Return...of an O.G!!!
Following the initial success of his debut single, "Regulator," Warren G's career declined steadily. Granted, most rappers' careers ironically peak with their debut albums, but Warren G's career sunk quickly. Return of the Regulator is Warren G's comeback attempt, one that looks good both on paper and in concept but, ultimately, is spoiled rather than fruitful. He's returned to the basics and reunited with many of those who he initially began his career with, namely Dr. Dre, Nate Dogg, and Snoop Dogg. His concentrated efforts as an MC and vocalist as well as producer and songwriter are clearly evident. You can call Warren G an awkward rapper and a derivative producer; however, if anything, you cannot call him unmotivated -- Return of the Regulator is certainly a good ol' o.g album. It begins on a high note with a Dr. Dre production, "Lookin' at You," which finds Warren G dueting with Ms. Toi and isn't particularly representative of the remainder of the album, being instead the sort of guy-wants-to-freak-girl sex appeal that radio loves. The next few songs feature collaborations with many of the West Coast's most talented hired hands: Nate Dogg, Soopafly, and Butch Cassidy. Furthermore, George Clinton makes an appearance on "Speed Dreamin'" and Warren G reunites with his old-school homies Nate Dogg and Snoop Dogg (originally a trio known as 213) on one of the album's few highlights, "Yo' Sassy Ways." From beginning to end, you can sense Warren G's sense of purpose here -- he knows a rapper's shelf life is brief and his is running out. He gives you everything he's capable of. However, even his most concerted efforts aren't enough to salvage his overt desperation. Warren G wants this to be a strong comeback album. That's obvious. But desire and motivation don't always promise a novel execution. And in this case, despite his best efforts, Warren G just isn't incredibly gifted. This becomes evident when you compare his beats to Dr. Dre's and his rhymes to Snoop's and Kurupt's. And after four albums, none being overly impressive, it began to look as if "Regulate" may have been Warren G's sole moment of lasting accomplishment. Having Dr. Dre as your brother and Snoop and Nate Dogg as old-school friends only gets you so far. Streets Of LBC is the best in the album, but They Lovin' Me, is also a really good song!! West Coast Forever!!
OVERALL RATING: 5/5
REVIEWED BY: LilŽJustice
ADDED: 2002-04-17
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