The Low End Theory Review

"The Low End Theory" is the second studio album from hip-hop group A Tribe Called Quest.  The album sticks to it's name as the muddy, bass-oriented concept of this album gets topped off with legendary bassist Ron Carter as a cherry on top.  The messages are simple, the rhymes are quintessentially classic, and the tribe connects the dots between jazz and hip-hop to make one of the most influential albums that abstract/alternative hip-hop has ever seen.

If you enjoy anyone from De La Soul to Miles Davis; you can appreciate what the tribe did here with "The Low End Theory".  The organic nature of this record really resonates well as hip hop is shown under a different light.  Through sampling, and deep grooves that won't leave your brain, the tribe keeps their rhymes simple as they let their personality and creativity shine in a mellow type of way.  A song that isn't so mellow is "Scenario".  The iconic track features an excellent verse from Busta Rhymes that really adds substance to this classic.

But amidst all the feel-good tracks and smooth flows, misogynistic issues pop up unexpectedly on the tracks "Butter" and "Infamous Date Rape".  The tracks dive into the world of being tricked into sticky situations with women and how the group interpreted those situations.  But those issues don't shadow over the fact that this hip-hop-jazz fusion works perfectly as A Tribe Called Quest delivers their ambitious, out of the box effort in peanut-butter and jelly fashion.

Final Summary:

"The Low End Theory" resonated throughout hip-hop and inspired many artists in the process.  The ingenious way that the tribe sequentially drills this bass overload into your brain gives you a sense of artistry and confirms the group as one of the pillars of the time.  The album was inspired by N.W.A.'s Straight Outta Compton as you can see the band tackle some more racier issues, but they keep their cool with it; as the tribe cemented themselves in hip-hop history with this defining moment.


Rating: 9.1/10





 

untitled unmastered Review

"untitled unmastered" is the unexpected quote unquote b sides of "To Pimp A Butterfly" from Kendrick Lamar.  Kendrick had some 2015.  With TPAB becoming one of the most highly successful rap albums in recent memory, Kendrick didn't have much to prove with "untitled unmastered".  Even though he may not have much to prove, the "b sides" that didn't make the cut for TPAB are still worthy of their own album as Kendrick's message is very powerful; tackling racial issues in the society we live in today, and in the music industry.

The charming aspect of this EP is the fact that it is filled with imperfection.  The rawness of "untitled unmastered" personifies the nonchalant nature of this album; as it still marches straight into the heart of hip-hop.  Through all the imperfection, Kendrick cuts through with his ever so precise flow.  He still maintains the ferocity blazed throughout TPAB, but each track has its own unique gift that could've easily made it onto TPAB. We are fortunate enough to have this EP as even Kendrick's lesser known tracks are deserving of their own spotlight.

The 7th untitled track is an 8 minute concoction that pairs together some interesting tidbits.  Essentially, three songs are blended together including a really raw session where it's just Kendrick and a guitar singing like Bob Marley; as he chants about the government and how head is the answer over a grungy looped guitar. The first untitled track also bursts out the gate with a ferocious effort from Kendrick; as he spits about god, and mankind in an all-in-one package that confuses  you how someone could rap that quickly and accurately.

Final Summary:

The message is clear as "untitled unmastered" doesn't change the gameplan from what TPAB was.  The subject matter is similar and the cut songs are more than deserving of their own platform.  During this one and a half to 2 year period where TPAB was produced; Kendrick Lamar created a lot of important music for the entire world to listen to.  The b sides still convey the important message that racism is alive and well, and our society still has a long way to go before we get true equality.

Rating: 8.5/10 

Coming Home Review

"Coming Home" is the debut album from gospel/soul singer Leon Bridges.  The album received positive reviews from many critics as the soul revival from Bridges brings you back to the glory days of soul music; Sam Cooke, Aretha, and Al Green.  "Coming Home" gives you that nostalgic feeling that you may be longing for in the midst of today's music scene; but in many aspects, the album lacks on originality, depth, and urgency.

The lead single "Coming Home" is one of the only tracks that could be transmitted into today's hit charts.  The bluesy, golden voice of Bridges resonates greatly on the track as bands such as The Black Keys help Bridges' effort here seem more relevant.  Another track that really stood out was "Lisa Sawyer".  The track has the slow jam vibe of a 60's Du Wop classic; accompanied by all the female backup singers you'd imagine, but it actually feels like Leon is pouring his soul out on "Lisa Sawyer".  That's whats missing on "Coming Home"; the lack of effort on the emotional front.  

As many of us would be very jealous of a voice like Leon Bridges', it feels like he's taking it for granted.......on his debut album.  I was missing the howling cries you'd hear from a Ray Charles record, the kind of sadness that Al Green would emote on each and every song he'd perform, and the raw emotion that Otis Redding elicited back at the Monterey Pop Festival.  Grabbing attention is hard to do especially in the music industry; "Coming Home" didn't grab my attention as I wanted it to, it left me wanting more.

Final Summary:

"Coming Home" does a decent job of reviving an era that many of us never experienced.  The classic music your parents would listen to on vinyl has a charm to it; but that era has passed.  Leon Bridges should've done a better job of modernizing the genre instead of copying it, deliberately.  Bridges is still young and has time to develop; but this record doesn't make the cut for standing out on its own.  Bridges needs to listen to some more modern soul influenced artists such as Fitz and The Tantrums, and The Black Keys to get a better understanding of how to use the genre to his advantage.

Rating: 6.7/10   

Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not Review

The debut album from the Arctic Monkeys made a huge splash in the UK when it finally dropped. Demo CDs of the album before they got released were passed around at shows and festivals and ultimately, got onto the Internet.  The Internet widely sold this album for Arctic Monkeys as it became the fastest selling debut album in British music history.  This album put Arctic Monkeys on the map as their highly successful debut features a plethora of classic hits, and fun moments.

"The View From The Afternoon" starts the album off with an upbeat, in your face rock song that pumps you up and personifies Arctic Monkeys at their best.  The album maintains its momentum until we hit "Riot Van".  "Riot Van" is an interesting shift in gears that slows down the album dramatically after being on full speed since the beginning.  "Mardy Bum" also represents one of the more mellow tracks on this album.  The lyrics throughout are mainly about teenage debauchery, experiences, and romance.  The romantic nature of this album paints a sweet picture for an album seemingly "up to no good".  

"When The Sun Goes Down" is the most diverse song on this album as it starts off very slow and ends up erupting during the chorus.  The album in general feels like it was in top gear at all times and rarely slows down for a pit stop.  The eagerness heard on this album is palpable as Arctic Monkeys sound excited, full of energy, and perky; leaving you with a feeling of enthrallment as you can feel the band enjoying every single moment.  "A Certain Romance" also offers a diverse, catchy song that ends the album on a high note.  The teenage angst, and raw material on this album leaves you happy to have listened; as Arctic Monkeys debut effort soars as far as debut albums go.   

Final Summary:

At the end of the day, "Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not" delivers on angst and attitude; but lacks on maturity (understandably).  The album put the monkeys on the map and it certainly has a classic feel; even though the album came out not too far back.  "Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not" is not too rigid in nature it sort of feels like a jam session; in a good way.  The more mature efforts came after but nothing will ever compare to the first.

Rating: 8.2/10

Dirt Review

"Dirt" is the second studio album from early 90's grunge band Alice in Chains.  This album represents the swift maturity of a band that stood as one of the pillars during an important time in music history.  The album has been certified four-times platinum and for good reason; "Dirt" features five of the band's top singles that have become household names (Would?, Down In A Hole, Them Bones, Angry Chair, & Rooster).  The grunge era in the early 90's wouldn't have been the same without Alice In Chains; as the band provided a muddier sound than Nirvana and had a front man at the height of his success.

Whether it be Jerry Cantrell's dirty, muffled guitar effects or Layne Staley's haunting screams, this is what made the grunge era excruciatingly good.  Besides the singles I mentioned earlier, there are some deeper cuts that pack a similar punch to the more well known tracks.  "Rain When I Die" is a powerful song that packs a deeper meaning; speaking about how if Layne doesn't get proper water, he will eventually wilt away; metaphorically of course.  The deeper meaning could be interpreted as code for his depression, or his well known heroin addiction.

One of my favorites off "Dirt" is "Down In A Hole".  The song is just down-right depressing from the get-go.  The droning acoustic guitars mixed with the somber, almost suicidal lyrics makes for one of the most obvious outcries for help you could imagine.  "Would?" is also a favorite of mine that speaks about Jerry Cantrell's friend Andrew Wood; former lead singer of Mother Love Bone.  Andrew died of a heroin overdose in 1990 and the track pays homage to their friendship and the good times they had.

Final Summary:

Basically, "Dirt" is the closest thing the band created to a full-fledged concept album.  The dreary, depressing theme to this album resonated deeply with fans back in the early 90's and to this day.  The message, the outcries from Layne Staley will make you feel all sorts of emotions; as his effort is long standing.  The honest to god truth about this album; the work Staley did was legendary.  A true pariah of the grunge era and unfortunately his potential was cut short due to drugs.  But all in all, "Dirt" leaves you with a murky feeling that sinks into your very soul.

Rating: 8.8/10

Fleet Foxes Review

"Fleet Foxes" is the self titled debut album from the Fleet Foxes.  With harmonious vocals, country/folk influences, and a light, charming atmosphere about it; the Fleet Foxes create a wonderful blend of sounds that culminate in a unique sound all to their own.  The Seattle based band not only received critical acclaim in the states, but they also had international success; charting in the UK and Sweden.  Something about a band's debut album just feels so magical.  "Fleet Foxes" delivers in their debut effort blowing what you may have expected out of the water.

No one song stands out from the rest on "Fleet Foxes".  It feels like the music you'd play exploring America's nooks and crannies.  The forest-like atmosphere of this album featuring many woodland creatures and adventurous nature trails flows through this album like the life blood of an album bred in the wild.  Songs such as "White Winter Hymnal" present some of the most charming moments on this album as the synchronized vocal melodies are stunning as the groundwork laid on this album remains concrete throughout.

The musical spectrum is jam-packed as each track has a heaviness to it; growing more and more substantial with each track adding to the mix.  There is also an honesty to the vocals on this album; as there is much to be desired from an album with a lot of tender lovin' care.  The final track on this album "Oliver James" is a nearly all a cappella track that the Fleet Foxes chant over and over again tribally to send off an album surrounded by wonder. 

Final Summary:

"Fleet Foxes" is an album that anyone from country to classic rock can enjoy.  The airy atmosphere reminds you of a misty mountain morning watching the sun rise on top of a hill.  And with a great atmosphere being set through and through, it keeps you entertained as the Fleet Foxes paint over the beautiful eaisel they have structured with their synchronized vocal performances, and delicately placed instrumentals.  It was one of the top albums of 2008 and for good reason; the album will make you feel.

Rating: 9.0/10

Wish You Were Here Review

With time comes the passing of people in our lives; even if they don't pass away per se.  They leave impressions that last a life time.  Not only does "Wish You Were Here" pay homage to founding member of Pink Floyd Syd Barrett, but it speaks on the importance of camaraderie within a group; and how you should never forget the ones that erected the structure around you.  "Shine On You Crazy Diamond" is the tribute to Syd who left the band seven years earlier after suffering a mental breakdown.  The carefully crafted, tasteful guitar licks on "Shine On" demonstrate the final waltz for Barrett as Pink Floyd evolved without their absent founder.  

There is weight to the 5 tracks on this record.  The two parts of "Shine On" encompass half the album's length as the remaining tracks speak about subjects such as corporate greed, musical discovery, fame, fortune, and human relationships.  "Welcome To The Machine" is very much a jab towards societal issues as it seems to be a recurring theme in Roger Water's writing.  Being put up in a corporately run system is highlighted greatly here as the industrial, ominous feel of the song makes you feel trapped in the pipelines of life.  "Have A Cigar" portrays a satirical stance against the music industry.  The corporate fat cat showing an up and coming musician how to make money in the sleazy industry; it's what comes to mind whenever I listen to it.

The title track has become a classic rock radio staple as I feel I've listened to it close to a million times.  "Wish You Were Here" was another song written for Syd Barrett as the song speaks about friends taking different paths in life and ultimately ending back where you started.  It is a song that anyone who has lost a friend who took a different path can relate to.  Also, "Wish You Were Here"(album) eventually became Pink Floyd's fastest selling album.  

Final Summary:

The album is largely a tribute to their old friend Syd who went off the deep end back in the day; but "Wish You Were Here" highlights some of the societal issues that Water's recognized from growing up in England.  The album seems like the first of a three part series of Pink Floyd albums that dive deep into the under toe of society; and how we are all part of a huge system that is very difficult to escape.  Basically, all of "Animals" preaches the same message, as "The Wall" is more of a conceptual adaptation on what really is happening in your backyard.  But on a lighter note, "Wish You Were Here" stands its own ground in rock history as one of the greatest concept albums ever written. 

Rating: 9.3/10