Following on from Cannibal Ox's outstanding debut LP 'The Cold Vein', Mr Lif
confirms that Definitive Jux are undoubtedly leading the way for hip-hop in
the 21st century. However while the Ox LP was a dark, post-apocalyptic
odyssey through the grimy streets of New York, Mr Lif presents party hip-hop
with a serious edge following in the great traditions of the likes of
Gangstarr and Public Enemy.
What 'I Phantom' and 'The Cold Vein' do have in common however are the
metallic riffs and encapsulating rhythms of Def Jux godfather El-P,
although on Lif's album El-P shares the el-production around, with the likes
of NASA, Fakts One and Insight all contributing. The beats and sounds used
on the album all sparkle with creativity but never dominate (no reliance on
obvious rock, pop or funk samples for the Def Jux cartel), ultimately giving
space for Mr Lif to show off his verbal dexterity and superb vocal delivery.
For make no mistake, the highlights of this album are to be found in the
quality of the lyrics and the excellent rapping. Whether he's venting his
spleen at minimum wage employment on 'Live From The Plantation' or absent
fathers on 'Daddy Dearest', the vocals are intelligent, witty and
purposeful. Check 'Earthcrusher' in particular for a Michael Moore-esque
critique of American foreign policy, which is as strong as you're likely to
hear.
All in all, this is another excellent LP from the Definitive Jux stable and
should bring Mr Lif to greater prominence. Something he undoubtedly
deserves.
Reviewed
by Sean Keltie
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