Sound: 70s blaxploitation-era, cinematic soul and gritty funk provide the backdrop for Ghostface to spit drug hustling tales with his signature high-pitched and oddly creative flow. There are several guest rappers (including an all Wu-Tang track), but they rarely detract from his rapid-fire momentum. The vibe is severely compromised in the second half, though, as slicker 90s gangsta rap bangers and shimmery r&b enters the mix. It reeks of record label tampering.
Heavy Rotation tracks: “Kilo” (Song of the Year Candidate); “Shakey Dog“; “Back Like That” (featuring Ne-Yo); “Be Easy” (featuring Trife)
Medium Rotation tracks: “Whip You With A Strap“; “9 Milli Bros.” (featuring Wu-Tang Clan); “The Champ“; “R.A.G.U.” (featuring Raekwon)
Recommended: Ghostface Killah is one of the most original rappers in the game and continues to find a unique identity separate from his Wu-Tang clan affiliation. Fishscale is a raw showcase for his talent. If the five out-of-place, modernized tracks were omitted, this would be an undisputed classic. Despite them, it’s still likely to be one of the best hip hop albums of the year.
Grade: A- (Top 20 Albums of 2006 Candidate)

(As posted 4/17/06 on davepowersmusic.com)
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