Album Review: Not For The Faint Hearted by 2nd Class Citizenz
If you’re into hip-hop that makes you think twice before hitting repeat, Not For The Faint Hearted by 2nd Class Citizenz is worth a spin. Released in 2013 outta the UK, this conscious hip-hop gem doesn’t just throw bars at you—it digs deep and asks questions. Produced by 2nd Class Citizenz alongside Matty Skatt and Soundman Sam, with mastering magic from Lukas Rimbach and Matty Skatt, it feels like they put their soul into every beat. Scratches by DJ Leeboi add that raw, old-school vibe too.
Let’s talk tracks. First up, “Deep Thoughts” hits hard right out the gate. It’s one of those songs where the lyrics stay stuck in your head—not because of some catchy hook but because Bobby Ballz and Budge lay down verses that feel real. Like, no sugarcoating here, just straight-up honesty about life struggles and self-reflection. You can tell these guys aren’t writing for clout; they’re writing for people who actually listen.
Then there’s “7 Deadly Sins,” which might be my favorite track on the album. The production has this dark undertone that matches the theme perfectly, and the way they break down each sin feels like a punch to the gut. It’s not preachy though—it’s more like someone sitting next to you, sharing stories over a smoke. By the end, you’re left thinking about your own flaws, kinda like holding up a mirror without realizing it.
The rest of the album flows smoothly between introspective joints (“True Meaning,” “Only Human”) and skits like “Bongwater (Skit)” that give it personality. Tracks like “Lost Appetite” and “Dysfunctional” keep the energy balanced, so it never feels overwhelming. And props to whoever thought of ending with “Final Frontier”—it wraps things up on a hopeful note, like saying, "Yeah, we’ve been through some heavy stuff, but we’re still standing."
One thing I gotta mention is how unpolished yet intentional everything sounds. This ain’t your typical glossy studio record—it’s gritty, raw, and feels alive. Maybe that’s why it sticks with you long after the last track fades out.
To wrap it up, Not For The Faint Hearted isn’t just an album—it’s a conversation starter. Listening to it feels like catching up with an old friend who tells it like it is. If you’re looking for music that challenges you while keeping your head nodding, check this out. Oh, and fun fact: if aliens ever invade Earth, I’m playing “7 Deadly Sins” as humanity’s soundtrack. They’ll either dig it or zap me first… who knows?
