Music is that universal language, right? We’ve all heard the phrase, a little tired but very true, especially when one realizes there’s an artist or genre out there that appeals to even the most hard to please kids. You got that housemate who likes Gregorian chant, your ‘ma dukes’ bumps those nature sounds albums, and your drug dealer listens to experimental blip beats. But it’s all sound waves, right?
So this column’s objective will be to share thoughts about different types of sound waves, music that speaks to the listener in whatever unique manner. I also happen to be a DJ on our school’s eclectic station, WESU 88.1 FM. I plan to use this column to boost interest in the station. A lot of suckers were interested in merely protesting the NPR affiliation, but more important than that is an interest in supporting the broadcasts and unique shows. It’s never too late to jump on board that train; all’s you gotta do is tune in. Okay, enough plugging. Where’s that obligatory music review?
You want me to review newest, hottest releases? Tough luck, ’cause I spend most of time diggin’ in the crates for old gems, whether it be jazz, soul, raptastics, or some funky shit. I’m a firm believer that truly great music reveals itself over time. Do you find yourself going back to that old Green Day CD you brought a long-ass time ago? Maybe not, ’cause it didn’t hold up. However, speaking of old shite, I still like “Insomniac,” to tell you the truth. Or maybe it’s just memories of middle-school that I’m fiendin’ for. Folks have these emotional connections to their artists as well, you know? That’s why “good” music is in the ear of the beholder. Decide for yourself. In fact, I’ve stopped reading (online music guide) Pitchfork’s reviews of albums that I am curious about, because I find myself closing too many doors and formulating ideas that really aren’t based on my own observations. Plus, they don’t know rap music, I’m convinced of that. So anyway, where’s that review? Okay, here we go
Nas’ new album, “Street’s Disciple” is certainly a fascinating follow-up to 2003’s “God’s Son.” Although the double-album dropped last year during America’s corporate holiday season, his label Columbia has been dropping various singles ever since. One of the new 12“s is ”Just a Moment,“ featuring guest emcee Quan. I don’t know yet if it’s getting the MTV circuit or radio play, but either way you should attempt to catch a listen. It’s a smooth, somber, slow beat with lyrics acknowledging those who passed away. Saluting fallen thugs is one of the most unoriginal themes to rap about, but damn, they pull it off beautifully this time around. Nas and Quan cover all the bases in this song, paying tribute to armed soldiers fighting in money wars, single mothers whose children got trapped in the system of poverty, brothers forced into life of crime, and of course Pac and Biggie (always an obligation). Sure, you’ve heard it before, but half of rapping is how you say what’s on your mind. And Nas is still one of the greatest emcees from the 90’s, so his new releases continually deserve attention. About half of his musical catalogue has been stinky garbage style, but the other half is so tight, it makes up for his shortcomings ten times over. ”Just a Moment“ isn’t club material; he’s got that ass-jiggling stuff covered elsewhere on ”Street’s Disciple.“ The title of his single explains how to decipher: take a minute, sit down, and think about those you care about. And realize that not everyone is fortunate enough to lead a privileged life; take that one how you will. Acknowledgement, that’s what it’s all about anyway.
So to wrap things up; listen to my show, ”Beats, Rhymes & Life“ on Saturday nights from 11 pm to 1 am. I will be playing this fancy new Nas track as well as other hot burners, so next time you’re cooped up in some cinderblock cube called the college dormitory, go over to your friend’s iTunes and flip this shit on.
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