It took
Rakim five years to begin his solo career, but the wait was worth it --
The 18th Letter is one of the strongest records a veteran rapper released in the late '90s. Working with a variety of producers (
Pete Rock, Clark Kent, Father Shaheed,
DJ Premier),
Rakim sounds sharp, focused, and strong, rapping with a force unheard of on his classic albums with
Eric B. He still retains his knack for rolling, laid-back rhymes, but what's impressive is how he can switch between that style and a more aggressive technique. There are a few slow spots on the record, but in general, few latter-day albums by '80s rappers sound as powerful and vital as
The 18th Letter. ~ Leo Stanley