The Struggle is Beautiful
Many artists claim to have a message in their music. But few deliver like Brooklyn’s Talib Kweli. His new album, The Beautiful Struggle, is another mentally heavy release, continuing on where Quality left off.In Talib’s signature style, the beats are subtle, fresh, and original. His fusion of jazz, hip-hop and old school mesh into a progressive album that is timeless. Even though the track “I Try” sounds as if the beat was more or less ripped from “Get By” off of Quality, he changes it up enough to keep it fresh and original. The Police influenced “Around My Way,” with vocal work from John Legend, is a beautiful track that slows down the album some from it’s usual chaotic feel.
Talib Kweli understands that his music is more than just that; it’s a message. Much like Public Enemy, Kweli included the lyrics on the CD insert, showing how important his lyrical content is to him, as well as that his listeners get a chance to understand every word. And, just like everything with his name on it, Kweli’s message is always black-positive and heavy, rapping about difficult issues without candy-coating them, dealing more with how the radio won’t play him and the situation with Kobe Bryant than with how much money he makes or what kind of ride he has.
Although he doesn’t have many, Kweli’s guest stars are a welcomed addition. The smooth flavor of Common, Mary J. Blige, Res, and Faith Evans all make their mark, making Kweli sound that much stronger and versatile. Once again, we have a strong album from Talib Kweli, and for this struggle, we are thankful.
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