Ludacris – The Red Light District

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Ludacris has always revelled in the seedy and lewder aspects of modern life, yet none more so than on his 4th solo LP, ‘The Red Light District’. Here we see everything - gambling, pimpin’, and the consumption of illicit substances, but along the way, we find out more about Luda as a person, and more about his personal thoughts. Luda is no doubt a clever man, and his wit and out going personality shine through along side a vast collection of exciting collaborations thanks in part due to his great versatility.

We are first introduced to Luda’s more comical side with ‘Number 1 Spot’, which contains a sweet sample from Quincy Jones’ ‘Soul Bossa Nova’. Another clever sample is used in ‘Large Amounts’, this time it’s from ‘You’ve Got To Pick a Pocket Or Two’ a nice little touch to a track about the problems surrounding wealth. The lead single, ‘Get Back’ is in the same style as past hits ‘Move Bitch’ and ‘Blow It Out’, a really loud and explosive track that fully shows off Luda’s ability to tell someone where to go.

No expense is spared when it comes to guests with Luda teaming up with DJ Quik on ‘Spur Of The Moment’, Nas and Doug E Fresh on ‘Virgo’, Nate Dogg on the introspective ‘Child Of The Night’ and DMX on ‘Put Your Money’, a little tribute to gambling. Sleepy Brown also appears on the Organized Noise produced ‘Blueberry Yum Yum’ while super producer Timbaland adds some magic to the ‘The Potion’. The dirty south sound that made Luda famous is featured on ‘Why Not Me’, which features new members of the Disturbing The Peace crew, Dolla Boy and Small World.

‘The Red Light District’ is in essence a summary of the dark and alluring temptations of life and how difficult they can be to resist. It is a story of reckless abandonment but also touches on the problems wealth and power can bring with the Ludacris touch of humour, raw energy and anxious fury. In the future, I have no doubt that Luda will continue to bring his unique combination of volume, wit and intelligence.

Available through Def Jam South Recordings