Slick Rick - The Art of Storytelling

Slick Rick boasts that he makes hip-hop that creates memories, and it's an apt description for an album that nostalgically recalls a different age of hip-hop. Unfortunately, the blast back to the past is mostly the result of an album that just sounds old--as if it's been collecting dust in Def Jam's attic for a while, what with Clark Kent's bare-bones production that pushes a boring formula of simplicity to tears. While some songs ("Sparkle," "Memories," and "Kill Niggaz" among them) have a spark of life, it's really up to Slick Rick to hold up the album's monstrous 23 tracks. His storytelling skills are all intact, whether on the X-rated tip ("Adults Only"), moralizing about infidelity ("Two Way Street"), or kickin' the playalistic game with Outkast ("Street Talk"). Overall, it's a likable album, but it suffers from obese length and bland production that only makes the experience seem longer. --Oliver Wang Amazon.com

wow what a come back

slick rick may have out done himself here its hard to imagine him haven another album this good i think it might even be better then the great adventures. he did really well on who he would put on this album nas wu tang outkast what more do you whant. storytellin dies once nas is gone but hopefully the great hip hop storytellers will come back evrynow an then to drop a classic like this December 19, 2008

1 of

the greatest come backs of the year I like about every song on this one it had gotten a whole lot of replay from me hot music!!!! November 28, 2005

Said and done!

At first I was skeptical to buy it without hearing it first, but it came to be one of my favoriate albums. The downfall of this album is too many skits that does not move the cd along smoothly. The first song or track #2 "Kill Niggaz," Rick starts the cd off strong with the line, "Hoes ass kiss, 'cause I'm like Jason vision / releasing me a basket case from prison..." He adds color to all the tracks with his "singing" and descriptive vision of his lyrics. Just listen to "Adults Only," track #16. He puts a lot of rappers/emcees in check with "Impress the Kid," by saying "...girl catch this fever / and I don't need anyone else to rap with either / if this is based on skill / kill / anybody..." Slick Rick reigns as the Ruler. The most slept on and underated emcee/albums ever! February 14, 2005

Slick Rick brings that loving feeling back to Rap

In 1999, Rick made a big return to the game with this effort, his first since being released from jail. I haven't heard "The Ruler's Back" or "Behind Bars," but this could legitimately be considered the follow-up to his historic debut "The Art Of Storytelling." The title of this is a little misleading, since Rick only tells a handful of his world-renown tales on this album. The rest of the album contains braggadocio, battle rhymes, and such. That sounds disappointing, but Rick wears the hat convincingly.
As much as I want to dislike Slick Rick the ruler, because of his arrogant attitude and his lack of respect towards women, I just can't hate him as I listen to his music. The man's just such a gifted MC, and he's been in the game since the mid-80's. He does curse more than ever on this album, and uses the p-word and similar words frequently, but his superior skill and assured cadence manifest throughout. He does drop a touch of wisdom every here and there, and even praises the Creator at some points. He's not one-dimensional. Rick leaves out talk about silly crap like cars, jewelry, drugs, gang activities, etc., but does include talk of two of his favorite pastimes: women and sex.
The first song, "Kill Ni***z," has him fantasizing about releasing all his pent-up rage right after being released from prison. Kinda interesting as he steps out of character. The next is "Street Talkin'"(w/ Big Boi) and it's about helping the kids grow to men. I like the chorus and the laid-back feel of this one. If you listen closely, "Who Rotten 'Em" is the best example of Rick's storytelling skills, and sits proudly next to his most famous tales. I think you already know what "Adults Only" is about, one of the most explicit and graphic songs EVER. But it's Rick, was anyone that suprised by it? It's definitely a forgettable one, as is the preceding "Why, Why, Why," which is done in the same(but not so graphic) spirit. "Unity"(w/ Snoop Dogg & Kid Capri) is a decent song about bringing both coasts together, and Snoop actually says something about Farrakhan and the Holy Koran(stick to your league Snoop, don't even try to step foot in ours!), and should technically be the last track. However, then you have a skit, then a second version of "I Own America"(with a better beat), another skit, a bonus song w/ Doug E. Fresh, then two live recordings with classic Rick and Doug E. Fresh joints, ending at 24 tracks.
The standouts are subjective to taste, but my favorites were definitely "2 Way Street," "Impress The Kid," the old-school throwback "I Run This," as well as the reminiscing "Memories" and "Street Talkin'." Other decent tracks include "Me and Nas Bring It To Your Hardest,"(w/ Nas) "Who Rotten 'Em," "King Piece In This Chess Game,"(w/ Canibus on the hook) and possibly "I Own America Part II." The production keeps it flowing throughout, some great points, but overall is simply decent. "2 Way Street" and "Memories" possess great beats that I can think of off the top of my head. Overall, this album is constantly laid-back and soothing. "The Art of Storytelling" falls a little short of classic, but was a strong and worthwhile return for Rick back to this thing we call Hiphop. Ricky D's mark will forever be left in the game. January 27, 2005

THE WORST SLICK RICK ALBUM

Rick at his worst is still a 4star album..He's the best rapper ever by far..Its not even close..It's not hard to spit hardcore raps..anyone can do that..All those hardcore artists arent creative enough to do anything else..Rick is a Real Artist..These other bums just spit garbage compared to Rick..
The Art of Storytelling is Rick's worst album by far..buy the other 3 if oyur a true head...In 1988 I heard Slick Rick and haven't stopped listening to rap since..He has too many guest appearnaces and skits on this one..When I buy a Rick record i only want to hear Rick..I could care less about everyone else unless its a classic duet..Skits are just obnoxious..Everyone else just rhymes words and says nothing..listen to Rick if you wanna know how real rap should sound..There must be over 500 rap "acts" that are absolutely garbage..Its nice to know that Rick is still around..Also this album was recorded up state NY in the country which I believe Rick regrets. Ive read statements from him saying how he wants to remain in the Bronx cuz he feel syou lose some creative edge when you leave the environment that inpired you...BUY THE FIRST 3..FORGET THIS ONE May 22, 2004

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