The rising popularity of rap rock groups is leaving an impact that even legendary Public Enemy member, Chuck D, is trying to imitate. Why? It's because the most powerful of live shows are those that blend hard bass beats with fine tuned guitar work. Loud Records owner, Steve Rifkind saw this opportunity and set out to capitalize on it. With 'Loud Rocks' he has broken down barriers, pairing some of the biggest rap & rock artists. The result is an energized album that will become the pillar of any rap-rock collection.

The compilation is reminiscent of the 'Judgement Night Soundtrack.' However, there are no appearances by Cypress Hill, Onyx or Pearl Jam on this album. Featured rap artists are Wu-Tang Clan, Tha Alkaholiks, Dead Prez, Xzibit, Big Punisher, Mobb Deep and M.O.P. The featured rock artist are much more diverse including Ozzy Osbourne, Everlast, Crazy Town, Tom Morello (Rage Against the Machine), Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers), Static-X, Sugar Ray, Incubus and more.

'Loud Rocks' is packed with some great songs, but there are a few that rise above the rest. "Wu Tang Clan Ain't Nothing Ta F*** Wit" features Tom Morello and Chad Smith. It was already one of the Wu Tang's greatest songs, but this version is on a whole new level. Incubus' addition to Big Punisher's "Still Not A Player" is blazing. Also included is a Static-X influenced version of Dead Prez's "Hip Hop."

This album is a must get for anybody that is feeling the rap rock movement. Almost all of the tracks are fluidly mix the rock with the rap and take both genres of music to a higher level. The only drawback is the lack of diversity of hip hop artists. There are 14 tracks on the album, but only seven different hip hop artists. However, you'll hardly notice as you're marveling at resulting songs. If you're a fan of Limp Bizkit, Everlast, Crazy Town, the Judgement Night Soundtrack or any other rap rock group, then you'll probably appreciate this album and ought to check it out.

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(Originally posted on HipHopCanada.com)

This review was written October 1, 2000