Showing posts with label talib kweli. Show all posts
Showing posts with label talib kweli. Show all posts

Friday, March 31, 2023

The Best Original Rap Album of March 2023: Liberation 2 by Talib Kweli & Madlib



 

Talib Kweli and Madlib's "Liberation 2" is a masterclass in hip-hop artistry.

From the outset, "Liberation 2" is a testament to the creative synergy between Kweli and Madlib. Kweli's lyrical prowess and Madlib's innovative production create a sonic landscape that is both familiar and refreshingly new. The album is a journey through the minds of two of hip-hop's most respected artists, and the result is nothing short of extraordinary.

Kweli's lyricism on "Liberation 2" is as sharp as ever. His verses are packed with insightful social commentary, personal reflections, and intricate wordplay. His delivery is confident and commanding, yet there's a warmth and sincerity that draws listeners in. Whether he's tackling societal issues or exploring personal narratives, Kweli's words resonate with a depth and authenticity that is truly compelling.

Madlib's production on the album is equally impressive. His beats are a blend of classic hip-hop elements and experimental sounds, creating a unique sonic backdrop for Kweli's verses. The production is layered and complex, yet it never feels overwhelming. Instead, it enhances Kweli's lyricism, adding an extra layer of richness to each track.

The album's standout track, "Nat Turner (feat. Cassper Nyovest & Seun Kuti)," is a powerful exploration of liberation in its many forms. Kweli's poignant verses combined with Madlib's soulful production create a track that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant. It's a song that encapsulates the essence of "Liberation 2" - insightful, powerful, and deeply human.

The guest features on the album are a testament to Kweli and Madlib's respect within the hip-hop community. Each artist brings their unique style and perspective to the album, enhancing the overall sound without overshadowing Kweli and Madlib's contributions. The collaborations feel organic and well-executed, adding an extra layer of depth to the album.

"Liberation 2" is also a testament to Kweli and Madlib's growth as artists. While they've both had illustrious careers, this album feels like a culmination of their experiences and influences. There's a maturity and wisdom that permeates the album, a reflection of their journey through the music industry and life itself.

In terms of production, "Liberation 2" is a sonic masterpiece. Madlib's beats are crisp and clean, the bass is deep and resonant, and the mixing is flawless. Each track is a sonic journey, with layers of sound that reveal themselves with each listen. The production quality is top-notch, a testament to Madlib's skill and dedication to his craft.

In conclusion, "Liberation 2" is a triumph for Talib Kweli and Madlib. It's an album that showcases their talent, creativity, and commitment to hip-hop. It's a testament to their ability to evolve and adapt while staying true to their roots. If you're a fan of hip-hop that is thought-provoking, innovative, and authentic, then "Liberation 2" is a must-listen. It's a reminder of the power of music to inspire, challenge, and liberate. It's not just an album, it's a statement - a call to freedom, understanding, and unity. And in today's world, that's a message we all need to hear.

Monday, October 31, 2011

The Best Rap Album of October 2011 - Population Control by Statik Selektah

When I first discovered the album Red Dot Plot by the rapper Smoovth I expected to be as disappointed with it as I was with the other albums I listened to this month. I just knew it was going to be more of the same old lazy beats, lazy lyrics and mediocre production I had been hearing for the past 30 days. I had never heard of this cat and figured he was probably some other dude living out his dreams on some low budget rap record he cobbled together between shifts at White Castles that I'd have to plod through just to maintain my integrity on this blog.

Well, I was wrong. Red Dot Plot is an amazing, melodic jazz tinged masterpiece. Smoovth's lyrics won't induce any epiphanies about the meaning of your existence on this planet or give the definitive answer to the economic crisis the world is facing but they are clever enough to be neither boring or insulting and work perfectly with his musical arrangements. This is a wonderful album and I am glad I found it. You absolutely should add it to your collection.

However, it is not my selection for album of the month.

No, the best rap album this month is from a guy who doesn't rap at all.

Using his years of experience as a DJ, his love of 70's soul music and employing diverse rappers from around the country who have the skill to take advantage of his beats and production DJ Statik Selektah has crafted the amazing album titled Population Control.

I am so tempted to give a song by song break down of this wonderful album but I won't. I'll leave that to the "writers" who get paid by the word to review albums for magazines and websites. It's just my job to steer you in the right direction and allow you to decide for yourself which songs are your favorites. My readers simply know that I am knowledgeable about hip hop music and we share similar tastes. They are certainly intelligent enough to make up their own minds about their favorite songs. And on Population Control you are sure to find many you like.

So there you have it, The Best Rap Album of October 2011 is Population Control by Statik Selektah. Enjoy

 




                                                                                

Monday, January 31, 2011

The Best Rap Album of January 2011 - Gutter Rainbows by Talib Kweli

After blessing the planet with what was in my humble opinion the best Hip Hop song of the year, “In the Red” on the second album Reflection Eternal ( Reflection Eternal being the group comprised of super producer Hi-Tek and Talib Kweli.) album Talib begins 2011 were he left off with the release of his solo album “Gutter Rainbows”.
The first part of this album sounds as if the producers were channeling Willie Hutch and on the deepest, dopest Foxy Brown type shit and it worked immediately to reflect the fact the Talib is a very soulful cat on some serious grown man b'ness with this joint and it was appreciated. Especially in this age of Barbie Doll figures and fake gangsters posing for rap artists, to hear someone who appreciates the music take it back to the soul of this genre so early in 2011 was refreshing to say the least.

It's not a complete love fest, there are about three songs that I don't really care for but ain't that what play lists are for?

The song I like the least is “Uh Oh” featuring Jean Grae. Since I really can't take Jean Grae's voice the song missed for me instantly but you may like it so give it a shot. “Tater Tot” and “Wait For You” aren't necessarily bad I'm just not feeling them. Maybe some time this year I'll revisit the entire album with a Zig Zag and some Cognac and give those tracks another shot. Right now I updated my Talib Kweli play list with everything I rated four stars and up as seen below.

With eleven bangers out of fourteen tracks I have to give this album a solid A and name it the Best Hip Hop Album of January 2011.

Honorable mention goes to the album “I Found My Backpack” by Mistah Fab. Bay area cats I feel the most of west coast artists so I am partial to his flow and sound.

Check on this blog at the end of each month to peep my selection for Hip Hop album of the month and feel free to leave your comments but remember it's just my list I don't have the final word on taste nor am not the Grand Puba of Hip Hop....yet.

It is time for Hip Hop music lovers to grow up and vote for music we like with our dollars and not just head nods.

Gutter Rainbows

After the Rainbow: 4 stars
Gutter Rainbows: 5 stars
So Low: 4 stars
Palookas: 4 stars
Mr. International: 4 stars
I'm On One: 5 stars
Wait For You: 3 stars
Ain't Waiting: 5 stars
Cold Rain: 4 stars
Friends and Family: 4 stars
Tater Tot: 3 stars
How You Love Me: 5 stars
Uh Oh: 3 stars
Self Savior: 4 stars