Cage is a darker and less pop friendly version of Eminem. His shockingly detailed lyrics autobiographically account his super-tortured childhood – which includes years of abusive and drug-using father figures, his own drug excess and spending 18 months in a psychiatric ward. Like Eminem, he mercilessly rails on the family member that hurt him most, which in Cage’s case is his real father (who happens to be named Bill Murray). His tortured bile is also channeled into politics. With the help of the Dead Kennedys’ Jello Biafra (who impersonates President Bush), they launch a no-holds-barred attack on our commander-in-chief’s character and military policies (in “Grand Ol’ Party
Crash“). Plus, he captures New York City post-9/11 paranoia in various spots on the album. His clearly enunciated flow and graphic storytelling remind you of Eminem, but the underground production and less-obvious hooks make him a more challenging listen. With Slim Shady leaning towards rap retirement, you should look up Cage to get your angry white boy fix.
Heavy Rotation tracks: “Stripes” (Top 20 Songs of 2005 Candidate); “Peeranoia”
Medium Rotation tracks: “Shoot Frank“; “Public Property“; “Hell’s Winter“; “Perfect World“
Grade: A- (Top 20 Albums of 2005 Candidate)

(As posted 12/5/05 on davepowersmusic.com)
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