Ex-Diplomats hype-man and tough talker Jim Jones has seemingly done the impossible: He has come from under his boss and mentor and managed to carve his own niche, parlaying the fate of similar “right-hand man” artist failures. With all of his accomplishments, however, his fourth album, “Pray IV Reign,” is ultimately a disappointing album that does little to show Jones’ growth.
“Reign” is a bit heavier and on the mainstream side than the thug posturing of his earlier efforts, but Jim is more comfortable in this spot.
“Pop Champagne” has dominated the charts for a while with its infectious hook and braggadocio claims of wealth. The Ryan Leslie-assisted “Precious” is strictly for females-classy without being corny.
Jones is nostalgic on tracks like “My My My,” which is dedicated to slain rapper Stack Bundles, and “Let It Out.” These are two of the strongest tracks on the disc, and will surprise the most jaded Jim Jones nonbeliever.
While Jones’ strength has never been his lyrical delivery, he usually has great production on his albums. “Reign” has half-baked and derivative production by Chink Santana and Ron Browz (who really should have known better).
“How To Be A Boss” features Ludacris and Busta Rhymes over a Swizz Beatz sound-alike track created by Browz. “Frenemies” is ripped straight from Jay-Z’s “A Week Ago” (Jay-Z is ironically Jones’ enemy on wax). The biggest offender on the album is the juvenile “Medicine,” which manages to rip-off Jay-Z’s “Jigga What, Jigga Who,” and be lyrically terrible as well.
“Reign” sounds like an extended Byrd Gang album, bookmarked by the many appearances by the unimpressive group on the album. “Reign” had good intentions, but maybe next time Jim should pray for a more cohesive album.
Score: 6/10