Is the west finally back? There have been plenty of contenders for the title savior of Cali. Among those names have been Mistah F.A.B, Glasses Malone, and The Game (who undoubtedly had the best chance in succeeding in this task). However, no matter the amount of buzz generated the west as a region hasn’t been able to regain it’s early 90’s relevance. But there is hope!

DJ Noodles, and DJ Kay Slay bring Gudda Muzik by Jay Rock. Jay Rock succeeds in showcasing why he is the leader of the next line of west coast rappers. A big part of the problem the west has had is the same thing that made it a hip-hop staple to begin with; the signature Dr. Dre G-Funk sound. It has seemed that every Cali representative has attempted to duplicate the smooth sound or bouncy drums of a Dre beat, but to little or no success. Jay Rock has learned. Throughout Gudda Muzik he sticks to an array of varied productions that can not be pigeonholed as west, east, or south.

This formula continues with the features. While there are some west coast features, there are also east coast and southern artists featured which gives the tape a well rounded broad appeal. All my life re-mix plays like an all-star game of west coast rookies, with everyone you could possibly think of with a buzz in the west. YES, EVERYONE! The Game checks in on “Follow Me Home”, co-signing Jay Rock as the next big thing. Jay Rock takes us to NY more multiple times with Red Café, Lloyd Banks, and a big look by veteran Busta Rhymes on “Beat a Rapper Down.”

There are a few missteps, such as the 2009 version of 50 Cent’s “How to Rob” and “Put On” which was just boring. Misses aside Jay Rock shows and proves why he has garnered such a strong buzz on Gudda Muzik. Weather or not he brings the west coast back is left to be seen, but with strong outings like this I can definitely say I’m rooting for him.

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