Talib Kweli and Mos Def, two of the biggest names in the underground rap syndicate, have combined their unique, and inconceivable talents to form, Blackstar.

Some of you who follow Kweli may know of his cd with DJ Hi-Tek, Reflection Eternal. That is how I became a devoted fan to this astounding artist. His previous cd with Hi-Tek wowed me and made me want more. His one of a kind style of writing, the positive message he sends, and the way he delivers his message all come together to make this fabulous artist.

Here are a few of my favorite songs and a few lyrical quotes from them:

3-Definition: One of the groups more popular hits, Mos and Kweli come together to give what they believe is the definition of hip-hop. Just to give an example of what some call "intelligent rap" here is an example, "Consider me the entity within the industry without a history
of spittin the epitome, of stupidity."

4-Re:Definition: A sequel to the previous song, same lyrics basically giving their definition of hip-hop and what it should be, saying, "One. Two. Three. Mos Def and Talib Kweli, we gonna make it on to the tip top/ Best alliance in hip-hop, wayohhhhh."

5-Childrens Story: An idea Mos got from the artist Slick Rick, he raps a story to his nephews about how a man became corrupt and addicted to a life of crime after he got a taste of it. "Once upon a time not long ago/ When people wore addidas and lived life slow/ When laws were stern and justice stood/ And people was behavin' like hip-hop was good/ There lived a little boy who was misled/ By a little Sha-tan and this is what he said/ Me and you kid we gonna make some cash/ Jackin' old beats and makin' the dash."

6-Brown Skinned Lady: A tribute from Kweli and Mos to the beautiful brown skinned ladies out there and what they love about them. "You know what some people put themselves through to look just like you?/ Dark stocking, high heels,lipstick, alla that/ You know what?/ Without makeup you're beautiful...You got me, willin to try, looked me in the eye/ My head is still in the sky, since you walked on by."


12-Thieves In The Night: One of my personal favorite songs on the cd, Kweli talks of how money corrupts and how people try to be fake and be something they are not. "Gimmie the fortune keep the fame said my man Lewis, I agree, because we live the truest lie...Hidin like thieves in the night from life/ Illusions of oasis makin' you look twice."

Overall this cd is certainly one of a kind. The calm soothing beats combine equally with the quicker more up tempo beats to make a smooth blend of music. Kweli and Mos's deliverance of a positive message is certainly evident. They try hard to let people know they want equality and respect for everyone and they let them know through their expression in the music and lyrics. I would HIGHLY recommend this cd to anyone who is open to new forms of music or anyone who enjoys calm cool tempo songs.

Please Check Out My Other Music Reviews:
Alicia Keys - Songs In A Minor
DJ Honda - H II
DJ Honda/Mos Def - Travellin' Man Single
Mos Def - Black On Both Sides
Talib Kweli - Quality
Talib Kweli - Reflection Eternal
The Roots - Do You Want More?!!!??!
White Lion - The Best Of White Lion

© Copyright 2001 - ace3502

Recommended: Yes

Great Music to Play While: Driving