G-Unit rapper sings his way to mediocrity

By: Mike Mahon

Posted: 10/10/06

Lloyd Banks
Rotten Apple
Genre: (G-Unit) Rap
Sounds like: 50 Cent, Eminem
Db level: 25

There is a basic formula to a lot of rap these days that lends itself well to mainstream TRL-type audiences. A song isn't a song if it doesn't include a lengthy, wordy, semi-catchy chorus sung by the rapper himself. The problem is that most rappers can't sing. Nearly every song on Lloyd Banks' second major-label effort follows this blueprint to a tee.

There are no "standout" tracks - they all sound the same. "NY, NY," featuring Tony Yayo, has the best rapping from start to finish. The production, unfortunately, is typical, featuring a number of keyboard "licks" and the now cliché gunshot sample.

"Playboy 2," which has a chorus almost as satisfying as blue balls, is still a good party track. The beat itself has an old-school DJ Premier, Gang Starr feel. Given that, it would be surprising if it was released as a single.

If you're still buying into the played-out style of G-Unit, you might enjoy this album. "Might" being the operative word.