AZ has been here since his memorable verse on Nas's "Life's A Bitch".   While his albums have never gone platinum most of music's inclined know what the deal is.   He's constantly slept on and is one of the best.   Last year's Final Call was never released and only a few have heard piece of it thanks to downloading and mixtapes.   Now after the release of the Decade best of album AZ returns with A.W.O.L. , a 13 track (15 song) LP that gives you more of AZ's ability to visualize.

Featuring production from producers like Heatmakerz, Emile, DJ Premier, Vinny Idol, Buckwild, Moss and Baby Paul this album is retrospective, boastful and real good to listen to.   Songs like "New York" featuring Ghostface and Raekwon, "Still Alive" could be considered for the clubs while songs like "City Of Gods", "A.W.O.L.", and "Street Life" talk about the streets and the hustling life.   There are hard beats and soulful beats and murderous beats like Envious that features Bounty Killer. AZ thinks about the steps he and family made in "Can't Stop", a sample-laden track that makes you think of your own situation.

This album is a very nice return to the release party and will be enjoyed by all who like AZ and people like him.   While it maybe too slow for some addicted to the crunk music we all need to slow down and listen so I suggest if you want to hear lyrics cop this LP. The worst song is probably "AZ's Chillin" but the beat is unique on that too!

I'll give the album 4 Globes.

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