The LOX Albums (2)
'We Are the Streets'
Release Date 1/25/2000
Tracks 18
Label Ruff Ryders
See Album Tracklist and Review
What The Critics Say
The LOX's highly publicized and drawn-out defection from Puffy's Bad Boy Records to DMX's Ruff Ryder camp was imperative. Not only because Puffy's glossy sound openly clashed with the group's thug mentality, but the change of scenery also furnished Jadakiss, Sheek, and Styles with an opportunity to assert their own identity. While the LOX as a unit do not offer much in terms of topical dexterity, Jadakiss is one the industry's most underappreciated lyricists, which he clearly reiterates on his solo cut "Blood Pressure." Ruff Ryders in-house producer Swizz Beatz handles most of the production duties, and although his syncopated production can become repetitious, DJ Premier ("Recognize") and Timbaland ("Ryde or Die Bitch," featuring Eve and Drag-On) provide some much-needed diversity with their signature sounds. The rowdy lead single, "Wild Out," is an obvious reworking of Jay-Z's "Jigga My Nigga," but it was a hit on rap radio. ~ Matt Conaway, All Music Guide
'Money, Power & Respect'
Release Date 1/13/1998
Tracks 21
Label Bad Boy
See Album Tracklist and Review
What The Critics Say
The LOX are some of the better rappers on the Bad Boy roster, more dexterous, clever, and hook-conscious than their mentor, Puff Daddy. That doesn't necessarily mean that their debut, Money, Power & Respect, is better than Puff's record, but it does mean that it's frequently exciting and invigorating. Like most late-'90s hip-hop records, the album runs way too long and is bogged down by filler, but the very best moments equal anything that has been released by Bad Boy, and in many cases even surpasses it in terms of lyrical skills and energy. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine, All Music Guide
