While it's easy to draw multiple comparisons between Esso and Eminem -- both from the Detroit area; both white; both with "E" names; both with similar idioms, dialects, and attitudes; and so on -- it doesn't discount the former's abilities. In fact, it should come as a flattering comparison, though perhaps a bit too obvious. After all, love him or hate him, Eminem brought something new to the rap game, and Esso offers much of the same. Perhaps thankfully, however, he's not nearly as controversial or baiting as Eminem -- he keeps it real, for the most part. The Flint-based independent label Slum Nation released Esso's debut album, The Product, in late 2001. The album featured the lead single What Yall Want. ~ Jason Birchmeier, Rovi