wasn't given props at the time and he wasn't respected in the years following the release of his debut , largely because he worked entirely in the /crossover vein. All the same, that's what's great about his debut, since it's exceptionally clever and effective, a wonderful combination of deft rhymes and skillful production. And there's no discounting , , and engineer (the latter two names are members of the ' inner circle), who make this record easily accessible, without a trace of guilt, even if it does sample from familiar sources. And, really, is a gifted rapper, spinning out rhymes with a deft touch and turning out rhymes much more clever than they should be. Yes, is a product of its time, particularly in its sound and lyrical references, but divorced from the era, it comes off as one of the catchiest, friendliest records and it's still an infectious party record years after its release. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine