Reality Check
Early hints seemed to suggest thatReality Checkcould be a turning point for Juvenile. Fueled by the destruction of his native New Orleans, Juve seemed ready to let the world feel his wrath. Instead,Reality Checkhardly breaks much new ground; even "Get Ya Hustle On," with its stark video filmed in the ravaged 5th Ward, is little more than another "cook crack" anthem even if he takes time to lash out at FEMA. It's not likeReality Checkwill disappoint old fans--the cocky swagger and brazen sexuality is still in full effect, especially on stripper pole anthems like "Rodeo," and "Loose Booty" or any of the electro-groovy tunes such as "Why Not" or the explosive "Pop U." Still, compared to former Hot Boy partner Lil Wayne, whose recentTha Carter IIfound Weezy pushing to a new level of artistry, Juve seems content to coast.--Oliver Wang