I've heard people refer to this album as one of the best of all time. I've heard people say that this album alone cemented Jay's spot in Rap history. Now don't get me wrong this album is fantastic, but still, nowhere near the status that most make it appear to be. The first 10 track are amazing, and that's not for argument, plain and simple. But aside from 'Bring It On', every track after 'Friend or Foe' sucks ass.
Now lyrically, again, Jigga really put it down on that aspect. On most tracks though, the production is less than average. This was put out in 1996, but most of the production sounds pre-1994. A good 50% of the hooks are corny. And the hooks that are actually good, Jigga isn't saying them (Can't Knock the Hustle, Ain't No Nigga, Feelin' It, etc.). I'm quite sure alot of people don't agree with me, but still, speak what's on ya' mind.
*Lately, there's been alot of talk that us younger listeners are quick to label an album a classic because we don't know what it was like when Illmatic or even Paid In Full first dropped. But personally, I think the older heads also latch on to the word classic quickly, mainly because the album has a couple of years behind it.
Now lyrically, again, Jigga really put it down on that aspect. On most tracks though, the production is less than average. This was put out in 1996, but most of the production sounds pre-1994. A good 50% of the hooks are corny. And the hooks that are actually good, Jigga isn't saying them (Can't Knock the Hustle, Ain't No Nigga, Feelin' It, etc.). I'm quite sure alot of people don't agree with me, but still, speak what's on ya' mind.
*Lately, there's been alot of talk that us younger listeners are quick to label an album a classic because we don't know what it was like when Illmatic or even Paid In Full first dropped. But personally, I think the older heads also latch on to the word classic quickly, mainly because the album has a couple of years behind it.
i feel if anything its underrated.
