MTA2: Baptized in Dirty Water cover

MTA2: Baptized in Dirty Water

David Banner · 2003

79 min · 19 tracks · gangsta rap

A gritty, immersive journey through Southern hip-hop that melds chopped and screwed elements with raw lyrical intensity.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Like a Pimp (remix) — This track exemplifies Banner's signature blend of catchy hooks and hard-hitting lyrics, exploring themes of ambition and survival in the face of adversity.
  • →
    Baptized in Dirty Water — The title track encapsulates the album's core message about resilience and struggle, using vivid imagery to depict life's challenges and triumphs.
  • →
    Mama's House — This song reflects on personal roots and the impact of family, showcasing Banner's ability to infuse heartfelt storytelling into his music.

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's chopped and screwed style and lyrical intensity create a strong identity within Southern hip-hop.

What we noticed

  • Each track maintains a similar tempo, with few variations, reinforcing the album's cohesive sound.
  • Lyrically, the album explores personal and social themes, often delivered in a raw and intense manner that complements the production.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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

  • hypnotic rhythms for late nights
  • immersive storytelling in every track
  • patiently unfolding narratives throughout
  • ideal for relaxed social settings
  • slowed-down vibes for introspection

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking quick, energetic tracks
  • prefer upbeat, fast-paced music

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2003, MTA2: Baptized in Dirty Water is David Banner's follow-up to his acclaimed album, Mississippi: The Album. At this point, Banner was solidifying his reputation as a leading voice in Southern hip-hop, blending personal narratives with broader cultural commentary. This album continued his exploration of the struggles and triumphs within the African American experience in the South.
Stylistic neighbors
Lil Jon· Three 6 Mafia· Project Pat

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Swisha Mix Intro (Screwed & Chopped) 0:50
  • 2 Eternal (Screwed & Chopped) 3:39
  • 3 Talk to Me (Screwed & Chopped) 4:39
  • 4 Like a Pimp (remix) (Screwed & Chopped) 4:37
  • 5 Mama's House (Screwed & Chopped) 4:25
  • 6 Lil' Jones (Screwed & Chopped) 5:24
  • 7 My Lord (Screwed & Chopped) 4:45
  • 8 Crank It Up (Screwed & Chopped) 4:04
  • 9 Pretty Pink (Screwed & Chopped) 6:13
  • 10 Pop That (Screwed & Chopped) 3:49
  • 11 So in Love (Screwed & Chopped) 3:33
  • 12 Gots to Go (Screwed & Chopped) 4:51
  • 13 The Christmas Song (Screwed & Chopped) 5:16
  • 14 Baptized in Dirty Water (Screwed & Chopped) 1:54
  • 15 Ooh Aah (Screwed & Chopped) 3:46
  • 16 We Ride Them Caddies (Screwed & Chopped) 5:16
  • 17 Air Force Ones (remix) (Screwed & Chopped) 5:24
  • 18 The Game (Screwed & Chopped) 4:20
  • 19 The End (Screwed & Chopped) 2:34

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata