You guys remember Rick Ross first verse off of “9 Piece”? He mentioned he was a free agent, didn’t have a deal, was independent & wasn’t on Def Jam. At first, I was skeptical but months went by & he was looking for a deal for his Maybach Music Imprint. Fast forward to this winter, Rozay made some power moves by signing some of hip hop promising rising stars Wale, Meek Mill & Pill. He needed some soulful flavor too so he shocked everybody by signing, a favorite here, Teedra Moses. Warner Brothers won the bidding war & now MMG is set to release their first compilation album (a la Puff Daddy & the family) on May 24th

Album starts off on the right foot. Produced by Just Blaze, “Self Made” is the perfect introduction to the new members. Although Teedra is on the song, she’s only doing ad libs which meshes well with Just Blaze drums & trademark sound. We all know Ross got a good ear for beat & its was only right he teamed up with producer Cardiak (produced Lloyd Banks “Start it Up” & Fabolous “Yall don’t hear me tho”) for 2 outstanding songs. “Rise” features Cyhi Da Prince & Curren$y. Most of us heard “600 Benz” featuring the homie Jadakiss. I personally believe this was a great move to have him on the track. New Yorkers be loving their Benz so it was only right to have one of the best spitter from the Tri States on it.

Some of the songs on the LP got that “Lex Luger” trademark sounds. “Pacman” x “By any means” x “Fitted cap” & “Big Bank” can be placed in that category. Some will love it…some will get tired of it. It’s the gift & the curve. Surprisingly, the lone Lex Luger song on the album, “Rise”, featuring Jeremih doesn’t sound like some of the previous beats he made….and I was REALLY happy to hear him slow it down for the ladies. . Great move!

With Rozay rapping on most of the hooks & Teedra Moses “singing” on only one song, this is a pretty strong compilation. The street bangers are certified STREET & the Boss didn’t forget ’bout his Triple C’s amigos Gunplay & Torch…they’re on the LP.

I’m giving this project a 4/5.Make sure you support & buy it on MAYbach 24th. This is only the beginning of the empire. *Rick Ross grunt*