S.O.S.A. (Save Our Streets AZ)

After bursting onto the scene with a cameo in Nas' classic "Life's a Bitch," Brooklyn native AZ has struggled to find a place in the hip-hop landscape. Often mired by poor production and a lack of support from record companies, AZ's substantial lyrical gifts have been relegated to the dustbin of hip-hop history. His 2000 album, S.O.S.A. (Save Our Streets AZ), is his third attempt at acceptance, a lean ten-track effort that should turn a few heads. AZ is at the top of his game on tracks like "Platinum Bars" and the low-riding funk of "Bodies Gotta Get Caught." Similarly, the lead single "I Don't Give a Fuck Now" along with "Problems" and "Let's Toast" demonstrate the power of AZ's lyrical wizardry. More than just saving the streets, S.O.S.A. may be what it takes to save AZ's career. ~ Jon Azpiri