Swizz Beatz
G.H.E.T.T.O. Stories
Swizz Beatz
Dreamworks / Universal
Ranking 8/10

Swizz Beatz, the producer behind many of the Ruff Ryders' success stories, has called in his favours to release his debut album, G.H.E.T.T.O. Stories Part I. With Swizz holding a hand in the production of every song, the beats prove diverse and yield a little something for everyone.

Rapcore fans will love the Metallica-tinged 'We Did It Again' that features a captivatingly off-balance chorus by Ja Rule. The street fiends will be satisfied by the staple hard step on the title track, which happens to be Swizz' only solo track. The jail-ridden Shyne steps up with one his best tracks as he collaborates with Mashonda on 'Shyne.' The first single, 'Guilty' grew on me as Bounty Killer complements Swizz's vocals and beats like fire does water. The duet of LL Cool J and Mashonda on 'Ghetto Love' will woo the R&B crooners. 'Gone Delirious' presents a refreshing beat with Lil Kim dropping some nice verses. Then of course there's this past summer's smoker's anthem 'Good Times' by Styles. Other guests include Eve, Ron Isley, Nas, Fat Joe, Busta Rhymes, Baby, Jadakiss, Snoop Dogg, P. Diddy and others.

Swizz Beatz beats are far superior to his verses, but he certainly doesn't stumble. This soundtrack-esque debut album from Swizz marks a high point in his career. Had a couple annoying skits (like 'Turn It Up') been left off, this album would have fully satisfied not only the Ruff Ryders fanatics, but mainstream hip-hoppers as well.

Click here to buy the album at amazon.com

Troy Neilson
This review was written February 13, 2003