Without a doubt, Rawkus Records is on the up & up in the hip hop industry. They're quickly becoming known to have the illest rhyme spitters of any mainstream hip hop record company. 'Lyricist Lounge Vol. 2' is no exception. Not only does this compilation album provide some of the industry's hottest rappers and thoughtful lyrics, but the beats are hot too! Rawkus' own Hi Tek produces 4 tracks. Other producers include Erick Sermon, DJ Premier, Rockwilder, The Alchemist and Jay Dee. All of the featured artists deserve cudos for lyrical firepower that 'Lyricist Lounge Vol. 2' brings forth. Featured Artists include, the late Notorious B.I.G. & Big L, Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Pharoahe Monch, Nate Dogg, Q-Tip, Redman, M.O.P, Macy Gray, Gang Starr, Erick Sermon, Ghostface Killah, Prodigy, Beanie Sigel, Saukrates, and so many more...

This compilation was tight from start to finish. It gave me a real good vibe because so many different styles of hip hop were lyrically in effect. The clubbish hip hop was bouncin' on Q-Tip & Words' hot, "Makin It Blend" and on Beanie Sigel's "Get That Dough." Looking for lyricism, a natural beat, and a killer hook, enter the smash hit, "Oh No," featuring Mos Def, Pharoahe Monch & Nate Dogg. The soul even comes into effect on Macy Gray's "I've Committed Murder." This Gang Starr remix features Mos Def, and shows an all new rap side to Macy Gray. Be sure to listen to lyrics. Turntable skills are all played out on Erick Sermon's blazin' "Battle" featuring Sy Scott. And for all the hardcore headz, Prodigy (of Mobb Deep) and Big Noyd' spit "The Grimy Way." One of my favorite parings is Talib Kweli & Dead Prez on "Sharp Shooters". Canada even represents with Saukrates' "W.K.Y.A." with Redman pullin' up any slack. As well, Big L's "Still Here", Royce Da 5'9's "Let's Grow" and the bonus track, Kool G Rap & M.O.P.'s "Legendary Street Team (remix)" are all impressive too.

Rawkus knows what they're doing and where hip hop is headed. This compilation album has got hip hop as its essence. It seems finally, someone has discovered the formula for diversity, thoughtful lyrics, and dope beats. That formula has produced 'Lyricist Lounge Vol. 2.' It's hot, so you better check it out.

www.brockwayent.com

(Originally posted on HipHopCanada.com)

This review was written December 15, 2000