Mrs. Clinton, step aside, there's a new first lady in the US and she can satiate any rap fanatic's cravings. With the release of Eve's debut album, comes a reassurance that Ruff Ryders go beyond the success of DMX's first album. Eve has put forth an album that is scented with success. In fact, in reminds me so much of DMX's first album "It's Dark And Hell Is Hot", it's eerie.

Eve has quickly snuck out of nowhere to take the rap game by the throat. Her amazing ability to mix real lyrics with great beats is a recipe for record sales. In fact, she found herself at the top of the billboard charts for first week sales. Her success also hangs on her stylistic ability to put forth hardcore rap, R&B as well as dance-ish tracks. And you can't find fault in cast of featured artists including Missy Elliott, DMX, The Lox, Beanie Siegal and Drag-On. Also, her first-ever single, "What Y'All Want", off of the Ruff Ryders compilation album: "Ryde Or Die", became the first #1 rap single by a female artists. Pretty amazing! Eve even had the guts to exclude that from this album, which shows her confidence in this album.

In the beginning, the first single, "Gotta Man" in no way appealed to me. But it got some airplay and quickly planted its roots and grew on me. It's a just a great, feel-good tune. It'll draw you in, I'm sure. "Love Is Blind" is an amazingly iced R&B gem. The lyrics'll draw you as Eve recounts the story of her friend who was blinded by the love that killed her friend. "Maniac" has a party track written all over. The chorus is a bit annoying, but the pace of Eve's lyrics doubled with the bounce appeal make for a treat track. Other impressive tracks are "Philly, Philly", "Ain't Got No Dough", "Dog Match" and "What Y'All Want (remix)".

Eve will without a doubt have success and platinum knocking on her door for the next year. This is an amazing album. Any hip hop or rap collection is not complete without this album. It's nice to see that Ruff Ryders have been able to back up their dwindelling reputation. If you're looking to purchase a quality rap album, then look no further than 'Let There Be.Eve - Ruff Ryder's First Lady'. It will not disappoint

www.brockwayent.com

(Originally posted on HipHopCanada.com)

This review was written Sept 28, 1999