Thread: [ATI's Review] CL Smooth- American Me

CL Smooth
American Me
Shaman Work Recordings


More than a decade after his last official recording, CL Smooth finally gives hip-hop a taste of what he can produce as a solo artist, and the end product- American Me is a recording of such high quality, that it is almost easy to forgive the veteran for his longstanding disappearing act. His "debut" solo album is an almost magical experience, as his detailing of the American story deserves to be studied by generation to come. His technically perfect rhymes mix with genre and generation-crossing production to provide hip-hop with one of the most consistent records in years. Even with the absence of his partner in crime Pete Rock's production (save one track), CL Smooth sounds more comfortable and confident on the mic than almost any rapper recording music today- talk about blowing the dust off the mic.

The album commences with a film-like introduction, with violins and dramatic narration leading into the hard-hitting title track, which serves as Smooth's official comeback record with lines like,

"From now, the standin ovation, just to let em see my brand new LP sweep the nation."

Smooth's impressive flow is only furthered by his excellent hooks, a skill many of the best underground emcees clearly lack, as most of the album's choruses are effortless and catchy, yet not mono-toned or corny in any way. Smooth's vocals clearly have had an impact on the Roots' Black Thought, as his vocals sound extremely similar to those of the Roots' frontman on "I Can't Help It," a mix of socially conscious bars and swagger heavy punchlines. "CL Smooth Unplugged" is a more low-key, personal joint, with Smooth rhyming about his inner personality through thoughtful verses,

"You might have the flex, but got no flavor/You might have some cash, but got no class/Here's the next level of love, the future for a thug, to hear or see CL Smooth unplugged."

"It's A Love Thing" should be listened to by almost every commercial and underground rapper out, because let's face it, it's almost impossible for a thug-love song to see natural, but CL sounds as smooth as Comm Sense, narrating an unforgettable aspect of Western culture.

American Me doesn't break new ground sonically or lyrically, but as far as rap albums in the new millennium, CL Smooth flirts with perfection throughout his return effort, as his skills are demonstrated in a fresh way on every record, none of the them forgettable. If there was to be a time capsule to preserve the history of 2006 USA, American Me would be sure to find its way in.



LINK: Do not Link

wanted to give this a bump, ive been playing this album for the last week and im not all that big on it, I would say 3-3.5/5

you still stand by your original review ATI?