Slick Rick – Documents (feat. Nas)

Twenty-six years is a long time between albums, but Slick Rick makes his return worth the wait with ‘Victory’, his first full-length since 1999’s ‘The Art of Storytelling’. The standout collaboration ‘Documents’ pairs the legendary storyteller with Nas and is executive-produced by Idris Elba through his 7Wallace imprint and released via Mass Appeal.

The 10-track project was primarily recorded in London, bringing Rick’s narrative from his Bronx beginnings back to his British roots.

‘Documents’ showcases the seamless chemistry between two masters of their craft. Rick’s distinctive flow, honed through decades of storytelling supremacy, perfectly complements Nas’s technical prowess. The track benefits from production that understands how to frame these voices without overwhelming their natural authority.

Elba’s involvement adds an interesting dimension, connecting Rick’s British heritage with his American hip-hop legacy. The actor-turned-producer brings cinematic sensibilities that complement Rick’s natural flair for narrative drama.

‘Victory’ centers primarily on Rick himself, with strategic guest appearances rather than star-studded collaborations. It’s an approach that makes sense for an artist whose greatest strength has always been his singular voice and perspective.

After a quarter-century absence, ‘Documents’ and ‘Victory’ remind us why Rick earned the title “Ruler” in the first place.