Best Tracks: Russian Roulette, Impossible, Lose Control
