After 17 years in the game, there are some who wonder can Fat Joe still hang with the best of them. He’s becoming quite the topic of hip-hop forums; whither it’s his frequent use of the n-word, his beef with 50 Cent and G-unit, or his new found love for southern rap. Believe it or not, some question his ability as a true emcee. All the opposition has forced Joe Crack back into the studio to record Elephant in the Room.
The album opens almost unexpectedly, with the blues heavy track “The Fugitive.” Joe hits the usual suspects lyrically, mustering up the old sold crack, pistol whip you, shoot them in the head that we’ve become accustom to; but he also comes with a little something different, reflecting on his past, and addressing nay sayers of his use of the word n*gga.
Tracks like “The Crackhouse” put Joe back into the zone, featuring everybody’s favorite guest spot, Lil Wayne. Its all crack rap, in my opinion, but Joe does it well. Tracks like “Cocababy” and “300 Brolic” keep you nodding your head, but overall aren’t great. Elephant in the Room hits a sour note with radio friendly tracks like “I Won’t Tell” and “You Ain’t Saying Nothing.” They are what they are: cheesy attempts at radio spins.
The album closes with “That White,” where Joe pleads forgiveness for embracing the southern style of rap, offering up reasons. As someone who was pretty pissed about it, I’ve got to say all still isn’t forgiven. Despite the treachery, you’ve got to respect Joe as a legend. 17 years hustling his rhymes, and he’s still relevant. Unfortunately, the true Elephant In The Room here is whether or not his career is coming to a close. 17 years after the fact, he’s still rapping about the same experiences. But let’s face it, its not over till the Fat Joe sings.
"Elephant In The Room" is on sale March 11, 2008 from EMI.
