Rakim's debut solo rap album is truly a test of his ability to mix rhythms, his reknown lyricism and to add some phat beats of his own.  Prior to this release, Rakim had teamed up with Erik B to release 5 albums over the previous twelve years. I must admit that I obtained this album with high expectations.  I had never heard any of Rakim's work prior to this album, but I had heard only praise with regard to his ability to mix rap and amazing lyrics.  When I took my first listen, I was somewhat disappointed.  Rakim is often viewed as one of the pioneers of rap, and it initially seemed to me that he had decided to rely on this fact rather than attempt to come up with new, original and appealing songs.  It seems that he relied on his old school rapping abilities and may not have changed with the times.
     Fortunately, I forced myself to give his style some time.  I soon realized that Rakim truly is an amazing lyricist, but he lacks the ability to mix those lyrics with catchy beats and enticing rhythms.  Rakim commands very high respect from his many fans and is reknown for having stayed true to the business.  Rakim's video, "Guess Who's Back", which ranked #1 on B.E.T. rap city, is an analogy to the account in the bible where the devil takes jesus into the mountains and offers him the kingdoms of the world in exchange for an act of worship.  Jesus refused, thus keeping integrity to a higher cause.  The video is a testament to Rakim's philosophy in staying true to himself and to his fans.  He has not been overcome by greed, as many have, and has resisted many ill temptations.
     Rap music is as much about phat beats and lyricism as it is thinking.  "The 18th Letter" is truly a demonstration of Rakim's superior wisdom and intellect.  I was forced to listen to Rakim's lyrics, a rapping ability that very few new artists possess.  At time, however, it seemed as though Rakim was simply rhyming off lyrics and lacked the flow and rhythm which make a good artist even better.
     I must admit that I was somewhat disappointed with "The 18th Letter", because it didn't have that unique edge that I tend to cling to.  If you love Puff Daddy, then you might not enjoy Rakim's album.  But, if you're a connoisseur of deep lyrics, then nothing goes deeper than the eternal question:  "Who is God" (track 9) and I might suggest that you give Rakim's "The 18th Letter" a checking out.

Track Listing:
Click on an underlined track to hear a RealAudio sound sample.

01. Intro
02. The 18th Letter (Always And Forever)
03. Skit
04. It's Been A Long Time
05. Remember That
06. The Saga Begins
07. Skit
08. Guess Who's Back
09. Stay A While
10. New York (Ya Out There)
11. Show Me Love
12. Skit
13. The Mystery (Who Is God?)
14. When I'm Flowin
15. It's Been A Long Time (Suave House Mix)
16. Guess Who's Back (Alternative Mix)
17. Outro

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(Originally posted on HipHopCanada.com)

This review was written in 1997 or 1998