I would not really give this much credit. Firstly, as JackTheBandit pointed out, the beat is basically a really generic pop track and lacks anything interesting to it. There's no real groove and the musical elements are bit cliche and static. Monotonous piano chords on every beat of the bar and some cheesy sound strings. Secondly, his bars are really lacklustre.:
I'm sure you can here the difference straight away. The MCs deliver with attitude and passion. They have a presence and they're having fun. The word content is also much more sophisticated. Everything I criticised Buck for is the opposite. And here is great example of groovy hip hop beats at its best. It's reasonably understated musically, but provides the perfect canvas for the MC to bounce off of. Plus this guys bars are really fun. To be honest, I'm not that affiliated on the ins and outs of Hip Hop, but I know what I like.
As a resident of UK, I am partial to UK Hip Hop. As an example of great video to watch I'd first point to this. Especially in terms of writing and delivery. - He doesn't deliver them with any conviction.
- There's little word play
- Rhymes are very basic and always appear as couplets
- There's no good imagery, metaphors, or generally interesting turn of phrase. All very matter of fact.
- Flow is never changed, sounds like a bit of a drone.
Thanks for the rec's, and for giving me some things to look for - Flow, word play, imagery.