Relapse [2009] was released internationally on May 12, 2009 due to heavily bootlegging as common for his previous two studio albums, the Eminem Show [2002] and Encore [2004]. The following week, it sold approximately 1.92 million, annihilating record sales and breaking his own 1.76 from the Marshall Mathers LP [2000]. It was incredible. Unbelievable, even. The first single, "We Made You," broke Right Round (Flo Rida)'s first week digital sales by 200,000. It shows that even though illegal music downloading has been popularized, Eminem's fan club seems to remain loyal.
Down to earth, this album is not something entirely new. It's not a new direction for the 36 year old rapper. Hell, it's not even a different producer. It's the Eminem we know, but he's twisted things up a little. Royce da 5'9" once stated in a certain interview that Jay-Z was to the Black Album as Eminem was to Relapse, only better. I disagree. This album is like Nas to Stillmatic. Eminem's brought his lyrical ability to a new time period, changing his focus but remaining who he is best, Slim Shady.
So, seriously, is this album good? Yes, it's brilliant. It's one of the best rap records of the past few years. Is it good compared to his previous work? Yes, it lives up to his standards. But the real question is does it live up to its expectations? Well, before I dive into the actual content, let me explain that Eminem was not sure back in 2004 if he was to release a follow-up LP. In fact, it was most likely he would NOT come back with a new record. Well, here it is, Relapse... Things have changed, and for the good.
1. Intro (Skit) 4/5 (Not the best intro I for the album but interesting. Leads well to next track.)
2. What Happens 4.5/5 (The beat is amazing and his flow is perfect. Very good intro.)
3. His Murder 4/5 (The lyrics are good but the chorus is too fast.)
4. Keys to the City 5/5 (DJ Premier bangs this track. Hell yeah.)
5. Extra Saucy 3.5/5 (This belongs on Encore.)
6. Rosenburg (Skit) 5/5 (This is the funniest skit ever. )
7. I'll See You Again 4/5 (Good track. The chorus is slightly corny. Proof R.I.P.)
8. Who Fell Off? 5/5 (The title says it all.)
9. Just a Show 4.5/5 (T.I.'s verse blends into Eminem's verse. This is genius and reminiscent of "Renegade" with Jay-Z
10. Hell 5/5 (Why isn't Royce in Shady Records?)
11. Posers 4/5 (The beat is banging and the lyrics are decent. Nate Dogg's chorus is annoying.)
12. Up to Mic (Skit) 3/5 (This is a good intro to "We Made You." Except it's a waste of time.)
13. We Made You 3.5/5 (By the way, Dina Rae is not featured. Read my review for this song in the forum sections.)
14. If Only 4/5 (It's another typical Eminem track.)
15. Crack a Bottle 3.5/5 (The beat is kinda bad. The lyrics are not the best but okay.)
16. Seven Shots 5/5 (The lyrics are the best he ever wrote and his flow is impeccable.)
17. Fuck With Us 4.5/5 (This is the best D12 song ever.)
18. When It Gets Ugly 5/5 (I can't wait for Before I Self Destruct. 50's back.)
19. To be Continued (Skit) 4/5 (HAHAHAHAHA)
20. Tomorrow's Yesterday 5/5 (Classic Em. Lyrics are there. Beat is there. Flow is great. If you don't have this song, you're not a true Em fan. I'm serious.)
Overall- 90% (Excellent)
This album is extremely good. Own it.
HAHA I KNEW LIL WAYNE WOULD SELL LESS THAN EMINEM. FAGGOTS ALWAYS SELL LESS. YEAH YEAH REBIRTH WILL SUCK. LIL WAYNE'S THIRD SINGLE SUCKED ASS. HAHAHA SUCK IT FOOL. 2 MIL SOLD (I hoped it would.
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