I know a lot of people have lost respect for the man after the Game incident (YouTube video? demons? c'mon Rassy), and to tell you the truth, I kinda feel the same way. Regardless, Ras Kass has proven himself as one of the greatest lyricists on the West Coast for over a decade, and he has plenty of material to prove it. His classic debut, Soul on Ice, immediately established him as not only one of the best lyricists on the left coast, but in Hip-Hop in general. Although many critics blasted his ear for beats, it was his intense lyrics, staggering wordplay, and outstanding metaphors/punchlines that left listeners begging for more. Unfortunately, Priority Records never let this happen, shelving Rassy for basically the rest of his career, rendering him helpless over the control of his records (Goldyn Chyld, Van Gogh). A third DUI sent Rassy to prison, leaving us with no music other than his shelved material. Rassy finally got out in 2005 (?), and although he has fallen off a bit lyrically, his music is still some of the best stuff coming out nowadays. He is a must-listen artist for anybody into hip-hop, especially those that are looking for incredible lyricism...so to get started, definitely check out Soul on Ice.
Soul On Ic e (1996)
It is his best album by far...standout tracks, well thats tough, but I'd go with Reelishymn, If/Then , Nature of the Threat (his acclaimed masterpiece), and The Evil that Men Do.
If you are looking for more modern-sounding stuff, with better beats and a more accessible flow, listen to his first mixtape since he was released from jail, Institutionalized. This mixtape has great material, especially Intro/Its The Bizness, Air Em Out, and Write Where I Left Off. Still some incredible lyrics from Rassy, just over newer, cripser beats for those who are not ready for the raw sound of Soul on Ice.
Institutionalized (2005)
