AMZ -- September, 1998 -- MxPx
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 vol 2 number 10

 September 1, 1998

     
   
Artist: Cam'Ron
Title: "Confessions of Fire"
Label: Undertainment Records
Reviewed By: Jim Jehs
Rating:
   

Cam'ron Giles enters the competitive rap scene, a market that requires a distinct style in order to survive, with "Confessions of Fire." "Cam'ron"
teamed with "Mase" on "Horse and Carriage," which can be seen on MTV Jams' Top Ten. "Cam'ron" has a smooth, funky style, with the ability to have fun, change pace, and add sensitivity when required in certain tracks. He collaborates with other major names in the industry on some songs, such as "Mase" on "We Got It," and "Prophecy," written by "Sting" and featuring the vocals of "Kelly Price," while "Cam'ron" writes the rap lyrics.

"Feels Good" features the smooth, seductive vocals of "Usher." "Me, My Moms & Jimmy" has the strong vocals of "Kenny Greene," while "Jermaine Dupri" backs up the track "A Pimp's A Pimp." "Cam'ron" chooses different techniques for his music, from soft to hard, player to romantic, family man to individualistic.

"Glory" is the perfect opening track, a sort of "Rocky" theme, claiming
his own personal glory for making it to the big time. "357" and "Rockin' and Rollin' " are full of cliche lyrics, and a seventies feel, with the
backdrop music establishing style and 'Cam'ron's" form. The pace changes with "Wrong Ones" and "Death," two touchy issues of sexual irresponsibility and poor choices, leading to deadbeat dads and death itself. "After the night is done/ We're the wrong ones."

The song that brings "Cam'ron" to player status at the top of his game is
"Horse and Carriage," featuring "Mase." "We're gonna rise to the top!"
"Cam'ron" and "Mase" throw a funky beat, with playboy lyrics, and this one is definitely headed toward being a club hit. Both rappers are smooth, playful and cocky, requirements for player status. "We Got It" will undoubtedly have a club remix which will also be hot.

There is a "Prophecy" that you will die by the hand that you live. This is an intense title for a track that describes the consequences of life in the fast lane. Music written by "Sting" provides a sensitive, prophetic tone for the lyrics, and "Kelly Price" is the soft influence that creates the emotionality within the song. The last powerful track is "Feels Good," a seductive, playful track, with the strong, smooth vocals of "Usher," and the intellectual wit of "Cam'ron." The collaboration is powerful, since "Usher" is hot as hot gets.

"Cam'ron" proves to be talented, and displays the prowess needed to be successful in the rap industry. His choices for partnerships are excellent. "Confessions of Fire" will hopefully only be a stepping stone for "Cam'ron," as his abilities and experience continue to develop. So if I were you, I would definitely hop on that "Horse and Carriage" and enjoy the ride.













© 1998 by Mary Ellen Gustafson
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