BY BANDINI • NOVEMBER 2, 2018

Swizz Beatz just released his first album in more than 11 years. This hit-maker has seemingly been able to work with all sides of Rap music, branching into other genres. From hardcore to Pop polish, the Bronx, New York representative has thrived since his days as the low-key sound-provider on DMX’s first two albums.

Swizzy’s sophomore, Poison, shows his depth. Kendrick Lamar supports a LOX track on “Something Dirty/Pic Got Us.” Pusha-T spits some of his venom on “Cold Blooded.” However, the standout track may be from Nas. “Echo” forecasts a lot of collaboration from the two New York City veterans.

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At a time when Swizz and Nas were at work on an album, “Echo” marks their strongest collaboration to date. Notably, it is DJ Scratch (Flipmode Squad, EPMD) that laces the sample-savvy cut. Swizz and Scratch go back, with the Brooklyn turntablist doing Busta Rhymes’ “New York Sh*t” that featured Beatz’ peppy vocal all over the track.

This one has the same, with the spirited producer/MC/DJ talking throughout the opening. However, Nas reflects on his life and admits he wouldn’t change a single thing for a billion dollars. God’s Son reflects on the ills in the courtyards of Queensbridge, the old Times Square, and pulls no punches on his disdain for law enforcement.

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