When New York was known as the definitive scene for hip-hop, AZ was there standing to the right of Nas. Since then, he’s gained critical acclaim for success but has yet to see an album hit platinum.

The first album to be released on his new label Koch Records, Undeniable brings the same abilities to the table in hopes of resurrecting an audience that ranks lyrical expertise above a packaged artist.

The album begins with “The Game Don’t Stop,” which sports a lavish melody under the rhymes of the former Firm member.

AZ’s rhyme scheme on “Fire” is one word: buttery. There is no spot during the record where he slows down, and it brings flashes of the ‘90s when he was the next big thing. Produced by Nottz, the beat is more filler than complete, but it does enough to keep AZ in the limelight.

Though the soul sample in “Dead End” gives the record a light, charismatic vision of words to come, AZ takes a different route by displaying the fears of finding himself vulnerable to falling victim to the streets. As it finishes up, AZ laughs at his luck and says, “For all those who ever did it/got away with it/this is for ya’ll.”

The Emile-produced “Go Getta” features an enticing lullaby-like vibe. However, I can’t say the same for AZ’s lyrics, as he stumbles to create a sweet sound. Not only that, but Ray J’s contribution is an even weaker performance. Repeating “Go Getta” more times than I would like to count, the track drags on for all of four minutes. Let’s hope he doesn’t choose this one as a single.

There are some memorable moments on Undeniable, but probably not enough to give AZ the respect he has earned throughout a long career. His wordplay is still ready at hand, but let’s face the facts: combine a decade and a half of time mixed with a rapper who has not had solo commercial success since his debut album and you get exactly what he offers, a great lyrical flow with zero appeal. Therein lies the gift and the curse.

[Reach reporter Edwin Leroy Ortiz at arts@thedaily.washington.edu.]