Blackalicious: Imani Vol 1 | Album Review

It's a decade since producer Chief Xcel and MC Gift of Gab were last knocking heads together and producing stand-out alternative hip-hop gems like Blazing Arrow and Nia.

Much has changed in the hip-hop ecosystem over the last 10 years, but what hasn't changed is the thrill you get when these two seasoned Californian pros show their skills on cuts like Blacka and On Fire Tonight.

The Blackalicious playbook remains as cleanly delineated as ever: Xcel rolls out meaty, soulful and funky grooves; Gab works intricate, deeply effective rhymes about black identity, social consciousness and community on top.

They've certainly nothing to prove but they remind you on That Night and especially The Sun that these veterans are more than capable of turning on the style and outshining the pack.

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