Culture Archives - Page 15 of 18

#rewindreview: The Roots ‘Rising Down’ 2008

Posted on January 16, 2024 by

‘Rising Down’ is the eighth full length album for The Roots who by 2008 had proven that as a collective, a fan base would always be present for anything they do. Their celebrity had grown by hit songs they made, touring they had done and collaborations with everyone from Dave Chappelle to Jay-Z and everyone in between. This album seemed to be something different just from the cover art and as it contrasted to the first single off this record ‘Rising Up.’ The song was very upbeat and fit the true Roots sound while being assisted by the R&B vocals of Chrisette Michelle and continuing a Roots tradition of putting on upcoming rappers who would be bigger stars, with Wale. The album begins with an “eye-catching” audio clip of Black Thought and ?uestlove arguing over the direction of the group at some period during The Roots career. The album title and album art start to make sense but will this be the start of the last album for The Roots? The title track welcomes listeners back to a Roots experience with Mos Def and Styles P., while ‘Get Busy’ goes a bit more hardcore in it’s music approach with Dice Raw and Peedi Peedi a.k.a. Peedi Crack. This project is showing a darker side of The Roots but at this point it is looking upward in terms of songs. The Hip-Hop archive appreciates the ‘@15′ track where fans get to hear the legend Black Thought at the age of fifteen showing why his “10,000 hours” have brought him to the legendary M.C. he is currently; which is then followed by him displaying that on ’75 Bars (Black’s reconstruction).’ This album seemed to be on track as their best since ‘Things Fall Apart’ but then a couple songs bring that “Metacritic” score down a bit. ‘I Will Not Apologize’ and ‘I Can’t Help It’ are not up to par with the music The Roots are known for or can do. These songs started to feel like the album was going in a ‘Phrenology’ direction but the group picks up the “loose ball” and from ‘Singing Man’ until the end of the album, fans get to hear the real Roots. As a bonus to the very personal and dark ideas of this album, it closes out with another audio clip of the group as they are discussing very real matters only for their rental vehicle to be wrecked causing all tension to be quelled by laughter. This is the most ?uestlove way to end a dark album on a light note. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Rising Up’ ‘Get Busy’ & ’75 Bars (Black’s reconstruction)’ Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 3-5a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD2 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen/ & TuneIn app (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @fanlink.to/QuantumLeapRadio

Unpopular Opinion vs Dismissing The Message: Stephen A. Smith or Rashad McCants

Posted on January 10, 2024January 10, 2024 by

Rashad McCants vs SAS (Stephen A. Smith) is rather ironic at best because it’s two people whom people dislike overall of their upfront takes but their messages get misconstrued of the person themselves because of such within the Sports Media world of Today. The spark of their back and forth over the Internet derived from a take on Stephen A. Smith Podcast where he made the claim that “Kobe Bryant isn’t the 2nd Greatest Basketball Player of all-time”. Rashad “Clap-Back” on Gil’s Arena to rebuttal against that claim, but took to things rather “Too Defensive” in some eyes. He felt, SAS was decimating Kobe’s overall legacy with that claim. Along with he never would or did such when the NBA Legend was alive. For Stephen A. Smith, there are times people may not like his takes but, can’t say he’s never upfront with sports topics or his knowledge is never on display, as well as he holds back of such. Oftentimes, it’s misconstrued by dislike of his takes as a Sports Journalist and Media Personality vs the actual person. Stephen A. Smith is like a “Professional Sniper”, who just gets the job done, and quite frankly doesn’t care for the emotions until after it’s all said and done. Also, has a humorous, and entertaining element to his craft. You can’t blame him or have a heavy distain upon him for that. If such were the case, then ESPN would’ve released him like they did previously in his career. He’s the “Cash Cow” for the network, and he’s been the most consistent sports analyst/figure the network as had since God rest his soul; Stuart Scott. Rashad McCants may seem “off the chart” with his takes on Gil’s platform; but he speaks entirely off of a Player’s preference mindset and rightfully so being a former Professional Athlete, as well as he’s highly passionate about it. The only thing is, his personality is brewing towards being “Unlikeable” and that’s where things get unfortunately tricky and convoluted as to if he’s just talking out his “Ass”. Also, gets highly dismissed because his career wasn’t considered or respected as such to make claims or sports takes of that caliber. End all be all, he’s a figure and element on the platform that adds onto the litany of edge that the Gil’s Arena platform requires. Face it folks, he’s not going anywhere. Say what you want or feel, but I really wish when it comes to hearing the “Ugly Truth” from them, or anyone in Sports Media just minus your feelings and could we just GROW UP!!!!. “Ugly Takes” or “Unpopular Opinions” are in Sports Topics for a reason, to inflict a difference amongst people who don’t think the same or don’t feel to “fluff”around in conversation. Sports Topics in its entirety are going to have that “Hero vs Villain” effect because of the personality you’re coming to grow, and become a fan of. Should it be as high of a “Popularity Contest” to not have in conversation? NO!!!. What if everyone agreed, then it would be BORING AF!!!! (Apologies for the children reading at home…lol). Who’s going to watch that? What ratings are coming in, or streaming numbers? There’s going to be a debate regardless of Sports Topics, but dismissing Opinions or claiming a person is willingly disrespecting towards a legacy just because of not liking the person is a reach. YES, there’s Opinion but in today’s society it counts only for who’s liked the MOST, and for that it’s UNFAIR. On to the next #MyCreatives Follow Me On Social Media: www.instagram.com/reemomeerak_ www.twitter.com/reemomeerak_ WEBSITE: ⁠ReemoMeerak.com⁠ For a Feature, Review, want me to do coverage, and a write-up on your event: [email protected]

#rewindreview: Black Moon ‘Rise Of Da Moon’ 2019

Posted on January 9, 2024 by

2019 was a heavy year for HOP music releases with some veterans making comeback albums. Often forgotten is the return of Black Moon who had not released an album as a group since 2002’s ‘Total Eclipse.’ ‘Rise Of Da Moon’ is as “Duck Down crew” as it can get in the later years of rapping. No one is missing as Buckshot, 5 Ft. Accelerator and D.J. Evil Dee present the dynamic first seen on their debut album ‘Enta Da Stage,’ with all music provided by The Beatminerz. ‘Creep Wit Me’ sets the tone of the album as Buckshot offers his low and rough voice while “5 Footer” adds his high pitched energy to a Beatminerz track worthy of those late night sounds fans come to know from the group. The two emcees feed off of each other like this throughout the album and as far as 5 Ft. Accelerator, fans get to feel he’s presence much more on this album. Features are kept to a minimum and only include Smif-N-Wessun, Method Man and Rockness Monsta. This also makes the album much more streamlined but makes it a challenge for Black Moon to keep the listeners attention span for fifty minutes. As a whole the album could have been shortened by a few songs as there isn’t enough diverse content. The majority of the album is either about their return to the music, boisterous claims of street credibility or how nice their skills are on the microphone. As a Black Moon fan one can appreciate these angles but after such a long hiatus it would have served the album to delve into more ideas. The strength of this release is how the music doesn’t divert too far from who Black Moon is. This is beats and rhymes, the attributes that created the rise of Black Moon. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Creep Wit Me’ & ‘Black Moon Rise’ Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 3-5a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD2 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen/ & TuneIn app (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @fanlink.to/QuantumLeapRadio

Katt Williams Unleashes Controversial Critique on Comedians and Entertainment Industry

Posted on January 7, 2024January 7, 2024 by

Was this for CLOUT, GLORY, or TRUTH?!!! In a recent interview on Shannon Sharpe’s; Club Shay Shay, that sent shockwaves through the comedy, entertainment world and the internet for 2024!!!, renowned comedian/actor Katt Williams didn’t hold back as he unleashed a scathing critique on fellow comedians and the entertainment industry. Known for his unfiltered and bold statements, Williams took the opportunity to address what he sees as significant challenges within the comedy landscape and the broader entertainment business. During the interview, Katt Williams touched on various aspects of the entertainment industry, offering a candid and unapologetic perspective. He critiqued not only the art of comedy but also the inner workings of an industry that has both propelled and hindered countless careers. Williams, known for his unique style and fearless approach to comedy, provided insights into the motivations behind his critique. Drawing from his own experiences, he shed light on what he perceives as systemic issues, discussing the challenges faced by comedians trying to navigate an industry that can be both cutthroat and unforgiving. He named dropped the likes of Steve Harvey, Rickey Smiley, Cedric The Entertainer, Faizon Love, Aries Spears, and Kevin Hart as those that either stole jokes, lackluster talent, or in some shape or form were “Plants” to the industry. Not going to lie here, I was rather amazed what transpired throughout the whole interview, as well as some keen and unique facts about him and his background. Overall, must give tremendous props to Shannon on his composure and demeanor. YES, a good amount of people would want him to control the interview as “conventional” as possible, but I don’t think we would have a potential interview like we all seen to kickoff this YEAR. Honestly, if such was a “Mission On Hand”, then Katt Williams was direct hit on his targets. Here’s a clip of the interview: The INTERNET went on INFERNO MODE as many were on the side of Katt Williams, and some comedians and Entertainers were sharing their humbling and honorable stories of interactions with him. Also, defending of his character, and skillset. Then, comes the rebuttals, or we like to call the “Clapbacks” Some of them were “MID” at best, and some were spot on from a different perspective. Like Ludacris’ Freestyle wasn’t really needed, I get it but, BRUHHHHH you already have yours and thensome from the movies: Kevin Hart kinda had some “Pewn Pewns” with his rugers, but the Plastic Cup Boyz had the better jokes during the New York Knicks vs 76ERS game via ESPN: Aries Spears had a different outlook, but honestly with the way of society today…I really doubt the message is “CLEAR”: Conclusion In the aftermath of the interview, the comedy community and entertainment industry have responded with a mix of support, critique, and contemplation. Some comedians rallied behind Williams, applauding his courage to speak out, while others offered counterpoints, defending the industry’s structure and citing their own positive experiences. As is customary in the digital age, social media played a significant role in amplifying the impact of Williams’ statements. Twitter, Instagram, and other platforms exploded with discussions, memes, and a spectrum of opinions. The interview quickly became a focal point for fans and industry insiders alike to engage in a lively debate about the state of comedy, and entertainment, as well as it’s reach of engagement across the internet, and YouTube at 30 Million Views in 4 days (Original Release: January 3rd, 2024). Katt Williams’ recent interview has undoubtedly shaken the foundations of the internet, and cast the light on him for 2024 thus far. Whether you agree or disagree with his viewpoints, the conversation he started is one that demands attention and introspection. As the comedy community grapples with the comments, it’s clear that the reverberations of Williams’ words will continue to be felt for some time. Most definitely leave a comment below, and as per usual….. ON TO THE NEXT #MyCreatives. Follow Me On Social Media: www.instagram.com/reemomeerak_ www.twitter.com/reemomeerak_ WEBSITE: ⁠ReemoMeerak.com⁠ For a Feature, Review, want me to do coverage, and a write-up on your event: [email protected]

#rewindreview: Joell Ortiz & Kxxg Crooked ‘Rise & Fall Of Slaughterhouse’ 2022

Posted on January 2, 2024January 2, 2024 by

As a full disclaimer, I was never a Slaughterhouse listener. Not that any of the M.C.’s were not talented but during their initial run the music was not what I wanted to hear, on top of the fact original member Joe Budden I was not a fan of. His voice was always annoying to me and anytime his name was coming up outside of music, he was having issues with people I was actually fans of musically. Myself notwithstanding, Slaughterhouse had a solid fanbase and that audience was waiting on a follow up album from the group called ‘Glasshouse.’ Unfortunately for the audience the album never came to fruition due to the group’s label situation at Eminem’s Shady Records and the “retirement” of Joe Budden. Enter this album which provides a bit of closure for the Slaughterhouse fans as it’s title literally points out. Joell Ortiz and Crooked I a.k.a Kxxg Crooked break down the “rise and fall of Slaughterhouse” in a forty-five minute record that for me was surprisingly entertaining. The two had already made an EP called ‘H.A.R.D.’ as they continued to keep the gears from not being rusty but obviously were lacking the likes of their two other Slaughterhouse members. For me the only other person needed for either of Joel and Crooked’s releases was Royce Da 5’9,” who had also been seeing a renewed interest in the albums and music he was releasing. ‘Rise & Fall Of Slaughterhouse’ can be a bit awkward as eighty percent of the album is describing the disappointment Joel and Crooked have with the break up of the group and more specifically their disappointment with Joe Budden. What makes the album work for me is although the theme is obvious the music is more of what I would want to hear from the crew which was provided by The Heatmakerz, D.J. Pain 1, Hesami, D.J. Silk and a touching song ‘Look Mama’ produced by Fong Sai U. ‘Rise & Fall Of Slaughterhouse’ can feel like the the “b-team” crying about not getting as much playtime but this might be due to HOP music never really hearing an album themed with the tragedy due to the demise of a group. Joell Ortiz and Kxxg Crooked make for a solid duo, while Royce Da 5’9″ continues to elevate his solo career; and ironically I am a fan of “media Joe” Budden but still have not been sold on his previous music as of the time of this typing. Don’t take my thoughts about this group as an outsider listening in but see if as a fan one can understand the rise and fall of this “super group.” What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Vacancy,’ ‘Backstage,’ ‘Smoke’ & ‘Look Mama’ Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 3-5a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD2 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen/ & TuneIn app (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @fanlink.to/QuantumLeapRadio

#ReemoApproved 2023 Review Recap: AllStar JR Brings Organized Crime 2 DELUXE to NYC!!!

Posted on December 30, 2023 by

You had to be there, to understand the moment. AllStar JR “Organized Crime 2 Deluxe” Release was a Two-night event on that tilt of a wave. Also, the preview to his documentary was spot on of whom the artist is and has become after his trials and tribulations in LIFE. All in all, an artist that’s well deserving of his name, and his continuing success within the Hip Hop Culture. I had an interview with the Detroit native via THE C.U.T.S. PODCAST on Night 1, and we had a well detailed conversation about his career, growth as an artist, as well as why he only cares for his craft, and music he creates: Organized Crime 2 was released in 1Q of January 2023, and now he’s released a Deluxe Version of the album that dropped in 2Q (April 2023, and OUT NOW!!!). You can catch the Recap of the event on my YouTube Channel, as well as on my Instagram. Very dope to meet an artist like him for a first time in back to back days. On To The Next #MyCreatives #ReemoApproved Follow Me On Social Media: www.instagram.com/reemomeerak_ www.twitter.com/reemomeerak_ WEBSITE: ⁠ReemoMeerak.com⁠ Merch Store: https://reemomeerakbrand.myshopify.com/ For a feature, want me to do coverage, and a write-up on your event: [email protected]

#Reemoapproved 2023 Review Recap: New York Music Month Conference 2023

Posted on December 30, 2023 by

Despite recently joining the Digiwaxx brand in 4Q 2023. I will admit this year was unique, and ascending for the #ReemoMeerakBrand, as well as for the contributions in media with interviews and events attended. All in all, want to show the readers, and viewers what took place, as well as captivating stories I’ve reviewed: New York Music Month Conference 2023 (June 2023) Great Conference Panel event. Lots of well known, and potent figures and executives in the music industry expressing their expertise and knowledge of the business. Giving the creatives a litany of information to assist with their music career, and have their brand flourish. Also, the catering (Courtesy of NYU) was on point and well needed during the lengthy panel discussions. The main theme or rather push of discussion amongst the panels were the changes in DIVERSITY of the music industry, as well as the changes of roles with women and people of LGBTQIA+. Technology, especially of the METAverse and A.I. were of heavy talks, as well as the ever changing trends of social media. Even, social media influencer/music artist; Chinese Kitty explained about how one of her major tracks went viral, and broke down the steps of how things occurred. The Branding Panel with Jesse Kirshbaum, Jennifer Frommer, Mike Ladman, & Travis Montage was huge because they broke down of what huge name brands are looking for, how they are using multiple brands to collab for a figure, and of the landscape in which branding has become. Jennifer Frommer, spoke a good amount of the panel with stories of Lil’ Nas X campaigns with YSL Beauty, Taco Bell, and of her process of putting quality campaigns together. The highlight of the conference, which was the end of it with; 50 Years Of Hip Hop Culture, Creation and Commerce PANEL. Torrae Carr was the Moderator with panelist; Kim Osorio (BET), Datwon Thomas (Vibe), Ebro Darden (Apple Music/Hot97) were having a great discussion about the Hip Hop Culture and where it has gone. Also, all three panelists agreed that hip hop is in a good space, but there’s more room to tweak things and make it greater. 50 Years Of Culture, Creation and Commerce PANEL Torres Carr – Songwriter/Recording Artist, Internal Affairs Datwon Thomas: Editor-In Chief (VIBE) Ebro Darden: Global Editorial, Head of Hip Hop and R&B Apple Music Kim Osorio; Executive Producer – BET, VH1 Speakers: Jem Aswad – EXECUTIVE Editor of Variety Ian Holder – Senior Vice President of Sony Music Publishing Richard James Burgess, President & CEO Of AZIM (American Association of Independent Music) Mitch Glazer – Chairman, and CEO of Recording Industry Association of America Jen Lyon – Artistic Director/ Owner of MeanRed Productions Chinese Kitty – Hip Hop Artist Doug E. Fresh – Legendary Hip Hop Artist / Activist Adrian Perry – Partner, Co-Chair, Entertainment & Media Group – Covington & Burling LLP Lynn Gonzalez – Entertainment Lawyer Erika Stallings – Senior Counsel; Epic Games/Bandcamp Judy Tint – Attorney/ Clinical Associate Professor of Music Business, NYU Nari Matsuura – Partner, And Co-Leader Music Economics, and Valuation Services Practice, Citrin Cooperman Andreea Gleason – Chief Executive Officer of TuneCORE Chrissy Nkemere – Former Co-Chair of D&I, Current Chair of Education at Women In Music Jillian Hervey – Lion Babe ; Music Artist Jesse Kirshbaum – Nue Agency Jennifer Frommer – Head Of Brand Partnerships of Columbia Records Mike Ladman – Head Of Music; Droga5 Travis Montage – Co-Founder and CEO; Group Black / Crater Drew De Leon – Owner of Digilouge Dhruv Chopra – Founder/CEO of Elsewhere David Castillo – Owner/Head Buyer of Saint Vitus Ali McCloud – Vice President, Live Music Partnerships – DICE Nick Bodor – Co-Owner, Baker Falls, Cake Shop, Bruar Falls, The Library Bar All in all, despite the duration of the event can agree it was a #ReemoApproved. I was able to network with new faces, obtained some vital information regarding of the business conducted in the music industry, and the food with drinks kept me engaged. Only thing that bothered me was not enough music artists attended the event. I feel the more artists the better the value of the industry can increase. Hopefully, NYMMC makes that a push for next year. On to the NEXT #MyCreatives Follow Me On Social Media: www.instagram.com/reemomeerak_ www.twitter.com/reemomeerak_ WEBSITE: ⁠ReemoMeerak.com⁠ Merch Store: https://reemomeerakbrand.myshopify.com/ For a feature, want me to do coverage, and a write-up on your event: [email protected]

#rewindreview: Nems ‘Rise Of The Silverback’ 2023

Posted on December 26, 2023 by

The hustle that Nems has been on spans about twenty years from features with D12, to the battle rap scene but where the New York rapper hit his stride was his online videos. The videos find Nems going up to random people on the street and joking on who they look like while ending the joke with “don’t ever disrespect me.” It looks like the most New York attitude one could receive in that city but Nems has a way of making the joke work. Never to be lost in the fake world of social media, Nems is actually a very down to Earth person who still believes that rapping is the mission. ‘Rise Of The Silverback’ is just the release to not only remind people he isn’t just an online personality but that he will (by his own words) slap the sh!t out you, proverbially on record of course… This is a HOP album that truly takes listeners back to a time of the sound of New York rap while still not sounding like it comes from the 1980’s or 1990’s. Scram Jones produces the album and provided Nems with a diverse number of beats to ensure the music isn’t monotonous. There are a couple of moments that get “nervous” for one not wanting to hear current music in their HOP listening like on ‘Demon’ and ‘Blickey, but the good thing about ‘Rise Of The Silverback’ is it keeps focus for a solid thirty-five minute runtime. Nems clearly comes from the school of “hardcore hip-hop” and one might notice his aesthetic is similar to an early Fat Joe. He reminds me more of the Non-Phixion section of the HOP where ‘non-blacks” create music that represent their environment but still have an identity that doesn’t stray into making a caricature of Hip-Hop culture. “Hide your kids ya’ll..,” because Nems curses on this album like it’s the year 1993 which creates a subtle nostalgia to the record that also comes with features from Sheek Louch, Fat Joe, Gunplay, Ghostface Killah, Tish Hyman and Peedi Crack. With only thirteen tracks you would think these featured talents overshadow Nems but instead the “Fuc& Your Life” rapper’s presence is never forgotten. In time Nems will evolve his content more and that is present on the track ‘Keep On’ where we find the most introspective rhymes from Nems running down his hustle to get from “A to B.” ‘Rise Of The Silverback’ might not be for everyone but it does break a stereotype that battle rappers can’t create a solid rap record. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Don’t Ever Disrespect Me,’ ‘Drip,’ ‘Blicky,’ & ‘Keep On’ Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 3-5a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD2 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen/ & TuneIn app (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @fanlink.to/QuantumLeapRadio

Holiday Toy Drive event hits big in Union Square!!!!!

Posted on December 20, 2023December 20, 2023 by

Dazed’s mission to give back and to the community was on deck with this Event!!! We are in the Holiday Season, and as the “GREAT” Correspondent that I am (Ahhhhhemmm,lol). I attended the Dazed Cannabis x Black Santa Company Holiday Toy Drive event in Union Square. The store is decked out with Dazed Merch (Which I definitely am a fan of the Varsity Jacket and the Hoody), Holiday Ornaments , the TOYS piling up in the middle, and of course the “WEEEEEEEEEEDDDDD-uh”,lol (Stephen A. Smith voice). All jokes aside, the Cannabis was flowing in abundance as shoppers were buying, as well as donating Toys for the cause. The Black Santa Company mascot, was definitely an entertaining piece to the event as shoppers were delighted by his humorous presence and dance moves on the sales floor. Also, the patrons were at ease with the refreshments of Villion Cognac, and Bumbu Rum Co. The Dazed x Black Santa Company Toy Drive aimed to make a difference for the local community in need this holiday season with a toy donation to one of The Black Santa Company charitable partners the Think Watts Foundation. The Music was definitely jumping off the charts with DJ Sarcastic on the ones and twos. Notable guests in attendance included: Nancy Rodriguez (Netflix Love is Blind, Season 3) Bandit The Rapper (Sony Recording Artist) Hiii Siddity (Artist Girll Codee) Panama da Prince (Music Artist) Adeola Crown(Luxury Influencer) Paytra (Music Artist) Black Rose (Comedian/Actress/Influencer) I had the opportunity of interviewing the co-owner of Dazed Cannabis; Keshawn Warner: Overall was a #ReemoApproved event, and many should be on a lookout for their future events. Follow Me On Social Media: www.instagram.com/reemomeerak_ www.twitter.com/reemomeerak_ WEBSITE: ⁠ReemoMeerak.com⁠ Merch Store: https://reemomeerakbrand.myshopify.com/ For a feature, want me to do coverage, and a write-up on your event: [email protected]

#rewindreview: Boogiemonsters ‘Riders Of The Storm: The Underwater Album’ 1994

Posted on December 19, 2023December 20, 2023 by

When we were buying physical recordings of albums there would often be those purchases that were not perfect but they might be one of your favorite albums to listen to. This was ‘Riders Of The Storm’ for me. In the summer of 1994 I discovered The Boogiemonsters during one of the many moments I tried to position the antenna on my T.V. to pick up the fabled Video Juke Box. This was a platform that required viewers to dial in a request for music videos. Although I never made any request it provided me with exposure to many new acts at the time. ‘Recognized Thresholds Of Negative Stress’ was not only a mouth full of a title for a song but also had a very annoying or captivating hook. In 1994 the whole song was different and these voices were fresh with ideas and energy. The album would present more of the same but over the years I have come to the realization that there was a common theme behind the songs. Recently there was an article asking was this a “Christian Rap album?” Something that never dawned on me as I was always taken by the music but did catch the meaning behind songs like ‘Mark Of The Beast’ and the almost gospel like vibe of the title track. As HOP music went back then, there was going to be positive and inspiring lyrics with certain groups so I always took their mentioning of certain religious references as just a part of their music. Boogiemonsters had a good thing going with this record because rarely did it ever get boring but maybe the pace would slow down on ‘Muzic Appreciation…’ and ‘Salt Water Taffy…’ but would pick right up with a track like ‘Honeydips In Gotham;’ which was relatable to young men searching for the opposite sex during those days. The song that has to be the most talked about, and at the time odd but impactful is ‘Old Man Jacob’s Well.’ This was a song about child abduction and although I was fourteen at the time it creeped me out and reminded me of the days when television movies like ‘Adam’ warned children to stay away from strangers. The unique thing about the song was it comes from the perspective of the abductor and how his motivation was not malice but as natural as a predator in the wild. The Jimi Hendrix-esque guitar rifts in the music drove the track home and really leaves an imprint on the listener but this also why ‘Riders Of The Storm’ is such a cultural hit for those that know. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Recognized Thresholds Of Negative Stress,’ ‘Honeydips In Gotham’ & ‘Strange’ Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 3-5a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD2 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen/ & TuneIn app (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @fanlink.to/QuantumLeapRadio

Category: Culture