Steg G & Freestyle Master - Natural Selection

For all the 'realness' that has undoubtedly gone into living the stories behind Freestyle Master's rhymes, they are not delivered with any real panache or innovation. Hard men, drinking, girlies, poverty, following your dreams (of getting rich) and the aforementioned 'realness' are the themes: it is ground that has been covered before in hip-hop, and never is this tiredness more apparent than when FM raps with guests possessing some flair, such as Mr Jinx, Griddy Grimes, and Dark Rumors, who all acquit themselves well. Gangster rap has its appeal if done in a skewed or slick fashion. Take Chronic-era Dre, take Paris or Three 6 Mafia, or Wu Tang. There is depth and clarity to all their efforts. 'Natural Selection' sounds tired and uninspiring. Steg G's beats are lumpen, his melodies Casio preset-predictable. Those who relish the brain-damaged mumblings of 50 Cent, buy this: otherwise hope that they go the way of the dinosaurs. [Omar Kudos]