JT Money's credentials in the hip hop world don't play up to this album. 'Blood, Sweat And Years' is JT Money's follow-up album, to the platinum selling 'Pimpin On Wax' which put JT in the spotlight following the smash hit "Who Dat". Despite helping to found the sound of southern playalistic rap, this album feels more clubbish.

The predominantly solo album was a bit disappointing. "War" yielded a blatantly similar beat to JT's smash single "Who Dat", which despite new lyrics, left my heading hanging in shame. It is blaringly obvious that JT is trying play off the success of that single. I don't know how he fails to see that most fans like originality and fresh beats. "War" was disappointing. "Lil Charlie" also left my head danglin'. Although the beat is funky, the chorus plays off of that kindergarten classic of "put your left leg in, your right leg out, then twist and stomp." Personally I'd prefer to associate these lyrics with Romper Room, Mr. Dressup and Sharon, Lois & Bram. The sexual connotation implied by these lyrics just seem a bit immature for a man of JT Money's stature.

The album wasn't all bad. "Superbitch" with its funkily synthetic beat and provocative lyrics was impressive. "Father To Son" is a feel-good heart-felt track. The first single "Hi-Lo" grew on me, but fell short of amazing. "Sosa On That Chocha" will likely get club play down south, but unless you've got some understanding of Spanish, this track will be hard to decipher.

'Blood, Sweat And Years' is my first real taste of JT Money. Unfortunately this taste of blood and sweat left a bit of a foul taste in my mouth. The album was decent, but just didn't feel very real or like a work of heart. However, it's got enough diversity to possibly attract fans from different corners of hip hop. If all else fails, try out JT Money's slot machine at: http://www.jtmoney.com .

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