Saturday 15 November 2014

Recommended music: 'Run The Jewels 2' by Run The Jewels

"Mix the mind of Brad Jordan and Chuck D and find me / 
I spit with the diction of Malcolm or say a Bun B"
- Killer Mike, 'Jeopardy'


A big step forward from their first album, this release sees Killer Mike and El-P sure to hit the big time. Already being tipped by some as the rap album of the year, it's a rabble-rousing call for social equality masquerading as knockabout hip-hop album. In some ways it's probably too nuanced; I'm sure plenty of misogynists will be singing the "Dick in her mouth all day" chorus of 'Love Again (Akinyele Back)' without grasping its description of mutually respectful relationships. And unless you're a huge fan of the word 'vagina' then Jaime Meline's verses may start to grate after a while (to summarise - he likes vaginas. A lot. Although I guess it makes a change from lazy'pussy' references).

They've followed the same release methodology as last time - you can download the record for free if you want to, or you can stump up the cash for a physical copy on CD or vinyl, along with some natty t-shirts. And you really should, because this kind of quality hip-hop is worth much more of your money than some of the other watered-down shit out there. Seriously, don't be a fuckboy, put your hand in your pocket and spend a few dollars or pounds on this, you won't regret it.

Not for nothing, but I met the boys in the Rough Trade shop in New York a couple of weeks ago and they were two of the most genuine people I've met in the music business, happy to shoot the breeze with everyone.

DJ Cull vs Run The Jewels, Brooklyn 10/29/14
So, listen to the whole thing below and then splash some cash on it.



You can download the album for free here.

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