The slowed & chopped version of Proud to Be American features the same stellar list of rappers (Lil Jon, Pastor Troy, D12′s Bizarre, Mike Jones, and on and on), but unlike the original release, there are no song-specific credits. It calls into question whether any of the labels these high-profile artists are signed to are aware of this release, but the profits go to “the children who have lost parents in the fight against terrorism,” so maybe its heart is in the right place after all. The whole affair smells very mixtape, with freestyles, DJ intros, and uncleared samples (presumably — Warner Bros. and Universal usually like to get their names in the liners when their tracks are copped). DJ Slow Mo handles the slowing and chopping with less of heavy hand than labelmate O.G. Ron C when it comes to slowing down, but twice the chopping. He’s a fierce scratcher on the turntable, a trippy effect that makes up for the lack of slowing while making the collection desirable for slitty-eyed syrup sippers. Ras’ “Proud to Be American” is supposed to be the key track, but surrounded by hardcore bangers and rousing party numbers, it’s the weakest number here. – David Jeffries
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