Rufus Sims & Master iLL – Ill Dirty Rufus [ALBUM REVIEW]

Chicago emcee Rufus Sims and producer Master iLL have delivered a rugged, unapologetic body of work with Ill Dirty Rufus. This 16-track album brings together elite underground lyricists, sharp storytelling, and soulful yet grimy production that hip-hop purists will appreciate.

The Sound & Production

Master iLL crafts a sonic backdrop that blends classic boom-bap with modern underground grit. The beats are raw and textured, laced with soul samples, dusty drum breaks, and deep basslines. There’s an undeniable chemistry between Sims’ rhymes and Master iLL’s production—every track feels intentional, creating an immersive experience from start to finish.

Lyrical Themes & Highlights

Rufus Sims embodies the essence of real hip-hop, bringing a mix of introspection, street wisdom, and battle-ready bars. He seamlessly shifts between personal storytelling and aggressive lyricism, delivering each verse with conviction. His collaborations with underground heavyweights add layers of depth, making the project feel like a cypher of elite MCs exchanging war stories.

Standout Tracks

“Rufus, You Clean Up Nice” (feat. Malia Sims & Kiyah Sims) – An unexpected yet refreshing opener, setting the tone with a soulful introduction.
“Skrrt Skrrt Skrtt” (feat. Asun Eastwood & Ty Farris) – A high-energy street anthem packed with intricate wordplay.
“So Dirty” (feat. Armaniii FrmDa Chiii & Lil Keisha) – A grime-heavy, no-holds-barred track that reinforces the album’s raw aesthetic.
“Actin Crazy” (feat. Bizarre) – A standout due to Bizarre’s wild storytelling and unfiltered humor.
“Real Life” (feat. Fly Anakin, Vic Spencer, GREA8GAWD) – Lyrically dense and introspective, showcasing a meeting of sharp minds.
“Broke” (feat. Passport Rav & Philmore Greene) – A sobering reflection on financial struggle and perseverance.
“So Simple” (feat. Chris Crack) – A uniquely smooth yet grimy track, balancing humor and hard-hitting bars.

Final Thoughts

Ill Dirty Rufus is a testament to raw lyricism and authentic hip-hop. Rufus Sims and Master iLL have curated a project that taps into the essence of underground rap, bridging generations of talent with guest features that enhance, rather than overshadow, the album’s core themes. If you appreciate intricate bars, soulful beats, and unfiltered storytelling, this album is a must-listen.