The Last of a Dying Breed

The Last of a Dying Breed contains a handful of Scarface’s most epic, unforgettable songs. Face turned 30 the year this album was released, and from the first song it shows him assuming his role as rap elder. With his irascible voice and war-torn demeanor, Face has always seemed wise beyond his years. The title song positions him as a man touched with special qualities and The Last of a Dying Breed is Scarface’s way of differentiating himself from the younger generation of rappers, some of whom he righteously accuses of “takin’ rap for a joke.” There is nothing jokey about this album. Face’s flow is more solemn than ever — he raps with the unswerving fortitude of a hard-bitten headmaster. He handles the bulk of the album’s production himself, providing stark, unhurried rhythms and ironclad instrumentation. “Conspiracy Theory” and “In My Time” exemplify Face’s stony vision of funk, but the album is dominated by “Sorry For What,” a song to darken all skies and crack open the earth.