He also speaks on the current societal limitations and oppressions of the African American culture. Nas presents a verse that superbly evokes vintage storytelling mixed with complex word play through metaphors and similes. Kanye alongside The Dream deliver angelic and haunting vocals that combined with sombre and light chords surround the track with a feeling of spiritual bliss. This song whilst instrumentally impressive still remains lacklustre and boring.Įverything is sonically beautiful and stands to be one of the most unique and eloquent tracks of the album. Nas contributes a boastful and egotistical verse that cleverly portrays the luxuries of being rich rapper. The song screams French sophistication which is only further shown on the soft and bouncing keys scattered through the song. “ Bonjour” is an elegant and smooth song that is swiftly injected with an intoxicating exhibition of refined and effortless vocals from ‘The World Famous Tony Williams’. Even though this song falls under the weaker side of the album due to its lack of memorability I still believe it does offer some redeeming elements such as the well crafted instrumentals by Kanye. “ White Label” is built around the looping of the soulful vocals from Shahram Shabpareh that fills the track with a gritty urban vibe that is mirrored by Nas’ expertly delivered verse that highlights his lavish lifestyle whilst reinforcing his significance in the rap game. However Kanye is a stand out as he is able to effortlessly rap over the beat whilst offering gems like “ who de we call to report crime… if 9-1-1 doing the drive by?” which highlights the impact of police shootings on African American communities.Įven with both artists producing stellar verses, the standout element of the track has to be the punchy and nostalgic production from Kanye that fills the track with an unmatched energy. Whilst the production is undoubtably the greatest element to the track, both Nas and Kanye deliver energetic and vibrant verses. The looping sample coupled with Boom Bap styled drums, gives this track a real old school New York feel. “ Cops Shot The Kids” starts with a sample of “Cops/The Line Up” from Richard Pryor’s 1971 standup album, Craps (After Hours), this is then followed by the looping sample of Slick Rick’s “Children’s Story”. Overall I would say that this track just proves that Nas still is able to produce amazing tracks. The inclusion of 070 Shake on the chorus was a pleasant surprise, the line “ I think they scared of us” is liberating and infectious. This is an amazing intro that showcases Nas’ lyrical ability yet it’s the production from Kanye that really makes the track stand out. This track feels to show the greatness of black people and highlight how black people are marginalised in society due to fear of African American culture.
NASIR ALBUM REVIEW DJ BOOTH PRO
The track is unapologetically pro black which is clearly shown with the addition of Diddy who on the outro expresses his perspective on being black in America.
NASIR ALBUM REVIEW DJ BOOTH FULL
Nas adds to this by delivering hard hitting bars that are full of historical and political knowledge as well as an inspiring message. “ Not For Radio” is the first track on the album and begins with Nas announcing “ Escobar season begins” leading into epic vocal samples from Basil Poledouris’ “Hymn To Red October” that blended with orchestral sounds from Victoria Parker on violin and Phillip Peterson on the cello, which made the track a regal and monumental listening experience. I feel that, with help from Kanye, his new album Nasir is a welcomed and great addition to Nas’ collection of great albums. With this status comes an almost responsibility to release projects that continues to further establish his legacy. Over his long historic career, Nas has cemented himself into the upper echelon of rap in the minds of many hip hop fans.