Ryde or Die Vol. III: In the "R" We Trust 2001 Album

Ruff Ryders

The first two songs are similar. They have a nice bounce to the production by Brian Kidd and Timbaland respectfully, and the rappers ride them well. Minus the 'Intro', Swizz Beatz only produces two songs which would normally be a positive, but the production never reaches great heights at all. The DMX track, 'Friend of Mine', is the best thing here. It's not an album that is giving me much to write about. It's all passable gangsta/east coast hip hop, but nothing excels. Beats: ★★ Rapping/Bars: ★★★ Hooks: ★★☆ Best Tracks: Dirrty, They Ain't Ready, Friend of Mine