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"DJ Quik," the mastermind behind
Tupac's multi-platinum double album "All Eyez On Me,"
steps up to the microphone to render his long awaited CD, "Rhythm-al-ism."
In the three years since his last release, Quik has honed his
skills as producer, rapper and musician. With undeniable grooves,
that overflow with funky bass lines and soft synthesizers, which
Quik is well known for, "Rhythm-al-ism" will certainly
oblige.
The first single, "Hand In Hand,"
features El DeBarge bringing the hook, as Quik and 2nd II None
share the witty vocals. With lyrics like "ain't nothin like
gettin' a dollar and some penetration," "Playas Anthem"
might have been a better title. Quik takes us on a musical journey
into the land of funk, Jazz, Reggae and Hip-Hop. "We Still
Party," "Down, Down, Down" and "So Many Wayz,"
slip into the category of smooth, yet funky, hip-hop vibes. Having
matured as an artist/producer and person, Quik's lyrical focus
is directed more at having a good time than the usual confrontational
focus that permeates much of today's rap music.
In "Youz A Ganxta," the lyrics
beckon his fellow rappers to be lyrically responsible, and "Speed,"
as the title would indicate, is an example of the lightning fast
delivery of DJ Quik's rap. With a remix, "Speed" could
be one to give Luke some competition.
While he has matured, it seems there are
some things you don't outgrow. "Medley For A V" is
vintage DJ Quik. Together with Snoop Doggy Dogg, Nate Dogg, AMG,
2nd II None, Hi-C and El DeBarge, they pay homage to a particular
part of the female anatomy. Don't hold your breath for the radio
version. As on each of his previous albums, "Quik's Interludes,"
have showcased his versatility as a producer, ranging from the
straight up Jazz composition of "Summer Breeze" from
the "Safe + Sound" album, to his current "El's
Interlude." With the slick production, and smooth vocals
of El DeBarge, this is destined for R&B radio.
"Rhythm-al-ism" is, as the CD
cover says, "Over 70 minutes of commercial free music,"
and that is correct. It could have just as well read "70
minutes of DJ Quik at his best." |
