I got a taste of this album with ‘Bars & BBQs’ (no pun intended). A laid back track that found rapper Shad showing off his wordplay ability, with the first verse rhyming only words that start with the letter “B.” To me this was a new act who respected the art of rhyme, which these days is starting to appear a bit more as opposed to just a decade ago. I came across Shad on social media and he looked familiar, like someone you know, but just haven’t seen in a while.

Before this album released, two more singles dropped in ‘Islands’ and ‘K.I.S.S.’ At this point I was interested and felt that Shad not only was talented but was intentional about the type of sound he was providing. Still where have I seen this guy…?

‘Start Anew’ releases and although I did not get to it on the first day, when I finally locked into the album it was satisfying. With only thirteen tracks and about thirty-five minutes long, Shad manages to put together an album ripe for spring season. Production is handled by many with names like Theory Hazit and sndtrk but it all manages to fit the theme of the album.

Shad makes this album a journal on his perspective of life through ‘Happiness’ regardless of the obstacles and ‘Sacrifice,’ where him and Homeboy Sandman look back at the challenges that made them stronger. Features also include Rax Fresco, Jon Kobongo, Chantae Cann and pHoenix Pagliacci. An album with so much ingredients that fit within a short period of time could not be made by someone just getting on the scene. Who is this Shad guy, and why with every listen and look at him, he seems familiar…?

It then hit me that this is the same person who hosted a thorough look at Hip-Hop music and the different regions it expanded to, on Netflix’s ‘Hip-Hop Evolution.’ Not only that but apparently Shad is one of Canada’s most popular rappers, who has been putting out music for the last twenty years. Everything began to make since to me as the collaborations, content and decisions on ‘Start Anew’ was made by a seasoned veteran.

Canada has had some of the most respected M.C.s who have been respectful of HOP music throughout the years, such as Moka Only, Kardinal Offishall, K-OS, Ghetto Concept, Saukrates and Choclair. Shad ads to this incredible group of individuals and ‘Start Anew’ is a reflection of this. What did you think of the album?

Singles include:
‘Slanted’ & ‘Rain’

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