When I Rock

First off, I would like to thank DJ BK for extending me this opportunity. As anyone that knows me well can tell you: I like music. Rap music. Every facet of rap that you wouldn't typically hear on the radio. Enough about me, here's the first review.

Spectac – When I Rock (featuring production from 9th Wonder)

When you first listen to this song undoubtedly the first thing to grab your attention is the beat. 9th Wonder is one of the most respected producers in the industry, and has worked with Jay-Z, The Game, Lloyd Banks, along with a lot of underground heads. He earned his reputation by giving his best on every track, and this is certainly no exception. The beat comes in with an introduction that leaves the listener with a clear image of 9th Wonder himself actually in front of a mixer, making the track (Think Lupe Fiasco's Sunshine).

Spectac's first verse revolves mainly about how he is a talented rapper, and proves it through his creative wordplay and metaphors. "You know the fact is; Spec shoulda been signed/ metaphors got more kicks in 'em than Finish Line," being a colorful display of all three. He comments on his mass appeal to everyone across the country. This is not unfounded. It's almost impossible to not like this song. "Spectac, droppin you gifts just like it's Christmas/ really doesn't matter if you mister or misses".

9th Wonder chooses to open the second verse with a sample from a Biggie song before the lyrics. It's as though Spec wanted to make you think that it was Notorious himself about to come in with a hot line, but instead Spectac replaces Biggie with his own lyrics, which is symbolic when the song's subject matter is how great of a rapper you are. Spectac talks about what makes him a great rapper, and how he is in no way affiliated with the pop jewelry obsession. His lyrics stay relevant to a more realistic lifestyle which helps relating to him. "Them Platinum chains is so costin/ I'd rather spend it on my seedy ass knuckle head kids/ I do it so often".

The next verse Spectac transports the listener to his childhood in South Carolina. He also drops some witty wordplay, with one of the funniest lines that I have heard in a while in a truly original delivery. "I blow like the orca whale, tippin your scale/ plus I write jams like Howard I guarantee I Could-Sell", referencing both Dwight Howard and Howard Cosel, the former reporter. This track is full of great wordplay, with Spectac's imagery and 9th Wonder's on point production taking the listener into another world of hip hop.

And for those of you that don't like an overly long review, at least it's something to read while you listen to good music. Happy Thirsty Thursday everyone, enjoy your weekends.

-J.R.

Spectac - When I Rock (Produced by 9th Wonder) (sharebee)