Death Is Certain [PA] (CD - 2004)

Producers include: Carlos "6 July" Broady, Ty Fyffe, Asar, DJ Premier, Mark Bassin.

Personnel: Ingrid Smalls, Cha Cha (vocals); Chuck Alkazian (keyboards, drums); DJ Premier (scratches).

Audio Mixers: Charles Roane; Chuck Alkazian; DJ Premier; Asar; Rob Tewlow; Carlos "6 July" Broady.

Recording information: Isolation Records, Detroit, MI; MPA Studios, Canton, MI; Nation Studios, Southfield, MI.

Photographer: John Hooks.

After his much-publicized feud with former collaborator and fellow Detroit native Eminem, Royce Da 5'9" emerges from Slim Shady's shadow with his sophomore release, DEATH IS CERTAIN. With a notable lack of guest rappers on this album, Royce stands on his own two feet here, backed by arrangements courtesy of top-notch producers such as DJ Premier and Carlos "6 July" Broady. Given Royce's past difficulties with Eminem and the record industry in general, it's not surprising that the formidable MC uses DEATH IS CERTAIN to vent his frustrations with fierce wit and vicious wordplay. Although Royce is considered mainstream by most standards, he reveals a strong underground hip-hop element in his rhyming technique and lyrical content. Standouts include the self-assured "Hip Hop," the relentlessly catchy "Throwback," and the imposing "Gangsta," all fine examples of a performer hitting his stride. minimize