Slimm Calhoun
The Skinny
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Slimm Calhoun
The Skinny
Aquemini, 2001
RiYL: Backbone, OutKast, Cool Breeze |
The music biz isn't much different -- either you have game or you don't. The Dungeon Family, one of hip-hop's most talented cliques, boasts the futuristic duo OutKast and the boisterous Goodie Mob, among other acts. Attempting to follow in his brethren's footsteps, Slimm Calhoun has released his debut, The Skinny. As the first artist on Aquemini Records (owned by OutKast), Slimm is given the responsibility of establishing the company as a force. Outkast should have second-guessed their decision.
Although a semi-decent lyricist, Slimm lacks energy in his delivery. According to Andre 3000 of OutKast, "Our goal for Aquemini was to make it a specialty label based on quality, not just chasing the latest trends."
Perhaps Andre was contemplating signing his partner, Big Boi, to a solo deal. Organized Noize's production is successful as usual on The Skinny, providing Slimm a decent sound on practically every song, only to have him squander the opportunities with his lackluster performances.
In his weakest moments he comes off as an OutKast poser, though occasionally he is quite insightful. By far the weakest track on the album is "How Much Can I," featuring Sleepy Brown. This song will be hailed as the wackest ode to ganja in recent times. Another cliche cut off the record is "All Da Hustlers," in which Slimm raps about the drug game.
The lead single, "It's OK," featuring Slimm's mentor, Andre 3000, is carried by its beats and infectious hook ("Cash Money" anyone?), but Andre's partner Big Boi has more success with Slimm on their collaboration, "Dirt Work." Slimm feeds off of Big Boi's flow to produce a slamming Southern grits-'n'-gravy song. In fact, on his strongest cuts, Slimm demonstrates flashes of brilliance. The title track is by far the album's best song. "The Skinny," a detailed vignette about his young life, has a prophetic hook. "Timelock," another tale of Slimm's turmoil in life, displays his talent as a storyteller. Slimm seems to be inspired when rhyming about his troubled past and is able to produce a few satisfactory tracks.
Throughout the debut the beats are up to par, but Slimm often fails to handle the challenge of carrying the songs. On tracks like "Red Clay" and "Worldly Ways," he is given the opportunity, but falls flat on his face. Perhaps Slimm's biggest mistake was to be affiliated with the Dungeon Fam. Expectations were too much for this below-average MC. A platinum plaque would be a guarantee were he a "Cash Money Millionaire," but unfortunately he is part of a prolific crew known for top-notch hip-hop.
Overall, The Skinny is a severe disappointment and an embarrassment for OutKast as talent scouts. Slimm should tighten his lyrics and hope Aquemini doesn't drop him on second go-around. The only consolation for Slimm is looking over his current competition. Not much to see, is there?
JESUS TREVINO |