Review Summary: The classic debut album from one of the best hip hop groups of all time.
Run-D.M.C., is the debut album from one of the greatest, most influential hip hop groups of all time. This album came out when hip hop was still a developing genre, and this album, along with others helped bridge the gap for the genre. This album had a huge impact on hip hop, because without it, hip hop may not have grew into what it did. The album changed the general sound of hip hop, and proved hip hop was much more than just a gimmick.
While most of the songs on the album didn't have much real substance or content, most of them influenced a lot of styles from the 80s. Run-D.M.C. are one of the most often sampled hip hop groups of all time, and some of the songs on this album are the reasons why. Songs like "It's Like That", and "Sucker M.C.'s (Krush-Groove 1)", are staples of hip hop music, and are highly influential. The production on the album is very minimalistic, with drum-kicks that would become the signature sound of mid-80s hip hop. Even though the lyrics on this album aren't complex, their flows were ahead of their time, and Run and D.M.C. went back and forth on songs effortlessly. Jam Master Jay was the DJ for the group, and his scratching was legendary as well.
Even though the music style is somewhat outdated, this album should be looked at for its time, and its impact. Run-D.M.C. (both the group and the album) were a very important, and influential part of hip hop. Run-D.M.C. is an essential album for sure, and every hip hop fan needs to hear it.
Ratings:
1. Hard Times: 5/5
2. Rock Box: 5/5
3. Jam Master Jay: 5/5
4. Hollis Crew (Krush-Groove 2): 5/5
5. Sucker M.C.'s (Krush-Groove 1): 5/5
6. It's Like That: 5/5
7. Wake Up: 4/5
8. 30 Days: 5/5
9. Jay's Game: 4/5
Best song: It's Like That
Weakest song: Wake Up
Production: 9.6/10
Lyrics: 9.6/10
Overall rating: 96/100
Grade: A
