In the world of veteran Hip-Hop collaborations, nostalgia often takes center stage, with artists rekindling past connections rather than forging new ones. However, Paul Wall and Termanology defy this norm. Their partnership, ignited during pandemic studio sessions at Statik Selektah’s studio, has blossomed into a dynamic creative force that feels fresh yet rooted in their shared experiences. Their 2022 album Start 2 Finish hinted at the chemistry between the two, and with Start, Finish, Repeat, they double down, refining their synergy and exploring new heights. Anchored by their shared respect for Statik Selektah’s production expertise, the album represents a continuation of their journey as they challenge each other lyrically and creatively.
Termanology sets the tone early on Start, Finish, Repeat with a bold declaration on “Talk About It”: “One-two punch, Term and Paul comin’ for them big rings. Every year, we leveling up and doin’ big things.” True to his word, the duo delivers verse for verse across the album with a tighter focus than its predecessor. Where Start 2 Finish felt like an extended jam session, this record is more deliberate, showcasing their growth as collaborators. The interplay between Wall and Termanology is particularly striking on tracks like “It’s Magic.” Paul Wall delivers one of the album’s standout verses with an intricate and deliberate cadence, only to have Termanology follow up with a rapid-fire delivery that is both contradictory and complementary. This dynamic exchange recurs throughout the album, creating moments of lyrical brilliance that feel both competitive and cohesive. Guest appearances further elevate the record, with Hip-Hop stalwarts like CL Smooth (“It’s Magic”), Bun B (“Houston BBQ”), Big K.R.I.T. (“Do It for the Ghetto”), and Peedi Crakk (“Got It Made”) contributing memorable performances. These features blend seamlessly into the album, adding variety without overshadowing the duo’s chemistry.
For Paul Wall, Start, Finish, Repeat feels like a statement of resilience. After 2020’s Mind Over Matter drew criticism for perceived lyrical pandering, Wall seems intent on proving his versatility without leaning on familiar tropes of candy paint and grills. Termanology, now 41, uses his verses to reflect on his evolution from a reformed scammer to a globe-trotting entrepreneur, offering a portrait of growth that resonates with his career longevity. Together, they strike a balance between acknowledging their past and forging a new path, a rarity in Hip-Hop’s often uneven landscape for veteran artists. The secret ingredient tying it all together is Statik Selektah. His soulful, jazz-infused boom-bap production serves as the album’s backbone, creating an environment where both rappers thrive. Guest producers like Large Professor, Buckwild, and Cartune Beatz contribute to a more varied sound palette, addressing one of the few critiques of Start 2 Finish. The result is an album that feels more textured and dynamic, with Statik orchestrating the interplay between Wall and Termanology like a masterful referee. Start, Finish, Repeat is a testament to the power of collaboration, the rewards of creative risks, and the enduring talent of Hip-Hop’s OGs. Paul Wall and Termanology have found a natural rhythm together, pushing each other to deliver some of their best work yet. With Statik Selektah’s steady hand guiding the production, this follow-up surpasses its predecessor and stands as a celebration of Hip-Hop’s ability to evolve while staying true to its roots. Fans of the duo’s first outing will find even more to love here, while newcomers will be drawn in by the album’s rich blend of skill, storytelling, and soul.