Q-Tip – The Renaissance
If you are unfamiliar with, or think you don’t like hip-hop, please take the time to check out this masterpiece by one of the greatest MCs to ever live. It is the perfect introduction to a genre dominated by false stereotypes and negative perceptions, perpetuated primarily by much of the mainstream.
His new album takes the signature chilled out rap sound innovated by his old outfit, A Tribe Called Quest back in the early ’90s and makes it personal. When hip-hop was at its peak ten or fifteen years ago, the music was all about crazy sampling, amazing beats, and an energizing sound. Groups and artists like Tribe, Gang Starr, Mos Def, The Pharcyde, and Common intertwined positive lyrics with superior production in order to create masterful works that are just amazing to listen to. The Renaissance hearkens back to the good old days, but manages to keep it fresh and original sounding.
Q-Tip lives up to his moniker. When he gets in my ears, boy do they feel amazing. This man has got a gift for flow largely unmatched in today’s hip-hop scene. I’d listen to him read through one of end-user license agreements that everyone just clicks “I agree” and moves on. That’s how smooth he is. Just listen to “Gettin’ Up.” That man has a gift. His phenomenal vocals are is accented by diverse production, ranging from the piano driven and old-school R&B accented “Won’t Trade,” to the minimalistic guitar groove of “Johnny is Dead,” and the funky bass guitar + trap set on “Manwomanboogie.”
This album is great, regardless of your familiarity with the genre. It is perfect to throw on at a party, while driving, or just to enjoy by yourself with headphones at 2 AM. If you like what you hear, I recommend checking out any of the other artists mentioned above. It is a nice departure from the overproduced, vocoded cash cows (sorry Kanye) or the misogynistic, crime and money glorifying tracks dominating today’s scene. I’ll be seeing Q-Tip and some other fantastic music at the end of July at All Points West, so I’ll sure to write about that. Enjoy!
Listen to “Gettin’ Up”
Listen to “Won’t Trade”
