It’s always difficult to decide what album to blog after an absence, but there are few better to return with than 88-Keys’ The Death of Adam, a stonking piece of hip-hop storytelling featuring Kid Cudi, J Davey, Redman, Bilal, Phonte and even Kanye West as guests.
The basic premise of the story that the album tells is the story of a young man named Adam, whose various lusts lead to his eventual demise. What makes this album stand out, asides from the very, very strong concept, is the organic feel of the production.
It’s got some huge artists featuring, but thankfully they never eclipse the songs themselves. 88-Keys is an accomplished rapper, but Kanye West’s verse on Stay Up! (Viagra) totally rewrites the rules in a frankly astounding fashion. That said, West’s presence doesn’t choke the song, and Keys’ production still emerges the true star of the piece. Furthermore, smooth numbers such as Dirty Peaches provide good pacing for the story, and a pleasurably soulful feel to the album, whilst the (intentionally?) hilarious narration helps keep the concept tight.
Fantastic shizz.
Tracks to look out for: Stay Up! (Viagra), Dirty Peaches, M.I.L.F
Posted on July 20, 2011
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