Not even an appearance on Mariah Carey's Charmbracelet was able to squelch anticipation for Freeway's 2003 Roc-A-Fella debut. With his hustling put on ice, Freeway delivers a strong album that should lay to rest the speculation that his unique vocal style -- alternating between a scratchy crack and an anything-but-gruff shout, filtered through a consistently high pitch -- would have difficulty remaining tolerable across a full album. Although his experience on the streets is tempered by his Muslim roots, the rough edges are never compromised. A lengthy supporting cast includes Jay-Z, Beanie Sigel, Snoop Dogg, Faith Evans, Nelly, and -- returning the favor -- Mariah Carey, but Philadelphia Freeway is clearly the domain of the State Property member; none of his thunder is stolen. ~ Andy Kellman
Rovi
同郷のビーニー・シーゲル率いるステイト・プロパティやロッカフェラ諸作で以前から露出があったフィリー出身のラッパー、フリーウェイが、満を辞してのアルバム・デビュー!! 何といっても豪華なゲスト陣に目を惹かれるが、ひと癖あるガナリ系の声でデリヴァリーされるフロウは大物たちとも対等に渡り合う。大半をジャスト・ブレイズが手掛けたソウルフルなネタ感の強いトラックとも凄く相性が良くて、お薦め!!
bounce (C)菊地 智士
タワーレコード(2003年4月号掲載 (P90))