Search - Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth :: All Souled Out

A Classic EP

The Gifted One | Charlotte, North Carolina | 09/29/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This EP came out in 1991 before Pete Rock & CL Smooth's critically acclaimed album Mecca & the Soul Brother. What can I say about this disc? Every track on here is a banger. My favorite being relaxed "Mecca & the Soul Brother". On this EP Pete Rock introduced the world to his soulful and jazzy style of production. The way this man flipped samples was amazing. Fans also got their first taste of the mellow flows of Pete's partner CL Smooth on this EP. They make the perfect duo. No one can rhyme over a Pete Rock beat like CL Smooth. If you're a fan of Pete & CL or generally a fan of true hip-hop then I recommend you buy this if you don't already have it."

The Greatest!!

sntcbk09 | Chapel Hill, NC United States | 06/12/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I feel that Pete Rock and CL smooth are the most underrated rap artists in the history of rap. Pete's style of using jazz and funk has been copied many times over. There is a difference between somone who has a record deal and someone who is a true artist. These brothers definetely represent the underappreciated element that is missing in most rap...the TRUE artist. Their style is legendary. If you see them available on amazon I strongly suggest you buy these three albums. MAGNIFICENT!!"

"There is no other...Mecca and the Soul Brother"

ctrx | 'bout to show you how the EAST COAST rocks... | 03/27/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Plainly stated, "All Souled Out" is one of the more important EPs of early nineties hip hop. This was Pete and CL's coming out party, and although it is more obscure than their classic albums, "Mecca and the Soul Brother" and "The Main Ingredient", it contains music easily on par to those two albums. All six tracks contain the immortal production and slick lyricism that made them the best team in hip hop. Pete's talents are evident even on this early recording, with his signature horn loops, hollow drums, and intros and outros set. CL floats over the beats, always making it sound easier than it is, with his conscious yet laid back sound. Fans of old school and jazz rap should know that "All Souled Out" is a must to their collection.



"The Good Life" opens the EP, and it might be the best track of the bunch. CL's slick abilities are at their best here, speaking of the pros and cons of wealthiness over Pete's horn and bass laden track. On "Mecca and the Soul Brother", CL takes the time to introduce the duo and rap about pretty much whatever else he wants to, over a spinning and beautiful horn line. "Go With the Flow" is another favorite of mine. The beat is very unique, Pete abandons his beloved horns for a toned down flute and bass line. "The Creator" is Pete Rock's solo track, and he shines. The quick bass and horns are a perfect complement to his baritone, laid back voice, and he does a great job on the mic. "All Souled Out" is a great lyrical and musical track, and Group Home's remix to the opening track is another cool take on it, I like it almost as much as the first.



This album is a must have for anyone who enjoyed their other two. Pete and CL were arguably the best team in hip hop, and their short time together produced only limited recordings. This EP will not disappoint anyone."