The most distinctive line on this album, pretty much sums up Sauce Money's debut album. "I picked up the microphone and started slaughtering shit" flows out of the Marley Marl produced track, "What's That, F**k That". These lyrics help define one of the most surprising albums I've heard in a long time. Sauce Money approaches with an "I'm tha shit" arrogant approach, but pulls it off, because this album is truly impressive.
Sauce Money got his start as a Jay-z protégé, but sheds any light of that title with this album, 'Middle Finger U.' The beats are phat which might be due to his all-star production crew, including the likes of DJ Clark Kent, Mr Rapture, Puff Daddy, DJ Premier, Big Jaz and Marley Marl. The featured artists remain few, but add zest at just the right spots, as Jay-z, Puff Daddy, Memphis Bleek, Maverick & Bam-Bue make appearances.
"Do You See" has a sweet beat provided by Puff Daddy. It features the catchy childhood chorus of "Do you see what I see" as sung by Pam Long who raspy voice sounds Lil Kim'ish. "C My 1's" also has a funky beat as produced by Spencer Bellamy that wraps itself around the chorus like a cocoon. "Section 53, Row 78" is the first time ever heard a tribute to a dead mother. The lyrics are overbearing with heart, as Sauce Money pours out all his inner feelings. The line "Could you imagine taking your mother's hand, and her body is colder than any winter ever known to man", puts death into perspective.
"Middle Finger U" is truly impressive debut album for Sauce Money. If you enjoy Jay-z's style, then you'll probably find enjoyment from this album. However, Sauce Money's style tends to be more gangsta than Jay-z. Nonetheless, the beats and lyrics are definitely above average. If you're looking to give a new artist a try, then no one deserves that chance better than Sauce Money.
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(Originally posted on HipHopCanada.com)
This review was written June 30, 2000