The Great Adventures of Slick Rick is, in a word, surprisingly obscene. When you think of the Golden Age of Hip Hop of the 1980’s you typically think of smooth flows with a bit of braggadocious spirit, some strong political statements a la Public Enemy, or something a bit cheesy like MC Hammer or Vanilla Ice. What you typically don’t associate with that era is graphic storytelling that borders on the profane.
But from the opening song entitled “Treat Her Like A Prostitute”, Slick Rick sort of flips those assumptions on their head– it’s no The Slim Shady LP, but it’s in fifth gear relative to its contemporaries. This album showcases Rick’s ability to weave intricate, humorous narratives through his distinctive, charismatic voice. It almost has a cinematic quality to it, with tracks like “Mona Lisa” and “Children’s Story” offering vivid, engaging tales that blend clever wordplay with memorable hooks. The production, spearheaded by Rick and his collaborators, features a blend of funky, soulful samples and innovative beats that perfectly complement Rick’s flow. The album’s charm lies in its seamless fusion of humor and drama, making it not just a collection of songs but a coherent experience that surprises you at almost every turn.
Standout Songs: “Treat Her Like A Prostitute”, “Mona Lisa”, “Children’s Story”
