The Eminem Show (by Eminem, Rap)

For his third album, THE EMINEM SHOW, the rapper still uses shock value and offensive topics to get attention, but is moving away from sarcasm and parody toward a more serious and critical attitude. In addition to rants about his censors, his abusive relationships, and the government, he includes introspective thoughts on success, fame, and social responsibility. Don't be fooled though -- he is still rapping about killing his mother and doing drugs in front of his child, testing the limits of taste and morality. The album has some very strong songs, like "Business" and "Square Dance." But a few duds break up the flow, including "Drips," about venereal disease, which is disgusting and disrespectful.

This album has the same strengths as the first two (The Slim Shady LP and The Marshall Mathers LP). It showcases Eminem's excellent rapping ability, and it is backed by solid production work. But has Eminem reached the bottom of the "shock value" barrel? Eminem has shown that he can rap intelligently about poignant topics. Whether he is willing to do so for an entire album has yet to be seen.

Released on: May 26, 2002
Label: Interscope Records
Genre: Rap
Parental advisory: Yes
Edited version available: Yes