G-Dep is the latest hip-hop artist to release an album on P. Diddy's Bad Boy record label. His debut album, Child of the Ghetto was blessed with the skills of some impressive producers and featured lyricists (Rakim, Kool G Rap, May, Black Rob, Shyne). Unfortunately, G-Dep pales in comparison to all these other people. His "start-stop-pause" method of rapping is completely devoid of flow, and his rhymes fail to blend with the beat. In essence, his rap style seems weak. Several tracks had great potential, (i.e. great beats), but G-Dep managed to make them flow less and boring.

'Danger Zone' is the hottest track. The beat is off the hook and G-Dep delivers with impressive flow. The single, 'Special Delivery' has a potent beat, but P. Diddy successfully ruins the track by adding annoying overdubs and shouts, similar to a Funkmaster Flex track. 'Smash on the First Night' was nearly made into a gem thanks to May's featured vocals. As well, three tracks are recycled from P.Diddy's The Saga Continues album including the smash hit 'Let's Get It', as well as 'Blast Off' and 'Child of the Ghetto.'

Initially I was impressed with this album. The beats got my head bopping and I was enjoying the production. But G-Dep's non-energetic rap style and boring skits made my finger become familiar with my CD player's 'skip' button. If G-Dep can improve his flow and attain a sense of rhythm, then he might have a chance in this rap game.

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