The War Report 2: Report The War

iTunes Review

Back in 1997, two young rappers from New York emerged and dropped an indisputable classic called The War Report. Loaded with dark-yet-infectious production and ultra-grimy lyricism riddled with vivid crime stories, it immediately established CNN as certified street-rhyme specialists. In the years that followed, Nore embarked on a successful solo career, scoring hits with crossover club bangers as well as reggaeton jams, while Capone bounced in and out of jail, also dropping solo joints but staying more in the shadows. The War Report 2 has been rumored for years, with leaked tracks whetting the appetites of hardcore New York thug-rap fanatics, and now it's finally here. Alchemist, Scram Jones, Buckwild, and more obscure beat-makers provide the perfect sonic accompaniment to their back-and-forth wordplay, with Nore delivering his trademark bizarro slanguage and Capone serving up raspy felonious tales. Raekwon, Nas, and the Lox all stop by for guest verses, but it's CNN themselves who really impress here, sounding better than they have in years. Exceptional from start to finish, with standout tracks like "Favor For A Favor," "Pain," and "Live On Live Long, Pt. 2."