CATALYST
Perfect Timing
Reviewed By
Eric Levane
Ireview4less@gmail.com
(Copy write pending for Freelance INC)
Catalyst by definition can be defined as Chemistry. A substance that causes or accelerates a chemical reaction without itself being affected. It would be a treat to observe this album and see how Catalyst accelerates as a Bronx MC in a clearly dominated Southern Musical Era.
This album starts out with an epic tune being looped while Catalyst tells his fond memories of home. His voice blends well with the loop and I expected to hear more as the album played on. Track 2 my story is a sure –fire northern head banger. There may have been a string too many added into the song that could throw off the over all feel of the beat. However Catalyst’s lyrics are consistent enough to keep New York’s head nodding. The hopefully lyric’s boasting of a rags to riches story could provide potential light when most under privileged are keep in darkness. Track 3 rides in like futuristic rock and roll track. Very different, but then again who likes the same ole same? The other artist C.H seemed by pretty comfortable with the beat. This is another track you can’t skip through because Catalyst word play in the first verse made the track worth listening to again. Track 4 was an interlude called dial to complain. I guess multiple girls are a bit heated with Catalyst and take the opportunity to vent on his voicemail. I found our last caller quite amusing. Track 5 “Not an Item” is another side of Catalyst. I can definitely see the cocky, New York swagger in this particular song. The beat plays out arguably comparable to a nightrider type style. Meanwhile Catalyst breaks into the track on the oldest O.G commandant (Money over B*tches). Track 6 sounds like a fairy tale laced with guitar rips. Not sure if the sharp guitar rips fit well, but the track carries rough, tough talk from Catalyst. Track 7 Checkmate- I almost fell asleep on this track until the overall beat commenced. It reminded me of a hitmen/diddy composition back when Bad Boy was running things. The flow from Catalyst on this track is quite comparable to Sheek Louch from the L.O.X. Listen to the track and attempt to argue with me later. Track 8 Brand New- Brings out a Spanish variety blended w/ vocal hooks from Lyria. Although she satisfied the hook I feel she could’ve put more soul into the song. The production on this track is of high quality and Catalyst consistently delivers strong lyrics. Track 9 Rich/Broke Man Skit was one of the finest skits I’ve heard in awhile. I laughed for at least 20 minutes. Track 10 Get Rich Get Fly- Is a celebration track that should work the streets as a proper party song. It speaks of trying to obtain more and not settling for just getting by. I could see this hopefully being used as motivation for our generation. Track 11 Radio Station Skit- This track killed me…This album has had the most entertaining skits I have heard period. I spent another ten minutes chuckling. Track 12 For the Record- An instant battle anthem ringing in the New York streets. Lyrics like “/I don’t care what team you from/ when the Bronx in the building, you goin need to run/” will surely gain attention from Catty’s hometown. Track 13 Aintcha- The song kicks in with flavor that can appease the South. Catalyst continues to handle the track by selling himself as a creditable MC and possible Ghostwriter. This song should provide plenty of competition as it has enough spunk to get the club hype, but still deliver strong lyricism. Track 14 Selfish- Provides insight to Catalyst on being selfish in relationships. Catalyst gives thoughts on being involved an affair that may blossom into something else. The hook was sung by Papi Shank and he did a great job. I could see this being played in an upscale nightclub. Track 15 You First- Is my favorite track. The aggressive beat calls for an intense flow and Catalyst connects accurately. This could be a great jump off track. Dramadeus brings colorful word play w/ Catalyst. There’s not much that can be said other than this song could be a potential hit. Track 16 Change That- This track takes you to the church and speaks to our youth. Bravo for Catalyst…I’m not 100% sure if this track was him speaking to a younger version of himself, but regardless the vibes felt from this song make it my second favorite. David Black who favors a Jahiem voice brings smoothness to the song.
Overall I give the Album 7.5 outta 10. Catalyst consistent flow and outstanding interludes make the album well worth listening. The power tracks mentioned in the review make the album a good purchase. I am Eric Levane a freelance Inc writer and I can handle your cd review needs. Email me
Eric Levane
Ireview4less@gmail.com
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