Ghostface Killah – Fishscale review

Ghostface Killah – Fishscale review

If you thought newly anointed Def Jam President Shawn Carter would have some influence over the new Ghostface album, you’re mistaken. Whether you call him Ghostface Killah, Ironman, Tony Starks, or Pretty Toney, nothing has changed with his latest release “Fishscale.” It’s the same pure, unrelenting, raw hip hop Ghostface has been delivering since his first introduction with the Wu-Tang Clan.

Right from the opening track “Shakey Dog,” it’s apparent that the vintage Ghostface sound is back. Ghost then wets the listener’s appetite for the long awaited “Cuban Linx 2” with the Raekwon assisted, “Kilo” and “R.A.G.U”. Another highlight is “9 Milli Bros.” which features all 9 original Wu Tang members, and the late J. Dilla produced “Whip You With a Strap” which has Ghost revisiting his childhood. Even Ghost’s attempts commercial success with the Ne-Yo featured lead single “Back Like That,” which works because of Ghost’s ability to wear his heart on his sleeve.

Besides the song “Three Bricks” which features Notorious B.I.G.’s verse from “Ni**as Bleed,” and the lack of production by the RZA, “Fishscale” is Tony Starks in his prime, dripping with humor, emotion, charisma, and brutal honesty.

Few artists today are able to make sincere good music, without conforming to a commercial hook, conventional bar structure, or the latest trends. As a result, Ghostface is one artist that should be treasured.

Ghostface Killah – Fishscale review