What makes A Vicious Cycle by Reef the Lost Cauze notable?

The album received positive recognition within the underground hip-hop community, often praised for its authentic storytelling and lyrical depth. It helped to further cement Reef's status as a prominent figure in East Coast hip-hop during a time when mainstream rap dominated the charts. By the time 'A Vicious Cycle' was released in 2008, Reef the Lost Cauze had established himself in the underground hip-hop scene with several mixtapes and collaborations. This album followed his previous work, solidifying his reputation as a skilled lyricist while also reflecting a maturation in his themes and production choices.

How many songs are on A Vicious Cycle?

A Vicious Cycle has 20 tracks, running approximately 75 minutes.

A Vicious Cycle

Reef the Lost Cauze · 2008

75 min · 20 tracks · hip-hop

Raw lyrical honesty merges with gritty beats, encapsulating the struggles of urban life and personal identity.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Thug Fantasy — This track stands out for its introspective commentary on the perceived glamor of street life contrasted with harsh realities, showcasing Reef's lyrical prowess.
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I Ain’t No Rapper — In this track, Reef asserts his identity beyond typical rapper stereotypes, blending self-reflection with sharp wordplay that resonates with authenticity.
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Gone — Here, Reef explores themes of loss and longing through vivid storytelling, making it a poignant highlight that captures the album's emotional weight.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

I Ain’t No Rapper

Reef shifts from bravado to vulnerability as he dissects misconceptions about his persona in hip-hop culture.

This move breaks down the wall between artist and listener, revealing deeper layers of identity that challenge conventional expectations.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Back at It 3:21
2 Pay-per-view 3:21
3 Problem 3:52
4 I Wonder 4:46
5 Thug Fantasy 4:33
6 I Ain’t No Rapper 4:00
7 Big Deal 4:03
8 Not That Easy 2:48
9 Listen to Me 3:33
10 Get It? Got It? Good 4:08
11 Upside Down 3:35
12 Gone 3:54
13 Amnesia 3:15
14 Nat Turner 4:11
15 Bad Lieutenant 3:37
16 When You Get Free 5:26
17 Home 3:14
18 Still I Rise 3:03
19 Listen to Me (J.J. Brown remix) 3:39
20 Get It? Got It? Good (J.J. Brown remix) 3:40

What to play next

Listen next

Your Favorite MC

2011

Go back to

Feast or Famine

2005

Full Reef the Lost Cauze discography Artists like Reef the Lost Cauze

East Coast hip-hop hip-hop underground hip-hop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata