Artist: Dayton FamilyTitle: Family FeudRating: 3 StarsReviewed by: Anthony “Lil Koop” Carr
Before Eminem and D12 became staple names for the Michigan Hip-Hop/rap region, it was the underground names of MC Breed, Esham, Top Authority and The Dayton Family that were mentioned. And for hardcore rap fans, The Dayton Family stood out amongst the others. Achieving gold status for not only their 1st album [What’s On My Mind], but also their sophomore effort [F.B.I
] without any video play or airplay, The Dayton Family stood strong determined to make it. The Flint, Michigan group consisting of Bootleg, Backstabber and Shoestring continued to give their fan base what they expected though obstacles were thrown in their path such as incarceration [3rd member Backstabber] and label dismantling. Now three group and four solo albums later The Dayton Family returns as a duo with Family Feud (Fastlife), 19 tracks of what The Dayton Family is known for-hardcore street rap.Opening the album The Dayton Family immediately gets straight to the point. Sending verbal warning shots and threats, The Dayton Family lets anyone know that messing with family isn’t the best thing to do. Capone of CNN fame lends vocals on the Noize To Go produced “Where you From”. Finding a hard time to flow with the tempo of the track, not only Capone, but The Dayton Family themselves trying to maintain pace on the constant breakdown of the beat. Calico featuring Kurupt fails production wise, but shines lyrically and vocally. The Dayton Family shows the potential that many fans have known them for on such tracks as “What Would You Do”, “Hate Me If You Wanna”, and “Formula 5”; giving listeners of new and old the same verbal skills and aggressive flow that make them stand out on a track.
The Dayton Family gives its fan base what it expects of them, that hardcore street rap that made them during the 90’s era. Today’s rap fans may find the album monotonous and repetitive due to the lack of depth and the production sound. The Dayton Family has the charisma, mic skills, and potential to shine on more levels than just street credibility. With better production—returning to Steve Pitts would be a start—and depth of songs and topics, The Dayton Family can achieve a broader fan base and the platinum status they deserve.
