DMX's first five albums, from 1998's
It's Dark and Hell Is Hot through 2003's Grand Champ, debuted at the top of the Billboard album chart. Though none of the releases is an undeniable classic, the accomplishment is lost in all the drama of
DMX's life. It's also remarkable that, during these years, the MC racked up enough charting singles that a thorough compilation of them would bleed over to a second disc. This is, after all, one of the most unique artists in music -- rap or otherwise -- and much of the uniqueness comes down to an intensity level (with incisive, highly mechanized productions to match) that did not make many concessions to the mainstream. His first compilation,
The Definition of X: Pick of the Litter, contains all but five of the charting singles predating
Year of the Dog...Again, sticking to necessary material for the casual fan: the rallying calls ("Ruff Ryders' Anthem," "Get at Me Dog," "What's My Name"), the venomous rants ("What These B*tches Want," "We Right Here"), and even a couple choice album cuts that stood no chance on radio (like "Blackout," with
Jay-Z and
the LOX). The title of this disc is wholly appropriate. Those hungry for more can get more than they could possibly need with any one of the first three albums. ~ Andy Kellman