Search - Theory Hazit :: Extra Credit

Extra Credit is the Real Deal

Trey Palmisano | Baltimore, MD | 04/16/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Linking up with a beat-connoisseur like Braille should speak volumes about Theory Hazit as an artist and an up-and-coming talent to be reckoned with. When the HipHopIsMusic label produces your album, rest assured, you've made something of an impression with the right people.



The question is: does the album bear out this generalization and live up to the high standards of quality found in a number of the label's projects?



The answer is resoundingly "yes."



Extra Credit finds its way on to a short list of memorable albums in 2007 and beyond. There are some dynamite joints that have you head-bobbin' as soon as the beat drops in. The song "Lesson in Power" brings with it a full vocal accompaniment of choir singers laced over a pounding beat reminiscent of early '90s pioneers like Redman. Interludes by K-Drama set off each hook. Other songs like "Ghetto" "Just Another Day" "Decisions" and YouTube favorite "I Just Wanna Come Home" are filled with visceral hooks, lilting vocals, and quality verbiage that remind us just how influential a medium hip hop can be when it's rising stars aren't just yelling about egos, women, cars, and the size of their rims.



Theory breaks the stigmas and yet himself looks like he should be mainstream. Yet, his lyrics are full of deep existential verve, which point unambiguously to his relationship with Jesus Christ as personal Lord and Savior, and he's not beyond answering a few critics in the song "Gossip Synopsis." But this might be where Theory also wants to remember that the approach of a Christian is humility and not necessarily waging a war of insults or defending one's person. Having "Big Steve" tell everyone that "real Christians don't play" and that "bad things happen in Cincinnati" or that you're 300 lbs and 6'5" to intimidate your pool of critics isn't the kind of image Christians should be projecting. Nevertheless, this is a solid work full of heart, soul, AND spirit. If his current track record is any indication of where he's going, expect phenomenal things from this cat.



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