Snoop Dogg's second project of 2021, the Doggy Style/
Def Jam compilation
The Algorithm, finds the veteran Californian rapper throwing a star-studded party with a host of very famous friends. As cynical as the title might be, it rings true: the effort is precision-designed for maximum crowd-pleasing effect. Not only does it join old partners
Method Man and
Redman ("Alright"), the set samples
Snoop classics (like "Drop It Like It's Hot" on the bouncing "No Bammer Weed"), switches up genres (check out the smooth jam "New Oldie" with
Eric Bellinger and
Usher), and elevates a crop of R&B vocalists including Malaya ("Anxiety" and "Inspiration"),
Jane Handcock ("Like My Weed," "By & By," and "Whatever You On"), CHOC ("Everybody Dies"), and
Nefertitti Avani ("Make It Last" and "Alright"). Superstar guests
Busta Rhymes,
Mary J. Blige,
Wiz Khalifa,
Jadakiss,
Benny the Butcher, and
Fabolous are also great draws, but it's "Big Subwoofer," the debut single from West Coast supergroup Mount Westmore, that'll be the "main attraction" from
The Algorithm in years to come. Hearing
Snoop,
Ice Cube,
E-40, and
Too $hort having fun on a single booming track is worth the price of admission alone. This slyly crafted collection of big bass and even bigger brags manages to bridge the old school and the new, with Uncle
Snoop's encouragement as the host with the most. ~ Neil Z. Yeung