Great Introduction to Big Shug
Gregory K. Ashley | Boston, MA | 05/19/2005
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Those familiar with Gangstarr know of Big Shug. Those not familiar with him but want to hear some good underground hip-hop should give this a listen. As stated on the album this is a "pre-album". A compilation of Shug's appearances over the past 13+ years in the game. What separates him from others in hip-hop is he both raps AND sings (well I might add...I've seen him live).
Though a majority of the songs are him rhyming...he sings all of his own hooks...and sings entirely on the album closer "Treez". Lyrically, I've always thought he was overlooked, and unquestionably he can hold his own on the mic. His subject matter is a little bit limited at times...."surviving on the streets, hustling to survive" etc. but his delivery and style are above average.
The production varies from Primo to Alchemist..(again this is a compilation of works spanning over a decade...) but it's still fairly consistant. The stand out cuts are:
"Counter Punch"
"We Gotta Get Up"
"Crush"
"Serious Rap Sh*t"
"Love or Hate"
"F.A.L.A"
"Treez"
The only minor complaint I have are the skits. Each skit has DJ Premier giving the listener a little background on Shug and his music, which is all fine and good...but they tend to break up the "flow" of the album. That aside this is a worthwhile purchase."