Comparing L.A.-based rapper
Wax to "Thrift Shop" hitmaker
Macklemore is easy since the two share a similar stance (proud and smart but slacker) and skill set (great with laughs, great with hooks), but
Continue is an edgier and scrappier album than
The Heist. The scrappy part is best displayed by the album's "whaddya gonna do but continue" title track, and while "Thrift Shop" has that feel-good vibe,
Wax's crossover hit "Rosana" does too, just with a quirky bit of mariachi music to put its hook over and a snarkier attitude. For a guy who was signed to
Def Jam for a moment, this album is shockingly short on guest shots, with only
Wax's twin brother
Herbal T and Breezy Lovejoy showing up to add a little variety. Still,
Wax is a smooth dude and fluid lyricist, making this decided showcase of talent less limited and more attractive than expected. ~ David Jeffries