Encore (Collector's Edition) [PA] [Limited] by Eminem (CD, Nov-2004, 2 Discs, Aftermath Records USA)

The newest addition to Eminem’s ever-growing pile of albums is Encore. With less skits and more music, Eminem has truly outdone himself. Resembling a continuation of his previous album: The Eminem Show, Encore is nothing short of mind-boggling. This version of the album contains a bonus disc and if you love Eminem, then I would recommend picking it up for an extra $5.00 - $8.00 dollars. Sporting a similar look, Eminem has actually matured on this album. Both his lyrics and beats are proficient and only a few songs seem inadequate. Eminem’s image used to be all about controversy but after The Slim Shady LP, things started cooling down a bit and Eminem began being loved by everyone. Although he still produced the occasional offensive song, his shock-factor began dying down. Encore is still not swear-free but Eminem does not use cuss words carelessly. He utilizes them for the sake of the song and explanation. Avid Eminem fans will disregard this miniscule fact since this is what he is known for, after all. With only four songs featuring other artists (50 cent, Dr. Dre, Nate Dogg, D-12, Obie Trice, and Stat Quo) Eminem performs on the majority of his album. All accompanying artists are equally satisfactory in skill and style. None of the songs are butchered although one song stands out the most, due to its political message, Mosh. It discusses issues in the world today and, to be honest, is not that great. The lyrics are nicely composed but the beat and whole feel of the song is substandard. This is a song you either love, or hate. Eminem’s lyrics are still of the highest quality and his style of rhyme has considerably changed… in a good way. The album still has some trademark similarities. There still is a little bit of Kim, some Debbie, some kiddie humor, a little obscenity, and Dr. Dre! This definitely is not a mainstream rap album.

Eminem has been known for his original beats and smooth flow of words. This album still has it all and even if the occasional song may not sound right the first time, it will sound better the next time.
Eminem never ceases to amaze and this album, although not his best, still contains some talent and well thought out beats. A nice purchase if you’ve got the dough.

Some favorites:
Evil Deeds
Yellow Brick Road
Like Toy Soldiers
Just Lose It
On Shot 2 Shot
We As Americans