Basic Vocab – The General Dynamic (CD) (2006) (FLAC + 320 kbps)

And then there was light. After wandering in the dark valleys of the music industry, existing in the shadows while those less talented and less passionate got all the shine, Basic Vocab’s first full length LP has finally reached the masses, and their lead single, “Our Day in the Sun,” has become a self-fulfilling prophecy. On this and the preceding twelve tracks of their debut album, emcees JL Sorrell and Mental Growth and producer Tony Galvin set out to prove that they intend to spend much longer than a day basking in the glow.

Warmed by laid-back, insightful lyricism, and illuminated by melodious, mid-tempo production, Basic Vocab’s debut The General Dynamic undoubtedly channels the sounds of early 90’s hip hop, but stays firmly grounded in the here and now by focusing on contemporary issues. Throughout the album, the music is subtle, never outshining the lyrics. It does its job – playing the background – well, albeit sometimes too well. Galvin’s production maintains a mellow feel at the risk of becoming a bit monotonous, and the music sometimes comes off as a bit safe. But Galvin’s skill and versatility behind the boards is still very apparent and highly appreciated (the instrumental outros accompanying each track are a special treat, like a sugary dessert after the main entrée).

The General Dynamic is definitely the type of debut that could place Basic Vocab in a position to get more shine. One can only hope that they use the light to continue to grow so that fans of new jack throwback rap can enjoy the satisfyingly sweet fruits of their labor.

Props to Matthew for the contribution!

Tracklist:

01. Intro
02. Intense (feat. Lucian)
03. Likeness
04. Vibin
05. Come Get With It
06. Fallen One
07. Sex
08. Ease Back
09. It’s Alright (feat. Dynas)
10. Fly That Head (feat. Dave Ghetto)
11. The Trap
12. Watching You
13. Our Day In The Sun

Download:

FLAC – Wayshare

320 kbps – Wayshare