by: Sun-J
Despite being a ten year veteran of the rap game, there is a good chance many of you have not heard of Murs. Fresh off an EP with Slug, this Living Legend Def Jukie has been a commercial talent wayfaring in the underground shadows as a result of faulty promotion and distribution. Though, now this Def Jux representative is ready to ride his talent through a dramatic increase in sales. Murs packs everything into this album, his heart and soul. He leaves nothing about himself out, from working average jobs to skateboarding, Murs' passions and emotions are on full display throughout the LP. In addition to perhaps his most diverse material, this Living Legend brings the heavy hitters to handle to production. From housing label big wig extradionaire El-P to Blockhead, RJD2 and even Ant. Guest wise, Murs is blessed with Digital Undergrounds infamous Shock G and Humpty Hump. Also, El-P makes his usual appearance, and Aesop Rock as well as Slug deliver fresh verses. What makes this album so special is that this left coast battleground legend not only brings the fire, but also comes correct with the realness tip on everyday "thangs."The opening track, "You & I" initializes a catch bass line and introduces the theme of the album while summing up his relationship with the industry and his beloved following. "God's Work" which is the lead single is a violently honest song about the hardships of a 9 to 5 life. On the track "Brotherly Love" Murs spits bars of wisdom beyond the years of many emcees; "I seen this kid the other day with 'murder' written on his shirt and never been to a funeral/now am I out of touch if I say its unusual?/This dude will sing a love ballad to his homeboys before a young lady/now ain't that crazy?/If you didn't love that bitch why'd you make her keep your baby?/oh abortions not right but just the other night you was a killa pullin' triggas before you have a fair fight."While many emcees exude a feeling of arrogance or more specifically boasting when speaking of growing up in the "ghetto" amidst all the hardships all the while praising the so called "thug life," Murs warns rather than brags on the track "Last Night." "Please Leave" is a quasi-comical tale about unwanted houseguests and "Transitionz as a Ridah," is an ode to skateboarding. Though what may be the most upbeat, just plain-have-fun song comes with aid of Shock G and Humpty Hump, "Risky Business."Murs speaks the truth, not necessarily about hip hop, but about what is most important himself. In the trials and tribulations of his long career, Murs has managed to garner some street buzz, and now it may seem as if the next step is within reach.
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