Busta Rhymes is yet another rap artist falling into the trend of yearly album drops. In fact, "It Ain't Safe No More" is the third album release in 2 years; however, one of those albums consisted of a collection of greatest hits. His previous original-material album ("Genesis") released in 2001 and saw dismal sales numbers, relative to other mainstream artists. While the album did reach platinum status, it fell well short in comparison to other rap "giants" in terms of sales figures. But Busta Rhymes is unique in the sense that he has established himself as a rap artist, despite a "small" amount of albums sold. Busta bounced onto the music world in 1996 with "Coming". The album crept upon the Platinum status, but more so established Busta into the minds of the listeners. "Coming" featured the jam, 'Woo Hah!! Got You All In Check', which debuted on the MTV video scene. This ‘hit’ didn’t send listeners into a frenzy, but instead listeners began to show him respect. Busta had begun to grind the wheels on his journey towards rap success.

The slow grinding wheels began moving rapidly. Rhymes would release an album in each of the next two years. He silenced his fans in 1999, but returned in 2000, with "Anarchy". Since that time, he has released 3 albums, one which is a collection of his greatest hits. In conjunction to his musical career, Rhymes has also found himself in various movies, such as: Blade, Finding Forrester, etc. But the movies will always play second fiddle, as his music exceeds in precedence.

"It Ain't Safe No More", his newest drop, is am impressive collection of tracks; 19 total. The album itself doesn't drift far from the expected Busta style; it does manage to incorporate new ideas, new thoughts, and a better overall environment. One aspect that I enjoy (on all Busta Rhymes albums) is the fact that Busta spits desire and passion for making music. Instead of releasing album after album of the same ole shizzle, Busta incorporates alterations, which help to enhance the album. This album exhibits the increased mental maturity, as well as further embeds him into the rap scene. Rhymes is also an artist who has, thus far, gotten better with time. "It Ain't Safe No More" is his quite possibly his best album to date. The album doesn’t knock your socks off, nor does it have the largest collection of singles, but the album is very solid. A few tracks stand out, but for the most part each track is full. Some people find his style overwhelming, but for those who have the acquired taste will suck down every last ounce of this.

The album doesn’t offer up anything out of the ordinary, but the album is extremely solid. The beats used throughout this album are not only catchy, but play an important role in hooking the listener. Unlike Jay-Z, Busta uses a minimal amount of producers, in order to maintain a specific style and a somewhat 'expected' sound; the album stays on track and stays focused.

"It Ain't Safe No More" is a wild expression that focuses on issues that concern most of us. Each track is an attempt at relaying what is important and on the mind of Rhymes. While most of us wouldn’t agree with everything in his mind, I feel that it is fair to say that each track is extremely interesting.

During the course of reviewing an album, I feel that it is vital to tell all of you the downsides. This album is unique in the sense that I couldn’t find many negative aspects; however, this album doesn’t score the perfect 5 of 5 planets. All in all this is a very good collection of music, especially in a time where musical solidarity is rare. The only problem that I can find is that some people just do not find Busta appealing. For that reason the album takes a slap in the face. For those of you who like the raunchy sound that is spit by Rhymes then you have a masterpiece on your hands. For those of you who didn’t like the previous Busta albums, I suggest you look for a good rap CD elsewhere.

To Buy Or Not To Buy?
This album steps of the level of intensity and pushes things to the edge. The album is full of twists and turns, all of which point you in one direction; forward. The album shines a nice light onto the career of Busta Rhymes, quite possibly casting a shadow over each of his other albums. If you are looking for an exciting album that shouldn’t leave you with the all-to-common empty feeling then buy this. If you are not fond of the style used by Rhymes then I suggest you take one more listen before casting judgment. Open up those minds and prepare yourself accordingly. If you still find yourself disliking the sound then by all means…. Stay away. This is an acquired taste, so sample first.

I donate 3.5 Planets simply because this CD isn’t going to shine in the limelight for the majority of listeners.

Track Listing:
01 Intro
02 It Aint Safe No More Feat. Meka
03 What Can You Do When Your Bran
04 Call The Ambulance
05 We Goin To Do It To Ya
06 What Up
07 Turn Me Up Some
08 Make It Clap Feat. Spliff Star
09 Take It Off Part.2 Feat. Meka
10 Taste It
11 Hey Ladies
12 I Know What You Want Feat. MC & Flipmode Squad
13 Riot
14 Hop
15 Together Feat. Rah Digga
16 Struttin Like A G.O.D.
17 The Struggle Will Be Lost Feat. Carl Thomas
18 Till Its Gone
19 Bonus Track

Ramz Rating:  3.5 out of 5 Planets


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