Artist: Above the Law Album: Forever: Rich Thugs, Book One

Year: 1999
Duration: 0:0-1

Above the Law's Forever: Rich Thugs, Book One - A

Above the Law is a legendary gangsta rap group that emerged from Pomona, California, in the late '80s. The group, consisting of Cold 187um, KMG the Illustrator, and Go Mack, was known for its gritty beats, vivid storytelling, and sociopolitical commentary. Their fourth studio album, Forever: Rich Thugs, Book One, is widely considered a classic of West Coast rap. In this post, we'll take a critical look at the album, examining its history, genre, standout tracks, and overall impact.
Forever: Rich Thugs, Book One was released in 1999, four years after Above the Law's previous album, Time Will Reveal. During this time, gangsta rap had fallen out of favor with mainstream audiences, and many of the genre's biggest names had either retired or changed their musical direction. Above the Law, however, stayed true to their roots, crafting an album that encapsulated the soulful, funky sounds of classic '90s West Coast rap.
The album's genre can be described as a mix of gangsta rap, g-funk, and soul. The production, handled by Cold 187um and DJ Kaos, incorporates live instrumentation, including bass guitar, keyboards, and horns, giving the tracks a warm, organic feel. The beats are often slow and deliberate, allowing the emcees to showcase their lyrical prowess and melodic flows.
Standout tracks on Forever include the lead single, Kalifornia, a menacing ode to the state's dark underbelly; Worldwide, a funk-fueled party anthem that celebrates Above the Law's global influence; and Endonesia, a haunting tale of betrayal and redemption. One of the most innovative parts of the album is City of Angels, an eight-minute epic that features multiple vocalists and a dynamic instrumental arrangement, culminating in a gospel-inspired outro that's both powerful and poignant.
On the critical side, some detractors may argue that Forever isn't as lyrically or thematically diverse as some of Above the Law's earlier works. Some tracks, such as Pimpin' & Robbin' and Hip Hop 101, rely heavily on well-worn gangsta tropes, while others, like G-Rupies Best Friend and Jealousy, feel underdeveloped or redundant. However, for fans of West Coast rap and Above the Law's signature sound, Forever is a must-listen.
In conclusion, Above the Law's Forever: Rich Thugs, Book One is a testament to the enduring legacy of West Coast gangsta rap. With its soulful production, deft lyricism, and engaging storytelling, the album stands as a classic of the genre. While it may not be perfect, Forever exemplifies Above the Law's commitment to staying true to their roots while pushing the boundaries of what gangsta rap could be. If you're a fan of classic West Coast rap, or if you're looking for an introduction to an underrated but influential hip-hop group, then Forever: Rich Thugs, Book One is definitely worth a listen.