Kweli

1. Al Djalilu

2. Sana

3. Dunia Udjissa

4. Naritsangagnihe

5. Mwaha Mwema

6. Ces Gene-Là (De J. Breli)

7. Karibu

8. Tsihuziwa Riali Anri

9. Kweli

10. Mwana Bahari Mwena

11. Hegne

Kweli,Nawal,Melodie (Cit570),Arabic,Int'l & World Music,Pop

Average customer rating:

Ear Drum Talib Kweli Manufacturer: Warner Bros / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Experimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Finding Forever Graduation Desire Curtis T.I. vs T.I.P. ASIN: B000SO7ON4 Release Date: 2007-08-21

Tracks:

1. Everything Man - Talib Kweli, Sonia Sanchez
2. NY Weather Report - Talib Kweli
3. Hostile Gospel, Pt. 1 (Deliver Us) - Talib Kweli
4. Say Something - Jean Grae, Talib Kweli
5. Country Cousins - Raheem DeVaughn, Talib Kweli, UGK
6. Holy Moly - Talib Kweli
7. Eat to Live - Talib Kweli
8. In the Mood - Roy Ayers, Talib Kweli, Kanye West
9. Soon the New Day - Norah Jones, Talib Kweli
10. Give 'Em Hell - Lyfe Jennings, Talib Kweli
11. More or Less - Dion, Talib Kweli
12. Stay Around - Talib Kweli
13. Hot Thing - Talib Kweli
14. Space Fruit (Interlude) - Talib Kweli
15. Perfect Beat - KRS-One, Talib Kweli
16. Oh My Stars - Talib Kweli, Musiq (Soulchild)
17. Listen!!! - Talib Kweli
18. Go With Us - Talib Kweli
19. Hostile Gospel, Pt. 2 (Deliver Me) - Talib Kweli, Sizzla
20. Nature - Talib Kweli, Justin Timberlake

Amazon.com

In the "conscious" rap game, even mid-list mainstreamers tend to get all but shut out of the highest-profile vehicles for hip-hop (BET, MTV, urban radio). Among these, Talib Kweli remains that exemplary liminal artist, one foot in the artistic purity of his underground roots and the other planted firmly in business of popular culture. Recent albums--The Beautiful Struggle and Right About Now--disappointed fans and critics alike, but Ear Drum marks a milestone in the Kweli catalogue. Wisely chosen collaborators (Kanye West, Roy Ayers, Jean Grae, Pete Rock, KRS-One, even Justin Timberlake and Norah Jones), accessible beats, and Kweli's staple of insightful, rhythmically drilling lyrics conspire to create his best outing since 2002's Quality. Blatantly front-loaded, Ear Drum's early tracks clearly outshine its back half. "NY Weather Report," "Say Something," "Holy Moly," and especially "Hostile Gospel Pt. 1" plainly sear, the latter two establishing the repeating theme of Kweli's tenuous relationship to religion. As Kweli himself makes clear in his first line on Ear Drum, "They say you can't please everybody," and plenty of sleepers lurk among Ear Drum's 20 cuts, but the standout tracks suggest that Kweli has bounced back from declining relevance with all cylinders firing. --Jason Kirk

Average customer rating: Black Star Review Black Star Words can not describe how phenomenal this album is! Missing the Pocket A Bit

Black Star Black Star , Mos Def , and Talib Kweli Manufacturer: Rawkus / Umgd ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Indie Music | Stores | Music East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Indie Music | Stores | Music Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Reflection Eternal/Train of Thought Like Water For Chocolate Black on Both Sides The New Danger Quality ASIN: B000067CLT Release Date: 2002-06-04

Tracks:

1. Intro
2. Astronomy (8th Light)
3. Definition
4. RE:Definition
5. Children's Story
6. Brown Skin Lady
7. B Boys Will B Boys
8. K.O.S. (Determination)
9. Hater Players
10. Yo Yeah
11. Respiration
12. Thieves In The Night
13. Twice Inna Lifetime

Amazon.com

Even in hip-hop--a genre famous for auspicious debuts--Black Star, the first album from the team of Mos Def and Talib Kweli, stands out. It's not just because these guys know their history (an update of Slick Rick's classic "Children's Story," a fine jack of BDP's "The P Is Free" on "Definition," and shout-outs to 2Pac, Biggie, and the Rock Steady Crew) and have paid their dues. Mos Def had been bouncing around the Native Tongues family for years, and both he and Kweli are featured on the Soundbombing and Lyricist Lounge albums. No, Black Star stands out simply because it's a great album, an intelligent, progressive, and funky piece of work that showcases two great MCs, both of whom have internalized the best parts of Guru, Rakim, and Q-Tip. The album also features strong production from Shawn J. Period and DJ Hi-Tek (Kweli's partner in Reflection Eternal). --Randy Silver

Customer Reviews:

Black Star.......2007-07-29

Recieved this CD very quickly and it was in great shape. Black Star is a good cd.

Review.......2007-07-20

The lyrics on this album are absolutely brilliant. Mos Def and Talib Kwali are intelligent poets who can lay down catchy lines themed with political, and social commentary, but all in good taste without being too preachy. This is the first rap album I've loved all the way though.

Black Star.......2007-05-11

Great Album. They never cease to amaze me with their lyrics. Mos Def and Twalib Kwaeli are like brothers when their on the mic. I'll never get enough of those 2.

Words can not describe how phenomenal this album is!.......2007-05-08

I'm serious; words CANNOT describe how phenomenal this album is. For all hiphop lovers, this is a must-have. Purchase now!!

Missing the Pocket A Bit .......2007-05-04

I gave this 3 stars because I like this album in theory - beats are well-crafted and delivery is sophisticated. "Re:Definition" "Brown Skin Lady" and "Respiration" and "Astronomy" are solid tracks.

But something doesn't exactly work - the beats and rhymes don't always jive - like they were mixed up and matched together later. The rapping, even though well done, is often just enough behind or ahead which takes all the power out of the track. Rapping is as much about pauses as it is about cramming in another word or two. The beats are tight but feature an over-used snare-click that doesn't move anywhere - see "Thieves in the Night" and then see the Roots. Listen to KRS-One the "P is Still Free" for contrast - Premier's beat is brilliant and KRS is totally in sync the whole time. Then listen to all of Ghetto Music, the Blueprint....

Average customer rating: Talib Kweli and Hi Teck Makes You Want To "Move Somethin" (Rating: 10 out of 10- -5 stars) Reflection Eternal/Train of Thought: Best CD you've never heard of The CD is a blast Very impressive. Brought a tear to my eye!

Reflection Eternal/Train of Thought Talib Kweli , and Hi-Tek Manufacturer: Rawkus / Umgd ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Indie Music | Stores | Music East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Indie Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Black Star Quality Like Water For Chocolate The Beautiful Struggle Things Fall Apart ASIN: B000067CLQ Release Date: 2002-06-04

Tracks:

1. Experience Dedication
2. Move Somethin'
3. Some Kind Of Wonderful
4. The Blast
5. This Means You
6. Too Late
7. Memories Live
8. Africa Dream
9. Down For The Count
10. Name Of The Game
11. Ghetto Afterlife
12. On My Way
13. Love Language
14. Love Speakeasy
15. Soul Rebels
16. Eternalists
17. Big Nel From Da Natti
18. Touch You
19. Good Mourning
20. Expansion Outro

Amazon.com's Best of 2000

Talib Kweli is probably the only MC who could do justice to "For Women," Nina Simone's righteous, ragged battle cry, and he does so with his cover on Reflection Eternal. That cut illustrates this album's timeless quality, its personal poeticism, and its strength. Kweli's lyrical skills have only improved over time, approaching the stuff of legend. And producer Hi-Tek's supple grooves balance the wordcraft perfectly. --Lizz Mendez Berry

Amazon.com

Silencing any suggestions that he's any less capable than his more high-profile Black Star partner Mos Def, Talib Kweli, along with DJ Hi-Tek, crafts a masterful debut with Reflection Eternal. Like Mos, Kweli displays an impressive range of styles and sensibilities--whether popping party lyrics on "Move Something," reflecting on the mysteries of the heart for "Love," or musing on hip-hop's death and rebirth for "Good Mourning." In comparison to Mos Def's status as a new funk soul brother, Kweli's more of a b-boy bookworm--erudite and articulate, but he can also let fly with fire and spark on the mic anytime. DJ Hi-Tek finally gets to show off his full range of production ability with a blend of hot, aggressive tracks ("Blast") and relaxed groovers ("Memories"). As good a debut as you could ask for. --Oliver Wang

Customer Reviews:

Talib Kweli and Hi Teck Makes You Want To "Move Somethin" (Rating: 10 out of 10- -5 stars).......2007-01-31

You can argue that Talib Kweli & DJ Hi Teck are the best emcee and DJ duo since Pete Rock & CL Smooth. When I first discovered them was when I was at home listening to the Music Choice Rap Channel, when the song "This Means You" popped on. That song alone wanted me to go and get that album, because of it's excellent wordplay by Kweli and Mos Def, with the production of Hi Teck.

There is not much I can say that already hasn't been said, seeing the average rating is at it's max. As I mentioned before, Kweli's rhymes are superior to hear. Being as young as I was at the time this dropped (around 14 or 15), trust me, I've never heard someone rhyme like that before. A perfect example where Kweli runs free on the mic is the song "Some Kind Of Wonderful". Another track that stood out was "The Blast" where even Hi Teck spits a verse that is also dope (the video had Talib doing two verses, but that is not on here. I'm kinda mad, since this is reissued).

Guest appearances are dope as well. My favorite would be Xzibit and Rah Digga popping up for the song "Down For The Count". Another would be the De La Soul contributed verses in "Soul Rebels". Production is also excellent by Hi Teck. Some of the song here are kind of laid back to listen to, but you can easily catch a vibe towards them.

"Reflection Eternal" (or "Train Of Thought" to some people) is one album that I can enjoy on many levels again and again. I remember listening to this album back in high school, and only a hand full of people knew who these guys were. If you ever get a chance, pick this us. The production on here is soothing and can clear your mind. If you are not familiar with Kweli, you might want to check out "Mos Def & Talib Kweli are Black Star". I just found out Hi Teck was in a group called Mood back in '97 and will listen to that as well. Arguably one of the best that came out of Rawkus. Word up.

Lyrics: A+
Production: A+
Guest Appearances: A+
Musical Vibes: A+
Overall: A+

Favorite Tracks: Move Somethin', Some Kind Of Wonderful, The Blast, This Means You, Memories Live, African Dream, Down For The Count, Name Of The Game, On My Way, Love Language, Soul Rebels, Touch You, For Women (Bonus Track)

Honorable Mention: Good Morning

Peace Everyone!!!

Reflection Eternal/Train of Thought: Best CD you've never heard of.......2006-12-20

One of the best albums I've ever heard, I'd give it 6 stars if Amazon let me. With the exception of Gangstarr (though I think Kweli is lyrically superior to Guru), I have never heard an MC and producer mesh so effortlessly on a consistent basis like Kweli and Hi-Tek. This is a CD I put in and listen to without touching a button.

Both Talib and Hi-Tek display impressive versatility in their respective trades, starting the CD with a party track like "Move Something," then moving to songs like "Memories Live," and "Love Language". You see Hi-Tek's jazz influence in songs like "Love Speakeasy," and "Good Mourning,". I also love the Nina Simone samples. The bonus track "For/Four Women," is a song which chronicles the trials and tribulations of Black Women since they arrived to this country centuries ago. Finally, on a personal note, "The Blast" is my favorite song in the whole wide world. Not saying you should care, but that tells you how I feel about this CD. I will listen to this when I'm 50 years old and I have no doubt about that.

That being said, it absolutely KILLS me that Kweli later comes out with LPs like "Quality" and "Beautiful Struggle," and gets very few to no tracks from Hi-Tek. It boggles my mind. When you look at the results of Reflection Eternal/Train of Thought and Blackstar, it becomes clear that the duo makes great and refreshingly intelligent music. In today's rap climate, that is clearly not the norm. I don't have an afro and I don't wear Cowrie shells or dashikis, but yes, it is great to hear rap music of some substance, celebrating black music and black people. I still treasure my copies of Reasonable Doubt, Illmatic and Life After Death, but this one's also in my special CD case...

The CD is a blast.......2006-10-09

I love the concious rap, the nature of it is so real. I can go by these tracks because of what they represent; the essence. The top 5 songs of the album:
1 The Blast
2 move somthin
3 Down for the Count
4 Good Mourning
5 Eternalists

Very impressive........2006-09-01

I'm always up for intelligent hip-hop, and "Reflection Eternal/Train Of thought" is filled to the brim with creative rhymes, head-bobbing beats, and powerful messages. For example, "Too Late" is a song that mourns hip-hop's downfall. "Nowadays rap artists coming half-hearted/Commercial like pop or underground like black markets/Where were you the day hip-hop died?" It's so true it's almost eerie. Plus, the beat is amazing.

Another note-worthy song is "Name of the Game". An amazing piano sample plays in the backround, and Talib's crazy MC skills are practically jaw-dropping:

"'The name of the game is..'
Persistance, dedication
Consistant motivation
Resistance to stagnation of information
Distribute it free to the entire population
No hesitation
Makin it public
No privitazation from corporations"

Genius!! Seriously, no true hip-hop collection is complete without this gem. "RE/TOT" is sure to be remembered for years to come.

Brought a tear to my eye!.......2006-05-31

This is an absolutely amazing album created by the reflection eternal. Another release that focuses on making classic songs that mean something positive to people. Songs that you can play twenty years from now and they are still dope and relevent to your life. Support emcees that have talent, not materialistic artists that make songs that will help you into a jail cell.

Average customer rating: Talib does it again..... Monumental TALIB KWELI-QUALITY Quality over Quantity anyday! Absolutly Quality

Quality Talib Kweli Manufacturer: Rawkus / Umgd ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Beautiful Struggle Reflection Eternal/Train of Thought Black Star Right About Now The New Danger ASIN: B0000719UL Release Date: 2002-11-19

Tracks:

1. Keynote Speaker
2. Rush
3. Get By
4. Shock Body
5. Gun Music
6. Waitin' For The DJ
7. Joy
8. Talk To You (Lil' Darlin')
9. Guerilla Monsoon Rap
10. Put It In The Air
11. The Proud
12. Where Do We Go
13. Stand To The Side
14. Good To You
15. Won't You Stay

Amazon.com

After collaborations with Mos Def (1998's Black Star) and Hi-Tek (2000's Reflection Eternal), underground journeyman Talib Kweli finally emerges fully solo with Quality. As an MC, Kweli is still as incisive as ever--his distinctive, darting flow stabs its way across every song and, as one of hip-hop's better thinkers, he covers a wide range of moods and ideas. As a verbal ass-whupper, Kweli unloads on songs like "Rush," "Shock Body," and "Guerrilla Monsoon Rap" (featuring the Roots' Black Thought and Pharoahe Monch), but he takes things much further than just the lyricist's lounge. "Get By," produced beautifully by Kayne West, is the conscious hustler's anthem, while "Where Do We Go" muses on death as thoughtfully and introspectively as "Joy" (with Mos Def) delves into the wonders of birth. "The Proud" tackles American jingoism in a time of terror, providing a much needed dose of skepticism when patriotic sentimentalism has free reign. Though Kweli's thoughts are coherent throughout, Quality as a whole lacks a certain cohesion--there's no single guiding vision that glues all the pieces together, and the album's production-by-ensemble doesn't help. This is a solid album no question, but especially compared to ambitious contemporaneous concept albums by peers such as Common and the Roots, Quality feels unexpectedly conventional--a strong collection of songs in need of a unifying force. --Oliver Wang

Customer Reviews:

Talib does it again............2007-05-28

Hey cop this album in your collection.

This album is nothing but brilliance, lyrically, vocals, beats, subject, etc. Talib continues to produce quality work, as this album shows. Clever artist, with mad skills.

My fav tracks are pretty much everyone of em. If i had to pick one it would have to be 'the proud', and 'stand to the side'. Buy this album if you dont have it. Much recommended. Checkout his other album "Beautiful Struggle".

Peace

Monumental.......2007-04-26

I would have to say that this is the definitive Kweli album that cemented his place in the history of rap music. There is so much variety on this album, it's hard to find fault with it. Honestly, there's one particular song I don't care for. But it's a collaboration with an artist who I truly admire, so I won't diss it here. I mean, they had good intentions. The bottom line is that you need Kweli's "Quality" in your musical library.

TALIB KWELI-QUALITY.......2007-02-11

I have been a fan of the duo BLACKSTARR comprised of Mos Def and Talib Kweli since the release of "Respiration" from their first CD. The CD "Quality" is just that...a high quality musical production created by one of the few remaining hip hop lyricists who has managed to stay true to his craft.

"Quality" is a best buy and a must have to those hip hop fans tired of the same massed produced, tired beats, lame lyrics and simple hooks most of today's mainstream artists force upon our ear lobs.

Quality over Quantity anyday!.......2006-11-27

Standout Tracks:RUSH, GET BY, SHOCK BODY, GUN MUSIC, WAITIN FOR THE DJ, GUERILLA MONSOON RAP(underrated matchup with Black Thought and Pharoah Monche), PUT IT IN THE AIR(crazy plus I didnt see this collabo coming), THE PROUD(the deepest song on here), STAND TO THE SIDE, GOOD TO YOU etc. Filler: Talk to you(too pop sounding) and Joy. Bottom Line: Talib Kweli's Quality is one of those albums that you automatically put in the classic category(right along Little Brother's The Minstrel Show). The Production was great and Talib's rhymes are as sharp as they've ever been. A worthwhile purchase for a worthwhile album.

Absolutly Quality.......2006-07-22

I don't write alot of reviews. But you guys really should check this album. This album can be reviewed in one word: Great! The production, lyrics, flow are all great.

This album rates with the true hiphop classics like:

Nas - Illmatic
Dr Dre - The Chronic
Dr Dre - 2001
Mobb Deep - Hell On Earth
Tupac - Me Against the world
Snoop Dogg - Doggystyle

So get yourself a copy very fast!!

Album Highlights: Almost every song is great!

Average customer rating: Not the worst album in 2003! The Beautiful Struggle Kweli This Is A Good Album (3.5 stars) Kweli needs better production

The Beautiful Struggle Talib Kweli Manufacturer: Rawkus / Umgd ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Experimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Quality The New Danger Black Star Reflection Eternal/Train of Thought Right About Now ASIN: B0002XL22U Release Date: 2004-09-28

Tracks:

1. Going Hard
2. Back Up Offa Me
3. Broken Glass
4. We Know
5. A Game
6. I Try
7. Around My Way
8. We Got The Beat
9. Work It Out
10. Ghetto Snow
11. Black Girl Pain
12. Never Been In Love
13. Beautiful Struggle

Amazon.com

Talib Kweli's sophomore solo album arrives with considerable fear that his mainstream aspirations may turn off longtime fans (ah, the curse of the conscious rapper). However, the album isn't as crassly commercial as some might complain. To be sure, The Beautiful Struggle could stand more consistency, and the album's production is a primary liability: songs like "A Game" and "Going Hard" weakly ape current fads while "Around My Way" inadvisably interpolates the Police's "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic." That said, the balance of the album still holds up to scrutiny. Kweli might cut a party track ("We Got the Beat") and puff up his street cred ("Back Up Offa Me"), but much of The Beautiful Struggle articulates itself with emotion and intellect: "I Try," "Ghetto Snow," and "Black Girl Pain," for example. Like Kweli's debut Quality, this follow-up falls considerably short of classic status, but it still suggests some moves in a promising direction. --Oliver Wang

Customer Reviews:

Not the worst album in 2003!.......2006-09-19

Standout tracks: GOING HARD, BACK UP OFFA ME, BROKEN GLASS, WE KNOW, I TRY, AROUND MY WAY, WE GOT THE BEAT,GHETTO SHOW and THE BEAUTIFUL STRUGGLE. Filler: A Game(what this song sounds like),Work it out(Talib rappin offbeat big nono!), Black girl pain(why didnt this collabo work?), Never been in love(too R&Bish for a Talib song). This album might not be better than QUALITY but it is not a bad follow up. As for you reviewers that nominated this album as the worst album in 2003 I hope your opinions arent heavily influenced by cheap ragazines like The Sauce, XXLAME, Jive and GQ(gayqueer). Because as far as they are concerned anything that comes out of slavery records/aftermath is hip hop in its truest form.

The Beautiful Struggle.......2006-08-01

Many people converse about who the greatest rapper of all time is, and it often times leads to a heated arguement, and although I wouldn't give Kweli that title, he is definitely one of the greatest emcees in the music industry. With "The Beautiful Struggle", Kweli never falls short lyrically. Every song must have taken Kweli some time to write, because he does not half do any of his versus. Though the production is rather weak on this LP, Kweli makes up for it with his lyrical talent.

"Going Hard" is a good track, and Kweli's lyrics are some of the best one this CD. The production is alright, but nothing to remember. On this song he said one of this best lines: "Terrosits with etiquette who vote and kill their president, their capacity for evil so evident and prevelant." "I Try" and "Never Been in Love" are the two songs that were released from this album. They were well received from listeners because they received a good amount of airplay. With "We Got the Beat", Kweli tries but fails to be different. This song is too far out of his element. They tried to create a rock feel with this track, and the result is not good. Even Kweli's creative lyrics couldn't save this bad track. John Legend adds his magic touch to "Around My Way" and does a great job with the chorus and the piano arrangement. This is easily one of the strongest songs on the album. Kweli talks about the events that transpire around his way. "Black Girl Pain" is another good track. Kweli talks about his love for his children, and he also speaks on the struggles black women are oppressed with. The lyrics are compelling.

I enjoyrf listening to this album, but I enjoyed the lyrics more than anything because they stole the show. After listening to his album in its entirety, it is evident that he has lots of talent. I recommend this album to rap fans.

Mikeisha's Top 5
1. A Game
2. Never Been In Love
3. Beautiful Struggle
4. Ghetto Show
5. Black Girl Pain

Kweli.......2006-06-15

Kweli is hot he raps about life with amazing flows and lyrics he speaks the truth unlike the mainly overated rappers in the game top album

This Is A Good Album (3.5 stars).......2006-06-04

Talib Kweli, a conscious MC with respect from both underground and mainstream Hip-Hop heads, released his third solo album, "The Beautiful Struggle", in 2004. Talib created two masterpieces early in his career. One was "Black Star", an album he made with fellow emcee Mos Def (they as a duo were also called Black Star). The other was called "Reflection Eternal/Train of Thought", an album he made with producer Hi-Tek. Both of these records are considered classics among many heads, and also raised expectations very high for Kweli. He dropped his second solo, entitled "Quality", in late 2002. This included the Kanye West produced "Get By". The album wasn't exactly up to par with Reflection Eternal, but solid nonetheless. Now let's enter The Beautiful Struggle. Due to the expectations that were set upon Talib after his first two offerings, this album fell flat to many fans. However, I believe if you stripped away both Black Star and Reflection Eternal from his catalogue, this album would seem a dope follow up to Quality, as it's not nearly as bad as some make it out to be (in some cases though, it's not as good as some make it seem either).

The album starts out strong with "Going Hard". It's got a nice beat and the lyrics are on point. The next track, "Back Up Offa Me", is a little bland and falls under skip material for me. "Broken Glass" tells a nice story about a girl who makes bad choices and her life begins to spiral downward. The song is produced by The Neptunes, but to be honest, I don't think the beat fits the track very well. The cut is still listenable though. "We Know" is a chilled out cut featuring Faith Evans. Faith drops a nice chorus and the track is above-average at best. "A Game" is a failed attempt at commercialism. The production by Antwan "Amadeus" Thompson is rather weak and sounds somewhat futuristic. "I Try", produced by no other than Kanye West, was the first single off the album. The beat sounds almost just like "Get By" (which kind of makes sense, since they both bare the same producer). Mary J. Blige holds it down and Kweli doesn't disappoint on this cut. "Around My Way" is a strong cut with great lyrics backed with a nice beat by Charlemagne. R&B star John Legend provides a nice hook as well. "We Got the Beat" comes off as a party track and it should've been left off the album. "Work It Out" is also skip material to me. Both of these tracks make it seem like Talib tried just a little too hard to gain commercial appeal.

However, after those two tracks, the album does not hit another low point. The last four tracks are very strong. They start with "Ghetto Show", a collaboration with Common and Anthony Hamilton. It's a very chilled out cut, and Common and Talib both come correct with their verses and Anthony Hamilton gives an excellent chorus. The next song, "Black Girl Pain", is a very strong ode to black woman across the nation. The hook alone is enough to make me listen.The beat by Dirty Swift and Bruce Waynne is great, and Jean Grae drops in to deliver a great verse also. This is probably my favorite song on the entire album. The next track is probably my second favorite. "Never Been in Love" is almost perfect in every sense of the word. I love the beat by Just Blaze. The chorus is very catchy and the lyrics are on point as well. You can't go wrong with this cut. "Beautiful Struggle", the last song on the album, ends it on a strong note. It's got a nice chorus, and the beat by Hi-Tek is nice, and just like many other songs, Kweli's lyrics are great.

So, I don't see how anyone can call this a bad effort by Talib. Yes, he made attempts at going commercial alot on the album (failed attempts). Yes, it's not as strong as Black Star or Reflection Eternal, but what it is is a solid follow-up to Quality. Comparing this to other albums that came out around this time, or even albums coming out lately would be pointless, as this still blows many albums right out of the water. It has many solid tracks; people just tend to overlook that because of the gems he dropped with Mos Def and Hi-Tek. This album is still good. It does have it's mishaps, but many records do. If you're a fan of Kweli, but hesitant to pick this up for some of the negative reviews it has received, go ahead and pick it up. It's not that bad, but it's not classic material either. I would also recommend Talib's latest, "Right About Now" as well. 3.5 stars.

Kweli needs better production.......2006-04-11

It's not bad production, it's just a little to plastic and bumpin for it's own good, he is such a phenomenal emcee he deserves nothing but the best...Yes there are some overtly catchy party anthems, somewhat watering down his ferociousness, but his overall content is still the only rap that cuts through emotionally over all others....If only more people would appreciate his message..

Average customer rating: Quintessential... 4.5, only because of the length, 5 for overall rating Not Bad...for a FREE release

Liberation Talib Kweli & Madlib ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Finding Forever True Magic Uncommonly Nasty Ruff Draft Talib Kweli:Brooklyn Tennessee (Mixtape) ASIN: B000O3QSF4

Customer Reviews:

Quintessential..........2007-04-04

If you haven't gotten this album or if you're unsure if you'll like it, don't be! Kweli is a quintessential part of hip hop and if you're a hip hop head and you don't get this now you'll be paying double for it later. Madlib's beats and kweli's impeccable delivery and punchlines are a force to be recognized. Madlib is a producer I think people have been overlooking for a while, but he made a serious statement on this cd. He's the best kind of producer, the one that has a unique style and can tailor that style to his artist. So if you buy this you should definately purchase his other cds. Add to that the fact that Kweli is one of those great rappers that only gets better with time and buying this cd becomes an investment. As Kweli said, "the era of the bullsh^t is over."

4.5, only because of the length, 5 for overall rating.......2007-03-31

This colab with madlib was a great to listen too. I was lucky enough to get it at the cheaper price. I feel that Ta and Lib are an interesting match and I think they should do future projects. The production on this album is unique and innovative, the lyrics powerful. My only problem with this is that it is meant to be a treat to their fans and was made very short in length. To me the songs are not "rushed"... (it is an "EP" release, with only 9 tracks.)
Also I wish Lib would have done alittle MC'ing with Ta. I know some say this is not his strong area, but I disagree, Lib mc'ing would have added alittle flair to this colab, Ta could have been maybe Quas's little cousin???!!!. This will be a rare one so get it.

Not Bad...for a FREE release.......2007-03-12

This album was released on New Years Eve of 2007, available only as an internet-only download to visitors of the Stone's Throw record label website. It contains 9 tracks:

1. The Show
2. Funny Money
3. Time Is Right
4. Engine Runnin' (featuring Consequence)
5. Over the Counter
6. The Function (featuring Strong Arm Steady)
7. Happy Home (featuring Candice Anderson)
8. Soul Music (featuring Res)
9. What Can I Do

I would say about half of these tracks hit their mark, while the other half feels a bit rushed or, and I hate to say this, under-produced.

What you will get: a few nice new rhymes from Kweli, beats from Madlib

What you don't get: a true "collaboration" that feels like both artists are on the same page. I love both artists individually, but there's a little something off here.

The standouts are "The Show" "Time is Right" "Engine Running" and "What Can I Do?"

Are four tracks worth $20? Its up to you.

Average customer rating: Talib drops his best work since his debut RIGHT ABOUT NOW!! Masterpiece from Kweli -- Nothing but the Best Flash Gordon & Roll Off Me - WTF??? Decent Mix CD not bad

Right About Now Talib Kweli Manufacturer: Koch Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Experimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Beautiful Struggle Quality Home Grown! The Beginner's Guide to Understanding the Roots, Vol. 1 Reflection Eternal/Train of Thought True Magic ASIN: B000BKCXQI Release Date: 2005-11-22

Tracks:

1. Right About Now
2. Drugs, Basketball & Rap
3. Who Got It
4. Fly That Knot
5. Ms. Hill
6. Flash Gordon
7. Supreme Supreme
8. The Beast
9. Roll Off Me
10. Rock On
11. Where You Gonna Run
12. Two & Two

Album Description

Critically acclaimed and respected by hardcore hip-hop fans and MC's alike, Brooklyn native Talib Kweli has established industry standards for lyrical prowess and dexterity his entire career. A member of legendary groups Black Star and Reflection Eternal as well as a solo artist, Talib Kweli undoubtedly ranks highly among the most respected MCs in the game.

Customer Reviews:

Talib drops his best work since his debut RIGHT ABOUT NOW!!.......2007-02-23

I have to say I was very suprised at the quality of this album. After his SLIGHTLY average last album this was a huge leap forward in the right direction. The tracks are all consistently tight with great lyrics and nice production. Lyrics-wise there's very few that spit more intelligent or insightful rhymes in the game right now. Also the amount of producers used actually add to the flavour of the project rather than take away from it through a lack of cohesion. All the joints sound so different yet Talib compliments every last one of them perfectly. Apart from "Ms. Hill", which borders on stalker material and sounds totally unnecessary on this or any hiphop album, the rest is exciting, positive, intelligent, thought-provoking and just straight forward hard skilled hiphop from one of the best mc's of his generation. It starts off with the autobiograpical "Right About Now" which tells the tale of his career so far, followed by "Drugs, Basketball & Rap" which features Phil Da Agony and Planet Asia where all 3 mcs rip the track to shreads. Next is "Who Got It" and "Fly That Knot" featuring MF Doom. Both of these joints are top notch where Talib spits heat and his collabo with MF Doom is off the chain. "Ms. Hill", Ive already commented on so I'll move on. "Flash Gordon" and "Supreme Supreme" featuring Mos Def are two uptempo joints that really lift the album. "Supreme Supreme" was previously on his "A Beautiful Struggle" album as a bonus track and I dug it then too. "The Beast" featuring Papoose is a decent track where Talib comes out on top over a nice head nodding beat. "Roll Off Me" is probably the 2nd best track here after "Right About Now". Its a beautiful jazzy J-Dilla produced gem that Talib sounds sublime on. Both "Rock On" and "Where You Gonna Run" featuring Jean Grae are excellent where blessing the mic is the key element on both tracks. The album ends with the mellow "Two & Two" where Talib laments about all things important to him for over 5mins. The one thing I loved about this "mixtape" was that its not like one. There's no annoying DJ screaming his own name over the joints or cutting them short so he can big up himself after 1+half mins of each track. Its strictly done as a normal album, full songs with no interuptions. In my opinion I think this was his best work since his Reflection Eternal and BlackStar days. Excellent return to form from the thinking fans mc.

Masterpiece from Kweli -- Nothing but the Best.......2007-01-05

Kweli has consistently provided real hip hop fans with real hip hop music. His music is inspirational, enthusiastic, intelligent and not what you ordinarily hear on the so called hip hop radio stations--which is unfortunate because the masses are being denied a chance to experience real hip hop in its purest form. Kweli is an artist with a vision who eloquently expresses it through music. I recommend all of his CD's but only for the real hip hop fans--you won't hear about drug sales or bling in his music. If you're ready for the deeper meaning, definately pick up anything Kweli has put out.

Flash Gordon & Roll Off Me - WTF???.......2006-11-28

Come on Kwe. Other tracks on this album range from aight to good, a definite improvement from Beautiful Struggle but definately not up to par w/Black Star & Reflection Eternal or even Quality

Decent Mix CD.......2006-09-10

This CD is really a mixtape when you look at it. As with all mixtapes, the beats aren't as good as an actual CD( But what do I know about beats? I actually like Nas' new beats). Talib comes correct for the most part, but the guy can't avoid spitting a wack bar or two. That's alright, since there are MC's out there who would kill to say a weak bar than have a weak song(cough lloyd banks cough). Overall this is a good CD to tide you over until Talib's new CD comes out. When you pick up Kweli's new album, be sure to look out for Mos Def's new album and Nas' new album to hit in November( That's a heads up since Def Jam stopped promoting their best people. Method Man dropped and I've had people cuss me out for not telling them sooner.)

not bad .......2006-07-06

well i seen this cd in the store and thought i would try it out. so i spent my 15 dollors on him and i would have to say its good. the first two songs i really like are ms. hill and drugs, basketball, rap. those are good songs. so i would have to say go and get this cd.

Average customer rating: More From Talib This Mixtape is better than half the albums of the year!!! kweli is one of the best ever

Talib Kweli presents The Beautiful Mix CD: Hosted by Dave Chappelle [Mixtape] ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Similar Items: Talib Kweli The Beautiful Mix Tape Vol. 2 The Struggle Continues Mixtape CD Mos Def The Dangerous Mix (MIXTAPE) Talib Kweli:Brooklyn Tennessee (Mixtape) Right About Now Reflection Eternal/Train of Thought ASIN: B0006TIJNA

Product Description

Just as the name suggests, this is a simply beautiful mixtape, with featured verses from some of hip hop's biggest lyrical monsters including, Busta Rhymes, Kanye West, Styles P, Black Thought of The Roots, Common, and many more! Some said that Talib's last album disappointed, but if that's the case he was just holdin' out the best for this mixtape! No annoying DJs yelling another FAT SHOUT out to their homies, just straight-forward lyrics from some of the best who ever did it, and a little comic relief from our man Dave Chappelle, hosting the show as none other than the late great Rick James (R.I.P.). Fans of Talib, or just great hip hop in general, don't miss out on this mixtape classic!

Customer Reviews:

More From Talib.......2006-10-24

Talib Kweli is the new face of rap along with enlightened rappers like mos def, his collaborator on Blackstar, and others like Brother Ali, Atmosphere. Although this may not be the best work by him, and i would not reccomend this as a place to start your Talib Kweli experience, it is a necisarry addition to any true fan.

There are definatly a handful of worthy tracks on this mixtape, and it is one of the best mixtapes ever released. Common, Kanye and Ludacris all deliver to create a strong, if not cohesive album

This Mixtape is better than half the albums of the year!!!.......2005-04-21

Talib has been critized on his last album for its so called lack of quality. Well I have one thing to say. MAYBE IF PEOPLE WERNT DOWNLOADING HIS MUSIC BEFORE THE ALBUM CAME OUT, SOME OF THE TRACKS OFF THIS MIXTAPE WOULD BE ON HIS ALBUM. I really enjoyed his last album but I have to say that if you are a Talib Kweli fan and you were disappointed by his last release then you need to check out this mixtape.

Track list:

1- Rick James Intro (Dave Chappelle)
2- Move Back
3- Buck Em' Down feat Styles P
4- Get Em feat Paul Cain & Fabolous
5- Wack N!gg@$ feat Kanye West, Common, & Consequence
6- Phoenix feat Jean Grae
7- Conversation feat Busta Rhymes
8- Ghetto Love feat. Free
9- Walk With Me feat Shawn Pen
10- B.D.K. feat Black Thought & Game
11- Shame feat Self Scientific, Planet Asia, & Self Scientific
12- Lonely People feat LaToiya Williams
13- 7:30 feat Res

This by far is the strongest mixtape I have heard from any artist. All fans of Talib Kweli need to check this out. Its hard to find... if you cant get it from here try Ebay or some mixtape sites.

(also pick up Talib Kweli's The Beautiful Mixtape 2 the struggle continues)

kweli is one of the best ever.......2005-02-12

this mixtape is beautiful. kweli is in unusuual company (game, fabolous) but it is not a tilt for commercial acceptnce. if you want decent hip hop get this.

peace
ringleader

Average customer rating: no A 1998 Best Good....but you people are overrating this one of the best hip hop albums ever Underground Rap > All

Black Star Black Star , Mos Def , and Talib Kweli Manufacturer: Priority Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD East Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Pop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Reflection Eternal/Train of Thought Playin' Foolz They Liked You Better When You Were Dead RBG: Revolutionary But Gangsta One Hundred Flowers by Georgia O'Keeffe ASIN: B00000IADP Release Date: 1999-02-19

Tracks:

1. Intro
2. Astronomy (8th Light)
3. Definition
4. RE: Definition
5. Children's Story
6. Brown Skin Lady
7. B Boys Wil B Boys
8. K.O.S (Determination)
9. Hater Players
10. Yo Yeah
11. Respiration
12. Thieves In The Night
13. Twice Inna Lifetime

Amazon.com's Best of 1998

They're not on every soundtrack, and they aren't featured guests on every crossover hit. That's OK. Mos Def & Talib Kweli are leaders of a different school; though they've got beats by the pound and the lyrical chops to pull off an (updated) cover of Slick Rick's classic "Children's Story," Black Star proffers a more philosophical take on hip-hop. Years from now this album, much like the Freestyle Fellowship's Innercity Griots, will still be revered. --Randy Silver

Amazon.com

Even in hip-hop--a genre famous for auspicious debuts--Black Star, the first album from the team of Mos Def and Talib Kweli, stands out. It's not just because these guys know their history (an update of Slick Rick's classic "Children's Story," a fine jack of BDP's "The P Is Free" on "Definition," and shout-outs to 2Pac, Biggie, and the Rock Steady Crew) and have paid their dues. Mos Def had been bouncing around the Native Tongues family for years, and both he and Kweli are featured on the Soundbombing and Lyricist Lounge albums. No, Black Star stands out simply because it's a great album, an intelligent, progressive, and funky piece of work that showcases two great MCs, both of whom have internalized the best parts of Guru, Rakim, and Q-Tip. The album also features strong production from Shawn J. Period and DJ Hi-Tek (Kweli's partner in Reflection Eternal). --Randy Silver

Album Details

Japanese Release featuring a Bonus Track: "Waiting for You".

Customer Reviews:

no.......2006-09-23

if ur a fan of old school dont buy this, why? cus u wont like it.

A 1998 Best.......2006-03-07

I have not heard a better rap album than this in the eyar 1998 or the years to come after. This album surely stands there with Biggie, Nas, and Wu-Tang. Some of my favorite songs may actually include the album. Surely, Talib stands out as the better rapper in comparison to Mos Def. Not to say Mos Def is bad, he is great, but Talib side-by-side is much better. The album is intelligent and moving. My favorite-favorites are:
Definition
Respiration
Thieves in the Night
Twice Inna Lifetime

Good....but you people are overrating this.......2006-02-26

This is a good album by 2 of the best mc's of our time, but to say its the greatest album ever made is definitly far feched, this maybe was one of the best of 1998.

MOS DEF's BLACK ON BOTH SIDES IS DEFINITLY BETTER!!!

one of the best hip hop albums ever.......2006-02-24

Mos Def is great, and this album also captures Kweli at his finest (he has declined recently but on here: fire). Really, every song bangs, the styles vary greatly and the execution is flawless throughout. Also, if you can find the version with liner notes, grab it because it's rare

Underground Rap > All.......2004-12-13

Classic. True Hip Hop. Best Hip Hop album of all the time. I liked every track. Talib Kweli is one of the best lyricists of all time and Mos Def has one of the tightest flows I've seen. "Thieves In The Night" is my favorite song of all time. "Respiration" (feat. Common) & "Twice Inna Lifetime" (feat. Jane Doe, Wordsworth & Punchline) are the best collaborations in Hip Hop history. "Hater Players" is pretty funny. Get this album, it has everything, it owns all of Hip Hop. Underground Rap owns all. Also try getting Talib Kweli's "The Beautiful Struggle" & Mos Def's "The New Danger", tight albums. And, look for Wordsworth's "Mirror Music"; he came on tight on "Twice Inna Lifetime".

Average customer rating:

Liberation Talib Kweli & Madlib Manufacturer: Blacksmith ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Desire The Return of the Magnificent Finding Forever Ruff Draft Talib Kweli The Beautiful Mix Tape Vol. 2 The Struggle Continues Mixtape CD ASIN: B000ODMVEG Release Date: 2007-03-20

Album Description

This was a free download issued by the label late last year and was so popular that Blacksmith decided to issue it as an official CD album! 1 The Show 2 Funny Money 3 Time Is Right 4 Engine Runnin (f. Consequence) 5 Over The Counter 6 The Function (f. Strong Arm Steady) 7 Happy Home (f. Candice Anderson) 8 Soul Music 9 What Can I Do

Rock Music:

1. L' Ecole du Micro D'Argent [Import]
2. L' Essentiel [Import]
3. La Good Life [Import]
4. Les 100 Plus Belles Chansons D'yves Montand [Import]
5. Lore
6. Lotus [Import]
7. Ma Jeunesse Fout Le Camp [Import]
8. Mala
9. Manuel & His Music from the Mountains [Import]
10. Meeting Pool

Rock Music

rock music

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