“Yo it’s the R-A-double P/E-R/N-O-Y-D/niggas can’t fuck wit’ me…” proclaimed Big Noyd on Mobb Deep’s monumental classic, 1995′s The Infamous. The aforementioned verse not only propelled “Give Up The Goods (Just Step)” to become a fan favorite but the rapper that “pushed the Infiniti straight outta QB” became identified as the unofficial third member of Mobb Deep. However, legal troubles and fallible record deals hampered Noyd’s chances of really capitalizing on any notoriety that comes along with being a rap star. In spite of all the setbacks, Noyd proves perseverance is key on the respectable Illustrious. Backed by independent powerhouse Koch Records and bursting with Queensbridge bravado, Noyd mixes gritty lyrics with grimy beats to deliver possibly his strongest effort to date.

Sticking to his guns (literally), Illustrious kicks off with the smooth but deadly “Snitches” and sets the tone for an entire album that’s heavy on street influences. On the booming “So Much Trouble”, Noyd adamantly spits “Now I don’t Harlem Shake/or Chicken-Noodle Soup/but you can catch me Uptown/with a pigeon in the coup…” while reggae artist Serani supplies the hook. On “It’s A Wrap,” Ric Rude’s bloodthirsty melody allows Noyd to drop enough death threats to make Prodigy beam with pride. And when Noyd digs deeper into his creative side, the album really shines as shown on the reflective “Things Done Changed” and “Money Talk,” which is an instant club banger.

Still, Noyd tends to go into overkill with the “murda muzik”, which causes the album’s momentum to falter at times. When the production gets repetitive on joints like “Heartless” and “Nowhere Else To Hide,” the endless gun rhetoric seemingly becomes lifeless. And by the time the LP folds at the 40 minute mark on “Get It Poppin,” you get the feeling Noyd’s rapping himself in circles.

Straightforward in his approach and delivery, Big Noyd isn’t looking to change the game or win a mantle full of awards. Regardless, as an accomplished MC, Noyd stays true to form and gives the people what’s expected of him. And with Illustrious serving as the template for a new beginning, the world may be hearing a lot more Big Noyd in the near future.

3cigs


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