When Scarface was asked by T.I. over a live radio broadcast whether T.I., the now irrelevant Lil' Flip or Scarface himself should be considered the "King of South", the legend bowed out of the controversy, claiming he was "too old" to be bothered with such titles. Nevertheless, Scarface's M.A.D.E. reminds many there is something to be said of those who relish the shadows with the revered consistency. Coming out with the first studio album in five years, Scarface does a respectable job maintaining the nicotine-seasoned, ashy-knuckled, bloodshot-eyed intensity that made him hard to shake with his start with the Geto Boys. M.A.D.E. is a satisfying enough ride for Scarface aficionados and decent invitation for newcomers to delve into his catalogue.

The former Geto Boy's storytelling still chills the bone with the moving "Suicide Note". "Who Do You Believe?" aptly questions the masters we all serve in some way shape or form. "Girl You Know" bumps with a head nodding loop from Lenny White's "'Cause I Love You". The beat draws you in as Scarface runs through the downsides of relationships with a ruthless candor that could send recently engaged men to dark, empty rooms with a stiff drink. "Go" is more of the same,
coupled with a sympathetic chorus by singer Nina, one of the few artists Scarface works with on the album.