Florida rapper Rick Ross has come quite a ways from being pick of the litter among the underground circuit.
His sophomore effort “Trilla” recalls the gritty groundwork laid by Trick Daddy, Trina and 2 Live Crew. With this album, he manages to capture their rudimentary formula that spawned his 2006 breakthrough hit “Hustlin’.” Instead of age-old tales of drug trafficking, and pocket-busting wealth, with “Trilla” Ross attempts the 24/7 persona like an “American Gangster” concept. With cocky lip chatter and polished bass-heavy tunes, he repaves the potholes left after being seemingly absent from the rap scene in favor of the sunny southern peninsula.
The lead-footed R. Kelly-assisted “Speedin,” reveals Ross can do commercial. As the first single, it adds new dimensions to his Darth Vader-like brass and texture.
But “Trilla” develops like bipolar disorder — some things good, others bad. Ross’ flow, however, remains engaging.
Similar to the return of landmark ex-Cash Money producer Mannie Fresh on “All I Have in This World,” Ross jumps on the track like a reckless mobster who lives for reputation and hell raising, but is limited by standard, Southern-fried production. Comparable issues arise on the clap-happy and ambitious “We Shinin’,” which is skippable.
On the gold-digging “Money Make Me Come,” Ross conveys his financial and sexual affairs over a Drumma Boy beat, which sounds like a recycled version of “Hustlin’.”
It’s Ross’ guest appearances that make “Trilla,” live up to its title. Take, for example, the screeching synthesizers and old-school rap feel of “The Boss,” featuring T-Pain, and superb appearances by Lil’ Wayne, Trick Daddy and Young Jeezy on the soulful “Luxury Tax.” The J.U.S.T.I.C.E League-produced track gives these southern gentlemen the chance to reflect on work like a retiree.
Jay-Z also blesses Ross with a heater on the classic proportions of “Maybach Music.” Smooth and genuine — just like the automobile style — the track is a luxurious recording the perils on the top. Like a starstruck child, Ross’ lyrics don’t add up to Jay-Z’s contribution to the overall great track.
“Trilla” contains nod-worthy tracks, but most of the album lacks direction. “I’m Only Human,” shows Ross has flaws, but comes across counterfeit considering the previous 14 tracks of sex, drugs and money.
He finds himself caught in the same rut of tired overused material and beats.
Rick Ross represents Florida to the fullest he can, but unless he tackles versatility within his lyrics, he’ll likely fall off the map.
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