The Streets Say: 4 Out Of 5

The Smoking Section (4 out of 5)

Summary: “Each member manages to conceive their own shine without overshadowing the next man. The unit proves that lyricism can still move mountains as they hit a couple of bulls eyes for the radio like the delightful debauchery of “The One” and Streetrunner’s high-octane “Not Tonight.” Slaughterhouse may be devoid of a signature song or high-end conceptualization, but further chemistry down the line should dry those puddles. At any rate, there will be blood whenever this quaternary strikes.”

Brain On Funk (9 out of 10)

Summary: “There are no rhymes about icy wrists nor 8-balls in Evisu jean pockets. There are no call and response tracks about ass clapping, instructional dances, nor autotune. That’s fine by me.  Still don’t think this album is for you? Let me put it this way: If you don’t like Slaughterhouse, you don’t like hip-hop.”

Potholes In My Blog (3.5 out of 5)

Summary: “What’s most important is that these four rappers were able to put out a very listenable and enjoyable record. And to the surprise of many, there is nary a weak beat on Slaughterhouse. There may be some that almost flounder toward average territory, but they remain solid as a whole. The same goes for the output of the rappers. All of them have their moments in the spotlight, though some might notice that Royce nearly steals the show. But what is most impressive is these guys were able to put their respective egos aside to create an album you should hear at least once.”

Nappy Afro (4 out of 5)

Summary: “Even though I don’t think this album will be breaking sales record on it’s release date, it’s still a win in my book. I think Slaughterhouse is doing what it’s meant to: Make first-rate lyrical music and raise the stock of it’s members. The debut album will give the dedicated fans what they want and hopefully fellow rappers will take notice and step up their pen game.”

Hip Hop State Of Mind (4.8 out of 5)

Summary: “I can talk about this CD all day. I literally can dissect it, but when it comes down to it, it’s almost perfect. I really didn’t want to turn this review into a praise-session for SlaughterHouse… but you honestly can’t help it if the album is THIS GOOD. The only negative thing I can say about this album is that it’s hardcore hip-hop, meaning they (excluding Joell Ortiz) are reckless at the mouth, but they do it so well to the point I think even Eminem would be inspired.”

Sketches Of My Soul (4 out of 5)

Summary: “The album itself is a pretty versatile and well-rounded offering from hip hop’s newest regime (especially to have been recorded in just under a week), one that includes semi, but not mainstream-aimed records like “The One” and “Not Tonight”, all-out battle royales in “OnSlaught II” and “Microphone” while also presenting introspective cuts like “Pray (It’s A Shame)” and “Rain Drops”.  Minor drawbacks include the skits that were included.  The album itself, however, features few weak bars and is chockful of quotables as each emcee shines, leaving blood on both walls and speakers alike. Listen closely… and you’ll hear the screaming lambs, right before the slaughter commences….”

Tags: Crooked I, Joe Budden, Joell Ortiz, Royce Da 5 9, Slaughterhouse