Talib Kweli

Mos Def and Talib Kweli are Black Star

Black Star are brilliant, for any true hip-hop fans

Review Score:

(10/10)
Mos Def and Talib Kweli are two of the MOST underrated MCs of our time. They are better than all the sell out pop rap that's on the radios now like Chingy and Bone Krusher. Their intricate lyrical abilities are both on display in every song on this CD. Both have something to say and stand strongly by their beliefs. There are no big famous guest appearances to lure you in (There are very few appearances at all, two songs in total, and the only other artist on the CD with any commercial success is Common.), just Talib 's hardcore and Mos Def's softer political commentary woven into lyrical genius. The duo truly has a unique sound and does not compensate their message (anything from positive women views to black power) for anything. You can even feel and hear the influence of great artists of the past like Bob Marley in their music. While I am disappointed that neither have found much commercial success either with Black Star, as solo rappers, or Mos Def's venture into a rock-rap hybrid (but not like Limp Bizkit, Linkin Park, etc.) Black Jack Johnson, I suppose it's for the better. They are the true essence of hip-hop. I suppose they can be compared to Public Enemy with more intricate rhyme schemes and a softer sound, although many might disagree on that point. If you like this CD, get Mos Def's "Black on Both Sides" and Talib Kweli's collabo with DJ Hi-Tek "Train of Thought" (I thought Kweli's "Quality" was a little weak except for "Joy" featuring Mos Def (although he doesn't really do much except background vocals) and the single "Get By"). They also have some brilliant performances on Comedy Central's Chappelle's Show (Mos Def drops a freestyle themed under a Grandmaster Flash classic, Talib performs an alternate version of the underground song "Bright as the Stars" (the original is with Mos Def), and both come together to perform "What's Beef?" (a Chappelle's Show exclusive as of right now) which might display their ability to actually say something the best).

p.s. ==> Mos Def needs to give up his acting career (which loses some of my respect for him) and needs to get back into the studio with Talib and record the next Black Star CD. I've only heard rumors about it and highly anticipate it.

More Reviews: