Plies: Definition of Real

The word "real" possesses a vast amount of definitions. Among the most common are: 1) existing or occurring as fact; actual rather than imaginary, ideal or fictitious 2) genuine; not counterfeit, artificial, or imitation; authentic. Plies' sophomore endeavor, Definition of Real, effortlessly encapsulates the different facets of his personality, thus personifying his realness.

"I'm Da Man," the swagger-laced opening track featuring Trey Songz, is a stealthy production by Christopher "Drumma Boy" Gholson, which elicits agreeable head-nodding. On the track, Plies constructs a lyrical résumé of the traits that are necessary for someone to be considered real, with one of the integral ingredients being, confidence. "Watch Dis," "Who Hotter Than Me," and the moisture-evoking "Bust It Baby (part 2)," featuring Ne-Yo, collectively serve to bolster Plies' self-assuredness, as they have respectively become hits for the burgeoning MC.

As the album proceeds, Plies presents the diverse aspects of his psyche. Tracks such as "Old Lady" and "Dat Bitch" displays the indifference Plies harbors for mundane subjects; unfortunately, diminished lyrics are displayed as well.

"Bushes," "Sh** Bag," and "Rich Folk" are manifestations of the hunger that propels Plies to keep grinding. These songs demand attention and are relatable to legions of his loyal listeners.

In accordance with being a healthy, virile man, Plies demonstrates his adventurous libido on "Feel Like F***in'." "Ate puss in the shower for the first time last week / I got a confession to make to the world, I'm a freak," he raps. This song is certain to leave his female demographic with longing smiles (males should follow suit).

"Worth Goin Fed Fo," "Somebody (Loves You)," and "1 Day" showcases Plies at his best. "1 Day" is his cathartic effort where his angst-filled lyrical delivery massages his wounded heart. "Worth Goin Fed Fo" poses the question, "Does the end justify the means?" "Soon as a n**** gets knocked, the streets call him dumb / When the sh** hit the fan everybody run / I don't know a n**** yet, who did this sh** and won / Money mean nuthin' to ya if you ain't got a bond," Plies laments of the song.

"Somebody (Loves You)" contains a hauntingly powerful sample of Patti LaBelle's voice, which yields a phenomenal outcome. And Plies displays his deft emotional depth with lines like, "I know that feelin' when it feel like nobody care / When you goin' through your problems and it seem like nobody there / I start to question myself if God really care / Sometimes I cut off all the lights in the room and stare / Wonder if he brought me this far to drop me off here."

The concluding track "#1 Fan," featuring Keyshia Cole and J. Holiday, is destined to captivate the nation. The ingenious grouping of these arresting R&B artists with Plies creates a euphoric audible experience. It is an astute way to complete Definition of Real and one that will leave listeners yearning for more of Plies' realness.

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