After revolutionizing the way that rappers rap with musical partner Eric B, Queens MC Rakim cemented his place in hip-hop history. With 1997's "The 18th Letter," he reminded everyone that he was still one the most intelligent rappers around.
A dozen years later, "The Seventh Seal" is the sound of a veteran emcee comfortable in almost any setting, whether he's rapping about his woman (the romantic "You and I"), reminiscing about his sonic inspiration ("Put It All to Music"), or spinning a cautionary street tale ("Documentary of a Gangsta").
Production from frequent collaborator Nick Wiz, along with Nottz, Ty Fyffe and Jake One, works well at times, but it's a departure from Rakim's old-school sound as well as the boom-bap of "The 18th Letter." While his nimble, adaptable flow never sounds out of place, some of the slower beats tend to drag a little.
Ra is at his best when things are simple: The stark soul loops that power "Holy Are You," "Dedicated" and "Psychic Love" showcase a legendary rapper in full command. Even when things get a little sing-songy -- and they do, on occasion -- it's easy to see what inspired many a kid to pick up the mic.
Hear samples from "The Seventh Seal" at Amazon.com.
Sussex Countian
