Book of Ryan
by Royce da 5'9"
  • Record Label: eOne
  • Release Date: May 4, 2018
Metascore
84

Universal acclaim - based on 5 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 5
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 5
  3. Negative: 0 out of 5
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  1. Exclaim
    Jun 11, 2018
    90
    Book of Ryan is a welcome origin story, an issue zero that leaves no stone unturned.
  2. HipHopDX
    Jun 11, 2018
    90
    Book Of Ryan continues a four-year, six-album streak of top-tier lyricism, with noted personal and artistic growth in the process. His 2018 output will not only earn him noted respect as one of the best lyricists of the year but in rap as a whole.
  3. RapReviews.com
    Aug 27, 2018
    85
    By providing a cinematic narrative throughout, Royce proves that he is more than a one-trick-pony witty lyricist. He's introspective and not afraid of laying down confessional lyrics.
  5. XXL
    Jun 11, 2018
    80
    The album does start to feel the weight of having 21 tracks at times, but little overstays its welcome. Even 20 years into his career, Royce maintains his reputation as one of hip-hop's premier rappers by releasing his most affecting work yet.
  6. PopMatters
    Jun 11, 2018
    70
    While the tracklist drags on a bit on Book of Ryan, the discussions of dysfunctional family life ("Power") and mental illness ("Strong Friend") are heavy and worthwhile topics. Royce doesn't sacrifice energy for message either. "Summer on Lock", "Caterpillar", "Legendary", and others are fiery bursts of boom bap and trap which show that at nearly 41, Royce is not slowing down.

User Reviews

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User Score
8.4

Universal acclaim- based on 41 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 37 out of 41
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 41
  3. Negative: 2 out of 41
  1. thedaywalker
    Jun 15, 2018
    8
    This is the best rap album i've heard in 2018.

    Always liked Royce and thought he really deserves to be recognized with one of the best, and    This is the best rap album i've heard in 2018.

    Always liked Royce and thought he really deserves to be recognized with one of the best, and he truly doesn't disappoint with this album.

    If it's going back to his roots or just talking about the state of rap today, Royce hits hard every point he wants to make.

    His flow is always great, and lyrically he's one of the best out there right now.

    Favorite songs: Caterpillar,God Speed, Dumb, Amazing, Power, Summer on Lock, Boblo Boat
    Least Favorite songs: Cocaine, Life is fair, Anything/Everything, Caterpillar Remix    … Full Review »
  2. Shenossih
    Mar 24, 2020
    10
    He imprinted his name on hip-hop and the game. Now when someone asks you what has 5'9" done that people like him so much, you play that personHe imprinted his name on hip-hop and the game. Now when someone asks you what has 5'9" done that people like him so much, you play that person this album. He made a classic album with being 20 years in his career like damn. Respect.… Full Review »
  3. Kirixa
    Feb 26, 2020
    9
    Great music, beautiful storytelling. Incredibly sincere and heartfelt. I wish more albums would give such an in-depth look in artists' backgrounds.
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