The first thing you notice about Mos Def‘s new album is the packaging, which is minimal to the point that there has to be a purpose behind it. The album comes in a clear plastic sleeve with nothing but a “Parental Advisory” sticker on the front and the Geffen barcode on the back, and Mos’ big purple face stares out at you from the front of the disc. Anyway, you already know “Undeniable” (which has been moving out on 12″ quicker than we can order it) but check out shit like Mos’ Katrina freestyle over “Nolia Clap,” “Dollar Day,” or the haunting “Murder of a Teenage Life.” Mos sticks to his guns here, further developing his trademark cadence and sound on sing-songy stuff like “There Is A Way” and more straightforward joints like “Thug Is A Drug.” Just like The New Danger, another solid album from Mos. 14 tracks; 52 minutes.
- music label: Geffen / 2007