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W.A.R. (We Are Renegades) is the third solo album to be released by American rapper Pharoahe Monch. Why am I reviewing an album released roughly a year ago? Well firstly it was my favourite album of 2011, and secondly I don’t think it received the coverage it deserved.
The first track,“The Warning“, is a skit featuring British actor Idris Elba, which sets the tone and themes of the album. The listener is taken to the year 2023 and warns them about the rest of the albums content. “Calculated Amalgamation” is more an extended intro, and a high quality one at that before the album properly kicks off with “Evolve“. This Exile produced track begins with a news report about a tsunami in the background. With lyrics such as “They discuss bloods, crips, techs, jammin’ and drugs, I speak of world peace, war, famine, and flood” he clearly states that he raps about much deeper issues than the average rapper.
The title track “W.A.R. (We Are Renegades)” may divide fans, depending on whether you think the talented Immortal Technique should have more than a chorus to demonstrate his skill. This track manages to be both incredibly focused and aggressive at the same time, with a fantastic guitar riff at the end. With lyrics such as “got a middle finger for mass media” hinting at an anger at the music industry in general perhaps.
“Clap (One Day)“ is a fine track with plenty of social commentary on racial of issues, if somewhat slightly let down by the production.
The remaining tracks are all very enjoyable but personally my favourites are “Assassins” and “Hitman”. The sublime Jean Grae somehow steals the show on “Assassins” even overshadowing Royce da 5’9’s” clever word play.
“Black Hand Side” is also an incredibly enjoyable listen, with an incredibly smooth and soulful beat.
Overview
An incredibly enjoyable listen with plenty to offer for listeners from creative storytelling, clever wordplay, lyrical dexterity, as well as tracks covering deeper issues and excellent guest features. There is a lack of a track that could be classed as a club banger and the production is at times uneven. However considering the vast majority of the albums are of a high quality it W.A.R. (We Are Renegades) should be classed as one the finest hip hop albums.
Rating: 8/10
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