Immobilarity cover

Immobilarity

Raekwon · 1999

65 min · 21 tracks · gangsta rap

Dark, cinematic beats intertwine with vivid storytelling, embodying the grit and ambition of urban life.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Yae Yo Start here — The track features a hypnotic beat paired with Raekwon's intricate wordplay, highlighting his unique storytelling style that resonates throughout the album.
  • →
    Casablanca — This song stands out for its vivid imagery and cinematic feel, encapsulating Raekwon's ability to weave complex narratives into his music.
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    All I Got Is You, Part II — A heartfelt tribute that reflects on personal struggles, this track showcases Raekwon's depth as an artist beyond traditional gangsta rap themes.
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    Friday — Utilizing a laid-back vibe, this track illustrates the routine of urban life while maintaining sharp lyricism that characterizes Raekwon's approach throughout the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

54 /100
Foothills
Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong storytelling and cohesive production but lacks the innovation of Raekwon's earlier work.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of skits that break up the tracks, creating a narrative flow throughout.
  • Raekwon employs vivid imagery and detailed storytelling in his verses, often reflecting on urban life and personal experiences.
  • Most tracks maintain a slow to mid-tempo pace, with dark, cinematic beats that enhance the lyrical content.
  • Several songs incorporate layered vocal samples and atmospheric production elements, contributing to a cohesive sound.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • cinematic storytelling with grit
  • wave-like pacing with interludes
  • introspective exploration of street life
  • dynamic shifts in emotional tone

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward, instant gratification
  • avoid lengthy, narrative-driven pieces

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Solidified Raekwon's status in hip-hop after his acclaimed debut.
Career context
Released in early 1999, Immobilarity was Raekwon's third studio album, following his critically acclaimed debut Only Built 4 Cuban Linx... in 1995. At this point in his career, Raekwon was establishing himself as a prominent figure in the East Coast hip-hop scene, navigating the transition from underground success to wider recognition.
Stylistic neighbors
Ghostface Killah· Inspectah Deck· Nas

Tracklist

  • 1 Intro (skit) 2:18
  • 2 Yae Yo Start here 2:36
  • 3 Casablanca 3:50
  • 4 100 Rounds 4:53
  • 5 Real Life 3:02
  • 6 Power 3:48
  • 7 Skit Nº1 1:04
  • 8 All I Got Is You, Part II 4:53
  • 9 Jury 3:50
  • 10 Fuck Them 3:55
  • 11 Skit Nº2 1:29
  • 12 Live From New York 3:25
  • 13 My Favorite Dred 1:57
  • 14 Friday 3:25
  • 15 The Table 3:03
  • 16 Sneakers 3:01
  • 17 Raw 3:07
  • 18 Pop Shit 3:17
  • 19 Heart to Heart 4:03
  • 20 Forecast 3:08
  • 21 Outro 1:08

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata