-Reks has been making noise on the underground scene for a while now, collaborating with some of hip hop’s most notable artists and most sought after producers. His newest LP is no exception, the line up on “R.E.K.S.” (Rhythmatic Eternal King Supreme) has had hip hop fans all over buzzing with anticipation for its release.-( Official Release: 03/08/11)
1. 25th Hour (prod by DJ Premier)
It’s hard to go wrong with ANYthing produced by Premo and The 25th Hour doesn’t disappoint. Opening the LP with “Ima write this here rhyme like Guru’s in the passenger”, Reks attacks the track without letting up. A solid premier produced intro.
2. Thin Line (prod by Pete Rock)
Following a Premo cut with a Pete Rock joint could win over even the pickiest of hip hop fans regardless of who’s spittin’. Reks’ rapid delivery does this justice though. A classic sample chop, scratch heavy track with that hard, eerie feel. Two cuts in and I’m already breaking the timbs out the closet.
Read the rest after the Jump!
3. Limelight (prod by Nottz)
The Nottz produced “Limelight” knocks and keeps the album’s rugged sound going, putting listeners in one of many’s favorite era of Hip Hop. Is it just me or has a good amount of rappers tried to channel their inner Slick Rick over Nottz beats.
4. Kill Em (prod by Sean C & LV)
While i spent the majority of “Kill Em” nodding my head, by the 2nd verse it was starting to sound a bit monotonous from number 1 to this track. Worthy production from Sean C & LV.
5. This Or That (prod by Statik Selektah)
Exactly what I was waiting for after track 2 or 3. Great production and chop work by Statik Selektah. Drums are on point and the rolling bassline is undeniable. I’m going to have to agree with Reks on this one “Kanye West keep your clothes on”.
6. Why Cry f/ Styles P (prod by The Alchemist)
Was expecting more from Alchemist on this, not saying that its not molded perfect for Reks and SP, but definitely not one of my favorite Alchemist beats. None of the elements of this one make it a standout record.
7. Face Off f/ Termanology (prod by Sha Money XL)
Classic mid 2000s G Unit sounding production from Sha Money, which was actually refreshing to hear. While Reks did what he does best, and did spit a strong verse… Termanology easily steals the show.
8. The Wonder Years (prod by Hi Tek)
Another unexpected beat selection from one of the most versatile producers out. Production is simple, but effective in achieving the hard feel of the track. Reks gets his story telling flow in and sings the hook. Not one of my favorite records on the project.
9. This Is Me f/ DJ Corbet (prod by Mike Frey)
Jazzy beat with rolling piano and a smooth bassline. Another simple but effective production. This joint has a real chill vibe and a dope hook, I dig it.
10. Mr. Nobody (prod by Statik Selektah)
Statik and Reks link up again for “Mr. Nobody” These two mesh perfectly. Classic Hip Hop beat over a female vocal sample with dirty hi hats. Reks gets real deep and personal on this autobiographical track, he spits about his childhood struggles and his parents’ drug problems.
11. The Underdog (prod by Blaze P)
Blaze P did a great job analyzing this jazz sample and turning it into something hype for Reks. The drums and Reks’ flow give this cut a bounce that definitely had me nodding, Personally 1 of my favorite joints on the LP.
12. U Know f/ Freeway (prod by Hi Tek)
Tapping Hi-Tek again for “U Know,” this time for a more recent sounding track, thats a little more along the lines of Reflection Eternal Tek. The block orchestra type sound is perfect for the likes of Reks and Freeway.
13. Cigarettes f/ Lil Fame of M.O.P. & Atticabarz (prod by Fizzy Womack)
When you see M.O.P on any track you expect it to punch you in the face…. Not the case here! Simple layed back sample loop with MPC swing, boom bap kicks and snares.
14. Mascara (The Ugly Truth) (prod by Statik Selektah)
A bittersweet production from Statik selektah. If it weren’t for the drums livening this track up, it would be depressing and could possibly be an Ablify commercial. Simple piano loop with live sounding drums. Not feeling the hook on this one, but Reks flow is on point.
15. Like A Star (prod by Statik Selektah)
Statik makes up for the last cut here. Another simple but effective track. Sample loop with minor chops and drums. Primo style cuts on the hook make it complete. Sounds specifically tailored for Reks
16. Self Titled (prod by Statik Selektah) [Bonus Track]
The Bonus track is another example of the great musical chemistry between Statik and Reks. A classic piano sample chopped up and brought to life by the drums and record cuts.
Over all, this was a pretty solid project. Some of the tracks were disappointing, as I feel like some of my favorite producers may have given Reks some of their C and D list beats. For the most part, Reks’ flow kept up with some CLASSIC, veteran artists and producers on this LP and he gets my props for that. I give R.E.K.S. a 3/5. This LP officially drops on March 8th, check it out. 3 out of 5
Original Post Via: http://blog.istandardproducers.com/2011/02/track-by-track-review-of-reks-rhythmatic-eternal-king-supreme/
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