Rating: NNNN
On the Merlo Jonez EP, a 17-track precursor to Lil Scrappy’s forthcoming second studio album, the airplay-lacking Atlanta rapper steps out from the shadow of crunk music, in which Lil Jon mentored him almost 10 years ago.
While the EP is a departure from his previous fare, calling it a reinvention would be an exaggeration. Still present are the dark drums and choral arrangements, courtesy of producers Lex Luger, Nonstop and Jazze Pha (whose contribution is unusually ominous). Ditto the often violent subject matter.
That said, Scrappy showcases a more playful side on the hilarious Mr. Cosbi and Never Comin’ Down, which curiously samples Deadmau5’s Ghosts N’ Stuff. And while Scrappy’s rapping hasn’t really improved, there’s nary a skip-worthy track. Sometimes a subtle readjustment of your sound is far more effective than a rebirth – and this album has “comeback” written all over it.
Top track: Mr. Cosbi