PRhyme 2

With PRhyme 2, the formidable duo of Royce da 5’9″ and DJ Premier returns, delivering an album that lives up to the legacy of their debut. Released on 16 March 2018, this sequel is a testament to their prowess, featuring a mix of heavyweight guest appearances and DJ Premier’s signature production style, woven together with samples by AntMan Wonder.

The album boasts a rich array of collaborations, including contributions from notable names such as 2 Chainz, Big K.R.I.T., and CeeLo Green, creating a vibrant tapestry of hip hop talent. The chemistry between Royce and Premier is palpable, with the duo navigating various themes and sounds throughout the project. Premier’s production shines, layering intricate beats with a nod to the genre’s golden era, ensuring that each track feels distinct yet cohesive.

Critics have generally responded positively to PRhyme 2. At Metacritic, the album achieved a score of 74, signifying “generally favorable reviews.” Neil Z. Young from AllMusic highlighted the album’s hard-hitting beats and dense rhymes, suggesting it satisfies even more than its predecessor. Scott Glaysher from XXL praised the duo for avoiding redundancy, noting tracks like “1 of the Hardest” and “Flirt” showcase a dynamic range of styles, from guitar riffs to classic New York basslines.

While the album is well-received, some critiques have emerged. Kyle Mullin of Exclaim! found certain elements lacking compared to the duo’s earlier work, specifically calling out CeeLo’s hook on “Gotta Love It” as “cloying.” Meanwhile, Karas Lamb at Consequence of Sound noted that while the album bridges the gap between hip hop veterans and rising stars, there are moments where Royce’s showmanship overshadows the lyrical depth.

Overall, PRhyme 2 is a worthy addition to the hip hop canon. It balances nostalgia with innovation, proving that Royce da 5’9″ and DJ Premier still have a significant impact on the genre. As they continue to evolve, this album reinforces their status as icons while reminding us of the powerful synergy that defines their artistry.