Ice Cube - The Predator

Label: EMI
Genre: West Coast Hip Hop, Gangsta Rap
Year: 1992
Recommended by: Marta Conlon

The Predator has Ice Cube's most famous song "It Was a Good Day". I'm going to skip over talking about that song, because it's really good, and it's used all the time.

The best song though is "Check Yo Self". It does a better illustration of West Coast Hip Hop with the funky 70s beat and contrasting flow that somehow fits perfectly. Even though Ice Cube's lyrics are bit strong and aggressive, the contrast with "Mustang Sally" allows you just follow along and get behind every word. Music is powerful.

Lil Wayne - Tha Carter III

Label: Young Money
Year: 2008
Genre: Rap
Recommending Person: Francesca Pickle

I've never understood why "A Milli" gets universal praise. Tha Carter III is even beloved by Pitchfork of all places. 

That said the record is good. Lil Wayne is bit odd himself, like trying to play the guitar, but he is skilled at his craft and should stay in his lane.  

The biggest hit off this album is definitely "Lollipop", but it is probably one of my least favorite. I love "Mrs. Officer" and "Dr. Carter" the most. "Dr. Carter" should be more popular because it's a fun story and reminds me of the story telling method that Dr. Dre often implements in "Guilty Conscience", "Still Dre", and "Forgot About Dre". It's still a song that's straight bravado, but it has a layer of fun that can be lacking when rappers display their machismo.