Def Jam
Say what you will about Rick Ross’ lyrical prowess, but darned if he doesn’t know how to make some jamming music. Actually, in all fairness, with his latest offering Deeper Than Rap, he even elevates his pen game, furthering his attempt to position himself at the top of hip-hop’s upper-echelon. Aided by the Justice Leagues’ soul-credible production, Ross doesn’t stray too far from his dope-boy rap, but does it so smoothly (“Magnificent” and “Rich Off Cocaine”) you barely notice. He goes in on 50 Cent on “Mafia Music,” but talks about his love of hip-hop and his come up on the soulful, “Valley of Death.” With this album, Ross shows that it is “deeper than rap” and is just about making good music. -jh
