Week of April 1-7

Tragedy Khadafi Thug Matrix 252
25 to Life Ent.
The artist formerly known as the intelligent hoodlum makes his return to the hiphop game under the moniker Tragedy Khadafi. The songs on this disc are from the late 90's but still are some of Trag's best work. "Bloodtype" is a startling diss to his former protege Noreaga. He gives the bloodtalk a rest on "Forced My Hand" which features QB partner Cormega. On "Permanently Scarred", Trag gets up close and personal as he talks about his parents' drug addiction. This CD is a must have, but a hard find because Trag put it out himself, which makes it an official bootleg.

Mr. Short Khop Da Khop Shop
Heavyweight
Ice Cube's protege Mr. Short Khop finally drops his long awaited debut. After creating a strong buzz on several Cube tracks and being featured in XXL magazine as a new artist to watch, it seemed as if Short Khop was done. In 2001, he resurfaces with Da Khop Shop, and I must admit I was sort of disappointed. The better songs were "Dey Trippin" featuring WC, "Flashacks" with Ice Cube, and "Dollaz, Drank, & Dank" with Kokane. This CD has way too many corny skits and for some reason he wastes a whole track featuring Shaquille O'neal (MVP's). Khop never really establishes himself as a solo artist, as he only has one cut alone.