It is doubtful that hip-hop has ever seen a more lovable character than Biz Markie. From his rare EP debut in 1986 to his classic follow up (88’s “Goin’ Off”) and excellent catalogue (“The Biz Never Sleeps,” “I Need a Haircut,” “All Samples Cleared”), the Biz has always been an infectious personality. Hip-hop’s original clown prince goofball antics have ranged from songs about picking buggers to album covers with him on the toilet. Through it all, the Biz has always kept it funky and delivered his unique brand of music in a style that can’t be duplicated, nobody beats the Biz.
Despite no true releases in 10 years, Biz has stayed busy being one of the premier party DJ’s in the world, spinning at parties at the Playboy mansion, the Super Bowl and countless celebrity parties. But the “Weekend Warrior” does mark a comeback effort for the diabolical. While former Juice Crew members Big Daddy Kane, Kool G Rap, Masta Ace and Craig G are all trying to adapt to the changing game with their own comeback efforts, Biz ain’t changing a thing.
One advantage that Biz has is that even if his beats aren’t top notch, the album will still be a fun listen because, like he once told you, nobody beats the Biz. “Weekend Warrior” doesn’t feature the best production, but it good in nearly all spots. Most importantly, it complements the Biz’s off the wall style. “Tear Shit Up” is exactly the kind of tracks that the 2003 Biz should be making; a funky little beat chalk full of his random rhymes like: “when I was young I never pissed in the bed/always listened to what my moms and pops said/I gotta big belly so you know I’m well fed/I’m the lover lover like my name was Ed.” Biz does a very good job of adapting an updated sound without abandoning his aesthetic. Both “Let Me See You Bounce” and “Do Your Thang” (word to Wild Style) are examples of that. One of the best albums best moments comes when the Biz teams up with a producer who’s beats are as zany as his rhymes; J-Zone. “Chinese Food” features a dope orient-influenced beat done as only the Zone can do, and Biz rapping about everything but Chinese food (save the chorus). “Not a Freak” featuring Erick Sermon is another really funky joint, featuring one of E-Dub’s best beats in sometime.
“Friends” will likely garner some comparisons to his classic “Just a Friend” and those aren’t unwarranted given the similar nature the subject matter. Not to mention the Biz showing off the pipes in the chorus again. It works though cause the song doesn’t seem to be an empty sequel like so many ‘part twos’ are these days. Biz further explores his female troubles on “Games,” another easy winner. “Throw Back” is reminiscing as only the diabolical can, such a good song for so many reasons. “Turn Back the Hands of Time” is very similar in its topic, but is just too good to complain about. As always, there is always a tribute to the culture within his comedic routines.
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He does miss his mark in a few spots, for instance, “Like a Dream” is a little too syrupy for the clown prince of hip-hop. Biz is pretty amusing in “Party to the Break-A-Day,” but the simplistic beat doesn’t really connect with him. As one of hip-hop’s foremost historians (complete with a second house just for his record collection), Biz always pays his respects to the culture in one way or another. “This is for the DJ’z” would qualify here. Unfortunately, the track is dragged down by guest appearances and a lackluster beat.
Some 17 years since his first release and Biz Markie hasn’t lost a step. His rhymes are as fun and refreshing as ever and he still selects beats that bring out the best in him. There is no Marley Marl here and this is no “Goin’ Off,” but did anyone really expect that? It’s another great addition to the Biz library and a breath of fresh air in today’s climate of posturing thugs.
