Best known for his extensive work with the Roots (he's appeared on every single one of their albums), North Philly MC Dice Raw is a longtime fan favorite, although this is his first proper solo album. The Greatest Rapper Never: Preservation is more like an EP at just seven tracks deep, but he hits a home run with each of them, fusing smart and introspective lyricism with strong production, solid hooks, and a tangible hunger that comes through in every song. Several joints reflect on his past, growing up and paying dues on "1995" and "Time Flies," while he gets his "I Used To Love H.E.R." on for the heartfelt ode to real hip-hop "Baby Come Home." Other standouts include the triumphant, horn-driven "Never," the frantic, guitar-laced single "100," and its remix, assembling a City of Brotherly Love dream team with Freeway, Schoolly D, EST, and Bionix.
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