Kool G Rap is celebrated by rap fans and critics alike for his complex delivery, hard-hitting lyrics, and vivid imagery. He has been a prominent figure in the rap world for over 30 years, with his music helping establish the gangster-themed genre known as “mafioso rap” that dominated the genre during the 1990s and has seen something of a resurgence due to the Griselda camp and others. Arguably he is one of the greatest lyricists to ever grab a mic, and he has been lauded for his intricate style and ability to tell stories that rival any great novelist’s.
His new album, Last of a Dying Breed, proves that the Corona, Queens dignitary hasn’t lost any of his edge with the passage of time or the changing trends in rap. He continues to deliver top-shelf bars and create street themes in the same engaging way that has made him a favorite of hip-hop fans for decades. This new album – which is exclusively produced and arranged by Domingo – features guest appearances from some of G Rap’s peers, including Big Daddy Kane, Marley Marl, and Grandmaster Caz, as well as newer artists such as Vado, 38 Spesh, and Nems who count themselves among G Rap’s fans and have been influenced by his music. Cuts such as “Born Hustler“, “Million Reasons“, and “Critical“ show how KGR can take cues from various styles and incorporate them into his songs without losing his edge or making it feel forced. While songs like “Fly Till I Die“, “Scared Money“, and “Never Be” capture the spirit of some of his well-loved early material without being derivative or stale. The album closes with “Born N Raised“, which takes listeners back to G Rap’s roots with a song that could have been pulled from one of his sets with DJ Polo.
Overall, this is a rock-solid album that will grow on you more and more with every listen. The features are well chosen and each one meshes well with G Rap‘s style. Domingo‘s production carries a tried-and-true feel and is on par with the lyrical content and true-school vibe of the raps. I would recommend this album to anyone who wants to hear a master at work who is still relevant in today’s hip-hop world.
You can listen to (and buy) Last of a Dying Breed via the links listed below as well as catch up on the latest music and news from Kool G Rap by making sure that you’re connected to him via the social links listed below.
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