Keeping it Cool with Lupe Fiasco
It
didn’t take much of a 'Kick, Push' to get Lupe Fiaso’s
much anticipated second album critically adored. There is no wonder
why. Lupe’s usual quick-versed delivery really does accelerate
the love of hip-hop. His experimental edge is obvious in his newly
released second album The Cool, which indulges in his
trademark divergent themes and musical explorations.
The most blogged about rapper in 2006 has again
shown his edge in the hip hop market with The Cool –
a concept album that expands on the track 'The Cool' from his
debut album Food & Liquor. It reintroduces the character
The Cool into his songs, and although Lupe has played this down
in the run-up to its release, there’s no doubting that The
Cool is featured in half a dozen tracks, with a few random references
throughout the rest of the album.
The concept follows The Cool, a boy who’s
abandoned by his family and seeks guidance from a strange couple
called The Game and The Streets. Yes, this is an odd story, one
that’s rather thought provoking, but worth the time to understand.
All of Lupe’s tracks on The Cool
cross boundaries set by more conventional artists. From 'Dumb
it Down’s' self-righteous anger at fellow rappers, to 'Little
Weapon’s' blistering socio-political perspective about children
with guns, Lupe’s wide-ranging instincts define the word
‘randomness’.
And for those who like guest vocalists, there are
a few noteworthy appearances in The Cool. Santos, Pooh
Bear, Sarah Green add their vocal talent, and of course Snoop
Dogg who adds a slightly baffling verse ‘Lupy, it’s
snoopy, let’s go out/Tip toe through the door, do it doggy
style’. Probably best not to read into that one too much.
So whether you engage in the concept of The
Cool, or just enjoy the musical dexterity of Lupe Fiasco,
this album is a must for everyone’s collection.
Fiona McLeod
