The anecdote to the over-produced commercial hip-hop invasion of late

DOOM - Born Like This | 4/5

If you’re sick of the over-produced commercial hip-hop invasion of late then this album may be the anecdote. Atlanta-based DOOM’s lyrics flow nicely alongside raw beats.

Since entering the rap game in 1989, DOOM (formerly Mf Doom) gained a smattering of commercial acclaim but has always been big in the underground scene.

Well known rapper Raekwon features on stand-out track Yessir!, while DOOM’s un-PC lyrics on Batty Boys push controversy to the max.

Spoken samples – best represented on Cellz – accompany the music on a lot of the tracks, reminiscent of Wu Tang Clan’s 2000 album The W. The track’s musings compliment the lyrics on the album which are stories told about life on the streets, not the norm of celebrity lifestyle and the perks.

More Wu Tang influence is seen on the more melodic Ghostface Killah collaboration Angelz. And the track Still Dope adds a feminine touch to the album with rapper Empress taking the mike.