Chamillionaire: The Sound Of Revenge

Release Date: 07 August 2006

Reviewed By: Sirah Khan

Well known on the Houston hip hop scene with over 24 mixtapes to his name, 26-year-old Hakeem Seriki, aka Chamillionaire, has finally released his highly-anticipated debut album, ‘The Sound of Revenge’ on Universal Records.

Although the album was released last year in the US, the UK has had to wait until this summer to get the official release of ‘The Sound of Revenge’. But, as the album proves, the wait has been well worth it.

Having sold over 500,000 records without a record deal, the Mixtape Messiah’s album features collaborations with artists such as Lil' Flip, Scarface, Krayzie Bone and even his little brother Rasaq.

Chamillionaire’s new album doesn't disappoint, whether you want some sexy hip hop/R&B, or some straight street rap, this LP appeals to both guys and girls, as 'The Sound Of Revenge' delivers on all levels. Production-wise, the album features the likes of Cool & Dre, Scott Storch and Mannie Fresh – just some of the top producers in the game today.

The best track on the album is undoubtedly the recent chart hit 'Ridin', which was a US No.1 and now, thanks to the genius behind it, has become a hit for the rapper in Europe as well, exposing rap fans to the unique sound of Chamillionaire. With its dirty street beat and catchy chorus, you can’t help but sing along and nod your head whenever you hear this track.

The next release from the album is set to be the soft R&B-style track, 'Grown 'n' Sexy’, which is already cooking up a storm with the ladies. The song has massive sex appeal and shows his ability to change the rhyming style and tempo of his voice – the key skill which distinguishes the H-Town native from other rappers.

Another track which has single potential is the introspective 'Rain' featuring Scarface. One of the hottest cuts on the album, the distinctive old school R&B chorus blends well with Chamillionaire’s vocals, complimenting each other to produce a top-grade track.

Although the album hasn't done as well as it should have in the UK, there are some great tracks that hip hop fans should listen to, like ‘Turn It Up’ featuring Lil’ Flip, and ‘In The Trunk’.

However, there are slight disappointments on the album. Tracks such as 'No Snitchin', 'Radio Interruption' and 'Picture Perfect' are fairly similar in sound, and without a distinct beat to separate them from any other rap record, they are easily forgettable.

Overall, Chamillionaire’s official debut album is better than the majority of his mixtapes, fully showcasing the rapper’s lyrical versatility. Whilst there are a few low points, it doesn’t detract from the fact that Chamillionaire is without a doubt one of the best new artists to emerge in 2006.


Rating: 4 out of 5

Top 3 Tracks:

4) Ridin' (featuring Krayzie Bone)
11) Rain (featuring Scarface)
3) Turn It Up (featuring Lil’ Flip)