Hip Hop music has matured into a globally accepted form of individualistic, beautiful expression. Since the 1973 chartering of the culture’s principals by its celebrated forefathers, many global Hip Hop music contributors have played integral roles in the now 40 + year sustainability of the culture by generally remaining fundamentally connected with the original intent of the music — to impart wisdom, effect social and/or political change, and showcase lyrical dexterity and innovativeness, despite the level of commercial success achieved. Carrying on tradition, while maintaining the full staff position of Hip Hop’s universal flag amidst the windy and stormy skies of relative wackness is Confucius MC [emcee] and Mr. Brown on their most recent EP release entitled, THE ARTFORM.
Beyond a project that proves satisfying both lyrically and rhythmically, there’s an undeniable dynamic tone [felt throughout the work] that has the capacity to recapture while simultaneously conveying what listeners will unmistakably explain as authentic. Set upon Mr. Brown’s backdrops of colorful, melodic chords and percussive arrangements, the crafty and smart wordplay of Confucius MC consistently delivers a verbal punch that is sure to send “Beats and Barzzz” enthusiasts’ heads and necks into a repeated, rhythmic sway while pondering his thought provoking, socially conscious, and shit-talking prose.
[youtube]https://youtu.be/k33XkyY5RgY[/youtube]
The title song, The ART-FORM Pt. 2 [serving as an appropriate follow up to its worthy predecessor of the same name and from the same project], seemingly offers appropriate insight into the mindset of the duo with reference to the creation of this project; serving as metaphorical context regarding the art forms and disciplines of lyricism and musicianship and Mr. Brown and Confucius’ respective connection and devotion to the crafts and perhaps, the culture of Hip Hop. And with the featured appearance of Jhest and the voice of the god emcee, Rakim Allah, serving as a transom into the realm of auditory satisfaction, all Hip Hop enthusiasts will surely be met with a nostalgic sentiment that is nothing short of pleasant.
Closing out the EP project is, AN I ME; no doubt a play-on-words that points reference to the Japanese originated style of animation. While the joint finds itself replete with the on-par verbal escapades of Confucius MC, the melodic infusion of the misplaced retro-type chords over the beat arrangement miss the mark of achieving a 1:1 ratio between lyric and music. However, this misstep is quickly forgotten when the listener revisits opening joints from the EP like ARTISTE and DIFFERENT ENDING; both exquisitely balanced and fully enjoyable.
Overall, THE ARTFORM by Mr. Brown and Confucius MC is pleasing. Undeniably, it asserts itself as a revitalizing true Hip Hop experience amidst the contemporary yet dank catacombs of mumble-fumble rap. Welcome back to the green and lush pastures of authenticity where the true principals of Hip Hop music thrive and are not forsaken. Welcome to, THE ARTFORM!
LIMITED EDITION VINYL AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE HERE
DIGITAL DOWNLOAD AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE HERE
D.D. Turner & Cameryn A. Turner
