New Orleans has always been known for taking unique ideas and turning them into wonderful tracks for the world. The latest from rapper Blaxuede (pronounced Black Suede) falls in line. The CD begins with an interview with Mr. 504, the man behind the success of Blaxuede. He proudly explains how “Suede” is going to be taking over. Blaxuede promptly goes through a 16-track New Orleans romp describing his view of being black, coming from the streets of New Orleans and trying to reach his dreams. Like many others, his subjects vary from financial hustling “About Da Paper,” violent episodes, “Dreaming, Don’t Fuck with Us, Death to the Fakers,” a tribute to his mother, “The Only Lady,” and romance “Da Sheetz.”

My favorite song “Bring Da Pain,” is a tight track making it an easy choice for DJ’s to play it across New Orleans and beyond. With cameos from Cash Money millionaires Lil Wayne and Turk, Blaxuede pretentiously explains the change in his life from “a lower 9th Ward shack, to where I’m livin’ at (one of the benefits of his musical success).” He also claims that success has brought him “…from workin’ in Winn-Dixie, to duets with Whitney (Houston)…” Lil Wayne brings in his now famous accent into the mix perfectly, and Turk comes with what I believe is his best flow yet.

Blaxuede and producers Infamous (of Infinity Records fame), and Mr. 504 have really put together an exciting CD.