Eminem - The Marshall Mathers LP
It would be hard for anyone who's exposure to Eminem comes from his hit singles to accept that, on his day, he has been one of the best, sickest and grittiest rappers on the scene.
The Marshall Mathers LP, Eminem's second full-length, explores the more extreme side of his rhymes, whilst being recognised as a phenomenal hip-hop album for much more than shock value alone.
Despite its popularity, 'Stan' shouldn't be disregarded. Heart-wrenching and raw, it's a tale of fame and dealing with fans, and Dido's low-key vocals actually enhance the mood of the track.
The album manages to cover the catchy and dark style of Eminem's music well, particularly in the contrast between 'The Way I Am' and the big hit 'The Real Slim Shady'.
What's consistent is his disregard for keeping it clean, which definitely gives this album an edge missing from a lot of mainstream hip-hop currently.
By far the most powerful, disturbing and greatest moment of the album (and perhaps Eminem's career) is 'Kim', a gruesome track about murdering his wife.
From the screamed rhymes, the haunting production and "Kim's" screaming, it's a perfectly mixed track that conveys some real horror.
We can't say enough good things about this track, and it really is one of Eminem's finest moments.
From the sweet introduction to the complete contrast as it takes a more sinister turn, Bass Brothers deserve so much credit for the production of the track.
Eminem's slightly disonant vocals on the chorus and the venom of his rhymes emphasise the character's paranoid descent into insanity, topped off when Eminem starts mocking Kim, screaming for help knowing it won't come.
Understandably this was cut from the "clean" version of the record, replaced by South Park-inspired 'The Kids'.
Included on the Limited Edition bonus track, it discusses the effects of drugs with some admittedly twisted tales, but the chorus hook keeps it up-beat.
The contrasting tones and moods within each track make for a deep and diverse album, and it's no surprise Eminem became one of the biggest names in hip-hop.
Whilst the humour doesn't always hit the spot, and the themes might be too close too the bone, it's a perfect example of how vital the partnership between production and lyrics are for hip-hop.
Alistair McGeorge
Tagged in Eminem