D12 includes: Eminem, Proof, Bizarre, Swift, Kuniva, Kon Artis (rap vocals).

D12: Eminem, Kon Artis, Proof, Swift , Bizarre, Kuniva (rap vocals).

Additional personnel: Obie Trice, B Real (rap vocals).

D12's initial success was certainly aided by the high-profile presence of member Eminem, as well as lyrics that took his provocative topics to another twisted, incendiary level. However, D12 also consists of five other Detroit rappers, who were already established and respected before Eminem blew up larger than life. Their debut, DEVIL'S NIGHT, proved to be a witty, irreverent ride. On the follow-up album's mischievous first single, "My Band," the group hilariously (and self-deprecatingly) dissects Slim Shady, its greatest blessing and curse, while revealing an array of skills on the mic.

D12 WORLD should put to rest any dubious notions about the collective. These are six like-minded guys with lightning-quick intellects to match their warped thoughts. "Just Like U" is a deft combination of whimsy and dark brutality, as crew member Bizarre gives "advice" to a child, playfully parodying similar songs by other rappers ("Nas gonna probably hate me/When Mos Def hear this, he probably gonna suffocate me"). However, when they do get serious, as on "Good Die Young," a tribute to former D12 member Bugz (who was shot and killed in 1999) and other fallen friends, the result is achingly sincere, revealing a group that can be both crass and conscientious.

Vibe (p.157) - 3 1/2 out of 5 - "[The album] legitimizes the D 12ers as much more than simply Eminem's funky bunch."