K-Rino "Time Traveler"- 4 Stars
Shaun Borowski | Buffalo, NY | 06/13/2008
(4 out of 5 stars)
"K-Rino is a lyrical legend (just like the name of one of his albums!!) who has been in the game since the 1980's. He has a plethora of material; in excess of 20 albums. "Time Traveler" is one of him newer releases, from the year 2006. His lyrics are off the chart. K-Rino might be the most underrated lyricist in the game today. He is definitely near the top 10 lyricists ever, if not cracking the top. He meshes all of his rhymes so well together. Whether talking about street topics ("Talkin' Loud), battle type rhymes ("Four Minute Warning", politic-based hip hop ("Politricks"), conscious, mind rattling stories ("Valley Of Decision"), or just showing off his verbal talents ("Open Thought Surgery"), K-Rino brings the heat. As much as I want to talk more about the lyrics, the rest of the album must be reviewed. The production is almost forgettable. It isn't the worst production ever, but it is really bland. It is actually pretty bland, there is nothing special to be heard. K-Rino always seems to have this problem. Just as Canibus, Chino XL, and Ras Kass suffer from bad production, K-Rino does the same. Everyone listed has incredible lyrical abilities, but never have the production to compliment that. K-Rino should honestly invest in some good production for his next album; I'm sure there are many that would help him out. On to the guests: Kuwait (who doesn't really do anything, just talks at the end of the second track), Z-Ro (drops a decent verse on "Talkin' Loud"), Super Crunk (helps the chorus out on "You Never Know"), Dope-E (best guest appearance on the album, see "Politricks"), and a couple of others. The only guests who have verses are Dope-E and Z-Ro. The rest just talk or are heard on the chorus. K-Rino's "Time Traveler" is a must own for anyone who listens to more than just the vibes of an album. If you're looking for lyrics, this is the place to go. Also, anyone primarily into southern hip hop should check this out.
Lyrics- 10/10
Production- 6.5/10
Guest Appearances- 7/10
Overall Sound- 8/10
3.94
-Shaun B."
K Rino Does It Again
R. Hamilton | Houston, TX USA | 05/25/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Another well deserved shout out to K Rino. One of the best rappers ever. He has a superior intellect and is very diverse in his lyrics. From straight up "you don't want to step to me lyrics" to social awarenes, he has got to be put on your "A" list. And if not, you're sleeping on a true great lyricist. Being a true lyricist is a gift, not something that you just pick up. And K Rino is definitely gifted. I bought Time Traveler and it is well worth the money as always. If you've never heard K Rino, take the chance and purchase any of his CD's and I guarantee you won't be disappointed."