Ludacris-Theater of the Mind
Disturbing Tha Peace/Def Jam
Rating: 3 out of 4
By Preach Jacobs

Not many artists have the duality of Ludacris in hip-hop. The ability to have commercial appeal while being aware of the roots for so-called backpackers, Luda has the potential to impress both. At times he swayed more towards commercial acclaim, but there’s brilliant moments on his newest release “Theater of the Mind” that proves that he does in fact keeps his ears to the street.

“MVP,” the DJ Premier produced track, is arguably the best record on the album. Claiming that he’s “the first southern-rapper on a Primo track,” ‘Cris conquers the track with ease (even though Scarface and Devin the Dude have blessed Premier songs prior to the ‘Mouth of the South’). Also, the 9th Wonder produced “Do the Right Thing,” featuring Common and Spike Lee, is the perfect way to end the album. Uplifting and with boom-bap production providing proof that Luda hasn’t lost his roots.

There’s never a doubt that Ludacris was a lyrical heavyweight, just at times his musical backdrops left a little to be desired. Songs like “Southern Gangsta” and “Nasty Girl” are both needed for radio play, but intrude on displaying his capabilities.

“Theater of the Mind” is a solid album, even if times the production isn’t as dope as the rapper. Maybe it’s my personal bias (as being anti-crunk enduced rap) but in these days and times, a commercial artist having both a Premier and 9th Wonder track is a victory beyond belief. What this album proves is that Luda is still one of the dopest lyricists and when he has the right tracks, he’s unstoppable. Is this his classic? No, but with spinkles of genius here and there his classic isn’t too far away.