Fresh City: CD reviews

Hiphop critic Patrick Taylor of RapReviews.com says, “GaKnew's rapping style is a little Kanye, and a little Jay-Z at his most earnest and soul-bearing. Think "Moment of Clarity" but with more soulful production, and you are approaching where GaKnew is coming from”…

“He draws upon the mastery of language essential in good poetry to create rhymes that are layered, complex, and a step above your average rapper.” …

“A lot of blood, sweat, and tears went into making "Mannequin People," and it shows. GaKnew deals with the struggles of the inner city, as well as the challenges of relationships, being a musician, and trying to make a place for yourself in the world. GaKnew is an insightful and honest rapper, and his positive but real approach is a welcome contrast to rappers who glamorize life on the streets, either intentionally or unintentionally. There are a lot of rappers spitting tales from the hood, but not that many offering solutions or analysis of how to make things better. GaKnew does this without sounding preachy or corny, which is no small feat.”

Don’t just take RapReviews.com’s word for it. Order your copy of the album at www.cdbaby.com/cd/gaknewroxwel and judge for yourself. The entire review can be read at http://www.rapreviews.com/archive/2008_10_mannequin.html
Though Patrick did mistake some facts as far as where GaKnew grew up and so forth, we appreciate the none-biased review. After you read the review, feel free to return to our guessbook and post your thoughts.
MOVE!

The group's name couldn't be any more appropriated; they are true poets that masterfully deliver their urban-based prose on solid hip hop beats and rhythms. The production quality on "Family Album" is flawless; and lyrically Thea and Ganew are both graceful and effective at what they do.

"Family Album" is a great mixture of spoken word, hard-hitting conscience rhymes, social commentary and smooth (almost neo-soul) hip hop all in one release. To say it has something for everyone would not do the release justice, because it's not for everyone, it's for those who crave quality hip hop music. To pick out choice tracks would also not be helpful, because honestly the entire album is a winner. The other great thing is that you have both a male and female perspective and they both perform excellently. This is the kind of release you will keep in your CD player.

Urban Poets truly have the talent to compete and make it in this cluttered world of rap. If you are seeking good music, check out "Family Album"; you shouldn't be disappointed at all. -Iz-Real