Amidst all the controversy and constant rumors of retirement, The Game has been consistent since day one. His debut album, The Documentary, was an instant classic and it's follow up, Doctor's Advocate, was equally impressive as well. Now with his third solo offering L.A.X, The Game is out to prove his place in Hip-Hop [before things fade to black]; however, I'm thinking maybe he should reconsider.
For what it's worth, L.A.X. is far from a bad album; but to define it as the "be all to end all" album for Game would be inaccurate. If anything, Game took a step back [in my opinion] and has plenty of work ahead of him to be labeled "great"; but the thing is, the framework for success has already been laid. Without question, The Game is one of the most lyrical MC's in the game right now and not many rappers can hold a torch to 'em; but I think it was exactly that kind of thinking that influenced Game's approach to L.A.X. because L.A.X. is far from being anything remotely classic. Instead, L.A.X. stands as a typical melting pot of sorts in that it relies heavily on guest appearances and is even more watered down by Game's "lyrical crutch" that is name dropping.
For what it's worth, L.A.X. is far from a bad album; but to define it as the "be all to end all" album for Game would be inaccurate. If anything, Game took a step back [in my opinion] and has plenty of work ahead of him to be labeled "great"; but the thing is, the framework for success has already been laid. Without question, The Game is one of the most lyrical MC's in the game right now and not many rappers can hold a torch to 'em; but I think it was exactly that kind of thinking that influenced Game's approach to L.A.X. because L.A.X. is far from being anything remotely classic. Instead, L.A.X. stands as a typical melting pot of sorts in that it relies heavily on guest appearances and is even more watered down by Game's "lyrical crutch" that is name dropping.
Don't get me wrong, a few lyrical gems of note shine bright on this album and "Bulletproof Diaries" featuring Raekwon and "Angel" featuring Common are perfect examples of that. Not to be outdone, the somber "Never Can Say Goodbye" is solid as well as Game [lyrically] recaptures the final moments in the lives of Tupac, Biggie, and Easy-E; fittingly, giving poetic justice to each. As for the guest appearances, most are hit or miss here with "Letter To The King" featuring Nas and "Gentleman's Affair" featuring Ne-Yo representing both ends of that spectrum. Other standout tracks include the Lil' Wayne assisted "My Life", "Dope Boys" featuring the drums of Travis Barker, "Let Us Live" featuring Chrisette Michelle and, of course, the Keyshia Cole assisted lead single "Game's Pain".
As a whole, however, L.A.X. may leave a lot to be desired but is solid nonetheless. Production wise, the album is on point and vibes well lyrically; but, never does L.A.X. come close to re-creating the magic Game captured on The Documentary. Maybe it's just wishful thinking on my part, I don't know; it's just that, The Game is superbly talented and has all the necessarry components to be "great", but that potential can only go so far. With a little time (and effort), The Game will seal his place in Hip-Hop; but for now, his life and times are far from front page news.
Rating: 7.5 headphones out of 10
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