I was looking over the Starting 5 (Group Edition) column and wanted to clear a few things up. I think no matter what, Wu-Tang Clan and A Tribe Called Quest should always remain in the starting lineup. However, anyone on my list can change from bench to starter depending on what kind of mood I’m in. For this week, OutKast is definitely in my top 5. I felt my best way of showing my appreciation is hitting nappyafro with “The Art Of Storytellin’ Part 4″ for the song of the week. The song dropped on DJ Drama’s debut album in 2007, and was overshadowed by a few weak singles off the album. Here, Andre 3000 absolutely bodies the track. His verse on this is nothing to play with, and that’s why he should always get mentioned up there with one of the greatest lyricists of all time. I added in the lyrics so you can see for yourself…

Cannon… (Cannon…)

[Verse 1: Andre 3000]
So I’m watchin’ her fine ass
Walk to my bedroom, and thought to myself
That’s the shape of things to come
She said, Why you in the club, you don’t make it precipitate?
You know, make it rain when you can make it thunderstorm
I’m like, Why?
The world needs sun
The hood needs funds
There’s a war going on and half the battle is guns
How dare I throw it on the floor
When people are poor
So I write like Edgar Allen to restore, got a cord-
Umbilical attached to a place that can’t afford
No landscaping, Or window draping
This old lady told me,
If I ain’t got nothin’ good, say nathing
That’s why I don’t talk much
I swear it don’t cost much, to pay attention to me
I tell like it is, and I tell it how it could be
The hood be
Requesting my services, Oh don’t get nervous it’s
Step yo game up time, These ain’t them same old rhymes
Designed to have you dancin’ in some club
Niggas write to me
Woman be up in they tub
Expoliating with hey pom poms
Yellin’ GO 3000!
I’m in my whatever bumpin’ Mois
A 100 miles in
Runnin’ Runnin’ Runnin’ Runnin’
Summon
Woman
Come in
Sit down, heard you need some plumbing
Done in
I’m in
A swell mood
A rather swoll mood
Until she told me that she told dude
That she’ll be back, she’s going to the store
I didn’t know she had a boyfriend, so the door
I pointed her to
I said, Call me when ya’ll break up
I don’t fuck nobody bitch
And never own a Jacob, know what time it is
Nigga just tryin’ to live
Like a Nigga supposed to live
If I still drink that malt liquor
I pour the beer
On the ground for niggas not around
I started off starvin’
Now they got me out here Brett Farve’n
Trynna see if I still got it… (got it…)
I guess it’s like a bike think about it…
(oh oh oh no no)
… bout it… bout it… (oh oh oh no no)
Oh oh oh…

[Chorus: Marsha Ambrosius]
Nothin gonna stop us now
You can’t stop us
What you gonna do right now
You can’t run
We the boss in here we floss this shit cause
Ain’t nobody doin it like we do oh no

Nothin gonna stop us now
You can’t stop us
What you gonna do right now
You can’t front we the-
Boss in here we floss this shit cause
Ain’t nobody doin it like we do oh no
Oh oh oh no (OH NO)
Oh oh oh no (OH NO)
Oh oh oh no (OH NO)
They can’t stop us
Oh oh oh NO!

[Verse 2: Big Boi]
So I Peep this bitch in BIP
I used to clip like Rob the barber
It seems she couldn’t shape up
Cupcake her I didn’t bother
She’s a follower a hell of a swallower
Not a leader,
Got her 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th string
I didn’t need her.
I didn’t mean to treat her
Like she was the main feature
Presentation, heard ya’s a traitor
To the situation, more like a hassle
Because she had no keys to the castle
The queen sits on the throne
While this hoe ride down Old National
(ZOOM) gone head’ hoe beat ya feet
DR-DR-Drop down and get yo eagle on freak
We ever-so-discreet with this meat
Got a whole lot to lose if paparazzi
Ever shot or shoot we
Meaning me and you
Us together in the lens
My ends would be gone
Just like some dro in the wind
Told da hoe you gonna win
Sho’ nuff we gone pretend
To the land of make believe
Now come on and hit this hen…
Taking shots to the neck
Now that’s love in ya mou-outh (Oh Oh Oh No No)
Now we’re affiliates
So don’t give me the gangsta grill (Oh Oh Oh No No)
No drama it makes no sense
I got a mean ass backhand (Oh Oh Oh)
And a (CANNONNN) that don’t miss.

[Chorus: Marsha Ambrosius]
Nothin gonna stop us now
You can’t stop us
What you gonna do right now
You can’t run
We the boss in here we floss this shit cause
Ain’t nobody doin it like we do oh no

Nothin gonna stop us now
You can’t stop us
What you gonna do right now
You can’t front we the-
Boss in here we floss this shit cause
Ain’t nobody doin it like we do oh no
Oh oh oh no (OH NO)
Oh oh oh no (OH NO)
Oh oh oh no (OH NO)
They can’t stop us
Oh oh oh NO!

[DJ Drama:]
I Realized recently,
That I was born for this position!
I took the fall for Hip-Hop!
And I stand in front of you stronger than ever!
Watch what come next!
Valda lead it nigga! (oh oh oh no no)
DJ the fuck Drama
AMG!
Nothin can take me out my soul!

Nothin gonna stop us now
You can’t stop us (NO!)
What you gonna do right now
You can’t run
We the boss in here we floss this shit
Ain’t nobody doin it like we do oh no

Nothin gonna stop us now
You can’t stop us
What you gonna do right now
You can’t front we the-
Boss in here we floss this shit cause
Ain’t nobody doin it like we do oh no
Oh oh oh no (OH NO)
Oh oh oh no (OH NO)
Oh oh oh no (OH NO)
They can’t stop us
Oh oh oh NO!

Download: DJ Drama feat. Outkast & Marsha Ambrosius – “The Art Of Storytellin’ Part 4″

The Philadelphia born rapper returns with (what I’d like to say) his first official release since his departure from Roc-A-Fella records. Freeway dropped his first two albums with Roc-A-Fella: his highly acclaimed Philadelphia Freeway in 2003, followed by Free At Last in 2007. Now, the emcee has chosen to go with powerful independent label – Rhymesayers Entertainment. Some might shake their heads, but I find this as the perfect fit for Freeway. Rhymesayers will do their best to accompany their artists needs (producers, tours, etc.), and most importantly, let them make the music they want.

Freeway has always had a talented list of producers on his albums (Kanye West, Just Blaze, & Bink! to name a few). However, I felt his last album didn’t have enough chemistry and was off-balance. This time around he turned to the up and coming producer Jake One. This isn’t the first time they collaborated with each other… first, on Free At Last and again, on Jake One’s White Van Music. All three of their previous tracks have been fire. Hopefully this album will be the same, and give people that incentive we need.

1. Stimulus Intro
Featuring Beanie Sigel; Produced by Jake One
We get a preview of what the album is going to sound like in the first thirty seconds. Jake One lays down a nice track with a perfect mix of drums, strings, and pianos. Beanie Sigel lets the beat build, and then drops a hot verse. Freeway finishes the intro reminding us how well they sound together. Too bad this is the only track Beans is featured on. Nevertheless, this is still a great way to start the album.

2. Throw Your Hands Up
Produced by Jake One
The record starts to bang on the amplified “Throw Your Hands Up”. This is the perfect beat for Freeway, and of course he’s not going to disappoint us on a track like this. Here are a few of my favorite lines, “We’re bringing ya original flava, raised off De La, kept Black Moon in my boombox playa. Back in the day, I use to steal that nigga Rakim’s style when I flowed & I didn’t say may I”. Another quotable, “I remember when I was first trying to be a rapper guy, like Pharcyde, the labels kept on passing me by. Nowadays, when I hit them with the flow again, they like there he go again – the dopest Ethopian”. True rhymesayer!

I also love the props he gives to the legends: Gang Starr, Naughty by Nature, Pac, Big, Tribe, Black Sheep, Leaders of the New School, De La, Black Moon, Rakim, Wu-Tang, Pharcyde.

3. One Foot In
Produced by Jake One
Another banging beat from Jake One. Freeway recalls on his way into the game, and how he still has one foot in the streets (the other in Hip-Hop). Nothing too significant here on a lyrical view, but Freeway’s flow makes it work, “I feel sorry for your mother, he missed the kick, I feel sorry for the punter”.

4. She Makes Me Feel Alright
Produced by Jake One
We’ve all heard the Rick James’ “Mary Jane” sample a handful of times. Nevertheless, we haven’t heard it from Jake One and unsurprisingly he finds a way to make it work. He definitely knows how to mix the sample in with the strings & drums. Freeway has some nice lines, but the beat is what really stands out.

5. Never Gonna Change
Produced by Jake One
“It’s like the Biggie Warning” are the first words on the track, and that’s exactly what it is. However, this song is Freeway’s version. He showcases some great storytelling that fits with the beat. On a production note, the beat is nothing less than amazing. This time around he shifts the drums around, and Freeway does a great job adjusting to them.

6. One Thing
Featuring Raekwon; Produced by Jake One
Jake One doesn’t stop bringing the heat, and this sample couldn’t get any better. Freeway starts the track and does his thing, but the highlight of the track is Raekwon. The Chef completely murders this shit. When was the last time Raekwon put out something, and it wasn’t fire? This is by far my favorite track on the album.

7. Know What I Mean
Produced by Jake One
This is the shortest song on the album (excluding the intro). The beat is good, but it falls short compared to the rest of the album. Freeway drops some decent lines, but nothing that stands out. I’d still rate this as an above average track though.

8. The Product
Produced by Jake One
Freeway compares himself to everyone’s own choice of drug. To this point of the album, that’s exactly what this record has been to me – a drug I can’t resist. He has some nice comparisons here, “I can make you act right, just put me in the crack pipe, everybody want to see you back on the mic, you need a… energy boost, you need some smack in your life”.

9. Microphone Killa
Featuring Young Chris; Produced by Jake One
Fellow Philadelphian rapper Young Chris joins Freeway on this up-tempo beat. Freeway spits some nice lines, but once again the track’s highlight comes from the guest appearance. Young Chris takes no time to body the track, “Microphone killa, no Cam’ron, bomb like land mine, I don’t ask shit, I demand mine”. Freeway should really thank Beans, Chef, and Young Chris for bringing some of their best stuff to the table.

10. Follow My Moves
Featuring Birdman; Produced by Jake One
If you haven’t heard, Freeway supposedly signed with Cash Money Records as well. And having Birdman on this album doesn’t make it hard to believe. Birdman sticks to his formula about money, cars, & weed, and Freeway follows. I felt that Freeway could’ve done better on the mic, but at least he didn’t get outshined this time around.

11. Sho’ Nuff
Featuring Bun B; Produced by Jake One
Freeway keeps it in the Dirty South for one more track. Jake One does a nice job on the beat too. Is it just me or does this beat sound like it will fit perfectly on a UGK album? Freeway does his best to keep up with Bun B, but it’s not the easiest thing to do against a Hip-Hop veteran. This is a nice track to ride out to.

12. Freekin’ The Beat
Featuring Latoiya Williams; Produced by Jake One
Things start to really slow down on the soulful “Freekin’ The Beat”. However, in a way the lyrics stay rugged. Freeway takes on a different approach of freekin’, and gets down on the beat. His lyrics do a fine job of making you think he’s speaking on a female. If you’re not a good listener, you might even think this is a love song. Hip-Hop needs more concepts like this.

13. Money
Featuring Omilio Sparks & Mr. Porter; Produced by Jake One
Jake One seems to get back on pace with a nasty set of drums. Freeway spits first recalling his past hustles to earn a dollar. Next, Omilio Sparks spits on a related point of view, and lets us know what his main purpose is money (Porter is on the hook). Freeway finishes it up on the third verse, and tells us how he’s in the same type of struggle as much of the economy is. This is a song the album needed to fit its title.

14. Free People
Produced by Jake One
“Free People” is another song about how the recession is hitting a lot of people hard. Jake One throws on a nice smooth beat Freeway can spill his thoughts over. This goes out to all the people lost right now with no money, job, or hope.

15. Stimulus Outro
Produced by Jake One
It’s to the part of the album were you can tell it’s nearly done from the sound of the beat. Freeway responds to a few fan letters and lets us know why he named the album The Stimulus Package; “It’s the reason why we named our album Stimulus Pack, all the fans givin’ us love and we givin’ it back. I’m not going to hate on the state of Hip-Hop; in fact, all I’m here to do is give ya real rap”.

Bottom Line:
Two months into the year and I’ve only listened to two albums. The first was In Search Of Stoney Jackson which featured superb production by Madlib. Then, Jake One hits me with The Stimulus Package. I can only hope that the production for the rest of the year is even close to these two records. Not only was Jake One on top of his game, but Freeway shaped this album for the people without losing that “Philadelphia Freeway” touch. In conclusion, this is a banging album that NO ONE should pass on. Furthermore, the album comes with a free instrumental download that is a gift considering how hard this album bumps.

On a side note, Brent Rollins designed the album’s creative artwork and packaging. This alone is a good reason to buy the album. He also designed Blackaliscious’ Nia, Mos Def & Kweli’s Black Star, Spank Rock’s YoYoYoYoYo, Gang Starr’s Full Clip & Moment In Truth, Evidence’s Weatherman LP, Boyz N The Hood logo, and a handful of other great art. Click here to get an example.

One more thing, Jake One & Freeway got selected to perform at this year’s Paid Dues Festival in Los Angeles. If you happen to live in that area, I highly recommend catching this year’s show. Peace.

nappyPicks: “Stimulus Intro”, “Throw Your Hands Up”, “She Makes Me Feel Alright”, “Never Gonna Change”, “One Thing”, “Microphone Killa”, “Money”, “Stimulus Outro”

Download: Freeway & Jake One feat. Raekwon – “One Thing”
Download: Freeway & Jake One – “She Makes Me Feel Alright”

Here is a mix that I’ve been working on – a late Christmas gift for our viewers. There are a total of 3 mixtapes below. The files are zip, so they just need to be extracted after downloading. And in case you’re wondering, that’s Brother Ali in the background during Paid Dues last March.

Disc 1: The Five Boroughs

1. Masta Ace(Brooklyn) & Edo G – Pass The Mic (f/ KRS-One) (Bronx)
2. KRS-One (Bronx) & Buckshot (Brooklyn) – Runnin’ Away (f/ Immortal Technique)(Harlem)
3. M.O.P. (Brooklyn) – Blow The Horns
4. Blaq Poet (Queens) – I-Gititin
5. Torae (Brooklyn) & Marco Polo – Hold Up (f/ Sean Price & Masta Ace) (Brooklyn)
6. RZA (Shaolin) – Whar (f/ Kool G Rap, Ghostface Killah & Tash Mahogany) (Queens)
7. Rakim (Long Island & Queens) – Holy Are U
8. O.C. (Brooklyn) & A.G. (Bronx) – Reality Is
9. Raekwon (Long Island)– Cold Outside (f/ Ghostface Killah & Suga Bang)
10. Raekwon (Shaolin) – Radiant Jewels (f/ Cormega & Sean Price) (Queens & Brooklyn)
11. Cormega (Queens) – Make it Clear
12. AZ (Brooklyn) – Money Makes The World Go Round
13. Raekwon (Staten Island)– Walk Wit Me
14. Jay-Z (Brooklyn)– Empire State Of Mind (f/ Alicia Keys)
15. Mos Def (Brooklyn) – History (f/ Talib Kweli) (Brooklyn)
16. Skyzoo (Brooklyn) – The Beautiful Decay
17. U-God (Shaolin) – Stomp Da Roach (f/ GZA & Scotty Wotty)
18. Method Man (Shaolin) & Redman – Diz Iz 4 All My Smokers
19. Joell Ortiz (Brooklyn) – BK Rican Ebonics
20. Jadakiss (Yonkers) – Letter To B.I.G. (Brooklyn) (f/ Faith Evans)
21. C-Rayz Walz (Bronx) – The Family Crest (Dedication To Gang Starr) (Brooklyn)
22. Saigon (Brooklyn) – Goodbye

Download: The Five Boroughs [Mixtape #1]

Disc 2: From The Bay & L.A. To Minneapolis

1. Soul Assassins – Classical (f/ Evidence & Sick Jacken)
2. The Alchemist – Therapy (f/ Evidence, Blu, Talib Kweli & Kid Cudi)
3. Brother Ali – Talkin’ My Shit
4. Toki Wright – The Feeling (f/ Brother Ali)
5. Zion I – Caged Bird Part One (f/ Brother Ali)
6. Gift Of Gab- Dreamin’ (f/ Del The Funky Homosapien & Brother Ali)
7. Del The Funky Homosapien – Get It Right Now!
8. Souls Of Mischief – Proper Aim
9. Abstract Rude – Nuff Fire
10. B-Real – Fire (f/ Damian Marley)
11. Zion I – Geek To The Beat
12. Felt – Bass For Your Truck
13. The Grouch & Eligh – Teach Me The Way
14. The Grouch & Eligh – Say G&E!
15. Eligh & Jo Wilkinson – By And By (f/ The Grouch & Paul Dateh)
16. Fashawn – Life As A Shorty (f/ J. Mitchel)
17. Blame One – Wonder Why (f/ Blu & Exile)
18. Atmosphere – They Always Know
19. Brother Ali – Tight Rope
20. P.O.S. – Goodbye

Download: From The Bay & L.A. To Minneapolis [Mixtape #2]

Disc 3: Everywhere Else

1. Slaughterhouse – Sound Off
2. Clipse – Door Man
3. Wale – Mirrors (f/ Bun B)
4. 810 – Bill Gates
5. CunninLynguists – The Park (Blue Sky Black Death Remix)
6. CunninLynguists – Never Come Down (The Brownie Song)
7. Tech N9ne – Strange Music Box (f/ Brotha Lynch Hung & Krizz Kaliko)
8. Eminem – 3am
9. Royce Da 5’9” – Murder
10. Royce Da 5’9” – Part Of Me
11. DOOM – Gazzillion Ear
12. CunninLynguists – Die For You (f/ Mr. SOS)
13. CunninLynguists – Broken Van (Thinking Of You) (f/ Mac Lethal)
14. Dela – How To Fish (f/ Reach)
15. Reks – Year Of The Showoff
16. K’Naan – Somalia
17. Mr. Lif – I Heard It Today
18. CunninLynguists – Don’t Leave (When Winter Comes) (f/ Slug)
19. Kid Cudi – Day N Night

Download: Everywhere Else [Mixtape #3]

In 1991, the group Souls of Mischief was formed out of Oakland, California. The group was created in High School, and consisted of A-Plus, Opio, Phesto D, and Tajai. Two years later, the teens dropped a west coast underground classic 93 ‘Til Infinity. The album was acclaimed a classic, and is still a major influence to independent Hip-Hop today. Hieroglyphics was formed two years later.

If you’re a fan of Bizarre Ride II The Pharcyde or LabCabinCalifornia, then I’d imagine you’re also a fan of 93 ‘Til Infinity. These albums embrace superb jazz/funk production, silly yet clever lyrics, and enough creativity to last a lifetime. At the time, west coast Hip-Hop was in their prime, and it was hard for the underground groups to receive reputation without being in the gangsta rap genre. However, Souls of Mischief tackled this obstacle, and released one of the year’s best records (although it wasn’t noticed until several years later). This is quite impressive considering all of the other classic material released in 1993: Midnight Marauders, Enta Da Stage, Return Of The Boom Bap, Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers), and west coast classics Black Sunday, Doggystyle, and Lethal Injection.

“93 ‘Til Infinity” was the first single released off the album. The smooth deliveries and perfect sample (used on the beat) helped the album reach the top 30 on 1993’s billboard chart. The track is unquestionably in my top 100 songs of all time. “That’s When Ya Lost” and “Never No More” were the two other singles released off the record. Five of my other favorites include: “Live And Let Live”, “Name I Call Myself”, “What A Way To Go Out”, “Limitations”, and “Make Your Mind Up”. The group goes on to rhyme about almost anything… emceeing, violence, sex, and just about everything else an Oakland native went through during high school. What makes 93 ‘Til Infinity standout to other superior albums is the group’s chemistry and consistency. All of the members have their own style. Nevertheless, their lyrics and flow bond together perfectly.

In 1998, the album was selected as one of The Source’s Top 100 Rap Albums. The record is still considered to be one of the most slept-on records released in the 90’s.

Tracklisting:
“Let ‘Em Know” (produced by Domino)
“Live And Let Live” (produced by Domino)
“That’s When Ya Lost” (produced by Del Tha Funkee Homosapien)
“A Name I Call Myself” (produced by Del Tha Funkee Homosapien)
“Disseshowedo” (produced by Domino & Jay Biz)
“What A Way To Go Out” (produced by Domino)
“Never No More” (produced by A-Plus)
“93 ‘Til Infinity”(produced by A-Plus)
“Limitations” (featuring Casual) (produced by Jay Biz)
“Anything Can Happen”(produced by A-Plus)
“Make Your Mind Up” (produced by Del Tha Funkee Homosapien)
“Batting Practice” (produced by Casual)
“Tell Me Who Profits” (produced by Domino)
“Outro” (produced by Domino)

Download: Souls Of Mischief – “93 ‘Til Infinity”

Murs (from Living Legends) and Slug (from Atmosphere) return with their third Felt project entitled Felt3: A Tribute To Rosie Perez. For those of you who don’t know, Felt reaches out to a new producer for each album. On the first felt (A Tribute To Christina Ricci), the album featured production by Living Legend member The Grouch. The second album (A Tribute To Lisa Bonet) was produced by Atmosphere’s Ant. This time around they went outside of their groups and selected indie artist/producer Aesop Rock. Murs and Slug picked the right guy if they want a real indie sounding album. Let’s just hope that the three have good chemistry in doing so.

In my opinion, Murs and Slug are two of the most underrated emcees. They have both spent over ten years in the game, and are still looking for some respect. Both of these guys would definitely be in my top five underground artists. Slug had arguably the best album last year with When Life Gives You Lemons…. Murs’ first album with 9th Wonder (Murs 3:16 – The 9th Edition) is acclaimed to be an underground classic. Plus, what is there not to like about these two. If you listen close enough, their lyrics relate more to you than most other Hip-Hop today.

1. Protagonists
Produced by Aesop Rock
This is the first (internet) single to promote the album. Aesop shapes a nice beat that Murs and Slug can spit over. Aesop is not afraid to display his producing style as he throws some nice guitars on the beat. This song explains what Felt is about, and I believe is a message to the fans that claimed they sold out. Here is a line Murs uses to prove his point, “We still spittin’ on that indie bullshit, Legends, Rhymsayers, Def Jux, the full clip”. This is a great start to the album.

2. Felt Chewed Up
Produced by Aesop Rock
If you think the first song didn’t sound “underground” enough, then this will definitely twist your perspective. Aesop hits us with a beat that is reminiscent of Daddy X’s (Kottonmouth Kings) style. This song explains how Felt has been chewed up (in the rap game), but are still doing their thing. Once again, Murs shines on a few verses which show why he is a leader of the underground, “Our rhymes have a little bit more to give, so I give it, and I stay on tour to live”. Then, later, “I do it big on the independent tip, new car, no rims on the whip”. If that isn’t a hot underground line, then I don’t know what is.

3. Get Cake
Produced by Aesop Rock
Aesop definitely makes his presence with the funky beat on the interlude “Get Cake”. This song sounds like it should be on a Cage album. I liked the video of this song to help promote the album, but I don’t think this should have made the final copy… well maybe if it wasn’t an interlude.

4. Bass For Your Truck
Produced by Aesop Rock
Both Murs and Slug trade verses about a girl with serious issues. This is no surprise for Slug because he always has a couple of these songs on his albums. Murs keeps the same type of formula for this song and does it well. However, I’d still give the edge to Slug. He has one of the best styles of illustrating narratives. Another good thing about this track is the beat provided by Aesop Rock. You wouldn’t think the beat would fit the type of lyrics, but Murs and Slug have no problem with it. This is a definite standout for me.

5. Like You
Produced by Aesop Rock
This track helps explain my introduction on how Felt is just like you and I. Their lyrics let you know that they are no better than you, and no different than you. This is why underground groups like Felt can do tours constantly. They are a Hip-Hop group that actually performs in front of their peers. The song has some nice lyrics now and then, but nothing that really stands out.

6. Permanent Standby
Produced by Aesop Rock
Murs and Slug tell you two stories that involve some girls that went down the wrong path. Murs starts off telling you a tale about a girl who got lost in the big city. The story goes from a cocaine addiction to being taken advantage of to becoming a whore. In the end, she realizes she is too real for a city of plastic (hmm sounds like Vegas) and moves away from the city. Slug steps up next and speaks on girl that moved from the Desert to the Midwest. This girl not only goes through the cocaine and whore stage, but turns into an alcoholic as well. This narrative ends when the girl finds out that the Midwest is not for her too. The two emcees are real even when you compare them on this track. They both speak on similar stories and both display the art of storytelling.

7. Kevin Spacey
Produced by Aesop Rock
Aesop drops his second interlude. It’s just as crazy as the first with wild voice samples. However, I prefer the first one over this.

8. Ghost Dance Deluxe
Produced by Aesop Rock
After one listen, this song quickly reminds me of “My Alien Girlfriend” off Molemen’s Killing Fields album. They both are about those certain type of females that seem too real to be true (such as a ghost or alien). The haunting beat really fits the theme of the song. The only difference between Murs and Slug’s verses is how they respond to the topic. Basically, Murs is the unbeliever and Slug is the believer. I’m feelin’ this one.

9. Revisiting The Styleetron
Produced by Aesop Rock
Next up is an energetic track that will make about anybody in the mood to party. Slug drops an interesting verse, “I’m like X-Y-& Z, I stick by the back door, let it go free, that’s what the track’s for, my jobby job is rock a party, taught your mommy to karaoke La Di Da Di”. This line may not sound too clever, but you have to realize that this song (“La Di Da Di”) is one of the most sung songs in hip hop. This is how I like to see people use swagger.

10. Whaleface
Produced by Aesop Rock
This is the first (non-instrumental) track that I would find average. Murs and Slug compare those haters (you know the ones who think their shit don’t stink) to whales. It’s a decent song, but nothing too significant about the lyrics or creativity.

11. Glory Burning
Produced by Aesop Rock
Slug starts by describing a guy who is running from the police. He really paints the picture as he goes into deep detail about the setting and mood. Next, Murs jumps on the track and continues to describe what is going on in the guy’s head. Then, he switches up his lyrics and lets you know that he is talking about himself. Murs storytelling turns into a style where he is talking to himself, and sounds like he is losing his mind. The closer you listen to the lyrics, the more you will appreciate this song and Murs’ ingenuity. Plus, this is another Aesop Rock beat that perfectly fits the frame of mind.

12. Henrietta Longbottom
Produced by Aesop Rock
The beats shine brighter each time I listen to the album. The delivery on this beat is flawless. Murs and Slug start rhyming about the rumors of Henrietta Longbottom. The rumors get crazier as the two continue to rhyme. In the end, Slug ends the rumors with a nice verse, “I don’t know if you care or if you invest, but Henrietta is dead, no more no less, never really met her, so I’m not losing sleep, but Longbottom is long gone, rest in peace”.

13. She Sonnet
Produced by Aesop Rock
This is a tribute to all the people who doubted Felt: critics, fans, etc. I’m starting to think that Felt is growing a chip on their shoulder. There has been a lot of talk about them selling out after their last solo albums. What some people need to understand is that people can’t keep doing the same shit. I’m sorry haters, but Slug is better with a band than by himself. Why hate on a little change? And now Murs can’t get major producers on his albums because it means he sold out? Get the fuck outta here; I’m trying to listen to the best music possible… no matter who made the beat. Anyways, here is a line Murs used to describe what he’s trying to achieve, “Fuck a bitch, love a women, that’s my new motto/ Yeah, I’m ignorant but trying to be a role model”.

14. Felt Good
Produced by Aesop Rock
This is a flat-out Hip-Hop song. There is no unexpected metaphors, no storytelling; just a nice display of lyricism. However, some of the lyrics are similar to the previous track “She Sonnet” – “breath, please, give me freedom and some peace, a fugee to the beast with the demons and police”.

15. Deathmurdermayhem
Produced by Aesop Rock
Murs starts to rhyme (or mock) about those fake rappers who people love because of their image. On the other hand, Slug takes a more aggressive style, and speaks on what he wants to do to these hypocrites. The main point is to do Hip-Hop right. What I like most about this song is how they flipped the script. It may not be the artists selling out, but rather their fans. Maybe you’re the fake when you don’t really understand what you are listening to.

16. The Prize
Produced by Aesop Rock
Where did Aesop go? Never mind, he’s definitely back on this track. This song is about “The Prize” or goal, and how some people aren’t achieving it because they are too busy worrying about somebody else’s. This is yet another track that might have some people looking in the mirror before they criticize again. Slug sums it up on the chorus, “I don’t even think you’re looking at the prize, I think you’re killing time looking at what’s mine”.

17. G.I. Josephine
Produced by Aesop Rock
Felt is back with another symbolic song on “G.I. Josephine”. “G.I. Josephine” represents that female that all guys have respect for. This is that type of women that all men are searching for. Murs and Slug do a brilliant job showcasing their lyrics and originality on this one.

18. The Clap
Produced by Aesop Rock
This is a short interlude by Slug. He says to picture someone and presume they have the clap (no herpes). It’s a little funny, but shouldn’t have been on the album. For the last interlude, I was hoping for something that involved Rosie Perez.

19. We Have You Surrounded
Produced by Aesop Rock
You ever feel like you’ve been ripped off by an artist when you buy their album. Not because it wasn’t good, but because it seems like they don’t give a fuck about you? They never go on tour, and when they do, they are nowhere to be found after the show. Well then, this track is dedicated to you. Felt lets their fans know how much love they got for them. However, they do let you know how some fans get out of control too.

20. Give It Up
Produced by Aesop Rock
I first want to touch on the beat by Aesop Rock. It starts almost like it should be on a film soundtrack, then it really takes off when Aesop mixes in some guitars and other sounds. The beat is nicely done and should be appreciated. The soundtrack lyrics shape the beat – like a movie after it reached its climax.

21. Paul Reubens
Produced by Aesop Rock
Here, Murs and Slug have some fun on the microphone. I think they take a few jabs at the mainstream. Nevertheless, it sounds like they are taking a victory lap. They both do their thing, but I think Slug takes it on his last verse.

Bottom Line:
At the end of the day, everyone’s first question is how does this compare to the others albums? Personally, I find this better than Felt 1, but not Felt 2. The first Felt album was good, but only had ten tracks (including two skits). The second Felt album is one of my most played albums. It’s filled with great lyrics and production; making more than half of the songs standouts. I also believe some on Ant’s best work is on that album. Felt 3 is nothing compared to the first two; mainly because of Aesop Rock (which is not a bad thing). I imagine a lot of fans are not going to like this strictly because of the beats. However, you’ll see how gifted Murs and Slug truly are if you took the time to listen to how they adjust on certain beats. Their lyricism and creativity is nothing you should pass on either. Don’t be afraid to let it grow on you.

Everyone’s second question is who did better? Was it Slug or Murs? In my opinion, I’d give it to Murs. It’s not that Slug did poorly, but Murs is more of a hyped rapper and the energetic beats fit his flow better. Plus, he dropped some quotable lines that I’ll be explaining for weeks to come.

One thing I didn’t like about the album was the unnecessary interludes. I know it’s a big thing to have Aesop Rock as the producer, but don’t ruin the album by having the listener use the skip button when he or she didn’t have to.

Lyricism: (4.25/5); Production: (3.50/5); Originality: (3.75/5); Overall: (3.75/5)

nappyPicks: “Protagonists”, “Felt Chewed Up”, “Bass For Your Truck”, “Permanent Standby”, “Ghost Dance Deluxe”, “Glory Burning”, “Henrietta Longbottom”, “G.I. Josephine”, “Give It Up”

Download: Felt (Slug And Murs) – “Bass For Your Truck”

It’s been awhile since Cormega has dropped a solo record. You can say this is his third official studio record. Who Am I? is a soundtrack album; The Testament was a shelved by Def Jam which was suppose to release around 1996; And Legal Hustle was a compilation album for his record company. Now the Queensbridge native has finally returned with Born And Raised. Unlike his previous albums, Mega comes through with an excellent production lineup which includes: DJ Premier, Pete Rock, Large Professor, Easy Mo Bee, and many other superb Hip-Hop producers. Matter of fact, EVERY SINGLE TRACK is produced by a Hip-Hop prodigy. It doesn’t stop there. The album also features many legendary guest appearances, such as KRS-One, Big Daddy Kane, Tragedy Khadafi and more.

Believe it or not, this is one of my most anticipated releases for 2009. Cormega has always been a highly underrated emcee. The Realness and The True Meaning are two of my favorite albums. These two records are superior because they showcase Mega’s lyrical abilities and his great flow. I hope this album does the same.

1. Prelude/Intro (The 3rd Coming)
Featuring Marley Marl; Produced by Khrysis, Cormega, & Bear One
The legendary Marley Marl starts off the album with a few words about Cormega’s street credibility. Is it just me or are there a lot of ’09 albums that start similar to this? After the prelude, the record officially starts with the “Intro (The 3rd Coming)”. Mega takes no time to point out the struggles he’s gone through growing up in Queens. This is a nice way to start the album.

2. Girl
Produced by L.E.S. & Cormega
I wasn’t really feeling this song after a couple listens. I felt that Cormega could’ve come harder with the flow (no homo). However, now I see why his delivery was calm. This helps shape the mood of the song. Take some time to listen to the lyrics, and I promise it will grow on you too. It’s a great metaphoric song about the dangers of cocaine. One of my favorite lines from the track, “She burned Richard Pryor when he piped her raw”.

3. Love Your Family
Featuring & Produced by Havoc
This is a song that explains why blood is thicker than water. Cormega starts off speaking on his daughter, and clarifies all the love he has for her. Havoc grabs the mic and touches on his love for his mother, sister, and grandmother. Then, Mega goes into the deepest part of the song when he tells us how good of a mother he had. For those of you who don’t know, Cormega witnessed his mother’s murder at four years old. Although, I’m not sure if that verse was intended for his mother or stepmother. The chorus sums up the theme of the song. It’s not as heartwarming as you may think.

4. Get It In
Featuring Lil’ Fame; Poduced by Easy Mo Bee
Easy Mo Bee drops a nice up-tempo beat that fits the energy of Lil’ Fame and Cormega on “Get It In”. Lil’
Fame makes the track sound like it should be on a M.O.P. album. He also takes a shot at Kanye West, “I’m so far beyond these hoes, with flows tighter than Kanye’s clothes”. However, Cormega outshines Fame as he comes with that nice flow and lyrics that bring you back to ’01.

5. The Other Side
Produced by Fizzy Womack & Cormega
Fizzy Womack (Lil’ Fame) returns this time with a jazzy beat. It’s a surprise to hear Fame come with a beat this laid back, but it don’t matter as long as it works. This track displays the ups and downs in life. However, this song seems out of place after the hard hittin’ “Get It In”.

6. Live And Learn
Produced by Pete Rock
Pete Rock and Cormega team up for “Live And Learn”. I thought this would be a definite standout on the album, but I felt they could have both done better. The beat isn’t bad, but sounds a little plain. Mega drops some words of wisdom on how to live for the future, not the past. Once again, still a good song, but should’ve been better.

7. Make It Clear
Produced by DJ Premier
This track is ridiculous. DJ Premier created the perfect beat for Mega’s style. Perfect samples and scratches (as always). Plus, the hard felt lyrics do not disappoint. I wish more songs were similar to this. This flow is untouchable. Too many quotables to insert here.

8. Journey
Produced by Large Professor
First, DJ Premier, now, Large Professor. This is another faultless beat by one of Hip-Hop’s finest. Cormega speaks on how life has been a journey for him. In this song he also shows great appreciation to New York (he shouts out AZ’s Doe Or Die and Big Pun in the video), and how it made him who he is today. “Hip hop never died, it’s just sick of the drama”. Here is a link for the video.

9. Define Yourself
Featuring Tragedy Khadafi & Havoc; Produced by DR Period
Tragedy Khadafi and Havoc join Cormega for “Define Youself”. This is yet another track about life and how it identifies you. I would rank Cormega as the best emcee on this; followed by Tragedy and Havoc last. This track is not bad, but I felt it was too short for two guest appearances.

10. What Did I Do
Produced by Nottz
I’m feelin’ the sample Nottz used for this beat, but he could’ve done better with the drum loop. Another mishap about the track is how short it is (2:54). Cormega speaks on certain people and how they are abusing themselves. I wouldn’t consider this filler, but I felt Mega could have done better with his lyrics and flow.

11. Dirty Game
Produced by DJ Premier
The album finally picks up again on Premier’s “Dirty Game”. This is one of the best songs that explain the struggles of being born and raised in Queensbridge. His lyrics about the hip hop game and prison let us know why he is considered a street poet. This along with “Make It Clear” and “Journey” are my top three standouts on the album. They bring you that 90’s New York hip hop mentality.

12. One Purpose
Mega drops a short, but nice accapella. This is nice, but I feel that it belongs on a mixtape, not an album.

13. Rapture
Produced by Ayatollah
Where have I heard this beat before? (edit: Willie Hutch – “Mama’s Theme”, Cam’ron – “D Rugs”, Lupe Fiasco – “Coulda Been”, emc – “U Let Me Grow”) It’s all good if he took this sample from somebody, because we all know that his sample for Cormega’s “Rap’s A Hustle” has been jacked plenty of times. I also like how Ayatollah throws a sample of Big L at the end of the verses. This track also shows how good of a lyricist Cormega actually is.

14. Mega Fresh X
Featuring DJ Red Alert, PMD, Grand Puba, KRS-One, & Big Daddy Kane; Produced by Buckwild
This song was leaked over a year ago titled “Fresh”. The only difference here is the producers. Emile produced the first song, and Buckwild remixed it for the album. My favorite thing about this song is that there is no chorus. Just a lyrical ambush by some of hip hop’s legends. On a side note, Big Daddy Kane murders this track.

Bottom Line:
This is definitely an album that takes a little time. Many people won’t have the patience, but the more you play it, the more it will grow on you. However, I do feel that Cormega could have done better with his delivery. Yes, his lyrics are nicely done, but delivery is the next important thing for an emcee. The other issue I have with the album is how short it is. It only has fourteen tracks (one being a short accapella), and only two of those are over four minutes long. On a production note, this was a pretty good album. Although, I felt this album should have been better by the list of producers. Nevertheless, it’s still a good album, and should be copped if you’re a fan of New York hip hop.

nappyPicks: “Girl”, “Love Your Family”, “Make It Clear”, “Journey”, “Dirty Game”, “Rapture”, “Mega Fresh X”

Download: Cormega – “Make It Clear”

It’s been nearly ten years since Brother Ali’s debut album Rites Of Passage (Which I’m still trying to get my hands on) was released. Little has changed since then. He is still putting out superior albums release after release…even his EP’s stay positively consistent. What makes Brother Ali albums different from others is that he puts all of his heart into these records. Some of his songs like “Picket Fence”, “Walking Away”, and “Faheem” are some of the deepest songs I have ever heard. This is just a sample of his personal songs. He also has the lyrical abilities to put out down-to-earth gems like “Forrest Whitiker”, “Daylight”, and “Good Lord”. Furthermore, there are songs where he can just talk shit, “Missing Teeth”, “Bad Mu Fucka”, and “Lookin’ at Me Sideways”. The bottom line is that Brother Ali is a truly gifted emcee who has blessed the hip hop game. Now let’s get into the album.

1. Brothers & Sisters
Featuring Chuck D & Stokley Williams; Produced by Ant)
The album starts off as righteously as it possibly can with a lovely gospel handclap. As the choir kicks in, the legendary Chuck D drops some words of wisdom to introduce Brother Ali. This is a great and beautiful way to start the album.

2. The Preacher
Produced by Ant
Ant takes no time to “turn it up!” as the late great J Dilla liked to say with the loud horns and electric guitars on “The Preacher”. Ali opens up telling you a little something about him and what he’s all about. Ali is best known for his superb lyrical skills, but here he shows that he has delivery as well. Nice solid track.

3. Crown Jewel
Produced by Ant
The horns return on “Crown Jewel”, but the bass has improved compared to the last track. The lyrics on here are dazzling with metaphors. This is a great song that’ll help you get through a stressful day. Probably not a standout for most people, but one for me.

4. House Keys
Produced by Ant
The real storytelling starts on “House Keys”. Ali tells us how he moved to a smaller apartment downstairs (of the same building) to save money on rent. He has new neighbors upstairs who are apparently drug dealers. Through many nights of unruly behavior upstairs, Ali decides to rob the place when they are gone with his old house keys haha. Favorite track so far. Once again, Ant displays why he is one of today’s most underrated producers. The beat reminds me of a dream. On a side note, this beat would really fit a Del Tha Funkee Homosapien song. I would like to hear them together.

5. Fresh Air
Produced by Ant
Ant uses yet another diverse approach on this beat. This time he brings a more soulful jazz sound for Ali to spit. Ali goes on to talk about life and what he has gone through (especially in the last two years – marriage, birth of his daughter, etc). This is a nice song that goes along with the album.

6. Tight Rope
Produced by Ant
Ali is really starting to master the art of storytelling. On “Tight Rope”, he comes with three different stories about unwanted kids. The first story is about a girl that is having a hard time being accepted into the American society after moving from her native country (Somalia) because of a civil war. The second story is about the difficulty of a boy growing up when his parents are going through a divorce. The final story is about a homosexual boy, and the cruel reality of how he is treated because of his sexual orientation. This is just the start of deep songs coming off the album. Standout.

7. Breakin’ Dawn
Produced by Ant
Brother Ali’s storytelling continues on the bluesy “Breakin’ Dawn”. This is a detailed story about a man who discards the likes of success to stay true to his roots. You don’t hear many songs like this, but Ali does an incredible job with it and to get his point across.

8. The Travelers
Produced by Ant
This is another moving song about racism and the harsh actuality of our (slavery) history. Not only does Ali touch on topics that most emcees won’t do, but he constantly does it in an intellectual way. His words paint a picture for us to see and recognize.

9. Baby Girl
Produced by Ant
Baby Girl starts with an emotional -type beat, and Ali gradually begins to narrate about a female who was raped at a young age. What makes Ali’s narratives superior to others is that he does an excellent job of explaining how the person in the story feels. For example, “How can she find peace in her mind when love means returning to the scene of a crime?” Another brilliant thing about this song is how he responds after every verse, “Only one thing I can say in truth – got to deal with the demons before they deal with you”. The realest line(s) in this entire song.

10. Round Here
Produced by Ant
Ali breaks away from the storytelling for a minute to hit us with a nice laid back track. Once again, he shows you that he has delivery by how well his flow fits the beat. Besides that, there is nothing too significant here compared to the rest of the album. Although, it still puts out good musical vibes, and I consider it solid.

11. Bad Mufucker Pt. II
Produced by Ant
This is the sequel to the same titled track on his extended play, “Champion”. This one has a different method compared to the last. On this song, he is flat out telling you he is a bad mufucker, whereas the first song explains why he is. I’m going to relate my opinion like the ending words on the previous song “Round Here”, “Brother Ali, you a bad mufucker man”.

12. Best @ It
Featuring Freeway & Joell Ortiz; Produced by Ant
This is a lyrical ambush. They all came with it, but I have to say Joell Ortiz slaughtered (no pun intended) the track. He has an ill metaphoric line bar after bar on this and clearly shows why he’s the best @ it. Another thing I like about the track is how Ant slightly changes the beat for when Brother Ali comes on…worked well.

13. Games
Produced by Ant
This is an additional song about life and the numerous struggles people go through. He makes a good point that there are people out there willing to make their lives better compared to others who stay shackled up. Here is a short example from the chorus, “It’s like chains on your neck with a tight grip/Use your brain and shit, you might live”.

14. Slippin’ Away
Produced by Ant
“Slippin’ Away” is a song about one of Ali’s friend who got caught up in the street life. Ali starts off explaining how he moved to Minnesota and his early childhood. He goes on tell us about the friend – how they met, how they became friends, and their last conversation together. I’m not going to tell you the last part of the song. I’d rather have you listen to it yourself to find out what happens. A really deep and personal song by Brother Ali. Another one of my favorites from the album.

15. You Say (Puppy Love)
Produced by Ant
Ant drops a lovely loop (drums, sample, everything) for Ali to express his emotions of puppy love. Ali changes the direction one last time expressing how he feels for a certain somebody through his lyrics.

16.Us
Featuring Stokley Williams; Produced by Ant
The album returns to the same handclap vibes on “Brothers & Sisters”. The only difference here is Brother Ali chooses to rhyme over this one. The lyrics on this help explain why he named this album Us. Perfect way to end the album.

Bottom Line:
Sixteen tracks later, and I can say there is absolutely NO filler on this. Brother Ali has once again released a significant album for the year. What more can you ask for? – Great beats, superb lyrics, and outstanding concepts. What I like about Brother Ali is that he doesn’t straight out tell you what his stories are about. You actually have to listen & get hints, and the story comes together in the end. It’s an impressive way of writing. So do Hip-Hop a favor and pick this up. It’ll be worth the fifteen dollars. On a side note, Ali is a great performer too. I saw him at Paid Dues this year and was pleased. He is currently on the Fresh Air Tour with Evidence. Check it out if he’s coming to your city. Peace.

nappyPicks: Every song is good in its own way, but if I had to pick 5, it would go a little somethin’ like this…“House Keys”, “Tight Rope”, “Baby Girl”, “Bad Mufucker Pt. II”, “Slippin’ Away”

Download: Brother Ali – “Tight Rope”