N.W.A. were quite possibly the most influential group of rappers of all-time. Members included such rap gurus as the late Eazy E, Dr.Dre, Ice Cube, MC Ren and DJ Yella. NWA's 'Straight Outta Compton' was the first album to go platinum with no radio airplay. Quite an amazing feat! So, to mark the 10th anniversary of NWA's landmark album, some of today's most influential rappers have joined forces to put out 'Straight Outta Compton - 10th Anniversary Tribute'. Quite impressive is the fact that all 12 of NWA'a originals have been remade by such artists as Snoop Dogg, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, WC, Silkk The Shocker, Big Pun, Fat Joe, Dr. Dre, and MC Ren. In a nut shell this is just an album to gain some money using NWA's name. It's got great diversity, but the originals are so much better, that this album is a bit of a downfall. In addition, there are 3 tracks on the Tribute album that have already appeared on other albums.

"Express Yourself" by Silkk The Shocker is pretty awesome as well as "8 Ball" by Jayo Felony, who gives a funky twist to the original.

This album was mainly a disappointment. The original album by NWA would be a better investment.

www.brockwayent.com

(Originally posted on HipHopCanada.com)

This review was written January 15, 1999