Album: Endangered Species

Introduction
Endangered Species, released in 2001, is an album honoring the late Christopher Rios, known expertly as Big Pun. It consists of various tracks that display Pun's skill as an MC and his cooperations throughout his life. Widely known for his intricate wordplay and unique design, Big Pun became the first solo Latino rap artist to attain Platinum status, making his untimely passing on February 7, 2000, all the more awful. This posthumous album enables fans to hear some of the unreleased material from this gifted artist and works as a homage to his body of work.

Summary of Endangered Species
Endangered Species is a collection of Big Pun's finest material, including collaborations, unreleased remixes, and fan favorites, such as his chart-topping hit "Still Not a Player". The album includes 22 tracks, with guest looks from artists such as Fat Joe (who was credited with finding Pun), Nas, Prodigy, Raekwon, Wyclef Jean, N.O.R.E., Snoop Dogg, and lots of others.

While the album is a showcase of Pun's work, a few of the tracks feature restricted looks from him. Rather, the focus shifts to other artists' contributions, enabling fans to see the effect of Pun's partnerships - a testimony to his impact in the hip-hop community. The album also highlights Pun's mastery as a lyricist, capable of providing a vast array of topics, from humorous wordplay to raw storytelling.

Standout Tracks
Among the most remarkable tracks on the album, "How We Roll", includes R&B vocalist Ashanti. The seductive beat and catchy hook, paired with Pun's competent wordplay, exhibit his ability to develop radio-friendly hits. Another standout track is the infectious "100%", which showcases Pun's Puerto Rican heritage, and includes verses in both Spanish and English.

"It's So Hard" is a mournful song that offers a glance into Pun's battles with fame and his health. The track, including Donell Jones, balances Pun's reflective lyrics with a smooth R&B chorus, demonstrating Pun's adaptability as an artist.

In "Banned from TV", Big Pun is signed up with by some of the most significant names in late 90s hip-hop, consisting of N.O.R.E., Cam'ron, Jadakiss, and Styles. The track showcases Pun's ability to hold his own amongst heavyweights, as each rap artist provides a high-energy verse, and Pun's unique circulation sticks out.

Legacy and Reception
Critics have applauded Endangered Species for its detailed look at Big Pun's career and the unreleased product it showcases. While some tracks are more filler than standout, the album catches the essence of Pun's noise and impact.

Though launched after his death, the album handled to chart at # 7 on the Billboard 200, with the leading single "How We Roll" peaking at # 61 on the Billboard Hot 100. It is a testimony to Pun's ongoing effect on the rap community, as listeners still celebrate his work and contributions to the category.

Conclusion
Endangered Species works as both a tribute and a retrospective of Big Pun's skills and career. The album highlights his versatility as an artist, showcasing his lyrical dexterity and ability to craft unforgettable hits. Though his life was interrupted, Big Pun's tradition and skill as a rap artist are commemorated in this collection, enabling fans to continue to appreciate his contributions to hip-hop for generations to come.