We are in the midst of a hip hop overload, and it’s ALL good! Here is the music I’m currently riding to:
J. Cole “Cole World: The Sideline Story”
“I have to say my expectations were a little high on this one. 1st listen, I felt it missed the mark (musically). I’m just not a big fan of these movie soundtrack beats. It’s not every track, but enough to take me out of my zone. 2nd listen, I settled in and listened to J. Cole’s lyrics. He sacrificed nothing lyrically. His lyrics are what make this album worth the support. Though I favor the Friday Night Lights mixtape more, this is a solid debut. J.Cole is a dope lyricist with a future…”
Phonte “Charity Starts At Home“
“This is one of those albums that reminds you about artist who know exactly what they are doing. They don’t do it for trends nor gimmicks. It’s just who they are. Phonte as a lyricist has always wore his emotions on his sleeve. This album is dope! Rhymes, Beats, and more. The more being the fact that Phonte is a very good singer. This album contains a nice balance of rapping and singing (more rapping though). Reuniting with Little Brother alumni 9th Wonder on a couple of tracks that make you yearn for more LB music. The album’s length lends to the perfect flow. MUST HAVE. PERIOD.”
9th Wonder “The Wonder Years“
“I haven’t been a fan of past 9th Wonder albums. I always felt that most of the music was for those “under” the underground. This album is different. With a more aggressive sound, and a better blend of mcs and singers… It makes me wonder what took so long? Guest include Erykah Badu, Phonte, Kendrick Lamar, Raekwon, and more. The album flows very similar to Phonte’s. Hip-Hop starts the party, then R&B/Soul takes over….and back to Hip-Hop. I hope you brought enough cash because you’ll need this album too.”
Evidence “Cats & Dogs“
“Remember when Primo produced Group Home’s debut album “Livin’ Proof“? Cats & Dogs is kind of like that, but with better lyrics. The beats steal the show. Evidence is a decent mcs but he can be seriously monotone. The beats match that monotone sound perfectly, a la Guru (R.I.P.). Though Primo doesn’t handle all of the production, producers like Alchemist come thru with bangers. It’s like all of the producers were trying to out do each other. We all win. The album is a little too long for Evidence’s sound and subject matter (17 tracks). It’s still a dope album that screams REAL HIP-HOP! I’m not mad at all. Support it!”
Game “The R.E.D. Album“
“Still banging this joint. For all of the naysaying that people do regarding Game, his music still bangs. Treat yourself to “Born in the Trap“. That track gets me every time. Check it out if you haven’t already.”
