If one was not born, not paying attention, or simply was not into HOP music between the late 1980’s and early 1990’s, a good barometer for how fast the sound changed is Gang Starr’s first two albums. ‘Step In the Arena’ was released in early 1991 and was a complete contrast to their debut album ‘No More Mr. Nice Guy’ in 1989. The sound and look of Hip-Hop seemed to change drastically from within that year and a half. Of course this change was positive for the music, and although subtle to ears back then it is a clear evolving when looking back.
Guru and D.J. Premier seemed to be getting it right on ‘Step In The Arena.’ The album sounded more consistent and confident. Guru was providing ‘street knowledge’ while D.J. Premier was showcasing his responsibility to help lead this duo to new heights. They were becoming the perfect combination and setting a standard for how HOP music should be received and respected.
As a kid seeing videos for ‘Who’s Gonna Take The Weight?’ and ‘Just To Get A Rep,’ was like “knowledge being born,” to coin a phrase. One song provided an outlook on worldly events, and either foresaw or was simply a warning to how the past predicts the future. The other song was the greatest lesson in universal law, and the consequences of ones actions. Gang Starr was beginning to master putting the “medicine in the candy” for those listeners who might have thought acts like Poor Righteous Teachers or KRS-One was too “preachy.” An error of judgement made by too many listeners even today, but I digress.
This sophomore release is judged as “classic” by many but personally I think is simply a solid album. The best was still yet to come and Gang Starr gave a taste of what was next with songs like ‘Check The Technique’ and ‘What You Want This Time?’ These tracks felt like D.J. Premier starting to really experiment with the music which he fully leans into on their next album ‘Daily Operation.’ The direction with ‘Step In The Arena’ was clear, and would really set the tone for this legendary duo, while establishing an expectation and responsibility listener’s had for their rap favorites. What did you think of the album?
Singles include:
‘Just to Get a Rep,’ ‘Take A Rest,’ ‘Lovesick,’ ‘Who’s Gonna Take the Weight?’ & ‘Step in the Arena’
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