It's a little early to announce this considering we have a few months left in the year, however there isn't a second thought that anyone will be releasing an album that is as good a Ghostface Killah's ninth studio album, Ghostdini-The Wizard of Poetry. As a fan of hip-hop from an early age, the last few years trying to find a hip-hop album to listen to in its entirety has been difficult. Mos-Def's release this summer wasn't bad and Jay-Z's album has been on repeat since being released. But Jay-Z has been shelved as Ghostface Killah brought his A-game with Ghostdini: Wizard of Poetry.

Ghost stated that this album would be more R&B influenced and that is true, to a certain degree. He collaborates with a few artists we are familiar with - Raheem DeVaughn, John Legend and Estelle; but also with artists we are not familiar with - Shareefa and Jack Knight. Hats off to Ghost for staying true to the art and not using artists that are hot right now but artists that can sing.

The album is full of songs about love and relationships, good, bad and in between. Warning there are explicit and very graphic lyrics on this album but Ghostface's rhyming is superb. The exceptional production and musical content make this album an instant classic.

From track one "Not Your Average Girl" the album will have you nodding your head, feeling emotional and sexual. In no way is it soft, but just right. You can listen to the entire album and not skip a track. His collaboration with Raheem DeVaughn on "Do Over" and "Baby" are excellent. "Lonely" featuring Jack Knight is a personal favorite and describes the feeling of losing love. "Paragraphs of Love" featuring Vaughn Anthony and Estelle has Ghost and Estelle exchanging verses without missing a beat. "Stay" another favorite is reminiscent of the early Wu-Tang days with that old slow jam feel.

The album flows and there is never a dull moment. As indicated earlier there are some very explicit lyrics such as those found in "Stapleton Sex" (definitely not to be played around children), the song is what it is - grown up, like the album. "She's a Killah" will be a club favorite with the heavy bass line and club jumping beats. Ghost's use of piano and eclectic beats is on point.

The R&B sound is well rounded and takes you back to how hip-hop use to be... GOOD. This album will probably not get its due props but if there is one album hip-hop fans need to cop this year it is this one. Thank You Ghost for staying true!

a.c.e

SonicAmp Rating: 9/10