9th Wonder — The Formula

When Buckshot and 9th Wonder released The Chemistry in mid-2005, it brought together two parts of the East Coast that were, at the time, in very different worlds of music. Their collaboration album was praised by many, and it proved that hardcore lyrical content could find its place in the heart of a soul sample.

Three years later, Buckshot and 9th Wonder carry over their chemistry in hopes that The Formula will be perfect this time. Just like on The Chemistry, 9th Wonder holds down full production credits, which is a tough task.

The first half of the album starts strong, featuring tracks like “Hold It Down,” “No Future” and “Be Cool.” In the second half, Buckshot’s tone of voice is that of an annoyed ex, when he taunts, “Ladies looking at me like boy you sexy / You didn’t get me back then but now you get me.”

The standout performance of the album comes near the end, with “Throwing Shade.” 9th Wonder brings pure mastery on this melodic track as the soul sample plays out nicely. Buckshot has his way with the wordplay as well; as he raps about mingling in someone else’s relationship.

There are a few tracks that feel as if they veer from the intended direction of the album. Among them are “Shinin’ Ya’ll” and “Here We Go,” but “Only For You (Lou)” takes the widest turn. It’s much slower and softer, as Buckshot gives shout outs to past friends and family.

Though you can hear the passion in his voice for them, it just doesn’t fit his demeanor no matter how you look at it. This is not one of 9th Wonders’s best beats either, as the production is somber, stagnant and almost depressing.

Like on Chemistry, Buckshot brings very few rappers to the project, which is an instinctively good idea. This gives him the chance to make or break the album, and he does a fairly good job of holding 9th Wonder’s beats down.

However, full collaboration albums are always going to have some hits and misses no matter how you plan for it, and The Formula is no different.

Most of the tracks are above average, but there is not enough growth between this and The Chemistry. Both artists have several ventures outside this project, and that could have hindered their collective creativeness together. Ultimately, their latest installment is an enjoyable album—just don’t expect it to win a Grammy.