| |
Originality champions the cause of The Ritz. Unusual samples provide hooks, textures and melodies that sanctify this album, making it "holy" (set apart), as it were. No, it's not religious, just special. Creative production decisions drive this album forward with a shining, standout personality. Of course, the verbal delivery has much to do with it, as well. The vocal performance manages to be aggressive without being thuggish. Intelligence oozes from every verse and chorus; and the grooves are not compromised. It's as catchy as it is smart. Good lyrics and energetic, focused word-slinging atop a bed of sharp musical technique and edgy production make for a hip-hop album that breaks with conformity.-- review by Kristofer Upjohn
|
