Search - Ghostface Killah :: Put It on the Line

Late Night Arrival

C. Gray | Brooklyn, New York | 12/18/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I copped this disc out of curiosity, and to my surprise, this is one of the best CD's that I purchased in 2005. I've always been a big Ghostface fan, but my former opinion of Trife was lukewarm at best. I guess I must have slept, because he completely shines on this album, and you can`t create talent like his overnight. His flow, energy, and lyrical punch-lines are simply immaculate. As for Ghost, it goes without saying that his performance is superlative throughout the disc. With tight track production, this album is hot from front-to-finish. My only complaint is that some cat name Johnny Whispers, who appears on two cuts, has the nerve to copycat Ghost's rap-style down to the exact flow, vocal tone, and annunciation. Biting another rapper's style is never-ever acceptable in my opinion, and Whisper's direct impersonation is an aural annoyance.



The DVD that comes with this package is far better than the typical throw-ins released by other artists. Ghost's 10/9/05 appearance at B.B. King's in Manhattan is provided in its entirety. Although the cinematography is limited by a very packed crowd, the intimate footage captivates the full energy of the room. The songs performed by Ghost are testament to his remarkable repertoire. In addition to being a great lyricist, he's an equally gifted stage performer who presents an unmistakable exuberance for his trade. Guest appearances include the GZA, Killah Priest, and Masta Killa.



It's worth noting that this is an Independent release from Starks Enterprises. If you're a Ghostface or Wu-Tang fan you will find yourself remarkably satisfied with this purchase. Although this is not a classic five-mic album per se, it deserves the highest rating, due to the combined quality of the CD and DVD. Major music labels rarely provide a package of this quality. Leave it to Ghost & Co. to come through with the goods as usual.

"

Ghostface Killah & Trife Da God - Put It On the Line

Constant | Vancouver, BC Canada | 12/20/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Ghostface Killah & Trife Da God deliver a grimy slept on album with "Put It on the Line" (2005). Ghost and Trife open the album up strong dropping some raw lyrics on the thugged out "Cocaine Trafficking". Trife then shines on solo talking about his life and love for Hip Hop on "Put It On the Line". Ghostface Killah then talks about his own life on "Struggle", reminiscing on years past. "Hustle Hard" samples "Paid In Full" and uses a 50 Cent chorus, Trife rhymes about his own hustle and dealing. Backed by a deadly beat, Trife delivers another standout with "Event". Trife and Ghostface team up again providing a blazing hot collaboration with the outstanding "Fire". Kryme Life and Tommy Whispers collab with Trife on "Project Soap Operas" a cut about the drama that goes down in the hood. Ghostface Killah collabs with Wigz on "Out Da Way", first time I have heard of Wigz not feeling his rhyme style. Trife talks about the cops and the criminal justice system on "Drugz", a track about being arrested for a crime he didn't do. A hungry sounding Trife rips up "Game Time", then Ghostface and Raekwon team up for "The Watch". Kool G Rap makes an appearance on "Ghost & Giancana", and Rap legend Slick Rick and Ghost's fellow Wu members Rza and Raekwon collab in paying tribute to "The Sun". The DVD is a cool bonus which adds value to this release. This is really a display of Trife's talent, and its good one, but having the support of a rap veteran like Ghost helps to. I recommend "Put It On the Line" to people who enjoy raw reality Hip Hop.



"

Neverending Stories

Christopher D. Myers | Alaska | 01/10/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Ghost's delivery has been one of the illest in the last 12 years and has never ceased to amaze me! Trife and the rest of Theodore could very well be our future! Imma keep checking for y'all......."