The Lox's move from Bad Boy to Ruff Ryders Records was a great decision. Unfortunately The Lox still lack the skill that they need to put forth an amazing album.

'We Are The Streets' was full of typical Ruff Ryder beats, arrogance and harsh lyricism. This was a hard album to listen to for the soul fact that The Lox would say "we are the best" when their album doesn't live up to that billing. On "Blood Pressure", featured artist Jadakiss even compares himself to Biggie, stating that he's "the best rapper since Biggie ain't here". This track has a phat beat, and would be good, except that Jadakiss comes no where near comparing to Notorious B.I.G. The Lox's arrogance on the album disgusted me, and made the songs hard to take seriously. The album had a 'shout out' feel. Demonstrated via their first single "Wild Out". The song consists primarily of the chorus 'wild out', sung by a crowd of people. It feels like a weak attempt to reproduplicate DMX's smash hit "Ruff Ryders Anthem." The lyricism of The Lox failed to gain my attention. They have a pretty good flow, yet none of the choruses really stick in your head. The beats are average. Most are produced by Ruff Ryders, with the exception of "Recognize" produced by DJ Premier and "Ryde Or Die, Bitch" produced by Timbaland.

"Ryde Or Die, Bitch" is the second single off the album and will find success. It is by far the best song off the whole album. Centered around a Timbaland-gone-bad beat, as well his voice sporting the chorus. Eve throws down a few verses and Drag-on makes an appearance. This is a great track that will help push sales. Other good songs include "If You Know", "We Are The Streets", "U Told Me" featuring Eve, "Blood Pressure" and "Recognize".

I never really felt The Lox on their first album, and the same goes for this, their sophomore album. Both albums have one great song, and the rest of the tracks are just background. The only difference with this album is the production. Puff Daddy has been replaced by Ruff Ryders. This move from Bad Boy will definitely gain them respect, but their arrogance has lost them any respect they might have gained from me. Overall this album was a little less than average. If you're a Ruff Ryders fan, and you really liked the compilation album "Ryde Or Die Volume 1", then you'll probably want to pick this album up. Otherwise, wait until something better comes out.

www.brockwayent.com

(Originally posted on HipHopCanada.com)

This review was written March 9, 2000