DMX's final studio album, "Exodus," is a powerful testament to the rapper's enduring legacy, released posthumously on May 28, 2021, under Def Jam Recordings. Clocking in at just under 40 minutes, this hard-hitting East Coast hip-hop album is a concise yet impactful collection that showcases DMX's signature raw energy and introspective lyricism.
Featuring an impressive roster of guest artists, "Exodus" brings together some of hip-hop's most influential voices. Legends like JAY-Z, Nas, and Alicia Keys lend their talents, while newer stars such as Moneybagg Yo and Lil Wayne add fresh perspectives. The album also includes a surprising collaboration with Bono on the track "Skyscrapers," blending DMX's gritty style with U2's frontman's soaring vocals.
The tracklist is a rollercoaster of high-energy anthems and reflective moments. "That's My Dog" and "Dogs Out" kick things off with aggressive, swagger-filled beats, while "Hold Me Down" and "Letter To My Son (Call Your Father)" offer heartfelt and introspective glimpses into DMX's personal struggles and wisdom. "Hood Blues," featuring Griselda's Westside Gunn, Benny The Butcher, and Conway The Machine, dives deep into the streets, and "Take Control" with Snoop Dogg is a smooth yet commanding track.
"Exodus" also includes skits that add a narrative flow to the album, making it feel like a cohesive journey rather than just a collection of songs. The album's brevity ensures that every track packs a punch, leaving listeners with a strong sense of DMX's artistry and influence.
For fans of hardcore hip-hop and East Coast rap, "Exodus" is a fitting farewell from one of the genre's most iconic figures. It's a raw, unfiltered look at DMX's world, filled with the passion, pain, and power that defined his career.
Vinylscout