"Relapse" features a more aggressive and provocative tone, reminiscent of Eminem's earlier work, such as "The Marshall Mathers LP" (2000). The album's production, handled by Dr. Dre, Mark Batson, and others, incorporates a mix of hip-hop beats, electronic elements, and orchestral samples. Eminem's lyrical delivery is characterized by his signature complex rhyme schemes, rapid-fire flow, and a renewed focus on horrorcore themes.

Released on , Relapse: Refill is a reissue of Eminem’s sixth studio album. Originally, the rapper intended to release a direct sequel titled Relapse 2 by the end of that year. However, after recording new material with producers like Just Blaze , Eminem felt his sound was evolving in a completely different direction.

When Eminem returned to the spotlight in 2009 after a five-year hiatus, the hip-hop world expected the triumphant return of a "Rap God." What they received instead was Relapse , a gruesome, accent-heavy, and deeply polarizing descent into horrorcore. Later that year, the re-release Relapse: Refill appended seven additional tracks, effectively completing the narrative of a man battling both external demons and internal addiction. The Context of the Comeback

The Relapse Refill received mixed reviews from music critics. Some praised Eminem's technical skills and lyrical complexity, while others criticized the EP's lack of cohesion and dated production. However, the EP did spawn a few popular singles, including "Medicine Ball" and "Déjà Vu," which features 50 Cent.

In the months following the album's release, Eminem dropped a surprise EP, "Relapse Refill," which featured five additional tracks, including "Hell" and "Berzerk." The EP was a free download on Eminem's website and helped to keep the momentum of the album going.