| ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. | |
| PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. | |
| OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. | |
| NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Parents need to know that there is absolutely nothing socially redeeming about this album, but guess what? It's funny and imaginative anyway. Definitely not for everybody (or those under 17), but for those mature enough to see through crude puerile posturing, there's some good writing and a lot of humor. Approach with caution.
The members of D12 can be divided into two categories: "Eminem" and "Not-Eminem." Those in the second category -- band members Proof, Kuniva, Swift, and Bizarre -- address their relative obscurity on the novelty track "My Band," in the spirit of good dirty fun. In an era when many rap and hip-hop artists take themselves far too seriously, the goofiness of D12 WORLD might seem like a breath of fresh air -- well, that is, if the fresh air wafted over your local toxic waste dump first. Relentlessly obscene lyrics and hopelessly sexist posturing are meant to offend, while the undeniable energy and sense of fun creep under your skin anyway.
The worst thing about this album, for those of us who embrace enlightened social, political, and humanistic values, is that it is absolutely, undeniably, 100 percent ALL WRONG. Yet while the lyrics may be awful, they are also awfully clever, sometimes hilarious. For those mature enough to know better, the CD becomes a fun though guilty pleasure -- and a chance to discuss some of the twisted lyrics with your mature teen.
Families can talk about why this group seems so set on shocking listeners.
| Artist: | D 12 |
| Release date: | April 19, 2004 |
| Label: | Shady Records |
| Genre: | Rap |
| Parental advisory: | Yes |
| Edited version available: | Yes |