Shakur’s brave probing of his own demons, including thoughts of suicide, in ““If I Die 2nite’’ and ““F–k the World,’’ is reminiscent of the glory days of Grand Master Flash and the Furious Five’s 1982 pioneering hit ““The Message.’’ ““World’’ is a refreshing jolt after Snoop Doggy Dogg’s mindless rap on drinking ““Gin and Juice’’ and Mack’s indecipherable ““Flavor In Your Ear.’’ Shakur’s fans who miss the upbeat tempo that made his ““Keep Your Head Up’’ a hit should keep in mind that it’s hard to fake the funk when it’s not all good. Shakur’s new work may not be his best, but it does showcase his most endearing quality – a strong, clear no-nonsense voice that never fails to be heard.
