Artist: The P$CTitle: 25 to LifeRating: 3 StarsReviewed by: Brent Woodie
In a thriving rap game where it is now ever so popular to have your own clothing line, act in a movie, and have your label, it is inevitable that a platinum artist sign the rest of his click to a recording contract. In some cases, we find that members of the crew were better suited to hold the microphone for the rap star they befriended (not rhyme on it). Unlike those other crews out there T.I. presents, The P$C (Pimp Squad Click) straight out of ATL, with actual rapping skills. Consisting of Ak, Mac Boney, Big Kuntry and C-Rod, P$C has already made noticeable appearances on T.I.’s albums I’m Serious and Underground Legend. On their debut album 25 To Life (Grand Hustle/Atlantic) they produce a sound effort with minor set backs in predictability and distinction.
Keeping the production low key, P$C does not rely on big name production to take control over the album. It is telling though when producer like Lil Jon gets behind the boards for the lead single “I’m A King,” where they spit rhymes meant for royalty, over the Crunk King’s heavy drums and tickling flute backdrop. On the smooth “Walk This Way,” featuring Cee-Lo, P$C surprisingly spits sensitive lines for the ladies, over the silky heavenly silhouette, always guaranteed to come along with the use of an Isley Brothers sample. The dream fulfilling “Like A Movie,” is a nice change of pace, from the topics of hustling and pimping, as P$C compliment the vocals provided by Lloyd, with subtle drums and piano riff to match the topic of living like true a star.
The P$C are very predictable when they come with tracks like “Set It Out,” when they spit over a shifty and choppy beat, as they coach listeners on how to turn out hoes, but fail without any originality in doing so. “Westside,” is another unsurprising track; over a synthesized beat hardened by an over used gunshot back drop, P$C discusses how they would treat their haters if they ever disrespected their territory.
T.I. does a great job letting his crew get their chance to shine, while pretty much adding himself in the mix, just enough for his fans to be satisfied. P$C shows they have potential to put out solid future albums. One problem they may need to touch up on, is to creatively distinguish themselves from each other. No one besides T.I., stands out with his own style or energy, as opposed to other rap crews out there (i.e. Banks and Young Buck). 25 To Life is a worthy listen nonetheless, showing the true potential of Grand Hustle.
