The Eminem Show - classic

I always have upmost respect for lyrics that can send chills down my spine. Few songs have. Eminem's done it to me twice now.

After a sensational, yet a dark sophomore album "The Marshall Mathers LP", Eminem has returned with the more upbeat, yet still phenomnal follow up, "The Eminem Show"

Eminem offers 19 tracks, along with a special DVD in his new album. Some of the tracks are funny, some of the tracks are mean, all of the tracks are well-done.

Eminem has established himself, alongside Nas, Outkast, and the late 2pac, as one of the most sensational lyricist of the rap era. But what makes him stand out is the uniqueness of the issues he covers. He frequently talks of his daughter, and even brought her to the recording studio to help with "My Dad's Gone Crazy," a humorous, upbeat song with Hailie's cute voice assisting and hilarious lyrics such as "It's like my mother always told me / rana rana rana rana rana rana rana rana and codeine" scattered throughout.

For what might be the first time, Eminem has a slower song with lyrics dealing with sex and groupies. "Superman" is one of my favorites. A well-written conversation with one of his groupies to start the third verse is brilliant, and Dina Rae (also in "Drug Ballad") returns to provide background vocals.

It was "Cleaning out My Closet", though, that gives goosebumps. Here, Slim Shady talks of his troubled youth, rags on his estranged dad while showing his fatherly instincts. "I look at Hailie, and I couldn't picture leaving her side." He then goes on to explain his hatred toward his mom, and the sensational third verse leaves first-time listeners (and maybe even repeat listeners) wide-eyed and jaw dropped.
Eminem has that power though, and it's a sign of a legend in the making. He continues to out-do himself, and there is seemingly no limit to Slim Shady's potential. You can't help but anticipate his fourth release, yet you can't imagine anyone ever being able to top this one.