Redman

The opening track asks the question, "Iz he for real?" And by the end of the album, it's still an open question, which is partially why this album is so brilliant. On stoned anthems "Smoke Buddha" and "Creepin," Redman grunts and grapples his way to some semblance of sanity (or at least lucidity). EPMD beatsmith Eric Sermon backs up the New Jersey rapper on the boards.

In his own way, Redman – a k a Reggie Noble, the Funk Dr. Spock – ranks as one of the
most consistent MCs in rap. Since his start as a protégé of the now-defunct hip-hop
heavyweight group EPMD, which he followed with his 1992 breakout debut, Whut? Thee
Album, he has displayed a unique unpredictability and supreme funk sensibility. Take the
introduction to Redman's latest release, Muddy Waters. A foreboding ambient int... More >