Notorious: Music Inspired By The Motion Picture (Atlantic/Bad Boy) Released 26/01/09

New records include the Kanye West produced, Santogold-featured, ‘Brooklyn Go Hard’ by Jay-Z. M.I.A. and Santogold samples have become ‘cool’ to use as of late - T.I. used one on his banger ‘Swagger Like Us’, and it’s no secret as to why. They sound amazing! With the Jiggaman working his wordplay magic, it’s impossible to doubt the quality of this hometown representing track. ‘Letter To B.I.G.’ is a heartwarming letter by Jadakiss and B.I.G.’s ex-wife Faith Evans explaining the ins and outs of the industry since the emcee’s passing, while CJ Wallace, Biggie’s son, jumps on the remix to ‘One More Chance’. It may be a nice sentiment but is executed poorly. It sounds like a karaoke version of one of hip-hop’s most popular remixes.

Three previously unreleased demos are also included. These include ‘Microphone Murderer’, ‘Guaranteed Raw’, and the loveless lady anthem ‘Love No Ho’. Recorded before his break in to the big time, the quality may be slightly crappy but that’s the beauty of them. The crackling and low volume add to the authenticity and reminds you just how beautiful and fearless hip-hop was during the ‘golden era’.

Fan of hip-hop? Fan of Biggie? Fan of classic material? Fan of soundtracks? Whatever your fix, the ‘Notorious’ soundtrack is a solid collection of quality music for fans of everything lyrical.