An hour and five minutes of hip-hop is what you get when you decide to put on the debut studio record from Talib Kweli. Starting things off on “Quality” is Dave Chappelle, keynote speaker, who tells a random story with a cool soothing beat. Then, we are treated to Kweli’s rhymes. Forget what you know about the popular hip hop you’ve heard in the present, because this isn’t mumbling, it isn’t street or gangster, it’s a bit more conscious. Talib has stories to tell, from various circles of his views, and other topics that you would expect from rap’s heaviest hitters.
“Quality” is just that, it’s clarity of sound, clear vocals, clean lines, and choruses that will have you floored at times. There’s a lot to unpack from this record, and something for everyone. Whether you’re a college student trying to just mellow out with background music or you’re a hip-hop head that wants to revisit some of the best in the business, you’ll find that “Quality” features something for everyone. It has a sensibility, an honesty in the lyrical development, and an optimism, as Pitchfork magazine put it. It’s a reflection of an artist who is not just about bravado but is also a storyteller with a focus on political affirmation, social studies, and street-wise knowledge. Production from Kanye West and others makes this a must-listen to record, twenty-something years after it was initially released.
In the mood to stream or perhaps spin a vinyl? Click here and pick up this gem.
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