In this, the last year of the 20th decade, hip hop has hit mainstream with a sonic boom. Unfortunately this creates a huge splash effect, thus watering down a lot of rap recently released. And in this, my darkest time of my life as a reviewer, I've been questioning my ability to filter through the weak and identify the talented. In the past year I've only encountered four truly amazing albums: Eminem's 'Slim Shady', Nine Inch Nails' 'The Fragile', 'The NWA Legacy Volume 1' and Limp Bizkit's 'Significant Other'. But everything was made better after revealing my cochlea to the sweet, smooth flow of Dr Dre's latest album.

Dr Dre first entered the rap game as a member of the soon to be reunited N.W.A. As a member of this group, he helped shape the direction and statements that the hip hop game continues to make today. The group disbanded in the early nineties, and Dr Dre pursued his career on his own. 1992 was the year that Dr Dre released his debut solo album, 'The Chronic'. This album would gain mass appeal and propel Dre to a level above all other gangsta rap artists. The album, which has become a classic, also introduced the world to the lyricism of a young rapper named Snoop Doggy Dogg.

Seven years later, with a new millennium just around the corner, Dr Dre has released his sophomore album, dubbed the most anticipated rap album of all-time. There is no doubt about it, the album lives up to its billing. 'The Chronic: 2001' is amazing. Production credits go to Dr Dre and one of my favorite producers; Mel-Man. This duo interweave classic LBC groove with piano, well-placed gun play, true gangsta beats, entertaining skits, and blazing lyricism. Dr Dre barely leaves his elite circle while looking for featured artists. Snoop Dogg, Hittman, Nate Dogg, Eminem, Kurupt, King T, MC Ren, Ms Roq include big-name groupies, while Xzibit and Mary J Blige round out those featured on tracks.

"Xxplosive" is the best song on the album. It's beat makes you feel like warm sand beneath your toes on the most beautiful beach on the sunniest of days. Dre trades verses with Kurupt, Nate Dogg and Hittman, and gives the song a feel reminiscent of his famous track "Nuthin But A G Thang". Beyond that I can't even begin to describe all the great songs on this album.

This album is the best rap album I've heard in a real long time. The production is scintillating, Dr Dre's lyricism dazzles. The featured artists know their roles and polish it to the most shinning rock. If you enjoy rap, or even if you are just looking to try out a new rap album, then this is the one to get. 'The Chronic: 2001' exceeded all my expectations. In fact, it blew my mind!

www.brockwayent.com

(Originally posted on HipHopCanada.com)

This review was written November 29, 1999