Big K.R.I.T. - Live from the Underground

Big K.R.I.T. - Live from the Underground

If you haven’t heard of Big K.R.I.T, Id have to question what rock you’ve been under and insist that you don’t keep your ear tuned to the underground, nor do you search out quality music.  The young rapper /producer from Mississippi, has been on a tear musically putting it down for not only the South but taking us back to hip hop with substance, creativity, and concepts.  With a string of critically acclaimed, slept on and highly anticipated tracks and mix-tapes, he has garnered a lot of attention and respect, including a number major features and collaborations. Bringing back serious hip hop that’s reminiscent of some of Hiphops Legendary acts   (i.e. Outkast, 8ball & MJG, UGK, Scarface). Honored as one of XXL’s Freshman of the year in 2011. He finally delivers the much anticipated, major label debut “Live from the Underground.

Lyrically and poetically he’s dope, no denying that. He has flow, command over his beats and knows how to make a song and stick to a concept completely.  He’s versatile in a number of skill sets (flow, delivery, etc.) and cant be boxed into any particular style i.e. punch line, club or conscious rapper. He has a vast subject range and has an old soul about him, check  “ Praying Man” f/ B.B. King. He has the ability to carry a song by himself or share the spotlight check for “I Got This” and “Money on the Floor” f/ 8Ball &MJG, & 2Chainz. Production wise the beats are very bluesy and soulful, think of early outkast, you can hear the influence but it’s till original. Just from his mix tapes and right up into his this album he has proves that he doesn’t make or thrive on a particular type of song, he has a brand of music that he makes, and that at least will solidify him a solid following of loyal fans. He has something for everybody and every part of the country. His music has that all important head nod factor check for “If I fall” f/ Melanie Fiona.  Its definitely original, it’s not like anything or anyone out. I sadly don’t expect much video or radio play, but live shows will be on point. If you looking for commercialism and materialism stereotypes, this is not the album, this album is about the music not the gimmick, the steak not the sizzle, honestly it really has a Dungeon Family fee, check for “Rich Dad Poor Dad”.

Its an album that will grow on you, the replay value at first wont be high but each time you listen you’ll like it and appreciate more and more. I don’t promise you’ll love every song, but every song is listenable, and no skipping is required.  It could honestly end up being very slept on and not be appreciated until years later

There’s no doubt

It’s a good album, consistent with all of his other works, but I don’t think it will get him any new fans or convert any none believers. The mix tapes so far have been better, the album seem to be missing that signature track that sets it off. And I can appreciate the fact that he didn’t use one of the major mix tape releases as expected.  For those in the middle, the jury will still be out on Big K.R.I.T. I give it a strong 3 ½ stars out of 6, definitely worth checking though.  I expect a lot of growth and development in years to come.