The tracks on Ruthless Juveniles’ second release show a definite improvement over those on the group’s first, Hard as the F**k. But as a whole the album suffers from predictability and problems with sound quality, particularly on cassette.

There is no mistaking what this crew is about-straight-up gangster rap, the kind that has Bob Dole and Newt Gingrich foaming at the mouth. Since its inception, rap music has chronicled life in the inner city in the most graphic, straightforward fashion, and Ruthless Juveniles continue in that tradition. For the most part, however, the lyrics fail to reach the level of revelation. It’s not enough anymore to tell how hard life is in the ghetto and spin endless tales of killers, drug dealers, and dope fiends. lce-T, N.W.A., Schooly D and many others have already done this. To impress an audience today, gangster rappers must have outstanding production, unique style and delivery, and come off with lyrics that offer deeper revelations and insights into the urban drama. All things considered, Hard as the F**k Pt. II is not a bad album; many fans of local rap will enjoy it. Lead rapper Lil Badness comes off strong on cuts like “Gotta Get My Life Right” and “FoFo Slugs.” The album’s producer, who calls himself Death, has blended tracks that are sinister and haunting and fit smoothly with the flow of Lil Badness. (Local rap veteran Ice Mike contributes production on the track “That’s How You Kill.”) Overall, Death provides smooth textures of sound that accentuate the lyrics. If more attention had been paid to the overall sound quality, this crew would have come off a lot stronger.