By the time his 2008 solo debut The Preface was released, Elzhi was already recognized as one of hip-hop's most gifted lyricists. The Detroit emcee was still a member of Slum Village at the time, having replaced J Dilla in the legendary group earlier that decade. The Preface showcases Elzhi 's undeniable talent and impressive creative flair, foreshadowing the exciting solo career that would follow. With a young Black Milk supplying pounding, drum-heavy production on 13 of the album's 16 tracks, Elzhi 's dense verses electrify the mic, announcing the arrival of a truly special artist. Whether riffing on color-themed wordplay, playing a lyrical game of "fill in the blank", taking listeners on a dream logic adventure, or simply showing off his scorching rhyme skills, Elzhi 's flawless flows animate the highly conceptual collection. A thoroughly Detroit affair, The Preface features appearances by Motown rap gods like Royce Da 5'9" , Dan
