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- album reviews
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written by Chase Doe |
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If you thought newly anointed Def Jam President Shawn Carter would have some
influence over the new Ghostface album, you're mistaken. Whether you call him
Ghostface Killah, Ironman, Tony Starks, or Pretty Toney, nothing has changed
with his latest release "Fishscale." It’s the same pure, unrelenting, raw
hip hop Ghostface has been delivering since his first introduction with the
Wu-Tang Clan.
Right from the opening track "Shakey Dog," it’s apparent that the vintage
Ghostface sound is back. Ghost then wets the listener’s appetite for the
long awaited “Cuban Linx 2” with the Raekwon assisted, “Kilo” and “R.A.G.U”.
Another highlight is "9 Milli Bros." which features all 9 original Wu Tang
members, and the late J. Dilla produced "Whip You With a Strap" which has
Ghost revisiting his childhood. Even Ghost’s attempts commercial success
with the Ne-Yo featured lead single “Back Like That,” which works because of
Ghost’s ability to wear his heart on his sleeve.
Besides the song "Three Bricks" which features Notorious B.I.G.'s verse from
"Ni**as Bleed," and the lack of production by the RZA, “Fishscale” is Tony Starks in his prime, dripping with humor, emotion, charisma,
and brutal honesty. Few artists today are able to make sincere good music, without conforming to a commercial hook, conventional bar
structure, or the latest trends. As a result, Ghostface is one artist that should be
treasured.
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