In 2003, the labels BBE Records and Rapster Records released a compilation that includes the two albums recorded by Pete Rock in 1995 for Elektra: at the time, the label only released the single "Fakin' Jax" and, not satisfied with the response of the public, decided to shelve both projects ("Center of Attention" and "The Original Baby Pa": both released in 2003 by Pete Rock through Rapster label), believing that it wouldn't have to spend more time and more money on them. In total, the double LP includes 29 tracks and 126 minutes of material, just over two hours of listening.
The production is performed entirely by Pete Rock, one beat is credited to Grap Luva, his younger brother. The soundscape created by one of the best producers ever, is enveloping, velvety, silky, beautiful, jazz and soul samples are continuously combined with hard and flawless drums. Rapping is performed almost exclusively by guys from Mount Vernon, New York: on the first CD the group InI, composed of Grap Luva, Rob-O, Marco Polo and Ras G, performs, on the second CD the verses are entrusted to Deda, while Pete Rock contributes to rap every now and then. The guests are Q-Tip and Large Professor, who immediately stand out among the best rappers of this compilation, Meccalicious, Denise Weeks, Vinja Monica and Ex-Cons.
Looking solely at the music, this is one of the best projects of the year and one of the best hip-hop double albums in history. The rap side of both records disappoints due to presenters not up to the beats, annihilated in every song by Pete Rock's impeccable choice behind the keyboards: their style is permanently functional, they add nothing to the music and take nothing away from it. It's inevitable to think that an unlimited myriad of other MCs would have done better, primarily CL Smooth, anyway, I want to write what everyone thinks: Ladybug Mecca would kill this double album and make it the immaculate record it deserves to be. Essential listening for East Coast fans.
Music vibes: 9.5/10.
Rapping vibes: 6.5/10.
No comments:
Post a Comment