Royce da 5'9
The Revival EP

Release Date: 2009 | Tracklist

Royce Da 5'9" has been going through somewhat of revival. Originally billed as the successor to Eminem his career was stunted by the signing of artists like 50 Cent. Royce severing connections with Dre chose the more lengthy route to success by establishing himself through the underground hip-hop circuit. The title of his latest release a four track EP 'The Revival EP' further embraces the theory that Royce once again feels comfortable in his position in the rap genre. Royce isn't recording the most interesting tracks on this album, but it does help remind listeners he is one of the best lyricist currently working from Detroit, Michigan. The main problem with recording such a short album is every track must retain the quality of the last and where this EP falters is the much anticipated Slaughterhouse track. Joe Budden, Crooked I, and Joell Ortiz have all garnered much press for their formation of the group Slaughterhouse but the actual material has left many wondering if the project is going to be a dud. Rather than combining the talents of all four rappers it seems like Slaughterhouse is simply that; four rappers. 'Warriors' might not necessarily be a bad track but following the two tracks in front of it it does come as a disappointment and that isn't technically any of the lyricists faults. Producer STREETRUNNER has created something that sounds like a b-grade '00 RZA beat and for such talented MCs one would assume they'd at least have some imaginative production work. Another fact is that Budden and Ortiz are clearly outmatched against even the aging genius of Crooked I and Royce.

As said before 'Gun Harmonizing' and 'Count for Nothing' both help Royce's listeners conjure up some anticipation for his upcoming release. 'Gun Harmonizing' notable for impromptu scat singing and 'Count for Nothing' dipping into subject matter we haven't heard Royce really touch as eloquently since his opus 'Death is Certain'. 'Street Hop' which one assumes will be on Royce's upcoming record is brilliant punchline after punchline. Although the EP is certainly enjoyable it also echoes the sentiment that Royce doesn't have the best taste in production choices. Hopefully his release later this year reaffirms his place at the top of the Detroit rap hierarchy.

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3.2 good

Rank: #0 for 2009