After a five-year hiatus, Ghostface Killah has returned with his 14th studio album, “Set the Tone (Guns and Roses)” via Mass Appeal Records. The album, released last Friday, is a two-part saga that showcases both sides of the hip-hop legend’s artistry. On one side, Ghostface embodies his gritty assassin persona, Tony Starks, in the “Guns” section. On the other side, he transitions into the romantic rebel, Pretty Toney, for the “Roses” part of the album. Each side offers a unique contrast that longtime fans of Ghostface will surely appreciate.
Ghostface announced the album with the release of his single “Scar Tissue” featuring Nas, which serves as the premiere single of the album. The collaboration between the two rap icons brings a sense of mature class and nostalgic 1990s vibes. The flashy visual for the single showcases the camaraderie between the Staten Island and Queens representatives, with both artists delivering standout performances over lush production provided by T the Human.
The album features a star-studded lineup of collaborations, including Ghostface’s Wu-Tang Clan brothers Raekwon and Method Man, as well as Ye (Kanye West), Fat Joe, Ja Rule, Serani, Remy Ma, Busta Rhymes, and more. Each feature adds a unique flavor to the album and enhances Ghostface’s gritty boom bap sound. The album is a reflection of Ghostface’s dominance in the rap arena, with each track showcasing his lyrical prowess and versatility.
The “Guns” side of the album features tracks like “6 Minutes” with Sheek Louch and Jim Jones, “Pair of Hammers” featuring Method Man, and “Skate Odyssey” with Raekwon. These tracks embody the classic East Coast sound that Ghostface is known for, with gritty, streetwise lyrics and hard-hitting beats. The “Roses” side, on the other hand, shifts to a smoother, more melodic vibe, with tracks like “Plan B” and “Bad Bitch” featuring Ja Rule.
The album also includes standout performances from AZ on “Locked In” and Busta Rhymes on “Shots,” showcasing Ghostface’s ability to collaborate with a diverse range of artists and create compelling musical experiences. The skits on the album add a touch of humor and nostalgia, paying homage to the signature style of 1990s and 2000s rap productions. Overall, “Set the Tone (Guns and Roses)” is a testament to Ghostface’s enduring legacy in hip-hop and sets the stage for what fans hope will be the highly anticipated “Supreme Clientele 2.”
