Secret Society Circus

While mainstream crossover success has largely eluded him, Detroit MC and pioneer Esham has developed a fiercely loyal, cult-like following over the years, and has released at least 15 albums since the late ‘80s. For better or for worse, his over-the-top, shock tactic lyricism has influenced many other acts, especially Midwestern icons like Eminem and Insane Clown Posse. On Secret Society Circus, his subject matter is decidedly less Satan-oriented than his early material, but is still saturated with extreme sex and violence, that is either totally hilarious or jaw-droppingly offensive, depending on your taste/age. Production-wise, the tracks here are quite minimalist, relying mostly on simple beats and keyboards, with only a few samples and very little rock instrumentation. His alterego Homey the Clown controls the microphone here, with the pitched-up, helium-huffing flow in full effect. If you're already a life-long fan, then you'll probably love this, if you're not, it's unlikely to win you over, though there are definitely some solid joints. Check out the pimp manifesto "Put It In My Pocket," pseudo-R&B epic "Sextoyz," and the funk-laden reflection "Wtf."