bloated with filler
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You are currently reading a thread in /mu/ - Music
You are currently reading a thread in /mu/ - Music
Why do 90% of hip hop albums have to be 50 - 1 hour+ long? Rarely do you find that one that is perfect all the way through.
I would like to point out Jay-Z's 'Reasonable Doubt' as an example.
Those first 8 tracks are CLASSICS. That is 33 minutes of material right there. The 9th track 'Aint no nigga' is absolute TRASH. Trash in EVERY WAY POSSIBLE - lyrics - beat - hook - guest spot. The next 3 tracks are 3/5 star max. The last 2, specifically Regrets, are masterpieces.
So if you cut those filler tracks. You would have 42 minutes of classic songs. Then there is no argument the album would be in the top 5 hip hop albums of all time. Yet it had to be bloated to 55 mins..?
Give your opinions.
For all the famous hip hop artists that read 4chan (/s), stop bloating your albums.
Listen to this
Here is another famous example considered a 'classic' clocking in at 1 hour 10 minutes.
First 6 tracks all classics.
#7 is a drop in quality - 3.5 stars
#8 tasteless sex track. totally pointless adds no value to the album.
#14 'Respect' - horrible beat, too fucking long, weak lyrics, bad hook.
#15 and #16 are 4 stars max, though 'Unbelievable' has a great beat.
More to come as I go through my library.
Sorry I should add my ratings at the end of my posts.
Reasonable Doubt - 4.5 stars (only because those other tracks are so fucking good)
Ready to Die - 4
Another example from the east coast.
1 hour 12 minutes
6 pointless skits + intro. after one listen you don't want to hear them again.
Keep the classics, cut the filler.
You would be looking at 9 songs clocking 35 minutes. That would be one of the great hip hop albums.
But because of the weaker tracks and dumb skits, I give it a 3.5/5.
FILLER!
The famous 'Straight Outta Compton'
Obviously this album is extremely influential. A reason why many call it a classic.
But how are the actual songs?
The first 3 are classics no doubt.
Track 4 is also extremely good with Mc Ren at the helm, but the beat is very dated.
Express Yourself is the only other classic.
Every other song is between 3-3.5 stars.
So 5/13 songs are classics. Not even half the album.
At 1 hour long it has too much filler.
>the 3 instrumentals
Zero filler. Best hip hop album of all time IMO
Now this one most people probably don't consider a classic, they would say 'The Chronic' is - it is better, but it also has filler.
2001 could have been better than the Chronic, had the filler been cut.
22 songs clocking at 1 hour 9 minutes is ridiculous.
Cut the filler and you have 11 songs clocking @ 40:49. What a great album that would be.
1. Lolo (Intro)
2. The Watcher
3. Still D.R.E.
4. Big Ego's
5. Xxplosive
6. What's The Difference
7. Forgot About Dre
8. The Next Episode
9. Bitch Niggaz
10. Some L.A. Niggaz
11. The Message
Good kid maad city filler?
Madvillany filler?
Any Kanye West album filler?
>>60364318
i would agree with 0 filler, but for me there are no standout tracks on this album. solid 4/5 stars, but it get bored halfway through. same with midnight marauders - though award tour is a classic for me.
>>60364435
>Excursions
>Check the Rhime
>Scenario
>Jazz (We've Got)
>no standout tracks
>>60364380
but then we would be missing out on classics like "pause for porno"
The famous Mad villainy. This album is actually only 46 minutes long, but I figure someone would bring it up.
This one is highly praised by critics and fans alike, but it does nothing for me.
the lyrics are nonsensical and the songs are just plain undeveloped. one of the most boring albums I have listened to and I gave it many tries. production is not interesting.
Dooms delivery does nothing for me and the comicbook gimmick got old a long time ago.
So while its 1 hour + bloated with filler. Its 46 minutes with 22 undeveloped songs. Most around the 2 minute mark.
>>60364483
Like I said. Solid 4 tracks but nothing is really memorable. Great production, great lyrics, but I get bored. I've been listening to Tribe for years but I don't consider them in my top 10.
>>60364489
The prime example of filler. Tasteless sex track.
Here we have another from the west coast, another Dre production. Many would call it a classic I would not.
19 songs clocking at 54 minutes.
This album suffers from 2 big problems.
1. Pointless skits/interludes.
2. To many guest / feature spots.
This is more of a 'west coast g funk' album than a Snoop album.
Standouts are
Gin And Juice
Tha Shiznit
Murder Was The Case
Serial Killa
Doggy Dogg World
Gz And Hustlas
Gz Up, Hoes Down (only on original LP)
I give this album a 3.2/5 stars. Even though 'Tha Shiznit' is so damn good, the rest is not on the same level.
Like I said, too many guest spots.
Also 'Gz Up, Hoes Down' is only on the original LP and was removed after. I noticed CD versions combine the interludes with the songs. That doesn't make the songs any better, just longer.
>>60364650
Bitches and niggaz is a good song tho
what do you think of this album?
Very famous, highly rated hip hop album.
Love Gangstarr, but this album is far too long. Clocking in at 1 hour 18 minutes with 20 songs.
There isn't actually a track below 4 stars here.
However if you kept only the 5/5 star tracks, the album would only be 45 minutes long.
Then it would easily be in the top 10 hip hop albums of all time.
>>60364748
which of the tracks would you keep?
>>60364048
Coming of Age and Cashmere Thoughts are great, faggot.
>>60364502
>the lyrics are nonsensical and the songs are just plain undeveloped. one of the most boring albums
>Can't appreciate the lyrics
>Can't appreciate the nonstandard composition styles
>"boring"
Sorry you have shit taste, anon.
>not enjoying the skits on rap albums
How's your Autism going
>>60364736
Hi Anon.
This is one of my favorite hip hop albums. Easily in my top 20, maybe my top 10.
Clocking in at 1 hour 6 minutes, it's long, but nearly every track is a classic.
The 3 preludes in this album could have been cut. They really don't add anything to the album.
2 songs could have been cut.
Drink Away The Pain - while the production is great and Q-tip is a great feature, it does not fit with the gritty dark atmosphere of the album. It's very out of place.
Party Over - good, but not great. I don't consider this a classic and 'Shook Ones' would have been a better album closer.
Cut those and you would be at 11 songs - 52 minutes. Instant 5/5.
I have to be objective though and give it a 4.5/5.
>>60364784
They are good, but not on the same level as the others - especially production wise.
>>60364807
you will find there are many out there who agree with you and many who do not. that is life.
>>60364832
Please tell me what value the 'fuck me' interlude adds to 'Ready to Die' ? I don't know anyone who looks forward to that skit or how it makes the album better in anyway. Instant skip, instant filler.
Here we have the famous 'Marshall Mathers LP' - 18 songs clocking at 1 hour 12 minutes.
Many love Eminem, many think hes overrated, many think hes the greatest, many thinks he suck. I am not going to go into a debate with anyone.
This is the only Eminem that would I consider close to a classic, but it has problems.
The intro is fine. It's not too long and he did a similar intro to his first official album.
The 3 skits are nothing special. Thankfully they aren't as long as some albums. Ken Kaniff (Skit) is useless. 'Paul' could probably stay, but if it was my choice, I would cut all 3.
As for the songs, nothing below 4 stars, but I'd rather have an album full of classics.
Remember Me? - cut. Guest spot aint great.
I'm Back - cut.
Marshall Mathers - cut.
Under The Influence - cut.
We would then be looking at 12 songs clocking 55 minutes. Instant 5/5 for me.
My real rating is 4.1/5
>>60365034
I would cut Amityville cause thats the only song on the album that isn't good in my opinion. I would also leave in Marshall Mathers, always been one of my favourite Em songs.
because most rappers aren't album fetishist obsessed with "muh complete piece of work"
>>60365087
I think a lot of people would agree with you on that one. I however love Amityville. The hook is funny and the lyrics are very memorable.
Like I said, no track is below 4 stars on that album. Though I feel the track with the guest spots are not the strongest.
>>60365094
Your right. Most want their album to sell, so they release a bloated album with as many songs they can market as singles.
One should take pride in their work and should know when something is not of the same quality.
op you fucking nailed reasonable doubt. those first tracks are absolutely top and Regrets is his best song, but those throwaways.....
>>60365266
albums used to be the only way to do things
but if you notice now every popular rapper doesn't even put out albums
>>60364048
because, back when albums cost $10-20 each, poor people who bought rap albums would decide on which one to get partly based on how many tracks there were, the thinking being that a longer album = better value
that's why practically all no limit/cash money albums are 70+ minutes long.
CD-length means 60+, often 70+ minutes of music. fill that fucker up. the idea of an album as a flawlessly paced collection of music, each part also being a "good song" has always been considerably rarer in black music.
Not a bad song on the album, though you could argue the last song isn't necessary.
>>60364048
It's not just in hip hop, it's in all genres of music. Ever since CD's became the popular format, every artist, band or group feels it is necessary to put as much music as possible on a disc. And that's why you get albums now that are half good, half shit.
To me, the ideal length for al album is about 40-45 minutes, and should have no more than 12 songs on it.
>>60365518
sorry but I agree with OP. rap albums are 2 fucking long.
illmatic is 40 minutes long. it dont got any skits or shit n its a classic!
So OP what's your top 15?
>>60365560
Hi Anon, OP here.
I think many would put Liquid Swords on their top 10 hip hop albums of all time. I love it as well, perfect production and great lyrics. GZA however, is not my favorite member of the group and I don't think his flow is the best.
Also if you are referring to ' B.I.B.L.E. ' - It is out of place, but it's a great track.
>>60365646
It depends who you listen to I guess.
Lets look at other genres/bands.
The Beatles? With the exception of 'The White Album' and 'Abbey Road' - every other Beatles album is between 32-39 minutes long. 'Revolver' is 34 minutes long and is tied for the best Beatles album.
Lets look another completely different genre.
Slayer's 'Reign in Blood' is 28 minutes long. You could consider that 'ep' length.
Quality of music matters and artists SHOULD know that.
The worst thing you can do is bloat and album, still have leftover tracks, then make an album out of THOSE. Looking at YOU Metallica's 'Load / Reload.' Load isn't a good album in the first place, but they completely maxed out the CD length. Then they go an make a leftovers album just as long!
>>60364048
>Reasonable Doubt
>filler
fuck off this is the literal GOAT hip-hop album, and I'm not even a huge Jay fan. How the fuck can you not like A'int No Nigga? Yeah it's a sex song but it's still A-game Jay wordplay, and the hook and production are both solid. And then it goes straight into Friend or Foe and Coming of Age, two god-tier songs. Cashmere Thoughts has one of the best beats on the album. Bring it On is a fucking Primo beat with some phenomenal guest verses. Regrets should be switched out with Can I Live II, that's the ONLY thing I'll say negative about this album. Fuck outta here.
>>60365963
looks like u cant read retard. the op said the last 2 tracks are masterpieces.
>The last 2, specifically Regrets, are masterpieces.
aint no nigga sux. foxy brown is a hoe who was unfortunately featured on 2 many good albums. Fuck outta here.
>>60366069
Foxy had some good verses, A'int No Nigga was way too Lil' Kim for her. Her verse on Affirmative Action by Nas killed GAWDS on the track Nas and AZ. Can't make her own songs worth shit tho.
>>60365727
I'd really have to sit down and think about that. I'd have to be just as objective as I am here.
But i'll throw some albums - say in my top 30 - no specific order.
the infamous - 1 hour 6 minutes
endtroducing..... - 1 hour 3 minutes
death certificate - 1 hour 1 minute
resurrection - 54 minutes
a piece of strange - 54 minutes
paul's boutique - 53 minutes
lifestylez of da poor & dangerous - 49 minutes
the diary - 43 minutes
illmatic - 40 minutes
Also....
Kendrick Lamar's 'good kid, m.A.A.d city' has grown on me a lot. it really does deserve the acclaim. I've been listening to it since it came out and I enjoy it more and more each listen. The production is fantastic. I don't enjoy all the guest spots however.
It clocks in at 1 hour 8 minutes for reference.
Hope that helps!
>>60364650
whoa buddy .. Doggystyle is a fucking classic! The skits went with the whole vibe of the album and are classic skits desu ..
>>60364048
I largely agree. It's not even skits that are necessary the problem. A lot of hip hop albums just have way too many songs, Moment of Truth is a good example of that. It's fine on an album like The Infamous where there's enough quality throughout to justify the long length.
>>60364139
>respect
>not 2nd best song on the album
opinion disregarded
>>60366413
op mentioned moment of truth.
>>60366266
hahaha Nas wrote her verses you retard. all her solo albums are weak shit. she was garbage from the beginnin. she hasn't put an album in like 15 years because no one cares about her anymore.
>>60366437
LOL! dude I disagree with op about friend o mine and unbelievable but respect fucking sucks. 2nd best song? are u delusional? the what, juicy, things done changed, machine gun funk? Fuck outta here.
>>60366389
>resurrection - 54 minutes
nice pick op. have u heard " be " ?
>>60366413
>A lot of hip hop albums just have way too many songs
This, and when every song is beat driven verse/chorus structure it gets very tiring.
>>60364380
I remember being dj at this garden house party, and I just put this full album on shuffle without hearing all of it's tracks before, It was awkward as fuck when the sex skit came up... for real...
>>60364048
opinion on enter the 36 chambers, OB4CL and overall other wu productions?
>>60365034
Marshall Mathers and I'm Back are 10/10 tho
Otherwise I agree
Also the alternate album cover is superior IMO
do one on earl or tyler lol
>>60366389
Thanks for the input f a m
Az - Doe or Die is pretty good and around as long as Illmatic.
>>60364048
While I agree with you, on some level hiphop is also about wordplay. Those "filler" songs you're cutting out are filled with it.
>>60364433
The only filler in GKMC was Poetic Justice, but it still made a hell of a single anyway. Kanye's albums do not have filler
>>60364807
mf doom is shit. fuck off fantano drones.
>>60367365
College Dropout had a little t b h
>>60365087
I only hate Bizzare's verse on Amityville but the rhymes and aggressiveness are pretty great; "we don't do drivebys, we park in front of houses and shoot and when the police come we fuckin shoot it out with em too" and "this ain't Detroit, this is motherfuckin hamburger hill, where you can get popped for just havin a cavity filled (haha I feel ya)" we're highlights from that song I loved those verses
>>60365034
Sticky Fingaz's and Em's lines on Remember Me were both dope and fit really well with the rest of the album I think, that other dude though...
>>60366666
Only Built 4 Cuban Linx may be favorite Wu-tang solo release. I love Iron Man as well, but I come back to this album more. Liquid Swords, Supreme, and Return to 36 are not far behind.
Now this album is not perfect. It is very long, clocking in @ 1 hour 13 minutes.
Even though this a 'mafioso' hip hop album, the wordplay is excellent and majority of lyrics are very clever - right up there with Liquid Swords. Raekwon wanted this to sound like a noir film and it really does.
Rae and Ghostface are pretty much the perfect combo. They know how to work off each others vocal tones, technique and both have great flow. Easily the best chemistry between wu members.
The production on here is stellar. I'd say it's best RZA production outside of 36 chambers. The xylophones are perfection!
Guillotine is my favorite track. Deck and Ghostface kill it on this one. Rainy Dayz, Criminology, Heaven & Hell, and Verbal Intercourse are classics as well. Nas' feature is superb, as he fits right in.
Now what would I cut?
Ice Cream starts good, but Cappadonna brings the song down. 'I love you like I love my dick size' - weak. The appearance of the overrated 'Method Man' is no better.
Ice Water isn't very interesting. Boring verses and Cappadonna is once again featured stinking it up.
Wisdom Body has a great beat but Ghostface just goes on this lame sex rant.
The albums intro 'Striving for Perfection' works, I suppose... The 'Liquid Swords' intro is way cooler though.
Shark Niggas is absolutely pointless. It does not fit with the album at all. Pure filler I'm sad to say.
Can It All Be So Simple is a remix. Verses switched up, some new lyrics. It is good, but did the album really need it? It drags a bit towards the end.
Spot Rusherz is good, but not a classic. The first minute is just a skit.
Cut those 7 tracks and we are looking at 46 minutes of classic songs.
>>60364048
what is ur opinion on The Sun Rises in East by Jeru?
>>60368067
Well it's not a long album. It's only 39 minutes in length. So are you asking if I think it's a classic?
Jeru is great! His flow is unique, excellent delivery, and I enjoy the majority of his lyrics.
Production wise... It suffers.
Primo is one of my favorite producers and he did the whole album. I don't think this is best work however. It's kind of different for him, very dark, experimental noir. Some songs are really great - 'Ain't The Devil Happy' 'You Can't Stop The Prophet' 'Jungle Music' but others are downright boring... Those horns in 'Da Bitchez' are cheesy. The song is also kind of lame
Jeru is constantly reminding us who are the 'bitchez' and who aren't. 3.5 stars for this one.
The album intro, the skit, and the 'theme' are pointless. Cut those and it would be 36 minutes. Slightly better, but you can't save the album from overall poor production.
3.5/5
I think his followup is more well rounded.
