Eminem
The Eminem Show
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Decrease Font SizeEditor's Review:
He's ba-a-a-a-a-ck! America's white nightmare has just released his third album,
The Eminem Show, to record sales figures. Typical of albums Dr. Dre has
a hand in, the production is consistently technically proficient, though not
overly inventive on a couple of tracks. Nevertheless, every track is listenable,
and the CD offers far more single-worthy tracks than most contemporary efforts.
In comparison to his earlier releases, Eminem's latest is just as lyrically
personal, continuing the cathartic venting of all the drama that is Slim Shady.
Gone are the killing fantasies of songs past, but the issues surrounding his
relationships with his mother, daughter, (now)ex-wife and would-be censors are
ever-present. Bu, here, Em's words suggests some personal growth, moving beyond
his past persona, and legal chaos, now focusing on being the best father, and
of course MC, he can. Nowhere is this more obvious than in "Cleanin' Out
My Closet," a solid track with which angst-ridden fans will surely identify.
Other stand-out songs include "Hailie's Song," a mid-tempo song dedicated
to the rapper's 6-year old daughter, and "My Dad's Gone Crazy," on
which she's briefly featured. In "White America," Em explores how
his being white has contributed to his success, but it's also seemingly provided
a glass ceiling. Even given his phenomenal sales history, undeniably formidable
skills and impressive discography, the caveat of his skin tone may be the sole
factor keeping him off best MC and lyricist lists. This effort will surely help,
though how much remains to be seen. If you're a fan, this is a must-have.
- Robert Green
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 Record Label Interscope Records Released June 2002 |
Tracks1. Curtains Up |
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