Search - Common Market :: Tobacco Road

A good blast of fresh air just when suffocation seemed inevi

N. Smith | Minneapolis, MN USA | 10/18/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is my first review. I don't know why, but I have had a strong desire to say something on this album. Been thinking about it since I got it a couple days ago. I am very skeptical when it comes to hip hop these days. I have all but given up on it(or grown out of it).



I came across this album looking through the new releases. The name was familiar and I was drawn to it. After checking the samples, I said, 'what the hell'. If I should buy some music, these guys seem like the right choice. I also read up on them a little bit. They seemed like the kinda guys I would like to hang out with. Really accessable, not that hard core "i'm a badazz" type heads.



Anyways, as for the music... I do not think any hip hop released in the last 8-10 years, can even come close to this. I know that is a tall claim. But for me, nothing has grabbed me like this album has.

The lyrics are honest, thought provoking, and generally playful. His delivery is so smooth and reminds me of Talib, Mos Def or Brother Ali. The message is genuine. I think his best quality is the way he bumps along over the beat. Thats the best way I can explain it. The beats are melodic and mellow. They complement the lyricist exceptionally.



Overall, this release is just what I needed going into the long cold winter.

A refreshing album I rarely can say about any other hip hop coming out these days. At this moment, if I were recommend an album to a fellow music lover, this would be it. My only hope for this album is that more people will come across these guys.

"

Absolutely awesome!

andrew | rhode island, USA | 09/12/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This album comes pretty close following their "Black War Patch" EP. I loved that disc, and I seriously thought that follow up that was on par with the shortened release as well as their self-titled release from a couple years ago. That being said, I came in with high expectations, and they were met impeccably.



Lyrically, Ra Scion is one of the most prolific artists doing it today. He's the only rapper to ever make me pull out a dictionary, weaving little anecdotes as well information regarding his own personal life, struggles, and inner conflict. It makes for a tough listen if you're not used to it, as you might have some trouble catching the depth of what he's saying. Not that multiple listens should be a problem...



- considering Sabzi's beats are pretty close to flawless. He's my current favorite producer (I've never heard a bad beat from him ever), and if you listen, it's easy to see why he's quickly becoming a superstar. Soul loops, crisp drums, and soothing piano solos (re: song "Tobacco Road") are just some of the weapons in his repertoire.

I received a promo version of this, and the retail is no different. I've had plenty of listens to formulate an opinion, and overall, this is my favorite release so far this year. The year is about 3/4 over, and I'm not sure if this is going to get knocked off the pedestal. If you need to hear any song in full, I'd highly recommend "Winter Takes All" - that wins "Song of the Year" award running away. 5 stars; this album is absolutely worth your money. Please support hip hop, support independent artists, and support a movement for positivity.



Andrew

www.musicalessence.wordpress.com"

Amazing CD

W. Kelly | Redlands, CA | 09/10/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD is really, really good. I bought it from iTunes a week or so ago on pre-sale, and I haven't stopped listening to it since. I am a huge fan of Sabzi's beats, and I think these are his best yet. Every song is amazing, but some of my favorites are Winter Takes All, Certitude (W/ Geologic), Nina Sing, and Tobacco Road. The beats on Tobacco Road and Nina Sing are especially amazing, but there are so many good songs on here its hard to single those out. Anyways, definitely buy a copy it is well worth your money."