What makes Things Go Better with RJ and AL by Soul Position notable?

The album received positive critical acclaim, highlighting its clever lyricism and innovative production within the alternative hip-hop genre. It helped cement Soul Position's reputation, contributing to the growing popularity of Rhymesayers artists during this period. Released in 2006, 'Things Go Better with RJ and AL' marked a significant moment for Soul Position as their first album after joining the Rhymesayers Entertainment label. This project followed their earlier work as a duo, showcasing their evolution as artists while solidifying their place in the alternative hip-hop scene.

How many songs are on Things Go Better with RJ and AL?

Things Go Better with RJ and AL has 13 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

Things Go Better with RJ and AL

Soul Position · 2006

42 min · 13 tracks · alternative hip-hop

A playful yet introspective blend of alternative hip-hop, layered with witty lyrics and dynamic beats that invite deeper reflection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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No Gimmicks — This track encapsulates the duo's signature wit and authenticity, addressing the pitfalls of superficiality in hip-hop culture with tongue-in-cheek humor.
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Hand-Me-Downs — The personal storytelling in this song reflects on past experiences and influences, showcasing their lyrical depth and relatability.
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Drugs, Sex, Alcohol, Rock-N-Roll — This standout track critiques lifestyle choices often glamorized in music, blending catchy hooks with thought-provoking commentary on excess.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album showcases clever lyricism and innovative production, though it has some uneven pacing.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of layered vocal harmonies, with both MCs frequently alternating lines within verses.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

I Need My Minutes

The narrative shifts from a lighthearted tone to a more serious reflection on time management and personal priorities.

This transition illustrates the duality of their style, balancing humor with poignant insights about life's demands.

Tracklist

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

1 The Beginning 0:44
2 No Gimmicks 3:12
3 Hand-Me-Downs 3:17
4 The Extra Mile 3:37
5 Blame It on the Jager 3:12
6 I Need My Minutes 3:11
7 Keep It Hot for Daddy 3:13
8 I’m Free 2:26
9 Keys 4:18
10 The Cool Thing to Do 3:01
11 Priceless 3:35
12 Drugs, Sex, Alcohol, Rock-N-Roll 4:10
13 Things Go Better 4:32

What to play next

Go back to

8 Million Stories

2003

Full Soul Position discography Artists like Soul Position

alternative hip-hop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata