By c Fraz
His brand and trademark are associated with Hip Hop Music and its Culture. With more than 20 albums under his belt, a
musical career that spans more than 25 years, the metaphysical one proves that knowledge still reigns supreme with his latest release, “The BDP Album. The 14 tracks on the album are consistent with past projects. Produced mainly by DJ Kenny Parker, The BDP Album has the aroma of By All Means Necessary, the fragrance of Return of the Boom Bap and the scent of Adventures in Emceein.
KRS decided to keep this project in the family. The album is devoid of production from DJ Premier, Showbiz, Salaam Remi, Da Beatminers and Truemaster, however it does feature a few guest emcees. If there was ever a tandem that complemented Kris on a song during a collaboration, it’s Channel Live. This chemistry is exemplified on “Forever,” one of flyest joints on the album. On this track, KRS proclaims, “I don’t do dance lyrics. I do advance lyrics. Organized frequencies that advance the spirit.” The Teacha makes sureyou don’t get it twisted by comparing him to other emcees. “You should never compare me. Unless it is to compare me to the a little holy baby being held by
mother Mary…I’m a whole different kind of scary.”
“Times Up” is a straight battle track, informing serato-using DJ’s that they are disrespecting the true two turntable craft. Jessie West laces the hook, as the Blastmaster also takes time out to campaign to keep showmanship alive. Elements of “9mm”and “The P Free” can be heard on “ I Do This for You.” KRS -One shows why he gained acclaim as one of the first emcees to incorporate the Jamaican “Zung gu
zung” melody style into Hip-Hop.
The Teacha gives a melodic lecture reminiscent of “You Must Learn” on”2012,” a history lesson depicting the Mayan influence on our global culture. Kris also drops jewels on, “Comin’ In,” “Tote Gunz” and “All Day,” where he tells emcees, “I rhyme fo’ mines, I’m not a bling blinger. After the show my vibrations linger.”
No one delivers social commentary while battling emcees better than KRS-ONE. That’s why he makes a convincing statement as to why he has been the voice of Hip-Hop for over 25 years, speaking about the culture he helped maintain. Musically, DJ Kenny Parker’s production doesn’t sound dated and proves he can hang with contemporary producers. Parker did his thing on “The Hustle.” The album is loaded with hard high hats, crispy snares, kicks and booming 808 bass lines. They don’t make ‘em like this anymore.
The BDP Album is good money. KRS remains a true historian and a Hip-Hop culturalconservationist. Unfortunately, with the ever-changing face of what’s hot in Hip- Hop, today’s market fails to preserve the once popular and lucrative era of Hip-Hop referred to as underground, which kept KRS with gold and platinum record sales. The kids will probably not flock to buy or download this, but if you’re from that era, it’s as good as gold.
out of 5
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