Playaz Circle Albums (2)
What The Critics Say
A significant step up from their debut, the Playaz Circle's sophomore release, Flight 360: The Takeoff, finds the longstanding -- although only recently recorded -- crew trading lines like they've been together for years, something missing the first time out. There's a long guest list -- ranging from OJ da Juiceman to Ludacris -- which is a good thing since members Tity Boi and Dolla Boy aren't the most riveting rappers, but they're strong enough to avoid any hostile takeover. Even when an Auto-Tuned Lil Wayne appears on the highlight "Big Dawg," the duo is in command, and with "duffle bag" references being dropped frequently, there's no mistaking who's behind this players ball. The "like" punch lines may be in overabundance -- "I need cheese like nacho" arguably the worst -- and the production from Hurt, Aktual, the Casey Boys, and others doesn't flex the duo's Southern side like fans of the DTP label might hope, but it's hard to deny that this simple, entertaining album has highlights well into the fourth quarter. Actually, the Playaz often sound very East Coast, and seeing how they love "Z"s and keep their swagger chilled and smooth, Flight 360 suggests they are a 21st century update of the likeminded Sporty Thievz, which for most hip-hop fans is a very good thing. ~ David Jeffries, All Music Guide
'Supply & Demand'
Release Date 10/30/2007
Tracks 11
Label DTP/Def Jam
See Album Tracklist and Review
What The Critics Say
There are two major events that kept the College Park, GA duo Playaz Circle out of the studio for ten years: Dolla Boy landed himself in jail while Tity Boi was wounded in a shooting. All the while, their good friend and advocate Ludacris waited, promising them a place in his Disturbing tha Peace family plus an album release whenever they were ready. After their personal drama settled, guest shots on DTP releases brought some attention, but it was with their own infectious and hard single "Duffle Bag Boy" -- with special guest superstar Lil Wayne -- that they staked their claim and got the Dirty South faithful talking. No big surprise their debut doesn't top or equal the single, but it is surprising that there's little payoff for the duo's ten years of struggle (where're the insightful lyrics?) and partnership (where's the chemistry?). Still, "Duffle Bag Boy" is brilliant, and both "Gucci Bag" and "Betta Knock," with Ludacris, are worth repeat plays. Then there's the daring "Dear Mr. L.A. Reid," which talks to the big label boss from way down on the roster, plus "Paper Chaser" with Little Brother's Phonte bringing the grown man business. Drumma Boy and his ilk provide the exciting Dirty South production, no skits or interludes keep the track list tight, but Playaz Circle themselves lean back their whole album, low-riding as if their legend were enough. While Supply & Demand gets a passing grade thanks to its highlights, a little more heart and hunger would have made it a lot more memorable. ~ David Jeffries, All Music Guide
