The title is mostly true. Lyrical Lively is Singing more and rapping less this time around. The elder; she was 74 on her previous album; actually performs her novelty on just one song; Holiness Is Beautiful. It; the best song; is also the only one she says Uh Huh on, which suggests it’s probably a leftover. This follow-up release is decent but inferior overall.
my rating : 3 of 5
2015
This is the debut of Lyrical Lively; a 74-year-old rapper. That sentence sounds ridiculous, but give it a chance. The beats are much better than you’d expect. The first three songs are actually Good; perhaps more uplifting and certainly more accessible than the Christian God the reverend promotes obsessively. That’s more than I can say for most rap albums, gospel or otherwise.
my rating : 3 of 5
2014
The overarching theme of this album has to do with Dave’s death. His absence is acknowledged from the opening roll call. Hearing him rap on the same virtual tribute project as if he’s still a living member of De La Soul makes for an awkward listening experience, especially when the inferior demo-like quality of his verse (Package) suggests obvious posthumous shenanigans.
Not that there aren’t hints of the good old days. Prince Paul; the only producer they ever need; is sadly missing in action, but Will Be is nostalgic fun while it lasts. Patty Cake, led by a gorgeous organ loop, could’ve been a lot sweeter with a better chorus. Perhaps the same can be said for Truth; a throwback to when the rappers were more playful with their vocal delivery.
my rating : 3 of 5
2025
1993
The prelude call on the Notorious BIG version, which goes over a minute, is unnecessary if not a bit annoying, but the beat bangs. I love the snares. The LL Cool J beat, produced and enhanced with scratches by Rick Rubin, is notable/unique in its own right. It’s one of hip-hop’s Coolest songs in the chic sense of the term and has a better chorus section.
my vote : LL Cool J
1993
2025 October
2019
2025
2008
2025