Hip Hop Roots

Track Listings
1. It's Just Begun - The Jimmy Castor Bunch
2. Big Beat - Billy Squier
3. Think (About It) - Lyn Collins,
4. Take Me to the Mardi Gras
5. Fame - David Bowie
6. Happy Music - The Blackbyrds
7. Express Yourself - Charles Wright
8. Bra - Cymande
9. Mary, Mary - The Monkees
10. Let a Woman Be a Woman (Let a Man Be a Man)
11. Give It Up or Turnit a Loose - James Brown
12. UFO - ESG

Hip Hop Roots,Various Artists,Tommy Boy,Funk,Hip-Hop,Jazz-Funk,Pop,Pop/Rock,Rap,Rap & Hip-Hop,Soul,V/a Compilations

Hip Hop Roots

Hip Hop Roots
Game Theory
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Game Theory Review
  • The Roots' darkest offering to date.
  • 3.5 stars. not good enough for the roots
  • Lyrics
  • Great album for non-hip-hop-fans
 Game Theory
The Roots
Manufacturer: Def Jam
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Jazz | Styles | Music
Gangsta & HardcoreGangsta & Hardcore | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Experimental RapExperimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Pop RapPop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Idlewild
  2. Food and Liquor
  3. Feedback
  4. True Magic
  5. Things Fall Apart

ASIN: B000GPIPJC
Release Date: 2006-08-29

Tracks:

  1. Dilltastic Vol Won(derful)
  2. False Media
  3. Game Theory
  4. Don't Feel Right
  5. In The Music
  6. Take It There
  7. Baby
  8. Here I Come
  9. Long Time
  10. Livin' In A New World
  11. Clock With No Hands
  12. Atonement
  13. Can't Stop This

Amazon.com

Despite their signing to Def Jam, on Game Theory the Roots head in a direction opposite from all the trendy, commercial formulas that the label has pioneered. This is as intensely a "Roots album" as anything they've put out, the rightful sequel to their brilliant, creative Phrenology (unlike their last album, the off-balance Tipping Point. Game Theory is a dark and brooding affair, not just in Black Thought's foreboding lyricism but also in its musical textures. There's a layer of melancholia running beneath nearly every song, whether in the heavy thump of "In the Music" or the frenetic verve of "Here I Come." Track-for-track, this isn't The Roots' most scintillating collection of songs, but listened to from end-to-end, it's actually a remarkable achievement in album-making. Every song builds into the next one, and those willing to experience Game Theory as a 47-minute suite of 13 songs will be richly rewarded by how precisely the whole puzzle fits together. --Oliver Wang

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Game Theory Review.......2007-07-16

I really enjoyed listening to this album from the minute I put it in. The songs are great because they have a message and they have real musical quality to them. What I mean to say by that is that there are actual melodies to the songs as opposed to just beats, which makes this album so much more than just another hip-hop album. It has definitely become one of my favorite albums in the month that I have owned it. On the downside, sometimes the songs drag on just a bit. Overall though, this album is really great.

5 out of 5 stars The Roots' darkest offering to date........2007-06-19

Def Jam has really brought themselves back to the forefront of hip-hop over the last two years. While a lot of people criticize President Carter, like the artists he push or not, albums from the label over the last two years have been some of the finest offerings in commercial hip-hop. Rarely do you see a hip-hop label as diverse as Def Jam today; featuring artists as different Nas, Jay-Z, Kanye West, Juelz Santana, Rick Ross, Young Jeezy, Fabolous, Beanie Sigel, Lady Sovereign, Ghostface, Method Man, Redman, Joe Budden, and numerous others. One of the acts Jay-Z signed during his presidency is none other than The Roots, a group that has been cherished among the hip-hop community for over a decade. The Illadelph group has brought raw hip-hop dope to the game for years, and their most recent offering as of this writing, Game Theory, is one of their finest.

Game Theory is significantly darker than the Roots' previous albums. Black Thought, who has always been a highly talented emcee, has never really expressed the more melancholic side of his mind. As someone who had his parents murdered as a child, Thought's lack of introspection on previous albums was a bit dissapointing. On Game Theory, Black Thought breaks away from his battle-rapper beginnings, and builds himself into more of an anti-hero of hip-hop. Not an anti-hero in the sense that he's the bad guy everyone wants to cheer for, but like the fictious Bruce Wayne, Black Thought has become a freedom fighter who lurks in the darkness, only emerging to protect the lives around him.

To accompany this new Black Thought, The Roots crew changes up their musical stylings a bit as well. While the jazz influences are still strong, and the band still creates some stunning melodies, the music itself is significantly more dramatic in tone. Adding haunting choruses on tracks such as Don't Feel Right and Clock With No Hands certainly adds something to the atmosphere this album creates, and the beautiful voices singing on these respective tracks certainly raise the bar even higher. The pure hip-hop soul of tracks like Long Time featuring the highly promising Peedi Crakk, or the Radiohead-sampling Atonement are also more highlights of a virtually flawless album.

Game Theory was not only one of the best hip-hop albums of 2006, but it will also be remembered for years beyond most modern hip-hop albums' sell-by-dates. Definitely worth checking out if you haven't already.

3 out of 5 stars 3.5 stars. not good enough for the roots.......2007-05-22

the roots are the most consistant and innovative rap group to date. blackthought has no equal on the mic and each time they experiment with new sounds, it works. nonetheless, and i may be in the minority, but 'game theory' just isnt that good. ive had it since it came out and i still cant really get into it. malik b makes a long-awaited comeback, but seems to have lost a step. same with dice raw. blackthought is message-rapping here a lot more than usual, at the expense of battle-rapping. the music is good because the roots are excellent, but none of the beats really move me except for the first half of 'take it there'. its a worthwhile purchase though, because any roots release will be.

5 out of 5 stars Lyrics.......2007-05-02

"He said James, you better come out with your hands up-we got you surrounded-I'm in the back changin' my outfit-he said Blake, we gon' send the housing-I said WAIT-Here I come-Here I come-Here I come You boys get ready-Here I come. Black Thought needs to take over Hip Hop. Nas lost it, Jay is tryin' to become Mr. Knowles and the rest of these commercial cats need to get there diplomas. As 'Pac said "They got the juice now!"

5 out of 5 stars Great album for non-hip-hop-fans.......2007-04-03

I'm not really a fan of hip-hop, but I REALLY like this album. While the rest of hip-hop seems more like slapstick comedy to me, this album is clever and intense, at times aggressive, at times ironically understated. It's art. And 'nary a mention about bitches, ho's, pimps or gangstas (but still not something I'll be playing for my kids anytime soon, due to the dark subject matter and coarse language). Best of all, Game Theory isn't just a collection of songs, it's an ALBUM. All the songs flow into each other, so you can listen to it from start to finish -- almost like one continuous 45 minute song. This is not just a great hip-hop album, this is a great album period.
Things Fall Apart
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Poetic
  • Excellence
  • One of the greatest hip hop albums ever
  • perfect
  • Good album not as good as Illadelphi or do you want more though
 Things Fall Apart
The Roots
Manufacturer: Mca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Jazz | Styles | Music
East CoastEast Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Experimental RapExperimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Pop RapPop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
JazzJazz | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Rap & Hip-HopRap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
All Blowout MusicAll Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
More Titles at Least 25% OffMore Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Phrenology
  2. Illadelph Halflife
  3. Do You Want More?!!!??!
  4. Black Star
  5. The Tipping Point

ASIN: B00000I5JL
Release Date: 1999-02-23

Tracks:

  1. Act Won...Things Fall Apart
  2. Table Of Contents (Parts 1 & 2)
  3. The Next Movement (ft. DJ Jazzy Jeff)
  4. Step Into The Realm
  5. The Spark
  6. Dynamite!
  7. Without A Doubt
  8. Ain't Sayin' Nothin' New
  9. Double Trouble
  10. Act Too...The Love Of My Life
  11. 100% Dundee
  12. Diedre Vs. Dice
  13. Adrenaline
  14. 3rd Act: ? Vs. Scratch 2...Electric Boogaloo
  15. You Got Me
  16. You Don't See Us
  17. Return To Innocence Lost
  18. Act Fore...The End?

Amazon.com's Best of 1999

They've long been hip-hop's best band, for whatever that's worth, and in their amazing live shows they've shown an ability to pay homage to the past and look to the future--all while living firmly in the now. But on Things Fall Apart, the Roots finally pull their promise and ability together, and the world's started to pay attention. --Randy Silver

Amazon.com

Very few hip-hop groups make it to their fourth full-length recording, and perhaps only the Roots have made it to that level while still ascending. Although lyrical and musical vision is sorely lacking from most hip-hop (as Puff and Master P have proved, vision isn't necessary to bum-rush the mainstream goldmine), such qualities are cornerstones of the Roots' music. Their second recording, 1995's Do You Want More?!!!??!, and its follow-up, 1996's Illadelph Halflife, intelligently linked hip-hop to its musical forebears funk and jazz, and their lyrics provided unique, postnationalist hip-hop critiques. On Things Fall Apart (named for the Chinua Achebe novel) the sextet takes on a more somber tone, but at no cost to their musical innovations. "If we had to depend on black people to eat, we'd starve to death," says Denzel Washington, sampled from Mo' Better Blues, at the outset of the recording. It's not self-pity--rather, the group frequently returns to the theme of how many African Americans confuse uniformity with unity. Musically, the group is at its best with guests like Mos Def and Talib Kweli from Black Star contributing some old-school fun and technique to "Double Trouble." Erykah Badu's supple vocals on "You Got Me" are offset by innovative percussion, including an organically developed jungle beat. At a point when most rappers are running on fumes, the Roots are synthesizing new ideas. --Martin Johnson

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Poetic.......2007-06-27

A very profound cd. "The Roots" have a very poetic way of putting such harsh situations. They allow you to open your mind up to new ways of thinking, become more conscious. I recommend buying "The Roots" entire compilation.

5 out of 5 stars Excellence.......2006-11-16

More of the same top-shelf, top-notch, A-list work from THE band in Hip-Hop. Album highlights are J Dilla's production (Dynamite!), the guest appearances of Common (Act Too), and Mos Def (Double Trouble) in additon to ?uestlove and Co's usually slammin' instrumental work. Even the nod to fellow Philly rapper Schooly D on 'Without a Doubt' is is stellar. It's almost as if these guys can do no wrong. No matter what you wanna call their music, they are ALWAYS 100% Hip-Hop with phat beats and dope rhymes. Yet another must-have.

5 out of 5 stars One of the greatest hip hop albums ever.......2006-09-09

Just when I was getting very discouraged about hip hop taking a huge turn to the pop garbage can after the deaths of 2-Pac and Biggie, this album comes along and renews my faith in hip hop. Dudes, this album is just amazing. The creativity and skill are unmatched. The songs are original and catchy and the beat are pure sickness. This album has dark songs (Step Into The Realm) upbeat songs (Dynamite!), beautiful songs (You Got Me), hard songs (100% Dundee), and songs that are just plain the bomb (Double Trouble). GET THIS ALBUM, IT'S SUPER-SICK.

5 out of 5 stars perfect.......2006-08-13

the roots don't get the respect they deserve. I don't know why, since they're by far the most consistent group in hip-hop (a title gang starr formerly held, but only releasing one album since "moment of truth" took that title away from them). they make all kinds of hip-hop, from harder songs ("the next movement") to mellow songs ("act too: love of my life") to grammy award winners ("you got me"). but no matter how good of a lyricist is and how amazing of a musician ?uestlove is, the roots simply do not get the respect they deserve. even though they churned out eve and scott storch these guys can't go platinum.

it's sort of depressing that one of the greatest groups in hip-hop will never get the respect they deserve (kind of like how nas's illmatic didn't go platinum for years and three 6 mafia went unnoticed until last year). but if you want to listen to something that you can rock for years and never get tired of, pick up this album. it's the roots' best (though "illadelph halflife" is arugably just as good), with a grammy award to prove it. don't miss out on good hip-hop, this album will prove to you why this art form is so popular.

4 out of 5 stars Good album not as good as Illadelphi or do you want more though.......2006-07-17

I'm going to be critical here because all the people that review tend to be fans of the album their reviewing. I've got all the roots albums and can say that this is middle of the road. I would say it is the first album of the modern roots phase where their style differs by creating a modern but at the same time retro feel with the bottles and bells sampling. "Dynamite", "Ain't sayin' nothin new", "love of my life" and "you got me" are all chilled and great songs but don't flow like tracks such as "Episodes" or "Proceed" on previous albums. If you like cutting edge 1999 hip hop then you will love this. If you don't then you'll still like it if you open your eyes to it.
Phrenology
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • I love this album
  • Caught up in a....mix up of....Phrenology.
  • Excellence ... AGAIN!
  • The Roots are pretty good
  • Though @ Work and Rollin Wit Heat
 Phrenology
Roots , and The Roots
Manufacturer: Mca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

East CoastEast Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Experimental RapExperimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Pop RapPop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Rap & Hip-HopRap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
All Blowout MusicAll Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
More Titles at Least 25% OffMore Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Things Fall Apart
  2. The Tipping Point
  3. Illadelph Halflife
  4. Game Theory
  5. Do You Want More?!!!??!

ASIN: B00007B9DP
Release Date: 2002-11-26

Tracks:

  1. Phrentrow
  2. Rock You
  3. Sacrifice (feat. Nelly Furtado)
  4. Rolling With Heat (feat. Talib Kweli)
  5. WAOK Roll Call
  6. Thought At Work
  7. The Seed 2.0 (feat. Cody Chestnutt)
  8. Break You Off (feat. Musiq)
  9. Water
  10. Quills
  11. Pussy Galore
  12. Complexity (feat. Jill Scott)
  13. Something In The Way Of Things [In Town] (feat. Amiri Baraka)

Amazon.com

If you were wondering what the heck phrenology means, the Roots wouldn't have it any other way. Hip-hop's hardest-working live band continues where they left off with Things Fall Apart, forcing listeners to think outside of the Hot 97 FM box--or just plain think. On "Thought at Work," lead emcee Black Thought--the most criminally underrated wordsmith of his time--weaves captivating flows over a neck-snapping break beat, while on "Water" he boldly addresses the controversy surrounding his partner-in-rhyme Malik B's alleged substance abuse. While collaborations with Nelly Furtado ("Sacrifice") and Talib Kweli ("Rhymes and Ammo") read much better on paper than they sound, the catchy, up-tempo call-and-response routine utilized by the crew on the latter song will amp up Roots nonbelievers. As a bonus, Jill Scott's dreamy falsetto refrain hammers home some finer points about love on "Complexity." --Dalton Higgins

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars I love this album.......2007-07-27

Had it, lost it, bought it again, still love it just as much as I did originally.

3 out of 5 stars Caught up in a....mix up of....Phrenology........2007-01-23

This album by The Roots is mix bag of songs. I totally like it when artists do different stuff and keep tight. Tracks like Quills and Break You Off (Musiq) keep it real and have tha groove. But sadly this album goes in a mix of....uhm $#%@. Why would they do something like Sacrifice(Nelly Furtado= weak artist) and a crappy track take it back.Plus the Rock You over and over and over again Yuck!! Overall not a good/bad album just a little odd.

5 out of 5 stars Excellence ... AGAIN!.......2006-11-16

These guys prove that rap acts can remain true to themselves and still score big. With guest appearances from the Who's Who of many music genres. In attendance this time around is Jill Scott, newcomer Cody Chestnutt, EPMD's DJ Scratch (responsible for bangers like Busta's 'Gimme Some More') produced 'Rock You', Nelly Furtado joins the crew on 'Sacrifice', even uber-urban pop Musiq Soulchild joins in on 'Break You Off'. This time out they have found a way to expand their sound and move beyond making great rap. They make great music. Period. GET IT!

4 out of 5 stars The Roots are pretty good.......2006-11-09

The Roots are one of the most innovative bands in hip hop. They actually have people playing instruments instead of using machines, and Black Thought is one of the most unrecognized mc's in the game. The Roots have been making good hip hop music for the last 15 years and it doesn't stop on Phernology. The best songs on the album are "Sacrafice" a really mellow song that you can just chill to. "Quills" excellent beat and Thought absolutely kicks some of the best rhymes I have heard on this track. "Rolling with Heat" another upbeat song with Talib Kweli. There are plenty others but I cannot think of their names right now. My only negative thing to say about the album is the spoken word song is totally uneccassary, it does not provide any thought provoking insights its just a waste of a track. I think they should have replaced with "Rhymes and Ammo" a hidden track at the end of the cd, instead of having that spoken word track.

4 out of 5 stars Though @ Work and Rollin Wit Heat.......2006-08-16

One of the nicest 1 2 punchs on any record I've ever heard and the rest of the Cd is off the chain to, but Though @ Work that cut is dangerous kid.
Do You Want More?!!!??!
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • I Do Want More!!??!!?!
  • One of my favorites
  • Pretty good
  • "Yo Philly In The House Yall, Do You Want More?!!!??! (4.5 stars)
  • The Roots - Do You Want More?!!!??!
 Do You Want More?!!!??!
The Roots
Manufacturer: Geffen Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Jazz | Styles | Music
East CoastEast Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Experimental RapExperimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Pop RapPop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
$7.99 and Under$7.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
JazzJazz | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Rap & Hip-HopRap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
All Blowout MusicAll Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
$7.99 and Under$7.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
More Titles at Least 25% OffMore Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Illadelph Halflife
  2. Things Fall Apart
  3. Phrenology
  4. The Tipping Point
  5. Game Theory

ASIN: B000003TB6
Release Date: 1995-01-17

Tracks:

  1. Intro/There's Something Goin' On
  2. Proceed
  3. Distortion To Static
  4. Mellow My Man
  5. I Remain Calm
  6. Datskat
  7. Lazy Afternoon
  8. ? Vs. Rahzel
  9. Do You Want More?!!!??!
  10. What Goes On Pt. 7
  11. Essaywhuman?!!!??!
  12. Swept Away
  13. You Ain't Fly
  14. Silent Treatment
  15. The Lesson Pt. 1
  16. The Unlocking

Amazon.com

Typically, we're better off ignoring the boasts of a rapper who claims to describe his own music, but when the Roots' lead voice Black Thought opens up his group's debut album by saying, "You are all about to witness some organic hip-hop jazz," it's a good idea to listen up. Organic is a fitting adjective for a hip-hop crew whose m.o. is as different from the typical studio-locked DJ/MC combo as grass is to Astroturf.

Nothing wrong with a little artificial grazeland, of course, but the Roots are making tasty roughage that blooms into real songs, where raps wind around bass, drums, keys, and horns, and where instruments coil up to voice cadences--where music and lyrics meet and grow together naturally, not coincidentally. You can hear the Roots' heart pump hardest when they pull off the things loops and samples cannot: just check the vocal/instrument interchanges of "Essaywhuman?!!!??!" or the left-turn instrumental digression midway through "Mellow My Man" to witness the living sounds of rap.

The Roots' Philadelphia-based groove collective build slick acid jazz playing around the smooth East Coast rhyming of A Tribe Called Quest and wild West Coast freestyling to create sounds as formless and fluid as jazz, but never unrecognizable as hip-hop. The music picks up where the mad scatting and melodic trills of L.A.'s defunct Freestyle Fellowship left off, and wakes up the tired hype of jazz/rap cross-polination to new possibilities. The roots of this kind of fusion have long been around, though perhaps these Roots are hope for a new dawning. --Roni Sarig

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars I Do Want More!!??!!?!.......2007-07-21

I bought this the day it came out, like it states on the page, January 17, 1995. I was 16. I played this everywhere. School, parties, chillin' in the car. This was the tipping point for any rap that year. 1995, don't get me wrong, was THE year for hip-hop; East/West rivalry, every artist battling out to who is the best, when being the best, was what it was all about.

This is the second album of THE ROOTS, the first being ORGANIX. Which was also a dope album. But for any album produced that year, that is the one people can say," Hey remember Do You Want More!!??!!?!" Everyone will remember.

Proceed, was on everyones stereos, or t.v. and it is the one song, that if I were stranded on a desert Island, I would have with me, because I could not be able to stop listening to it.

As the tracks go...they are all great, but my DOPE TRACKS are...

1. Intro/There's Something Goin' On
2. Proceed DOPE TRACK
3. Distortion To Static DOPE TRACK
4. Mellow My Man DOPE TRACK
5. I Remain Calm
6. Datskat DOPE TRACK
7. Lazy Afternoon DOPE TRACK
8. ? Vs. Rahzel
9. Do You Want More?!!!??! DOPE TRACK
10. What Goes On Pt. 7
11. Essaywhuman?!!!??!
12. Swept Away
13. You Ain't Fly DOPE TRACK
14. Silent Treatment
15. The Lesson Pt. 1
16. The Unlocking

I see it as this is their best, then Illadelph Halflife, then Things Fall Apart, then Organix, then the rest just kinda loop together.

Anyway Peace.

5 out of 5 stars One of my favorites.......2007-03-29

I love this group. I love the jazz infused hip hop verses. If you're looking for something mellow with a little edge, then this is the CD for you.

3 out of 5 stars Pretty good.......2006-11-16

As a musician, DJ and a hip hop afficianado, I enjoy listening to these guys. Tariq is a top-shelf, A-class lyricist, while Amhir is wondrous on the percussion. My complaint with this album is the same as my complaint with the first one, Organix. It just doesn't grab me like the rest of the catalog does. To me it seems as though they are still finding themselves creatively. There some excellent tracks here (e.g. Distortion to Static, Silent Treatment) but the coherence isn't quite there. That said, this is STILL a necessary part of the collection, as it offers itself as a prelude to their excellence in the years to come.

5 out of 5 stars "Yo Philly In The House Yall, Do You Want More?!!!??! (4.5 stars).......2006-05-31

This was the second album that I picked up from The Roots (the first was The Tipping Point) and it has to be a real nice album to enjoy from beginning to end. It sounds like that they are at a live secession when recording this, with the instruments and the vocals. The second song gets the album going with the lead single "Proceed I" (There are about 5 different versions of this song on a bunch of 12" singles somewhere) as lead member Black Thought spits two verses, then Malik B finishes up the song. "Distortion To Static" is a song that features a bunch of laughter as the background vocals as the chorus. A standout track would be the song "Mellow My Man" as Black Thought passes the mic to Malik B on both verses. "I Remain Calm" is a loud track with drums. I couldn't decipher what the woman was saying in the back until a previous reviewer said she was saying "What the hell is this?", but Malik B and Black Thought come correct on this one. "Lazy Afternoon" as many people should have realized Black Though spits the same verse 3 times, each with a little more attitude than the previous. Rahzel would do his thing on the interlude "? vs. Rahzel". Another hot track is the title song "Do You Want More?!!!??!" as Black Thought rhymes over some bagpipes and drums that are played throughout the song. My only knock on this song is that Black Thought spits one solid verse and the track closes out with the title repeated with a few ad-libs. I was hoping he or Malik B would add another verse to the song. "What Goes On Part 7" is another laid back Roots style track with some tounge clicking curteosy of Rahzel. "Essaywhumam?!!!??!" gives me a somewhat of a confirmation that this was a live secession being recorded as instruments play and Black Thought handles the vocals, eventhough he doesn't rap. "Swept Away" is a song with a with a snare being played with a soft horn being played through the song, making it another standout. "You Ain't Fly" is a song about dissing some girl that rejected them, and yes ?uestion (now ?uestlove) raps on this song too, so its something worth hearing. "Silent Treatment" is a long song by Black Thought about a female that he liked (The group City High would sample this for that hit song "Carmel" about 4 years ago), as the music gives a relaxing feel. The listener should get out of that relaxed mode as the next track "The Lesson Part 1" as Black Thought and Dice Raw freestyle the entire track (Dice goes on for a good minute). Ursela Rucker would come by and drop a spoken word poem, that you have to listen real hard to understand what shes [really] saying other than the graphic words. I like it, because its somethig different that I've never heard on a hip hop album (whats funny is that Yvette's cell rings interrupting the poem somewhere in the middle). A great way to close the album off with something like this (I don't know and won't get into what the heck Rahzel does after the long silence following the spoken word.)

Overall this is a nice album, and a great experience to listeners to those who like hip hop with the help of live instruments. My only knock is that some songs they can give me a headache such as "Daskat" because of its loudness, but it doesn't take away from the album. I recommend this to all fans of Hip Hop, fans of live music and fans of the Roots, you can't go wrong.

Lyrics: A-
Production: A+ (live instruments)
Musical Vibes: A
Overall: A

Standout tracks: Proceed I, Mellow My Man, Swept Away, Do You Want More?!!!??!, and The Lesson Pt. 1

4 out of 5 stars The Roots - Do You Want More?!!!??!.......2006-05-27

The Roots sophomore album was "Do You Want More?!!!??!". I recieved this album as a gift when it dropped in 1995, and at the time it was an introduction to a whole new genre of Rap I was unfamiliar with. I remember thinking "So this is what Philly Rap sounds like", its far from that simple though, the Roots brought a unique, distinct sound with this live album. After the intro, Black Thought and Malik B shine on "Proceed", a head nodder that has both MC's shining. "Mellow My Man", "I Remain Calm" & "Datzcat" are upbeat cut's where Black Thought and Malik B drop some abstract rhymes. The albums biggest collaboration is "Lazy Afternoon" which features Black Thought, Rahzel, Sista Urban & Rachel Graham. ?uestlove, Rahzel go head to head with the experimental and cool beatboxing "? Vs. Rahzel". Black Thought reps Philly and other cities on the title track "Do You Want More?!!!??!". Backed by some smooth production, and tongue clicking Black Thought, Malik B and Elo team up for "What Goes On Pt. 7". One of my favourite cuts on this release is "Swept Away", this track literally does that as Black Thought, Malik and Cassandra Wilson provide a smooth and memorable joint. Black Thought reflects on getting the "Silent Treatment", and Dice Raw makes his first appearance with "The Lesson Part 1". Ursula Rucker's spoken word poetry on "The Unlocking" closes off the album. Lyrically the Roots would elevate on future joints, production though was excellent. Experimental, creative, jazzy and memorable music makes "Do You Want More?!!!??!" an album worth checking out. Root's fan's can also look forward to "Game Theory" currently scheduled to drop in late August 2006. 3.5.
Illadelph Halflife
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • I love your style
  • Top Musical Album of all time
  • The definitive Roots album!
  • Great!
  • The Roots - Unmatched Talent. Yet Not Enough Sales..
 Illadelph Halflife
The Roots
Manufacturer: Geffen Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Jazz | Styles | Music
East CoastEast Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Experimental RapExperimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Pop RapPop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
$9.99 and Under$9.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
JazzJazz | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Rap & Hip-HopRap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
All Blowout MusicAll Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
$9.99 and Under$9.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
More Titles at Least 25% OffMore Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Do You Want More?!!!??!
  2. Things Fall Apart
  3. Phrenology
  4. The Tipping Point
  5. Black Star

ASIN: B000000OV7
Release Date: 1996-09-24

Tracks:

  1. Intro
  2. Respond/React
  3. Section
  4. Panic!!!!!!!
  5. It Just Don't Stop
  6. Episodes
  7. Push Up Ya Lighter
  8. What They Do
  9. ? Vs. Scratch (The Token DJ Cut)
  10. Concerto Of The Desperado
  11. Clones
  12. Universe At War
  13. No Alibi
  14. Dave Vs. Us
  15. No Great Pretender
  16. The Hypnotic
  17. Ital (The Universal Side)
  18. One Shine
  19. The Adventures In Wonderland
  20. Outro

Amazon.com

Philly never gets its props, but the City of Brotherly Love has pioneered its fair share of hip-hop innovations. Schooly D was the first gangsta rapper; DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince perfected rap comedy, and the Roots became the first rap act to put together an impressive live show without samples and sequencers. On their third album, "illadelph halflife," {cq} the Roots capture in the studio the same chemistry between rhymes and live instruments that they've generated on stage. The album does include samples, but they're samples of the band's own exploratory jam sessions in Philadelphia's legendary Sigma Sound Studios. --Geoffrey Himes

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars I love your style.......2007-03-29

I've seen these gentlemen in concert and they are phenomenal on and off the stage. I am a complete Roots fan. I love their ecclectic style and the joy of being pleasantly surprised after listening to any of their cd's. I love music in all it's forms and The Roots allow me to enjoy different styles of music without changing the CD. In this generation of mass produced music, it's good to see REAL musicians. I hope the group continues on its path of being innovative and not fall into the money trap that so many groups have succumbed.

5 out of 5 stars Top Musical Album of all time.......2007-01-07

From all the music i have listened to. This CD is in my top five albums of all time. It is my favorite Roots album. What makes an album a classic is the time it stands through. If you have an album for ten years, and the new cds you buy, you compare them to the albums that you have had that have been through the times you have tried to play them out and listened to the same song over and over and they don't get old. That is when you know you have a true classical musical album. From: What they do, hypnotic, great pretender, and episodes. Those are tracks were you would put in your favorite hip hop songs of all time. There are not any negatvies to the album, you are never wondering why they put this wack song on this album, or why they let this guy produce one of there tracks because there are none. There are 20 beautifully produced tracks on this album. We all know that when Black Though brings it he is one of the best Mcs of all time. Truely listen to this Cd from front to end and it will become one of the most inspirational cds you will ever listen to.

5 out of 5 stars The definitive Roots album!.......2006-12-10

This is one of the few albums I have that I can listen to from beginning to end without skipping one track. To say this album is a hip hop classic is not even doing it justice. I have been a Roots fan since 1994 and been listening to hip hop for 20 years. This album is so much better than what we listen to now, it is not even funny. Instead of buying new music I find myself buying albums from the 1994-1998 era alot. If you are a fan of rap/hip hop and don't have this album then you are ****ing up big time. Go get it if you don't have it!

5 out of 5 stars Great!.......2006-11-16

Simply put, this is a classic. The album is basically perfect and not one of the tracks are 'fast-forward-able'. Black Thought gets better with each release and the band seems to get tighter and tighter with their chemistry and sound. The guest appearances are great too. This is the album that clearly defined them as the pioneers they are.

5 out of 5 stars The Roots - Unmatched Talent. Yet Not Enough Sales.........2006-08-14

The Roots have, and always will be known, as one of the most underrated acts in hip hop music. Besides having two incredibly talented lyricists as their leaders: Black Thought, and Malik B, they still don't get the respect they rightfully deserve as being considered legends. Their musicanship abilities are above anybody else in rap due to the fact that they dont even create instrumentals with a synthesizer. Nope. The Roots are actually a live band, who records their beats live in the studio, then fine tunes them on the computers. They've created a very unique style of combining jazz elements into hip hop to produce a fresh new sound, as only they can provide.

Since their onset, the Roots have continuously grown as better musicians and lyricists. They've experimented from every style you can think of. From soul, to even beat boxing, the more unorthodox style of hip hop music. Nobody can produce a record in the same fashion or on the same level as the Roots, and they prove on 1996's Illadelph Halflife that the first two albums were NOT a joke, and that they are indeed here to prove themselves.

Track List & Rating

34. Intro (NOT RATED)
35. Respond/React (5 Stars)
36. Section (5 Stars)
37. Panic?!!!??! (4 Stars)
38. It Just Don't Stop (5 Stars)
39. Episodes f/ Dice Raw, The Jazzfatnastees (4 Stars)
40. Push Up Ya Lighter f/ Bahamadia (4 1/2 Stars)
41. What They Do f/ Raphael Saadiq (5 Stars)
42. ? vs. Scratch (NOT RATED)
43. Concerto of the Desperado (4 1/2 Stars)
44. Clones f/ Dice Raw, M.A.R.S. (5 Stars)
45. UNIverse at War f/ Common (5 Stars)
46. No Alibi (4 1/2 Stars)
47. Dave vs. US (NOT RATED)
48. No Great Pretender (5 Stars)
49. The Hypnotic (4 1/2 Stars)
50. Ital (The Universal Side) f/ Q-Tip (4 1/2 Stars)
51. One Shine (NOT RATED)
52. The Adventures in Wonderland f/ Ursula Rucker (NOT RATED)
53. Outro (NOT RATED)
Chant Down Babylon
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Anew flavor to classic gold
  • Bob isnt here to stop the sale of this cd, but i am
  • GREAT URBAN TRIBUTE TO A LEGEND... why all the anger from our 1 star givers?? This CD is NO insult!!
  • T.Owens
  • maybe an explanation
 Chant Down Babylon
Bob Marley
Manufacturer: Island
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Reggae | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Reggae | Compilations | International | Styles | Music
Contemporary R&BContemporary R&B | R&B | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | R&B | Styles | Music
Neo-SoulNeo-Soul | R&B | Styles | Music
East CoastEast Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Gangsta & HardcoreGangsta & Hardcore | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Experimental RapExperimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Pop RapPop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
$9.99 and Under$9.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
R&BR&B | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Rap & Hip-HopRap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
InternationalInternational | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
All Blowout MusicAll Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
$9.99 and Under$9.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
More Titles at Least 25% OffMore Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. One Love - The Bob Marley All-Star Tribute
  2. MTV Unplugged No. 2.0
  3. The Miseducation Of Lauryn Hill
  4. Remixed Hits
  5. Mama's Gun

ASIN: B00003000M
Release Date: 1999-11-16

Tracks:

  1. No More Trouble
  2. Rebel Music
  3. Johnny Was
  4. Concrete Jungle
  5. Rastaman Chant
  6. Guiltiness
  7. Turn Your Lights Down Low
  8. Jammin'
  9. Kinky Reggae
  10. Roots, Rock, Reggae
  11. Survival A.K.A. Black Survivors
  12. Burnin' And Lootin'

Amazon.com

On Chant Down Babylon, Bob Marley's master tapes meet the next generation. Marley hardly needs help selling records, so these studio-engineered duets may reflect an honest attempt at linking his musical legacy with contemporary artists. Even those sympathetic to the concept, though, should wonder if it's wise to substitute new backing tracks for the original sinuous grooves of "Concrete Jungle" and "Rebel Music." (To the disc's credit, the rhythms of "No More Trouble" and "Rastaman Chant" are left largely intact.) And as obvious as the connection between reggae and hip-hop is, Guru ("Johnny Was") and even Chuck D ("Survival a.k.a. Black Survivors") have nothing to add to Marley's perfectly chosen words. Finally, don't be surprised if your patience wears as several of Marley's sons help travesty "Kinky Reggae." --Rickey Wright

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Anew flavor to classic gold.......2006-11-06

The Marley sound is strong in these updates by his sons and other great rap/hip hop artists. The sound will take you back to the Bob Marley era but just as quick transport you to a new and exciting sound for Bob's reggae standards. I'm glad I made this part of my Bob Marley collection.

1 out of 5 stars Bob isnt here to stop the sale of this cd, but i am.......2006-06-30

If you want to kill everything bob marley stood for and did in his life, buy this album. This album is an insult to bob as a musician and as a person and a disgrace to his legacy. If i could give this cd less than 1 star i would. If you still buy this cd despite what has been written about it and you like, you should not call yourself a bob fan, just like everyone else that gave this more than a star..it doesnt even diserve that.

5 out of 5 stars GREAT URBAN TRIBUTE TO A LEGEND... why all the anger from our 1 star givers?? This CD is NO insult!!.......2006-04-20

Read this review in its entirety... (especially if u gave it less than 3 stars) I'm empathizing with those who are giving this album 1 star, but for the life of me I don't see why.... This album is in NO WAY insulting to Bob Marley. Was it insulting to Patti Labelle when P!nk, Lil Kim, Mya, and C. Aguilera remade and remixed Lady Marmelade? Uh, No. Is the Luther Vandross Tribute Album insulting? No. This is the cycle of our times people... That's what makes black people beautiful, our music, our culture.. how we can mix and match it and its still just as beautiful. There is nothing wrong with this cd and although of course I cannot speak for Bob Marley anymore than any of you can... To say he would not be happy is obsurd, how do we know what would make him happy? We don't! But to say the album is garbage to me is an insult to the artists who came together to blend with the Legend. I do not at all think it was a poor or sore attempt.. I think it was very creative. People do remixes all the time... so what, it's ok for 50 Cent but not Bob? lol... be serious, this is about the music. And aside from Defending Bob Til Death as some of you are admirably doing, these tracks do not degrade him or his music in any way... What this cd Does is ALLOW BOB MARLEY TO BE APPRECIATED THRU THE TIMES... and yes, you should appreciate the original tracks!! But lets be real, a lot of people can't get into some of the original tracks so what this CD does is Open up a door for appreciation across the genre boundaries. It allows the "hip hop heads" so to speak who may sooner recognize the name "Lil Scrappy" before "The Wailers" to embrace the Marley ESSENCE... it's just like a baby, if u want your child to each vegetables, maybe u mix them with some rice... if you want them to intake more calcium.. maybe u let them drink Ovaltine.. are you degrading Calcium? lol.. anyway, moving along... This is an awesome cd that embraces BoB Marleys talent and mixes it with our evolving urban style... I think they did an excellent job on the cd. All too often "remix" and "master mixes" drown out the quality of the songs we come to love and respect an artist for but this project was the exact opposite! I love the original tracks, but I must admit I am loving Some twists on the tracks JUST as much! Especially REBEL MUSIC and JOHNNY WAS... I don't want to go thru track titles cuz I'll end up naming them all... Each track and the guest artists get a thumbs up to me, at least for creativity... I see the vision of what this CD was and I like it. Most definiately a must have for raggae/raggaeton music lovers, especially, but anyone who likes urban music should be able to appreciate this album... And while you are at it, check out Matisyahu! Excellent addition to a family of cultural music artists.

5 out of 5 stars T.Owens.......2006-03-09

Stephen Marley did a wonderful job at integrating his father's master pieces with a twist of hip hop & R&B. It is a CD that stays in my player at all times.

3 out of 5 stars maybe an explanation.......2006-01-26

yo to josh"big smoke". i can see your view very easily, i think anyone can that has listened to the album. but you have to understand these rap artists present their arguments in different wayz, these boys and girls will never be as peaceful or humble as Mr.Marley, but they are trying to convey their message of peace their own way, ya know, trying to act as one with Bob. thats what i think. take it how you want it.
The Roots Come Alive
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • One of my favorites
  • You Got Me
  • not all from the same show
  • disappointing
  • THE ROOTS COME ALIVE!!!
 The Roots Come Alive
The Roots
Manufacturer: Mca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Jazz | Styles | Music
East CoastEast Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Experimental RapExperimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Pop RapPop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
JazzJazz | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Rap & Hip-HopRap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
All Blowout MusicAll Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
More Titles at Least 25% OffMore Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Things Fall Apart
  2. Illadelph Halflife
  3. Do You Want More?!!!??!
  4. Phrenology
  5. The Tipping Point

ASIN: B00002ND8Y
Release Date: 1999-11-02

Tracks:

  1. Live At The T-Connection
  2. The Next Movement
  3. Step Into The Realm
  4. Proceed
  5. Mellow My Man/Jusufckwithis
  6. Love Of My Life
  7. The Ultimate
  8. Don't See Us
  9. 100% Dundee
  10. Adrenaline!
  11. Essaywhuman?!???!!!
  12. Silent Treatment
  13. The Notic
  14. You Got Me
  15. What You Want
  16. We Got You
  17. The Lesson - Part III (It's Over Now)

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars One of my favorites.......2007-01-07

This is one of my most prized CDs and I don't see how anyone could be without it.

5 out of 5 stars You Got Me.......2006-08-25

I really enjoyed this entire CD actually but You Got Me is what sealed the deal on this one. They have a different style about them and I would recommend this to anyone.

5 out of 5 stars not all from the same show.......2005-08-26

this albums real hot but unlike a previous person said... its not just from 1 show... it was put together from different shows... its obvious when they change the lyrics around in different cities but anyways i heard the whole new kanye album... alot of the tracks were unfinished but it is real nasty u gotta buy that when it drops next week

3 out of 5 stars disappointing.......2004-11-12

yes, the roots are a great live band. but this live album is disappointing. the songs are done incredibly SLLOOOWWW and therefore the whole thing suffers from a lack of energy. in fact, unless you are getting the double cd version - with the fantastic songs "what you want" and "lesson, pt 3 (its over now)" - you are better served by spending your money on a tickets to see the roots and leaving this one on the rack.

5 out of 5 stars THE ROOTS COME ALIVE!!!.......2004-06-24

Ok, well, for all of you out there who have not had the opportunity to see the Roots perform live... I'm so sorry, but... There's hope. This album, a live album, is as good as live albums get. And I mean it with all certainty in the world. Normally, I wouldn't be likely to mention HIP HOP and LIVE together in a sentence that contained the words "GREAT ALBUM."

Given that factor, let me qualify: First of all, I LOVE hip hop, and I've seen some great hip hop shows. I ALSO love rock and roll and have seen some fantastic shows, but two of my favorite shows I have been to included the Roots.

Now, to the BREAD of the review. The Roots, though a hip hop group, are one of the most talented musical bands that are out there today. Every single musician in their band has amazing skill at what they do (including Black Thought, the lyricist, who is REGULARLY overlooked when it comes to great lyricists). A live Roots show is more than just a show, it's an experience. Both times I've seen the Roots live, they were "just" the opening band, and both times, they've opened and I've been privy to some jaw dropped kid looking at me and saying "wow, that was F@#king AMAZING!", soon after said Jaw-dropped kid had looked at me like I was completely crazy and in the wrong place when I went nuts at the Roots introduction to the stage.

This album, is not quite the same as a live Roots show, but, it's about as close as it gets. It's also amazingly clean in terms of production (as Roots performances are), and the setlist that is played on it is AMAZING. I only WISH I had gotten to see this setlist at the concerts I saw. If you know the Roots, then this is a must have (I had all of their studio albums before buying this, and I'd probably say that after Organix (which is a little strange to many, because it's so jazzy), this is probably my favorite).

My advice to you is to buy this album and get a ticket to see the Roots at a venue near you. THEY WILL NOT DISSAPPOINT!!!
Watermelon, Chicken & Gritz
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Hip Hop From The Kentucky Fields (3.5 Stars)
  • Nappy Roots' 1st Major Release
  • Great Album
  • Great rookie effort
  • Nappy Roots- Watermelon, Chicken & Gritz
 Watermelon, Chicken & Gritz
Nappy Roots
Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Southern RapSouthern Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Pop RapPop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Wooden Leather
  2. Deliverance
  3. Dark Days, Bright Nights
  4. Word of Mouf
  5. Country Grammar

ASIN: B00005Y4P1
Release Date: 2002-02-26

Tracks:

  1. Intro
  2. Hustla
  3. Set It Out
  4. Country Boyz
  5. Ballin' On A Budget
  6. Awnaw
  7. Headz Up
  8. Slums
  9. Po' Folks
  10. Start It Over
  11. Blowin' Trees
  12. Sholiz
  13. Life's A Bitch
  14. My Ride
  15. One Forty
  16. Dime, Quarter, Nickel, Penny
  17. Kentucky Mud
  18. The Lounge
  19. Ho Down
  20. Headz Up (Refried)

Amazon.com

At a time when digitized beats and crudely consumerist attitudes rule the airwaves, the distinctively organic aesthetic of Kentucky-bred hip-hop sextet Nappy Roots' debut release is refreshing. Rotating MCs flip profound rhymes about growing up in the South and their struggles to be heard, giving a semiautobiographical feel to songs like "Peanuts." "Aw Naw," the first single and arguably the album's catchiest tune, surrounds a dope slice of country life with unique rhythms that fuse banjos and harmonicas with contemporary, bass-filled beats. In a similar vein, "Life's a Risk" boasts some slick introspective lyrics from group member Skinny DeVille, who rhymes about staying away from the pitfalls of street life. In the end, Nappy Roots come out sounding like a harder-edged upgrade of Arrested Development's Southern-tinged roots rap. Let's just hope they don't suffer a similar fall off the face of the earth. --Dalton Higgins

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Hip Hop From The Kentucky Fields (3.5 Stars).......2006-06-19

Who said that country folks couldn't rhyme? I for one believe that that is untrue, and the group Nappy Roots proves it. Hitting us with the hit "Awnaw" from Kentucky back in 2002, they come with their major label debut Watermelon, Chicken & Gritz. Six members (B. Steele, R. Prophet, Fish Scales, Big V, Skinny Deville, & Ron Clutch ) deep, their rhyme style is straight country/rural style with a nappy head flavor.

What makes this album different than many southern releases, is that they come off with the rhymes of mostly their life style, from a different prespective (mainly because they're not from big cities), which I like. Big V and Fish Scales voices is more common throughout the album appearing on almost every track, shinning on songs such as "Life's A B****" and "Ballin On A Budget". Member R. Prophet's (questionably the best in the group) unique voice would work for good and bad portions. The single "Awnaw" and the song "Set It Out" were perfect fits for his rhymes, something like "Start It Over" he just seemed out of place despite it being a good song. Skinny Deville (maybe the worst out of the group) gets to shine on verses also such as on tracks like "Set It Out". Ron Clutch and B. Stille are good also in most songs. It's good to see the whole group come together in a couple of songs like "Headz Up" and Blowin Trees" which works out good." And I can't go without saying that their second single "Po Folks" couldn't have been more perfect.

Parts of this album can be unbalanced, despite some the good rhymes. "Country Boyz" couldn't have a more annoying hook that is repeated. The song "Sholiz" just doesn't appeal to me production wise or the repeated of the word (even though I use that word on a consistant basis). The worst song on this album I would say is "One Forty", possibly because of a possible slump in the rhyme skills. It seems like the filler tracks suffer from subpar production and weak hooks, but never dissapointing verses.

Overall, it's good to see that this group putting a whole different state on the map that people really didn't think much of. Nappy Roots would come at many listeners with rhymes that are throught through and not just slapped together (something that lacks in the south). Even though there some portions that aren't effecient within this album, I recommend this to hip hop heads who enjoy southern rhymes, and want to give this a try. Also if you enjoyed this one, I recommend that you give their second album Wooden Leather a try. I might be the first reviewer to give this less than 4 stars, but don't let that stop you from purching and enjoying this LP.

Lyrics: A-
Production: B
Musical Vibes: B-
Overall: B

Favorite Tracks: Set It Out, Ballin On A Budget, Awnaw, Headz Up, Po Folks, Start It Over, Blowin Trees, Lifes A B****, My Ride

4 out of 5 stars Nappy Roots' 1st Major Release.......2005-08-15

This is the album Nappy Roots have put themselves on the southern roster. I recommend the fans who is into southern music to purchase this album because it doesn't follow what rappers rap about right now. This album makes me feels like I am at home in the south. I was born & raised in the south.

My most favorite track on this CD is "Po' Folks (feat. Anthony Hamilton)", which Anthony Hamilton blows up in the music game. This song inspires me until this day. This song doesn't move from my CD player. I also made me a copy for my MiniDisc player so I don't want to scratch up my CD. I wear out this song cause this song just cheers me up when I am depressed. When I hear this song, it just makes my tears roll down on my face. If I can get in touch with nappy roots, I would hug & thank them for writing this song. I just can not live without this song. This song also changed my life. It is one of my most all-time favorite songs in my entire life!

I do recommend the people who represent the south to cop this album.

5 out of 5 stars Great Album.......2005-07-22

This is a pretty good album.

We all know their catchy Aww Naww, which is probably thier best song. Po' Folks with Anthony Hamilton is a also a great one which talks about basically what the Nappy Roots are all about. Headz Up is also one of my favs.

If you like hip-hop, southern rap or if you have their 2nd major album but missed out on this on then I suggest you go out and buy this.

5 out of 5 stars Great rookie effort.......2005-07-20

We all know "Awnaw" and how bumpin' it is. We all know that "Po Folks" is a great, slow song. But what everyone might not know is that the CD top-to-bottom is one of the stronger cuts Southern hip hop has offered in the last few years. Though still not as good as their brilliant Wooden Leather, Watermelon(...) achieves a nice balance between sounds. They have their trademark Kentucky sound on songs like "Ho Down" and "Sholiz." Songs like "Hustla" provide the listener with a more general hip hop sound that is still effective.

4 out of 5 stars Nappy Roots- Watermelon, Chicken & Gritz.......2005-07-07

Kentucky's own Nappy Roots second album and first major release was "Watermelon, Chicken & Gritz (2002)". The Nappy Roots are a six-member group consisting of B. Stille, Skinny DeVille, Ron Clutch, Big V, R. Prophet and Scales. What I like about this group is they take pride in being country and have their own style delivering music with variety and substance. These guys don't follow rap's typical formulas. Backed by a dope beat the Nappy Roots talk about working hard to make it on "Hustla" and rep their roots on "Country Boys". What initially drew me to this release were the albums singles, "Awnaw" and "Po Folks". Both these tracks are outstanding the first is an upbeat country anthem which vibes well. The later "Po Folks" is my favorite track on the album, the Nappy roots deliver inspirational and positive music with a track to remember. This group takes pride in there down to earth roots, repping them throughout the album on tracks like "Ballin On A Budget" and "Slums". Midway there are a couple of tracks I skip over, then the Roots shine again on the powerful "Life's a Bitch" and fast paced cruising cuts like "My Ride" & "Kentucky Mud". Three decent bonus tracks close off the album. Overall "Watermelon, Chicken & Gritz" is an impressive release, one that I would recommend to people who are looking for more then the ordinary.
Walker
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Joe Strummer: Walker
  • Sorry if you don't have it yet......
  • "Share some love with the unknown one"
  • I waited 15 years for this CD...
  • Joe said it was his best.
 Walker
Joe Strummer
Manufacturer: Astralwerks
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
BritainBritain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music
SambaSamba | Latin Music | International | Styles | Music
SalsaSalsa | Latin Music | Styles | Music
MariachiMariachi | Latin Music | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Pop | Styles | Music
Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Pop RapPop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Folk RockFolk Rock | Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
Roots RockRoots Rock | Rock | Styles | Music
Movie ScoresMovie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Elgin Avenue Breakdown Revisited
  2. Let's Rock Again
  3. Rock Art and the X-Ray Style
  4. Global a Go-Go
  5. Streetcore

ASIN: B0009YNSE2
Release Date: 2005-07-26

Tracks:

  1. Filibustero
  2. Omotope
  3. Sandstorm
  4. Machete
  5. Viperland
  6. Nica Libre
  7. Latin Romance
  8. The Unknown Immortal
  9. Muskey Waltz
  10. The Brooding Side Of Madness
  11. Tennessee Rain
  12. Smash Everything
  13. Tropic Of No Return
  14. Tropic Of Pico
  15. Brooding Side Of Madness (New Extended Outer Limits Mix) (bonus track)
  16. Straight Shooter (bonus track)
  17. Filibustero (Freestyle Mix)(bonus track)

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Joe Strummer: Walker.......2007-03-15

Everybody knows that reggae is the punk rocker's preferred style of World music, but Strummer was at home in any third world culture. He certainly sounds at home on this CD, playing straight-up traditional, acoustic Central American music, almost all of it instrumental (with three or four terrific vocal tracks)--even more at home than he ever did on any reggae/dub/rap song he did with the Clash. For me, the Walker soundtrack provides a total foreshadowing of the kind of music he would make later with the Mescaleros, espeically on Global A-Go Go. But this CD is not just an interesting artifact for the Strummer scholar; it's also a very enjoyable listen. Strongly recommended for fans of Strummer and fans of largely-instrumental soundtracks like Bob Dylan's Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid.

Now, if only they would release the movie on DVD so I could finally see what I have been listening to...

5 out of 5 stars Sorry if you don't have it yet.............2007-03-10

Only the best after The Clash.
If you saw the movie, you'll remember a perfect match with the music.

4 out of 5 stars "Share some love with the unknown one".......2006-03-13

In his 1987 historical drama Walker, director Alex Cox (Repo Man) told the story of William Walker (Ed Harris), an American renegade who, in the 1850s, took over as president of Nicaragua. The film caught a lot of flak from critics because of its use of deliberate anachronisms (TVs, helicopters, etc.) to draw satirical parallels between Walker's corrupt behavior and the US government's involvement in Nicaragua in the 1980s; it quickly sank into obscurity -- and sadly, so did its soundtrack...

Feeling somewhat lost after the breakup of his celebrated punk band, the Clash, singer Joe Strummer had begun to dabble in film work, contributing some songs to Cox's previous films Sid & Nancy (1986) and Straight To Hell (1987), and even accepting a starring role in the latter. Eager to try his hand at a whole film score -- and inspired a bit by Bob Dylan's work on one of his favorite movies, Sam Peckinpah's Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid (1973) -- Strummer offered to compose *all* of the music for Walker (in addition to taking a small role in the film as an ill-fated member of the Immortals, General Walker's "gringo army").

The result was a surprisingly lively and lovely soundtrack album, featuring 11 instrumental pieces and 3 vocal tracks. As the producer of the album, Strummer suggested that the music be performed entirely on acoustic instruments -- his rationale being, "let's be 1850, nothing plugged in." He only appears as a performer on the vocal tracks: the wistful "The Unknown Immortal," sung from the viewpoint of one of Walker's men; the giddy "Tennessee Rain," which apparently runs down a wide-ranging list of things his men would rather be doing and places they'd rather be; and the mournful "Tropic of No Return," which seems to be about how his army was depleted by disease and desertion. Joe acquits himself nicely on these pretty, low-key tunes, though I wish that his vocals were higher in the mix (or that a lyric sheet had been included with this disc). The instrumentals -- blends of traditional folk and Latin sounds, with trace elements of jazz and country -- are just as intriguing; a lot of the tunes here may not be instantly memorable, but I think they're appealing enough to keep you listening and to keep growing on you.

Last year, the label Astralwerks was kind enough to reissue this long out-of-print album with 3 bonus tracks (remixes of the jaunty opener "Filibustero" and the haunting "The Brooding Side Of Madness," as well as the brief "Straight Shooter," originally released as a b-side) shortly after its expanded reissue of Elgin Avenue Breakdown, the album by Strummer's pre-Clash band the 101ers; together, these two discs are bookends of sorts to the most popular phase of Joe's career. Although I admit I was hesitant to buy the mostly-instrumental soundtrack to a movie that I haven't seen and may never get a chance to see, I'm glad I finally did; Walker shows a side of the late Strummer that his last albums with the Mescaleros (not to mention such Clash songs as "Rebel Waltz" and "Corner Soul," from 1980's Sandinista) only hint at, and it's actually a more satisfying effort than Joe's official solo debut, 1989's uneven Earthquake Weather. I'd love to see Astralwerks put together a whole collection of Strummer's post-Clash, pre-Mescaleros soundtrack work and rarities (like the aforementioned Sid & Nancy and Straight To Hell tracks, the songs he did for the 1988 film Permanent Record, his contribution to the 1998 South Park TV series soundtrack, etc.)!

5 out of 5 stars I waited 15 years for this CD..........2005-12-13

Finally, a CD release of this wonderful soundtrack. Strummer immersed himelf in 19th century Central American music and came out with a soundtrack that was perfect for the movie and instantly put him in league with Morricone.

If you only know him from his Clash days, this will seem a bit of a departure (all acoustic folk music), but regardless you can't dispute the quality. This is my favorite soundtrack of all time. I can't put it any simpler than that.

5 out of 5 stars Joe said it was his best........2005-09-04

It was an interview in his later years, and he was asked to recall his favorite work.

He said it was an album one couldn't even buy anymore.

Kudos to Astralwerks for the re-release.

It would've been nice if they had used the overdubs in the movie to accompanying the end title theme on the elpee.

I have not heard the re-issue and am looking forward to the bonus remixes. I received the vinyl version when it was released, and it was extremely difficult to get back once it was loaned. Yet, it is one of those things one takes pleasure in when loaning.

The Tipping Point
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • best Roots Studio album
  • If you buy this album for one reason......
  • "Off The Handle"
  • The best part
  • Album Is Dope!! If you like The Roots, you will love dead prez music also. so check that out to!!
 The Tipping Point
The Roots
Manufacturer: Geffen Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Jazz | Styles | Music
East CoastEast Coast | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Experimental RapExperimental Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Pop RapPop Rap | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Phrenology
  2. Things Fall Apart
  3. Illadelph Halflife
  4. Game Theory
  5. Do You Want More?!!!??!

ASIN: B0002A2WAY
Release Date: 2004-07-13

Tracks:

  1. Star/Pointro
  2. I Don't Care
  3. Don't Say Nuthin'
  4. Guns Are Drawn
  5. Stay Cool
  6. Web
  7. Boom!
  8. Somebody's Gotta Do It
  9. Duck Down!
  10. Why (What's Goin' On?)

Amazon.com

On their sixth album, the Roots backslide a bit on the creative promise they showed with 2002's Phrenology. Instead of expanding into more ambitious and experimental areas--the way Outkast has, for example--the Roots tend to fall back to basics with vigorous, but ultimately conventional, lyricism. There are definitely some truly great moments here: the album opens with near-magic on "Star," a mesmerizing song that is one of the finest of the group's career, and Black Thought is a one-man tour de force on "Boom!" where he mimics Big Daddy Kane and Kool G Rap down to their velour sweats. But The Tipping Point also has some of their blandest production ever, and, at 10 tracks (plus two hidden cuts), the compactness of the album makes the problem spots stand out more than usual. "I Don't Care" and "Duck Down!" in particular seem derivative and commercially tailored. The main thing missing here is an overall guiding concept, something the Roots have never lacked before. --Oliver Wang

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars best Roots Studio album.......2006-07-28

Everyone is going to complain and disagree with that statement, but I feel its true. Okay okay, Do you want more?!?! is just as tight. Things falling apart is tight, but not as tight as The Tipping point. Illadelph Half life is all right, I didn't enjoy it as much as The Tipping point. Organix is tight as well, but the Tipping point is the joint! Phrenology was good, experimental in some areas and conventional in others. The Tipping point is aggressive, beautiful, tight, soft, hard, fast, slow and real all at the same time. It doesn't compare to their live album, but I did say best "studio" album. I love this album. This is the Roots at the top of their game. ?uestlove's drum beats are the illest on this album, and Black Thought's rhymes flow like water or butter. A must have for all Roots fans and all hip hop heads. This is one hip hop masterpiece instant classic

5 out of 5 stars If you buy this album for one reason.............2006-04-10

Buy it for song #9, "Web". I think the whole almun is great, so I don't know what kinda [...] the rest of y'all call good hip-hop. I just need to say that "Web" embodies what the Roots are. ?uestlove layin' down a sick beat in the back on some real drums, not overproduced Paul Wall/Mike Jones/ Swisha House [...]!. Then, you got Thought puttin the lyrical slaughter to all the rest! Prolly the best hip-hop song I've ever heard. How hip-hop was meant to be.

4 out of 5 stars "Off The Handle".......2006-04-05

This cd is dope. Black Thought is the truth. He is the perfect blend of consciousness and swagger in an emcee. At only 10 tracks long, this cd is short in length, but what it lacks in duration it makes up for in lyricism.

In my opinion, Don't Say Nuthin is a genius single. The song casually makes fun of rap songs that lack substance while the hook is literally Black Thought mumbling a bunch of words together. Although it sounds contradictory, my interpretation of the song is to say that a lot of rap songs now days don't have any genuine meaning in them and that record labels promote this kind of music. Thought kills the final verse, and I love the eerie beat that accompanies the song.

Other highlights include: the reggae influenced "Guns Are Drawn", the smooth and laid back "Somebody's Gotta Do It" (which features an interesting collaboration with Devin the Dude), and the socially conscious "Why"-a track guaranteed to make you think. Overall this is not the roots best cd, but I feel at times Thought is at his best here.

Don't hit the snooze button again if you've been sleeping on The Roots, pick up this cd.

4 out of 5 stars The best part.......2006-03-26

The best part of this album are the hidden tracks. Seriously. They are cool.

Whoever says that the Roots stopped having fun and playing instruments and experimenting should listen to this album past track 10 and hear the fun BlackThought and ?uest have on the bonus jam.

Overall, this is a tight album full of beats and hooks that will appeal to folks who enjoy more mainstream hiphop. For people wanting to hear the Roots push the genre a bit, you might find yourself annoyed by some of the sing-song choruses.

4 out of 5 stars Album Is Dope!! If you like The Roots, you will love dead prez music also. so check that out to!!.......2006-03-10

Like I said this is that real Soul Music right here and if you like this be sure to check out dead prez music as they are very similar and all good friends as seen on Dave Chapelles Block Party. and if you in cali be sure to catch Dead Prez in their first L.A. performance in 4 years as it will be hot!! May, 13 2006!! Straight From Chappelle's "Block Party" Dead Prez With Ras Kass, DJ Revolution Of Wake Up Show, KDAYS Icy Ice & More TBA.... 350 Pine Ave., The Vault 350...Long Beach, CA 90801....An Extremely Limited Amount Of Pre-Sale Tickets Available Now For On-Line Purchase @ www.thaformula.com & @ Your Local Record Shops

Soul Music:

  1. Homies [CD-single] [Enhanced] [Explicit Lyrics]
  2. Hymie's Basement
  3. I Am [Edited Version] [Clean] [Enhanced]
  4. Identity
  5. Infectious [Explicit Lyrics]
  6. Judgement Day
  7. Judgement Day, Vol. 1
  8. Jurassic 5 LP [Import]
  9. Kev Brown Mixtape [Explicit Lyrics]
  10. Kid 'n Play's Funhouse [Soundtrack]

Soul Music

soul music

Recommended Music:

Gypsy

Romantic Strings, Vol. 10

Playing My Fiddle for You/Filthy

Music: Be My Love [Import]

Larsen-Feiten Band [Import]

Music in Mouth [Import]

Music Is My Life

Music Da Camera

Peel The Banana

Quartet

Pretenders

Las 15 Grandes de Chavela Vargas

Los Grandes Exitos

Tchaikovsky/Sibelius: Violin Concertos

Down Here on the Ground