Play it by Ear

'LAX' Taylor gives us his end-Game

By: Will Harris

Posted: 9/2/08

"LAX" marks the supposed end of an era and final album for rapper Jayceon Taylor, better known as The Game.

The artist has repeatedly said that, after "LAX," he will move on to an executive role overseeing his record label, Black Wall Street.

Game has been through many things in his short career, including family turmoil and feuds with other rappers. Dr. Dre, 50 Cent and Eminem introduced his music to the world, but then, defying the doubters, he made his second album without their help and went on to sell nearly one million copies.

Now we will see if Game can still play his cards right by selecting "LAX" as his closer.

The album is a continuation of the subject matter found on Game's first two efforts, "The Documentary" and "Doctor's Advocate."

Like those two albums, "LAX" strikes a balance between some formulaic cuts and others that think outside the box. As with his previous work, this album has fine production. It is nothing groundbreaking, but it is solid and will definitely satisfy his supporters.

"LAX" opens with a prayer by DMX, which helps to frame and kick-start the album. From there, it continues with a collection of standard gangsta rap songs. Standouts include "Ya Heard," which features a supremely confident verse from Ludacris, and "House of Pain," which finds Game delivering aggressive and witty lines over an insistent, tough-as-nails composition, courtesy of DJ Toomp.

Then "LAX" flies into a series of R&B-flavored tracks aimed at his female listeners.

Normally, these are the kinds of songs I instinctively skip, but I have to hand it to him - he makes songs for the ladies that are actually likeable. With Ne-Yo assisting on "Gentleman's Affair" and Raheem DeVaughn featured on "Touchdown," Game pulls off something rare and worthy of appreciation.

The two songs segue into the strongest section of the album, starting with "Angel" and "Game's Pain," which both highlight Game's strong love for hip-hop.

"Never Can Say Goodbye" and "Letter To The King" pay tribute to those who have passed on. In the former's case, he expresses admiration for rap legends 2Pac, The Notorious B.I.G., and Eazy E. The latter is a surprisingly moving tribute to Martin Luther King, Jr.

Both Game and Nas explain the impact Dr. King has had on their lives, over a soulful Hi-Tek soundscape. This is by far the album's best track.

Unfortunately, great songs like "Letter To The King" can also highlight weaknesses.

Game is a habitual name dropper, and it becomes infuriating at points. He also does not have much variation from typical gangsta rap subject matter, and, by using such well-worn topics, he risks jading more seasoned listeners.

Many of these formulas have been executed earlier and better by greater MCs. If Game cut his name dropping by at least 50 percent, and spent more time on writing original lyrics, the work as a whole would take a leap in quality.

Despite some key flaws, this album is still enjoyable.

But if Game was looking for his definitive closing statement, then he needs to head back to the studio.

Grade: B-

wharris@unews.com