M.O.P. Hits
10 Years and Gunnin'
M.O.P.
Sony / Columbia
Ranking 4/5

M.O.P. is one of the grittiest, grimiest rap crews out there. The duo of Lil' Fame and Billy Danzenie started out in 1994 and hit hard with 'How About Some Hardcore,' but it wouldn't be until1998 before they put out a solid album with First Family 4 Life. Their association with Gang Starr helped gain them the exposure that has slowly firmed their status in the hip-hop game.

2000 saw the duo break out with their smash hit, 'Ante Up.' The song's street-credible lyrics coupled with M.O.P's raw vocals, and the hard and funky beat produced by the original Dr. Period made it a classic. Also included are the captivating hits 'Cold as Ice,' the Eye of the Tiger inspired '4 Alarm Blaze' featuring Jay-Z, and 'World Famous' which will have you seeing visions of Scarface's 'My Block.'

With only ten tracks on 10 Years and Gunnin', they could definitely have added a few other great tracks like 'Old Timerz.' Regardless, nearly a decade after their debut, 10 Years and Gunnin' represents a landscape of the progression and impact M.O.P. has had on the hip-hop scene. If you're unfamiliar with M.O.P., then it's a 10-song greatest hits album well worth checking out.

Click here to buy the album at sonymusicstore.com

Troy Neilson
This review was written April 17, 2003