Friday, October 15, 2010

ALBUM REVIEW: GUCCI MANE/ THE APPEAL: GEORGIA'S MOST WANTED/ 1017 BRICK SQUAD/ WARNER BROS./ASYLUM


Radric Davis b.k.a. Gucci Mane, has had his fair share of being on the wrong side of the law, since he first stepped on the scene back in 2005. After beating a murder rap, dueling with fellow ATLien, Young Jeezy, and countless setbacks that could have kept his career on ice, Gucci Mane continued to push his unorthodox-coke-inspired-nasal- style-flow to the masses until his name was in bright lights. Things were looking up for Gucci last year, until he found himself in a familiar place--behind bars. Just days before his album The State vs. Radric Davis hit stores, Gucci had to sit from the sidelines and watch his peers shine for the rest of the year. Now a free man, and a new outlook on life, Gucci Mane returns with The Appeal: Georgia's Most Wanted. Surprisingly, the this album is Gucci Mane's best material to date. Using his new crossover appeal, Gucci expands his musical landscape and brings in the game's top producers and artists. The Swizz Beatz--produced first single, "Gucci Time" finds Gucci at his best: "Cut the fuckin' lights on/ All this ice on/ No need to cut the lights on", as the hook states. The best cut is the unlikely pairring of Gucci Mane and Skateboard P. The Neptunes' angelic cords on "Haterade" is easily the standout track on the album. Equipped with a certified number 1 hook courtesy of Pharrell, and a guest verse from Nicki Minaj, the song finds Gucci and Nicki talking about their inspirational rise to the top, while laughing at the haters who said they wouldn't succeed. "Grown Man" features another odd collaboration, Estelle, and it is another step forward in Gucci's evolving music career. For those who think Gucci has done a complete switch-up , need to not worry. Mane reunites with producer Zaytoven on the songs "Missing" and "Brand New" and both are classic Gucci. The album is not without flaws. Filler tracks like the generic "Party Animal" and "Weirdo" have no playback factor, and Gucci's sometimes lazy flow can become annoying after a number of listens. Still, The Appeal, is a positive step in the right direction for Mr. La Flare. This album proves that Gucci does have staying power, and isn't afraid to try different things, which is rare in a rap world full of copy cats. Gucci Mane continues to grow, whether you like it or not, you still gotta respect his hustle. BURRRR! I rate this 4/5

2 comments:

  1. Ok Mr. Williams good article. If u need a second eye 2 proof read u have my #. Good work. Not a big fan of Gucci but somethings he says are hilarious.

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