Originally Posted by The Batlord

I can understand why somebody wouldn't be that impressed with Illmatic. It's only truly great draw is Nas' rapping ability, as the production is dated even for the time period (which doesn't really bother me that much), doesn't have the personality or originality of something produced by RZA or Dre, and in general just isn't that inspiring besides some notable standouts (such as "Life's a Bitch"). But it's still perfectly serviceable.

And Nas may have had more personality on later albums, but his vocal delivery is absolutely fantastic otherwise, and really elevates an album that by any other rapper might have just been one more drop in the bucket.