Untitled (by Nas, Hip-hop)

Nas is more controversial than ever on his new Def Jam release UNTITLED. He examines and poetically dissects some of the nation's most divisive issues: race, inequality, poverty, power, and war. With smart, thought-provoking lyrics and the help of producers and artists like Busta Rhymes, Chris Brown, Keri Hilson, and Mykel, Nas has created an album that will not only solidify his place among the hip-hop world, but is sure to get people on all sides talking.

Even if you aren't a fan of rap, Nas manages to force a bended ear to the issues he sings about on Untitled. Nas (Nasir Jones) isn't your typical angry rapper singing about hoes and money. He is angry, but he is also smart and eloquent in his examination of American society. Although the content is controversial and will no doubt invoke positive and negative criticism, there is brutal honesty and acknowledgment in his lyrics that takes the music to a different level. The first single "Hero," with Keri Hilson, has a catchy hook and beats that will make it good for mainstream while Nas declares he's "the only true rebel since the beginning/still in musical prison/still in jail for the flow/try tellin' Bob Dylan, Bruce, or Billy Joe they can't sing what's in their soul!" And "America," "Black President" (yes, it's about Obama), and "Sly Fox" are full of arguable content to chew on, and the media-frenzied track "N.I.*.*.E.R" declares "we are much more." This album is definitely much more than just your typical rap album, but it's still a lot of heavy content not appropriate for all ages.

Released on: July 15, 2008
Label: Def Jam
Genre: Hip-hop
Parental advisory: Yes