Overall product rating: 4.5 stars
Nas is known as a giant of rap music. Nas is not only a highly-skilled wordsmith who always puts letters first, but the powerful emcee proudly takes African-Americans back to their African roots and history. His signature use of instruments such as trumpets underscores Nas’s wealth of musical knowledge of many jazz, soul and blues legends.
Nas’s music is pure blackness. Whether people like it or not, you have to acknowledge Nas’s immense talent.
Hip Hop Is Dead has some Illmatic accents. The masterpiece raises the insightful question of hip-hop’s survival.
Hip hop is dying because of commercial influences, fake players with huge cars wanting to act like hustlers while real, lyrical hip hop from the hood is literally shocking.
Money Over Bullsh*t relies on dark instruments like keyboards, dark piano sounds, rhythmic drum beats contrasting with the flute, and lighter piano sounds. The instrumentals suggest a strong opposition between posers and real people. Many people use hip hop for money and neglect the beauty of music and words.
Nas is telling you the truth: the commercialization of hip hop will lead to its demise. Let the royal emcees champion the love of your music and your culture.
You Can’t Kill Me illuminates Nas’s lyrical skills. The complex instrumentals fully match the tension that is expressed in the song. You can’t kill real hip-hop soldiers. Nas’s words will surprise you mercilessly.
Carry On Tradition is pointing out the truth about the current state of hip hop. More than ever, hip-hop is facing a 911 emergency. Too many untalented, wimpy, loudmouthed rappers are killing the game, dwarfing the geniuses, because they get more exposure. In addition to commercial presenters, too many small presenters do not even deserve the title of “MC”.
It’s up to the listener to pay attention and tell the difference between good and bad hip hop.
I really loved the sounds provided on Where Are They Now which reminded me of James Brown’s bright and dynamic style. Rhythm tracks pay homage to hip hop legends. Don’t sleep on this!
Organ sounds combined with electric guitar sounds start Hip Hop Is Dead. The track cleverly mixes a flavor of rap and rock. Heartbeat-like drumbeats fully underline the emotional dimension of the track. Don’t worry, Nas won’t let hip-hop die.
Who Killed It is a swing track that points the finger at hip hop killers. The violins and trumpets have accusatory accents while the drums and clapping will exorcise the demons that constantly destroy the music.
On Black Republican, Nas collaborated with his long-term rival Jay Z. I’ve never really been a fan of Jay Z, because I don’t like his nasal voice at all. I’m not that fond of this one.
A good theme that caught my attention is Hustlers with the legendary D Dre. It’s not just the rhythm track, it also combines the talents of both artists. Fiddles and drums will beautifully enhance the NYC-Compton flavor of song. I recommend it to all of you.
Nas concludes with a ringing acapella gospel. Nas’ beautiful female vocals and lyrical bullets make this song a total masterpiece.
Globally, Hip Hop Is Dead is a masterpiece of work. Often underestimated, Nas is one of those artists who don’t compromise their souls for money. Nas’s vibrant closing sentence is a testament to his passion for music.
My advice: Rip the CD with no regrets.
Copyright © 2006 by Isabelle Esling
All rights reserved
