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Lupe Fiasco
PURE M Magazine
Tetsuo & Youth
L
Review by Darren Cahill
upe is back. That is the chorus that has been echoing around from
Lupe Fiasco fans since the release of his fifth album Tetsuo & Youth.
The album (his final to be released through Atlantic Records) was
released to critical acclaim last week and it is easy to see why. It is full of
deep meaning with epic verses that see Lupe at his very best lyrically
creatively mixing his excellent wordplay, witty jokes and deep metaphors to
create songs that carry quite a punch lyrically.
The songs don’t fall down too much on production either, with the albums
production solid throughout. Lupe enjoyed great success and acclaim with
his debut and sophomore efforts but after a large amount of controversy
surrounding his third release “Lasers” fans had felt he had gone mainstream
and lost his distinct sound (Personally I enjoyed “Lasers” though). If “Food
and Liquor II” didn’t convince fans that Lupe is back to his best then
“Tetsuo & Youth” will have, I’m sure.
The album contains many songs over the six-minute mark as Lupe takes
every chance he gets and doesn’t hold any punches. On “Blur My Hands”
sees Lupe confronting his haters and, like I said, pulling no punches.
Another highlight of the album is “Deliver”. On this track he spits about a
place of real danger. Within he shows that he has lots to say about modern
society and he knows how to coherently get his point across without losing
his trademark wit. A deep song reminiscent of “Around My Way” from his
previous album.
Overall it is hard to narrow down the high points of the album because
there are so many, another personal favourite being “Mural”. Not many
Lupe Fiasco fans, or indeed hip hop fans will be disappointed by Tetsuo &
Youth, and it will be blared all over the world for years to come surely.
Our Man in the
Field
Self-titled EP
Review by Dave Simpson
Our Man in the Field is the enigmatic alter ego
of London-based musician Alexander Ellis.
It’s under this guise that he shares his variety
of captivating folk arrangements with the
world. When it comes to composing his
material, Ellis draws inspiration from all that
surrounds him, ranging from monumental
matters to everyday occurrences. This is
readily apparent on his new EP, which features
a collection of compositions that are both
thought-provoking and contemplative.
The bracing acoustic riff of “L’Etranger”
immediately incites chills that are heightened
by its haunting harmony. The vocals echo and
linger, creating a celestial ambience as they
relay the pensive lyrics. “It Was Ever So” is
just as stirring, beginning with light guitar
work that adds in a harmonica to convey a
sentimental tune. The vocals and melody are
forlorn and affecting, bestowing a reflective
energy upon the piece.
“Long Forgotten” has a more buoyant rhythm
but maintains a solemn undertone. The lyrics
play out like a letter, recounting an
introspective tale voicing fears and
ruminations. “I Remember You” is a warmer
assemblage with an embracing riff and gentle
vocals. It becomes rather ambivalent as it
progresses, seemingly struggling between
feelings of hope and torment.
Latest single “Pockets” has a more optimistic
sound than its peers. Its riff is fast paced and
rousing, combining with a melody that dashes
along, giving rise to an infectious beat. The
end result is a song whose tone is reassuring
and enthusiastic.
Our Man in the Field has crafted a poignant
selection of acoustic folk songs whose content
is deep and meaningful. The vocal and
instrumental execution is passionate and
accomplished, producing a sound that rests on
the ears. His EP should find favour with a wide
audience, regardless of their musical tastes.