Royalty Check

iTunes Review

Two undisputed rap legends, KRS-One and Bumpy Knuckles (aka Freddie Foxxx) both have lengthy discographies, untouchable resumes, and respect galore. They've been actively recording and performing since the '80s, have toured the world, dropped multiple classics, and kept in touch with the streets as well as corporate boardrooms, without ever selling out. That the two of them would connect for an album together seems like a no-brainer, and with Royalty Check, we get the best of both worlds. Their mutually aggressive, in-your-face rhyme styles fuse perfectly, as they spend 13 tracks reflecting on the state of America, hip-hop, and their OG status in the game. Bumpy also flexes his production skills throughout, crafting a backdrop of straight-forward but effective beats loaded with chunky drums and rock-tinged live instrumentation. Check out "Street Poison," "Hip Hop We Love You," and "Take Ya Time," a poignant message to all up-and-coming emcees from the two established vets.