Q-Tip
(Universal Motown)
After almost a decade without releasing an album (undoubtedly connected with his stints with five different labels within six years) the former leader of legendary hip-hop group A Tribe Called Quest makes his return to the scene to remind us why an ear is no good unless a Q-Tip is in it. The Abstract One reintroduces himself to the listener with a masterfully crafted album in "The Renaissance," showcasing his great command of the dynamic of an album's mood.
Lyrically speaking, Q-Tip consistently demonstrates the same sharpness present in his older works. Paired with funky, jazzy beats, his articulate words intoxicate the listener into an energetic yet very soulful state of mind.
Q-Tip's equally articulate voice guides the listener through the entire album in a brisk, nonchalant manner, and by doing so, defiantly demonstrates hip-hop's appeal to those who look for something more substantial in music besides constant self-exultation about one's swagger or style. Indeed, Q-Tip proves with his new release that his foremost quality lies in making cool look effortless.
Standout Tracks: "We Fight / We Love" (feat. Raphael Saadiq), "Shaka" JUSTIN OH
