Search - Angie Martinez :: Up Close & Personal (Clean)

Doesn't Get More Ghetto Than This

Luis Hernandez | New York, New York, USA | 06/11/2001

(1 out of 5 stars)

"It's amazing on how easy it is for radio personalities to come out with an album nowadays. In this case, New York City radio personality Angie Martinez has decided to join the already crowded market of female emcees in producing an album that is pure garbage from the start. My only questions when it comes to this album's existence is "Why?"It is true that Lil' Kim is the leader of the pack when it comes to female rappers with major recognition, but Angie? Let's get real, Angie sounds better talking on the radio than rapping. Not even all the stars on this album could save this album from the disaster it was to become. At least Amil had some recognition for a while, but Angie should not even think about quitting her day job anytime soon. As a misrepresentation of Latino culture, Angie boasts that "rap music" is aesthetic to the identity of Puerto Ricans and many other Latino nationalities. Personally, if you heard this album, and are Latino you will even be ashamed to associate Ms. Martinez to the major Latin boom happening in popular culture.Not even the divine voice of La India or the rap contributions of many major-name rappers (please note that every song on this album has a rapper lending his/her vocals in order to carry the song through; Ms. Martinez is not even credited in carrying one entire song by herself, which for many in the music industry is not a good sign of talent)can save this debut. Also there is no need for all the expletives on this album. Music is supposed to be about talent and enjoyment, not about cursing and offending.As for this album, I wouldn't even waste a cent of your hard earned money on this album. Save your money and invest it wisely. As for this album, keep an eye out for it in the bargain bin at your local record shop. It is truly one of 2001's major musical disapointments!"