The production lineup for
Riches, Royalty & Respect is not quite as impressive as that of 2007’s Half a Klip, which boasted
DJ Premier.
G Rap instead leans on beats from a assortment of up-and-comers while enlisting
DJ Supa Dave,
the Alchemist, and career-long associate
Marley Marl. Although
G Rap's flow is not as energizing as it once was -- it now packs a heft that is both considerable and measured -- he can still spin a tale, draw up a fleshed-out concept, and epitomize hardcore rap as well as any MC half his age. The rugged and more dramatic beats -- “In Too Deep,” “Sad,” and the
Havoc-assisted “American Nightmare” -- bring out the best in
G Rap. His mere presence is enough to carry the weaker tracks. ~ Andy Kellman