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A Long Hot Summer Image
Metascore
78

Generally favorable reviews - based on 10 Critic Reviews What's this?

User Score
8.5

Universal acclaim- based on 18 Ratings

  • Summary: 9th Wonder is among the producers on the veteran Brooklyn MC's fifth full-length (rumored to be his last), a prequel to previous disc ?Disposable Arts.' Guests include Rahzel, Jean Grae and The Beatnuts.

Top Track

Beautiful
Mmm hmmm, yeah BK, Uptown, Boogie Down, Queens It's beautiful Listen, I got a lot to say (yeah) Usually my smile stay locked away But not today, I... See the rest of the song lyrics
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 10
  2. Negative: 0 out of 10
  1. Shorter than its predecessor, it is also a more cohesive and even effort, making Ace and Brooklyn the focal points of this hour plus narrative told in the now trademark laid-back manner.
  2. Vibe
    80
    Though his singles may not rule radio, as far as full-lengths go, this is how it should be done. [Sep 2004, p.233]
  3. Only in its conclusion does the disc fall short of its predecessor.
  4. Wise beyond his decades, Masta Ace stands at the altar with lyrical depth as his bride.
  5. Unfortunately, A Long Hot Summer starts slowly. In fact, when you cop this album, do yourself a favor and skip the first five tracks.
  6. Urb
    70
    The record falters only when Ace recounts a gangster parable about shady dealings with a certain Fats Belvedere. [Sep 2004, p.116]
  7. His new album isn’t quite as good as Disposable Arts, but it’s similarly engaging--he is both confident and insecure, and this incongruity defines his music.

See all 10 Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 6
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 6
  3. Negative: 0 out of 6
  1. branden
    Jan 15, 2007
    10
    this album...along with disposable arts are both a ten! I will buy anything this man puts out. definitely worth repeated listens.
  2. KoosG
    Aug 19, 2004
    10
    Damn boys! The shit. Never stop Ace. One Love from Amsterdam!
  3. hollywood
    Sep 28, 2004
    10
    A classic ......period
  4. [Anonymous]
    Aug 21, 2004
    9
    I dont really give tens... but it was an amazing album
  5. Jay.Soul
    Sep 18, 2004
    9
    If u like your hip-hop clever, insightful, witty, honest and full of love for the art and life - this is for u. Ace has done it again: If u like your hip-hop clever, insightful, witty, honest and full of love for the art and life - this is for u. Ace has done it again: another SOLID album. I hate the idea that he's quitting. Oh - and don't skip the first 5 tracks as one reviewer says! Expand
  6. asimr
    Sep 29, 2004
    8
    Its not as good as i thought but a good effort from Ace... In my opinion, i would rate "Disposable Arts" a ten. Favorites in this album Its not as good as i thought but a good effort from Ace... In my opinion, i would rate "Disposable Arts" a ten. Favorites in this album include "wutuwanko" & "revelations". Its sad to see this being his last album becasue he is one of those rappers which you can really feel his lyrics. Expand