audio review : So Far ( song ) … Eminem

Eminem raps better here than anywhere else on the second Marshall Mathers LP. That’s partly because he’s using the same contentious vocal delivery he used on the first one. The McDonald’s and Kroger bits are particularly commendable as they show the aging rapper can still amuse. What basically ruins the song; a remake of Joe Walsh’s Life’s Been Good; is its lack of originality.

my rating : 3 of 5

2013

audio review : The Marshall Mathers LP 2 ( album ) ... Eminem

audio review : Berzerk ( song ) … Eminem

Going Berzerk is embedded in the concept, so this song is supposed to sound crazy, but that doesn’t mean I have to like it. The chaotic vibe, led by rock-style breakbeats; the kind Rick Rubin used to make for rappers in the 1980s; is the one refreshing element.

The problem is the bridge and chorus, which blur the line between wacky and wack. Eminem begins interestingly enough with an impression of Ad-Rock; a throwback to “straight” hip-hop; just before this party anthem breaks down into a noisy mess.

my rating : 2 of 5

2013

audio review : The Marshall Mathers LP 2 ( album ) ... Eminem