Gift Of Gab
Escape 2 Mars Other Tongues In the 90s, Blackalicious was at the forefront of underground hip-hop thanks to the infectious beats of Chief Xcel and the unbelievable rhyming style of Gift Of Gab that connected with many hip-hop fans at an intellectual level. The unforgettable Alphabet Aerobics still remain today as one of the most amazing displays of rhyming, and catapulted Gift Of Gab into one of the premier hip-hop MCs. Six years after releasing his debut album, '4th Dimensional Rocketships Going Up,' Gift Of Gab's sophomore album continues to showcase his amazing talents, unmatched skills, and social consciousness. If you are unfamiliar with Gift Of Gab's work, then don't expect the superficiality that hip-hop has become. The title track is a testament to this, with Gift Of Gab painting a dire scene for our planet if global warming continues, with an escape to Mars a seemingly ideal solution. He also opens up about other social issues including the exploitative nature of the medical industry in Electric Waterfalls and the humbling, yet inspirational social reality of Richman, Poorman. But it's not all doom and gloom with Gift Of Gab. His endorsement of diversity in the super groovy Some Of The People, the hands-in-the-air El Gifto Magnifico, and the funny and anecdotal In Las Vegas, all show that Gift Of Gab has a lighter side to his persona. But it wouldn't be a Gift Of Gab album without a demonstration of his phenomenal vocal agility, and Rhyme Travel goes in some way to doing this. Gift Of Gab continues to represent the consciousness of hip-hop. His ability to narrate and comment on current events and issues that are relevant, not only to the hip-hop community, but also the greater international community, is a testament to his social awareness. Although 'Escape 2 Mars' may not be the strongest or most memorable hip-hop music production, Gift Of Gab's messages will still resonate with listeners for years to come.  |
Issue 496
Music
