Search - Tung Twista :: Running Off at Da Mouth

Mr. Tung Twista

buggin out | 10/25/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

""Chicago rapper Twista made his recording debut on "Po Pimp," a platinum single by his fellow Windy City rappers Do or Die" Allmusic claims. Recently, I discovered otherwise. It turns out Twista put out several albums in the early 90's as Tung Twista. The first of these was 1992's Runnin' Off at the Mouth, his REAL debut.



Now, I'll admit I've always thought Twista's speed rap was more an interesting gimmick than compelling flow. I've generally been satisfied, if not impressed, with his albums. This is on another level though.



The production is bouncier and lighter than those of his other releases. It is very indebted to the East Coast sound of the time (Think Black Sheep or The Future Sound). It won't blow your mind, but it is exciting.



Perhaps because of the music ,or maybe his youth, Twista sounds hungry and energetic. He comes strong on all 11 tracks---from "Ratatattat" all the way to "Say What". As later, he doesn't have a lot going on lyrically. If lyrics are your thing, though, you already know you're looking to the wrong guy with Twista. His flow, however, is on point. His speed is on display on tracks like "Mr Tung Twista", but he doesn't rely on it as much as in later albums.



Ultimately, Runnin' Off At the Mouth is a top-notch album. It is tough to track down below $25, but if you have a chance to buy it, by all means-DO IT. You won't be disappointed."