Shad, I feel like we have a few things in common you and I. We both have a strong affinity for the 90s (as witnessed here) and we both think we're pretty handy with a clever turn of phrase. And where you're nominated for a Polaris Prize, I'm writing about the Polaris Prize. Ok this is starting to get tenuous.
So 9 weeks in and we're finally reviewing the first hip-hop album of the bunch (and no I do not count Radio Radio as anything like hip-hop). And call it what you will - a love letter, an homage or just straight influence - it's clear Shad's roots are firmly planted in 90s rap.
All the great touchstones are there - A Tribe Called Quest, De La Soul and especially the Pharcyde (just check out the video for Rose Garden). Like his influences he doesn't take him self too seriously but at the same time can deliver an impactful message with his rhymes. Plus the production isn't mired with that repetitive Timberland bullshit that seems to infect so much hip hop these days, but instead drops some old-school bass lines and funky drums.
So then why didn't I like this album more?
For me it's good but never great. With the exception of maybe album opener Rose Garden, TSOL aims for far bigger things then it delivers. Many times Shad is too clever by half and goes to the same lyrical well too often (close like Glenn, hit College like the Danoforth, etc). And anyone who rhymes rappin with nappin is just lazy.
For me this album has too many of those moments where it almost reaches greatness but doesn't quite make it. Shad is clearly very talented and I feel like aligned with the right producer he could achieve that high water mark. But TSOL just isn't it.
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