Saigon-The Greatest Story Never Told Chapter 2-Bread and Circuses

Artist: Saigon

Album: The Greatest Story Never Told Chapter 2: Bread and Circuses

Label: Suburban Noise

Producers: DJ Corbett, Just Blaze, Shuko, Clev Trev, others 

 

It takes MC’s years to finally come out the gate and make it in this competitive music business. So many emcees come out with albums that are either shelved or get stumped by poor promotion. Just ask Saigon whose first album took years before it finally came out due to label politics. Now Saigon is coming back with his second album The Greatest Story Never Told Chapter 2: Bread and Circuses.

            Saigon begins the album without being timid of saying what’s on his mind. Tracks like “Plant the Seed” and “Rap vs. Real” are prime examples as he exposes the fakeness in the music business. “Blown Away” is a catchy track when he pays homage to the people who fought and died for what they believed in. What is impressing about Saigon is he is willing to step out of the box? “Relafriendship” is an eye opener in which the yardfather opens a new revelation of the being in the friend’s zone and becoming her boo thang. “Keep Pushing” with Chamillionaire on the chorus is a one of the favorite tracks when Saigon drops the jewels with fierce energy.

            Saigon can keep your minds thinking throughout most of the album. However, the production seemed on a stand still. In addition, although Saigon has lyrics, he can be monotonous at times using the same formula of either street stories or political and social commentary. “Let me Run” did not grab the listener as Saigon switches his rhyme pattern over fast pace beat that is a mismatch. The rock inspired “Best Thing That I Found” throws many listeners off and didn’t move much.

            Overall, this album is a worth listening to as Saigon is willing to step out of his comfort zone. Although a little more diverse in subject matter than his first opus without sounding too preachy and too street cinematic, the Just Blaze mentored emcee is still a force to be reckoned with. He makes the attempt to become a well-rounded MC who gets his point across without sounding one dimensional.

            Strong Tracks: “In My Arms”, “Relafriendship”, “Keep Pushing”, “Blown Away”

            Weak Tracks:  “Let me Run”, “Best Thing That I Found”

            Rating:out of