Black Rob

The Black Rob Report

4/5

Key Tracks: Watch Your Movements (ft. Akon), B.L.A.C.K., Ready

Five years after Black Rob's solo debut "Life Story", this gifted member of the Bad Boy family returns to show hip-hop that he's still in the game. In this album, his rapping is good, his style is fresh and innovative, and his decent lyrics are creatively decent, but what truly sets this album apart from plenty of other letdown rap albums is the brilliant producing. Diddy and other execs have obviously worked hard for this first-rate CD to become a success. It won't hit as a timeless collectible, but it's impressive nonetheless.

Listeners will appreciate that all the tracks on this album are unique. The material is fresh. The words are clearly audible, which in itself is a feat not many rappers can credit for.

There's a story going on through the 22 tracks (with interspersed interludes): Black Rob's in court, and throughout the album, he tells his story to his listeners and his jurors. You find out his verdict (sort of) in the last courtroom skit. I won't spoil it.

Some songs are more meaningful than others, context-wise. "B.L.A.C.K." is a good example, with a theme touching on racism against African-Americans. The album is full killer beats that aren't dated or stale. One especially catchy song that's hit the mainstream is "Watch Your Movements" featuring a prominent guest star, Akon. Despite Black Rob's glamorous record label company, this is one rapper that stays true to the streets. This rapper's definitely got some high gangsta-rap potential. Hit the replay.

+Grace
November 8,2005