New York's rapper duo, known as M.O.P., are suited up for war, with the release of their latest album, 'Warriorz.' Indeed the lyrics portray themselves as warriors, with gangsta-laced tales of lockdown, gun play and thuggin'. DJ Premier helps out with production on a fair number of tracks, but failed to come through with a clutch beat. There are a few impressive beats, but nothing to shake a leg at. This, combined with a predominantly solo album and intellect-lacking lyrics, make for a slightly raw album.

The first single, "Ante Up" is blazing. I'm really feeling this single right now because the Funkmaster Flex beat is hot. Unfortunately, the track on the album is ruined because the beginning of the song is cluttered with Flex's shoutouts. "Old Timerz," "Cold As Ice," "Operation Lockdown," "Foundation" and "Calm Down" were other good tracks. Also, the beat for the outro skit for track 11, "Follow Instructions," is one of the most catchy beats on the whole album. M.O.P. should most definitely have used it for a track instead of a skit.

I was disappointed with this album. After hearing "Ante Up," I expected the rest of the album to be just as blazing. It wasn't. However, there are definitely some appealing tracks, and you enjoy NY hip hop with ruff & raw, power trip type lyrics, then you might want to check this album out.

www.brockwayent.com

(Originally posted on HipHopCanada.com)

This review was written November 2, 2000