Just when you thought it was over, Rick Ross drops Rather You Than Me and confirms he’s going to be here for as long as he pleases. Many thought Rick Ross had lost a step musically. Rather You Than Me proves that not only is Ross solid, but he may have dropped a Top 5 album for his catalog.

Let’s get right to what the world is talking about. “Idols Become Rivals” featuring Chris Rock. Rick Ross makes it clear he’s siding with Lil Wayne the best way he can. In song as he rips Birdman for his bad business practices and fake jewelry. There wasn’t anything that was shocking to hear, but it is the most courageous attack on Birdman ever. Rick Ross’s love for Lil Wayne and DJ Khaled did this. Ross takes another shot at Birdman later in the album. You’ll hear it. I think Rick Ross may have opened up the floodgates on the already violently bubbling issue. Who’s next? We’ll see when these Young Money albums drop is my guess.

With all the above said “Trap Trap Trap” with Young Thug and Wale might be the best song on the album. Musically, I think we can all agree, Thugger has quite a few good moments. “She On My D**k” featuring Gucci Mane is funny and has a “Same Hoes” vibe. When Rick Ross is slut shaming, it’s entertaining. Period. “Game Based on Sympathy” is fire! It’s literally the type of rap song you pray your favorite emcee makes.

[iframe id=”https://www.youtube.com/embed/USzoKiwJems?ecver=2″]

Rather You Than Me also has another dope moment with Ross and Nas on “Powers That Be”. There’s also a Dej Loaf sighting on “Maybach Music V”.  You already know what “I Think She Like Me” with Ty Dolla Sign do and the streets have already embraced “Dead Presidents” with Future, Jeezy and Gotti. Realistically those aren’t the best this album has to offer. So if you liked those joints, this album might be your favorite of the year so far halfway through.

I think it’s safe to say that Rick Ross is the greatest beat picker of all time. No matter what year or what turmoil. Ross makes sure his beats bang. They’re hard, soulful, beautiful, cinematic and infectious. No matter where you have Rick Ross on your top rappers list, you can’t deny the man knows how to put together a dope album. Rather You Than Me is exactly that. A dope album.

Check out another album review here.