Chief Xcel and Gift Of Gab’s first collaborative album in ten years is a blazing return to form for the California-bred hip hop legends. The album’s title literally translates as “faith” in Swahili and it’s their belief in each-other in the face of various personal struggles that has led to the creation of a record that’s bursting with eclectic samples, overwhelming lyrical flare and a truly inspirational positive essence.

The duo keep good company too, with some excellent guest appearances from the Lifesavas, Monophonics and DJ Sharp. This is what hip hop is all about!
Check out this unofficial video for “The Blowup” (featuring a Fantastic Mr Fox mash-up no less!) for a prime example of why Blackalicious are back on top form.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XDDbD9GmcHM&feature=youtu.be
8/10 – Out Oct 16
Words by Jimmy Volts
