Album Reviews

Weezy watch out!You may have some serious competition emerging from the swamps of good ole Louisiana. It's unlikely that anyone will unseat the current "King of the Game," nevertheless, it's worth a shot. Enter Max Minelli. The erstwhile Southern rapper has been at it for over 15 years, but he's never sounded as fresh and vibrant as he does on his latest Koch release The Remedy. In fact, Minelli's fashioned an underground gem, complete with 14 tracks showcasing his slow Southern cadence and minimalist beats. He wastes no time declaring his ambition on the first cut, aptly titled "I'm the Shit." It's a slick, infectious little opener, tempered by electronic, synth flourishes and a downright unforgettable chorus. Minelli holds the notes, and he knows how to let a song breathe. That's immediately followed by another self-explanatory jam entitled "U Gotta Love Me Baby," which crescendos from an '80s-style Atari beat into a smooth and steady rap by Minelli. Of course, there's another huge chorus. However, Minelli kicks some slick knowledge mid-song, claiming, "I don't even like rap, I do this for my people." It's an interesting remark, because what stands out the most on the record are his sharp rhymes.

Nevertheless, anybody that does like rap is bound to get down to "Fresh2Def" (Featuring Coline). It's by far the album's standout track. Coline's sexy croon elevates the chorus to heights of ecstasy and makes for another hook you won't soon forget. The beat also emanates a stoned, woozy feeling, but it never leaves the realm of danceability. It's the record's sexiest and slowest track, but by far the best. Minelli completely excels when he's got space to let his flow shine, and this is a perfect example. Also, Colines chorus could be a huge ringtone this year. From there, the album segues into "Centerfold" (Remix) which begins with a creepy keyboard echo that would be at home on a '60s monster movie soundtrack. Later tracks like "Pop a Max Pain Pill" and "Gangsta B" keep the heat on for Minelli, with big choruses and the same spaced out beats.

Minelli never gets too flashy, but that's the beauty of this record. He doesn't have to. He doesn't need million dollar production and glossy flourishes. In fact, the grit is part of his charm. The Remedy is just what the doctor ordered for hip hop.

—Rick Florino
05.06.08