Thirteen years is a long time in the music industry; it's a long time in general, but in music it is a long time indeed. Yet, that is just how long it's been since Eminem brought out the first 'Marshall Mathers LP' and after this lengthy wait, the Detroit rapper has brought out the 'sequel' to his much-celebrated sophomore release. His latest album isn't so much a reflection on these past thirteen years as it is a return to the Marshall Mathers of thirteen years ago and on 'MMLP2', Eminem revisits his personas of old: Slim Shady and the angry young white man who is still struggling with his relationships and his demons.
For long-time Eminem fans, ones who may have given up on him after 'Encore' or maybe held on until 'Relapse', 'MMLP2' offers hope of a classic Eminem album, but there is a necessary reluctance to accept it immediately as a return to glory. Whilst caution is advised, some of the cynics may actually be pleasantly surprised.
"Here's a sequel to the 'Marshall Mather LP' just to get people to buy", he remarks on album opener and 'Stan' sequel 'Bad Guy.' He's always been one of the sharpest rappers out there and here, said from the perspective of the grieving brother of the 'Stan' protagonist, Em lets us know that he's well aware of the fact that most people are expecting 'Recovery 2', rather than a 'Marshall Mathers LP' sequel. 'Bad Guy' is our first real surprise then, with Em's storytelling back at its peak, drifting menacingly over the S1/M-Phazes beat. Towards the end of the album, on 'Headlights', his storytelling is again on top form as he reminisces through a troubled forty-plus years as his mother's son. Sure, it's another track aimed at his mother, but Em's lyrics are heartfelt and the song genuinely feels like an attempt at reconciliation. Nate Ruess of fun. fame sometimes distracts away from the delicacy if the song, but his sung parts are a needed break from the wholehearted openness of Em's lyrics.
Continue reading: Eminem - The Marshall Mathers LP 2 Album Review