Sheek Louch: Silverback Gorilla

Tired of above average NYC emcees making average albums? Maybe we are wrongfully yearning for the resurrection of the golden era of rap. The Lox's hardest one third, Sheek Louch, screams at his audience to move forward with a new era of hardcore NY spitters. The only problem is that the audiences he will reach will most likely be the exact choir he has been preaching to for years.

Silverback Gorilla won't bust break through boundaries, but it also is very clear in stating that it's not trying to. Never complaining about ringtones and snap rap, Silverback Gorilla is a refreshing NYC record that never tries to be something that it's not.

Over standout instrumental tracks like "Good Love" and "Scrap To This," the big fella can make sample-heavy summer jams all his own, never compromising his authenticity while still giving you something to bob your head to. Lyrically, Sheek's passion rarely waivers; and he stands toe to toe with The Game and Bun B on "Think We Got a Problem" and doesn't seem like the once ascribed weakest link of The Lox on "Getting Stronger." Not for the faint hearted or narrow-minded rap fan, Sheek can be subtly conscious as well, as blatantly aggressive (or in his own words "Not a trouble starter, but I ain't soft"). It's hard not to respect Sheek for his seemingly simple, yet difficult to execute, balance.

Unfortunately, the album falls into mediocre territory with a number of very forgettable tracks. Tiresome hard talking lyrics on "Spray Crowds" and "What What" serve as cliché fillers that only dilute the substance of the tracks with more original themes. Sheek obviously isn't trying to be a pop star, but it seems at times that he might not be able to be a rap star either.

There's no question that he's nice; unfortunately, only those who ride with this type of music will lend an ear. But it seems like that's fine with Sheek. Never compromising his principles and always true to his style, Sheek Louch reps New York City hardcore and is happy doing just that.

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