#rewindreview: One Be Lo ‘S.O.N.O.G.R.A.M.’ 2005

 
One Be Lo, One half of Binary Star and the “One Man Army” made a statement twenty years ago with ‘S.O.N.O.G.R.A.M.’ The title stands for “Sounds of Nashid Originate Good Rhymes And Music,” a mission One Be Lo whose real name Nahshid Sulaiman, has been on since entering the music game. As a former convicted felon for armed robbery, One Be Lo has always seemed to counter his past mistakes with very stern messages of choosing another route. Utilizing his voice and platform as a way to explain the challenges and causes of why so many black youth are faced with hard choices and minimal options for success. On his second solo album since the disbandment of his former group Binary Star, One Be Lo creates a sort of epic album that never glorifies ignorant activities while still providing a strong sense of street knowledge and guidance. On the song ‘Oggie’ One Be Lo discusses the reality of consequences after a life changing decision versus rappers using that same decision as just fodder for songs. ‘Decepticons’ which was probably the biggest and most impactful track off this album when it was released, is an ear opening track about politics of the mind, street and country as the hook sums up the fact that “some things change, some things stay the same.” The album features production mainly by One Be Lo and Decompoze with Chic Masters and Majestik Legend on a few others. One can walk away from this album knowing that in the spirit of Public Enemy, The Coup or Dead Prez, One Be Lo and many others throughout the history of HOP music have always understood that “Edutainment” is necessary for the minds listening to this art form. That assignment can never be deterred by the likes of propaganda and those who are sent out to start narratives to downplay artist in service of a greater cause. What did you think of the album?

Singles include:
‘Rocketship,’ ‘Decepticons’ & ‘Sleepwalking’

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