Back catalogue: Hip Hop/R&B

Review: Elmiene's latest offering presents a smooth, immersive listen, blending soulful electronics with subtle, emotive melodies. Opening with the tender 'TLC,' the release quickly establishes its intimate mood, which is carried through tracks like the lush 'Light Work.' 'Crystal Tears' shifts to a more ambient space, while 'Ode To Win' builds a contemplative, understated momentum. The release really comes alive on the second side with 'Sweetness' and 'Until It's Dust,' where the production deepens into something atmospheric and hypnotic. 'Dark Out (Season of Thieves)' adds a touch of brooding intensity, and 'Anyways' closes on a contemplative note.

Review: Eminem's new album, Guilty Conscience 2, marks a bold return to his Slim Shady persona with a fresh angle that deepens his thematic exploration. With album sales over 220 million records worldwide, including albums, singles, and other formats, it is hard to argue that Eminem isn't the voice of this generation in Hip-Hop. As he turns 50, Eminem revisits and critiques his notorious alter ego, presenting Slim Shady as a relic of toxic masculinity and outdated rage. The album's first half channels Shady's provocative style, while the latter part reflects a more mature and contemplative Eminem. The production strikes a balance between modern sensibilities and nostalgic nods to earlier works, offering some of the best beats and hooks Eminem's had in years. Guest features, including JID and Big Sean, complement his intense delivery, enhancing the album's impact. While the content remains provocative, it effectively engages with its themes, providing a nuanced critique of both Eminem's past and the current cultural landscape. Fans of his earlier work will find much to appreciate here, though it may not break new ground. Overall, Guilty Conscience 2 is a compelling chapter in Eminem's storied career.

Review: Finding out that 8 Mile is two decades old is astounding. Take it in, breathe, then decide what to do with that information. Rewind back to 2003, and life was very, very different - not least as Eminem was still considered a young upstart who needed to prove some stuff to the hip hop establishment, with the movie in question going some way to retelling his own story about going up against haters and coming out on top.
Of course, he was already one of the biggest rap artists on the planet by this point, but still fell in line for criticism over the juvenile nature of many tracks. Amalgamating some of the most respected MCs on one track list - all of who evidently give a seal of approval by contributing to this soundtrack - is certainly one way to prove legitimacy. Nas, 50 Cent, Rakim, Gang Starr, and Jay-Z help make this one of the genre's finest scores of all time.