"Love Hustle Hate" is a Southern hip-hop album from The Pearl, a talented female emcee who brings a timeless passion to the table. The lyrics on this album are poetic, and the vocal performances possess an undeniable angst and energy similar to Da Brat and Lauryn Hill. The subject matters vary, but true-to-life content about The Pearl’s life struggle interweaves itself throughout the album. The Pearl’s sound is truly unique, with the addition of raw punk elements to foundation of street beats and techno, a pretty powerful combination to say the least. “Love Hustle Hate” has superior production, and the sound is really intensified with a great mix. Highlights include "Get Ready (featuring Musclehead)," which has a dark, punkish bass line, powerful vocal performances, and tricky beats that give the listener their first taste of The Pearl’s rawness. "Rock, Black Man, Rock" is a killer punk/techno song with poetic, creative spoken word lyrics. "Da Grind" is a haunting track, with despair to spare. “Love Hustle Hate” is an impressive album from a unique and poetic female emcee. If you enjoy innovative Southern hip-hop with a punk flare, give The Pearl a listen.