This is better than most of Snoop's official albums, and it's a shame more don't think it's worth checking out. It features leftovers from Snoop Dogg's time at Death Row. He released his final album with them in '96 and departed the label in '98. The title and the back cover (Snoop in a casket), shows how Suge felt about him jumping ship to No Limit. Politics aside, this is a worthwhile collection of songs. You can hear elements of the songs from 'Doggystyle' but most sound like they are tracks that didn't make 'Tha Doggfather' or perhaps songs that were meant to be on his third album. Big Hutch, Daz, L.T. Hutton, DJ Pooh and Soopafly produce with Snoop co-producing on some. If you like Snoop and '90s west coast hip hop, you'll find something you like here. Quite consistent with a few highlights to play on repeat.
Beats: ★★★★
Vocals/Bars: ★★★☆
Hooks: ★★★☆
Best Tracks: May I, C-Walkin, Head Doctor, Change Gone Come
1. May I 93
A great way to kick the album off. Fun, funky, jazzy. Snoop rapping like he doesn't do enough of. That nostalgic, female sung vocals on the hook like so many iconic west coast mid-90s classics is featured. One of Soopafly's best productions.
2. C-Walkin 86
This one has a simpler, less funky, harder beat, but it works well too. This one maybe feels more like something from 'Tha Doggfather'. Surely these opening two songs weren't left off 'Tha Doggfather'.
3. Head Doctor 80
Back to that funky chit like the opener. From the title, you can guess what this is about. Another dope, catchy hook. This one had a music video and there is an OG version that was supposedly meant to be on 'Tha Doggfather'. The updated version here is better.
4. Hit Rocks 70
More funk sampling with 'Shine Your Light' by The Graingers being used.
5. Tommy Boy 70
Daz and Snoop storytelling trade bars. Decent, but not an outstanding beat by Daz. No discernible hook.
6. Change Gone Come 86
More classic west coast production. Another dope female sung hook and backing vocals. You can imagine this on Pac's 'All Eyez on Me'. This has no connection to Sam Cooke's song.
7. Too Black 61
Snoop gets pro-black rapping with more of a sleepy flow.
8. Gangsta Walk 62
Decent Daz gangsta rap production.
9. County Blues 74
Catchy bassline with country flavour.
10. I Will Survive 77
Another well produced song with nice touches that help the song never get boring.
11. My Favourite Color 70
Similar themes to 'Too Black'. Not the kind of song Snoop usually makes. He's spitting differently too.
12. Me and My Doggs 59
Snoop showing love to his canines. Probably the least interestingly produced tracks on the album.