Doujah Raze - Past Presence Features
Label: Trilogy Records, Inc.
Grade: B-
Highlight: Give It Up
Overview: Past Presence Features is the follow up to Doujah’s self-titled album, and includes new tracks and previously released songs highlighted by some solid guest appearances on the mic and on the boards. Doujah has been in the game for a minute, releasing his first single “Hard Times” back in 2001. He is the headline artist for the Trilogy Records label formed in ’99 at James Madison University. Doujah’s resume already includes a European tour with Large Pro, Camp Lo and Grand Agent. Noteworthy collabos on Past Presence Features include Sean Price and A.G. on “Fahrenheit,” and Born Unique and O.C. on the 2003 re-release “The Dedication.” The production is handled primarily by rising German producer Shuko, but also features tracks from Unknown, Arythmetic, DJ Sae One, and Kev Brown on the standout “Loose Cannons” featuring Sean P. Doujah’s grimy delivery is solid, taking control of the tracks with ease. Lyrically, he’s nice, but not spectacular. He holds his own on every track, but his laid back flow is not conducive for droppin’ hip hop quotables or scene-stealing verses on you. There are some average joints on here; including the lackluster “Hurricanes” w/ Haysoos and “Either Way,” which features a high-pitch sample more annoying than trying to spell-check this review. Thankfully, the quality material outshines the mediocre and makes this album a solid effort. Past Presence Features may not be a staple of your hip hop collection, but it should be refreshing enough to get you through the summer.
