From the April 27, 2009 issue of The Miami Herald (web / print)
Rick Ross, who hails from Carol City, has established a Tony Montana persona big enough to fill his burly stature: He claims to be a prolific crime lord with visions of a drug-and-violence filled Miami, as well as a wealthy, yacht-hopping womanizer.
In his third album, Deeper Than Rap, Ross doesn’t live up to the disc’s title, instead sticking to the formula that has brought him success. The results are mixed.
For the first time, Ross’ music has a grandiose backdrop to match his boastful raps. The album’s best cut, “Maybach Music 2,” features sweeping strings, pounding organs, live drums and jazzy saxophone melodies, a suitable beat for the song’s big-egoed guests: Kanye West, Lil’ Wayne and T-Pain.
But while equally lively production on songs like “Mafia Music” and first single “Magnificent” help mask Ross’ average lyrical content, dancefloor-centric tracks like “All I Really Want” and “Lay Back” feature cheesy synth beats and feel woefully out of place. This keeps the album from making a lasting impression.
BONUS: Watch Rick Ross perform “Magnificent” with The Roots on Late Night With Jimmy Fallon.
Adrian Ruhi 
Congratulations on this important milestone. May there be more Herald reviews to follow…
Thanks!
I was sitting in my barcalounger packing my tobacco pipe and cleaning my reading glasses….
As I went to take a sip of my tea and read the daily newspaper I came across this magnificent review of the rapper Ricardo Ross and his new album.
Congratulations my friend.
Another excellent review (but even better since its also in print)! Rick Ross’ persona is definitely better than his music.
Spot on! Congratulations again.