If Dave Chappelle's Block Party was the underground hip-hop and neo-soul family reunion of the decade, the film's soundtrack is the plate that cousins, aunts and uncles would wrap and take home for tomorrow's dinner.
It's a casserole of Black Star's lyrical brain food, Erykah Badu's body nourishing vocals, and Jill Scott's soul-soothing voice. To add politically conscious and old school flavor, it's sprinkled with appearances from hip-hop revolutionary artists Dead Prez and pioneers Big Daddy Kane and Kool G. Rap. This soundtrack is the home-cooked meal for fans who have missed these artists for too long.
Recorded during the film's taping in Brooklyn, N.Y., the birthplace to many artists appearing on the album, the soundtrack captures all the energy of a free concert. As soon as the beat to Dead Prez's "Hip Hop" starts, the vibe takes over and listeners are transported to the crowd assembled on the borough's block. When Mos Def and Talib Kweli start counting the chorus to "Definition" (One two three/Mos Def and Talib Kweli/We came to rock it on to the tip top/Best alliance in hip hop/Wyhao), the party is officially on its way.
But nothing is more refreshing than to hear Erykah Badu's voice accompany Kweli in the performance of "The Blast." She also performs her hit "Back in the Day," and fans will remember how she dominated radio airwaves and charts with an innovative style no one could ever reproduce. It feels good to know she can still take a microphone and control a performance with unparalleled coolness. Though most of the songs are past hits, there are a few surprises.
Jill Scott, known for her creativity and unique neo-soul, performs a jazzier version of "Golden" and puts a rock-inspired spin on "The Way," both popular tracks from previous albums. Other performances include Common and The Roots with special appearances by Bilal and Kool G. Rap.
Missing artists from the film include Kanye West and The Fugees, additions that definitely would have placed this soundtrack in its own category of hip-hop prominence. Luckily, the artists' who are on there hold their own and offer a fulfilling and complete album. To get the full experience, the soundtrack should be played only at maximum volume. Any other way would be a great loss to the listener.
Hip-hop fans should thank Dave Chappelle for bringing these artists together to film a concert that could be seen for less than $30, and now for the opportunity to bring the experience home.
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