Afu Ra State Of The Arts

Posted on 06.14.2005

Afu Ra
Album : State Of The Arts
Release Date : June 14, 2005
Label : Life Force Record

Review :
Since his dynamic 1994 debut with Jeru tha Damaja, Afu Ra has been hailed by both fans and peers as one of rap music’s most gifted lyricist and performers. Both attributes will be displayed this spring with the June 14th release of his new album, State of the Arts on LifeForce Records/Decon. "I needed a title that reflected where I was mentally. State of the Arts is reflected in the way I’m living my life and in my realm of creating my music," Afu explains. "My first two albums were laced with a lot of symbolism. With this one, my lyrics are straightforward and tighter." Musically there’s an element of experimentation.

Afu Ra splashes an element of rock on the rambunctious "Rumble", and introduces a broader reggae infusion that includes the dancehall, party starter "Deal Wit It," featuring Kardinal Offishall and the conscious, thought provoking "Why Cry," assisted by international star Gentleman. Anchoring the set however, is a solid hip-hop base where he gets to ride beats of frequent collaborator DJ Premier, and PF Cuttin, among others. While collaborations weren’t a priority, Afu was also able to enlist verses from rhyme stalwarts Royce Da 5’9" and Wu Tang swordsman Masta Killa respectively on the tracks "Pusha" and "Living Like That," which are sure to please fans of lyrical onslaught. State of the Arts has already received the stamp of approval from hip-hop’s premier media outlets.

Featuring :
Dj Premier, Royce Da 5’9, Masta Killa, Gentleman, Kardinal Offishall and Jah Don

Tracklisting :
(subject to change)
1. Intro
2. God Of Rap
3. Power Skit #1
4. Pusha F (w/ Royce Da 5’9")
5. Pranksta
6. Living Like That (w/ Masta Killa)
7. Rumble
8. Power Skit #2
9. Why Cry (w/ Gentleman)
10. Ghetto Hell
11. Cry Baby
12. Dynamite
13. Sucka Free
14. Deal Wit It (w/ Kardinal Offishall & Jah Don)
15. BK Dance
16. Only U
17. Poisonous Taoist
18. Power Skit #3