Often regarded as the highlight of the alternative rap scene, A Tribe called Quest fused highly intelligent lyrics with jazzy beats to create a sound that was as unique as it was awesome. With the release of The Low End Theory, The Tribe showcased one of the most impressive and important performances in rap history.
-Highlights-
Excursions - Wow what a way to open up an album. The track opens with a cool bassline which leads into Q-tip who starts rapping about the excursions in life and why you should stray away from its negative aspects. Q-tip is a lyrical genius and it is evident in this track. The chorus includes a verse from "Time is running Out" by The Last Poets. Overall, an excellent track.
Verses From The Abstract - Nicknamed "The Abstract Poet", Q-tip makes it his duty to deliver creative and ingenious lyrics executed with unbelievable flow and control. In this song Q-tip raps about why he does what he does and why he loves it. He also mentions the names of some his idols and inspirations. The chorus includes some beautiful singing from Vinia Mojica. Another awesome song.
The infamous Date Rape - This is one of the more serious songs on the album, which has Phife and Tip rapping about the issue of rape. This is an example of the Tribes meaningful lyrical content.
Jazz(We've Got) - YESS! The tribe at their best. The Lyrics and the execution are once again, flawless! . A very laid-back and jazzy song with some nice bass and beats to boot.
What? - This is one of the more unique pieces of the album, but also one of my favorites. It basically has Q-tip asking questions(about 40 or so) for the entire 2:29. But he does it without becoming boring or repetitive. Check out the lyrics to see. The intro is also very cool.
Scenario - All through the album the Tribe did not disappoint, and that holds true even for the last track. Scenario is probably the most upbeat and comical track on the album. Phife and Q-tip once again demonstrate why they were at the top of their game. This track also includes cameos by Dinco D, Charlie Brown, and a very memorable cameo by Busta-Rhymes.
The Tribe pretty much ignored the macho/gangster-like persona prominent in the rap scene of their day. Instead, their music stayed positive and upbeat. If you find yourself disliking rap because of the "YO WHERE MY HOES AT" bs, but are still open to new styles, then i highly recommend The Low End Theory. This album is amazing in every sense of the word and puts almost all of today’s rap scene to shame.
Note: My interpretations of some of the songs are opinions and could be wrong.
