Unplugged

by Jay-Z — 12 February 2002 — music — 3/5

Jay Z unplugged, with the Roots backing him, is probably the best live hip-hop album ever. Jay is quite witty and works the audience brilliantly. More important, he delivers on his hits in a fine style. I'm quite surprised at how well his heavily produced hits translate to a comparatively low tech forum. Songs like Izzo, Jigga What Jigga Who, Big Pimpin, and I Just Wanna Love U come through in a raw style that makes them seem more like underground than Billboard hit. Mary J Blige guests and really adds a nice light counterpoint to Jay's heavy delivery.