Following in the footsteps of Sean "Puffy" Combs,
Cam'ron created an accessible fusion of rap and pop that manages to keep some sort of street edge. Of course, that doesn't mean
Cam'ron is hardcore -- he may come off as an East Coast gangsta, but his music is polished and melodic, much like that of Puff, his mentor. He happens to be a better rapper than Puffy, but he doesn't have the pop flair that makes Combs' productions big hits. Still, he shows promise on his debut,
Confessions of Fire. Although it has too many songs and some blend together, he shows potential as a charismatic rapper and there are enough strong singles, including "357" and "Horse & Carriage," to make it worth a listen for fans of East Coast popcore. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine