Dec 12, 2013
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Listen/purchase: Don't Play That Shit by Kid 214
Listen to: The Funk by Kid 214
Check page 13!
Hip-Hop's Royal Highness - KID 214 Review
The king of acronyms has released another full length album, K.I.D, but this is anything but abbreviated. With almost an hour of hip-hop, KID 214 is a serious lyricist and I'm sure he has piles upon piles of marble notebooks full of lyrics. Hailing from Dallas, Texas, this young rapper is a show-stopper, a genuine 'not give a fuck' kind of a guy and shows this spirit throughout his record. Working with over ten producers, KID 214's style is ubiquitous, no matter who is spinning.
The record starts off with a captivating intro, which establishes his prowess on the microphone. The nature of this intro almost feels like KID 214 walked into the studio and just started spitting rhymes. Of course, the Crosby, Stills, & Nash sample by SupremeBreed gives this track a memorable impression and I take notice of this producer throughout the record. "I'm Back" is an unforgettable track, it solidifies his sound and shows his ability to write rhymes as well as superb refrains. There is definitely a familiarity to Lupe Fiasco and Too $hort in his rapping style, which shows his versatility.
With the album cover displaying a crown, it is clear that KID 214 is proclaiming his right to the throne. This on-going theme of kingship throughout his record shows he is resolute in his ambition for greatness. This kind of confidence is harmonious with fame and success, but only if it is captured and streamlined correctly.
"Cam Newton" has the theatrics of Immortal Technique's "Point of No Return" and is an anthem for the N. Carolina quarterback. It has these heavy beats that shake your entire body and synth notes that are nostalgic of baroque music, which is weird and wonderful at the same time. However, I begin to feel distracted during some of these songs, which is not unusual since there are over 12 songs on this record. It might also be the fact that I haven't listened to hip hop in a while, but I started to lose my zeal halfway through the album.
"Done Nothing Yet", "Pharoh Flow" and "L2LYL" have that Bay Area feel and take the record on a perfect turn. It's like People Under The Stairs stepped in and resuscitated KID 214, bringing the CD back into a unique groove. "If I Knew" is another epic production by SupremeBreed and just drives home that these two are a perfect match. SupremeBreed has a great way of incorporating oldies into his beats and it sounds really compatible with KID's rapping style.
I only wish that the flow continued after "Empire Wayz Over Lames II" because I begin to lose interest again. It is so hard to maintain absorption with this many tracks and especially nowadays when people are releasing albums with less than 10 songs. Luckily, "Dreams Real Life" swoops in and leaves me with my jaw dropped. This closing track is definitely in line with Lupe Fiasco's "The Coolest" and is a proper ending to this enormous album.
KID 214 is a breath of fresh air and this album took me down memory lane. His technique is aligned with the greats and is surely bound for much recognition. Even though his album is lengthy, he is definitely showing his lyrical talent. With a little bit of abridgment, this artist could put out albums that make Kid Cudi look like Moby. It would be interesting to see KID 214 working solely with one producer instead of the 11 that were on this album. With all of his efforts in this album, it definitely demonstrates his commitment to hip hop and his seriousness about the rap game. I'm excited to hear what he comes up with next. 7.4/10
KID 214 is looking to go on a regional tour in 2013! There is a catch. We need funds! Help fund KID 214's regional tour in 2013 and get some awesome stuff in return! You can find the info at this link: bit.ly/kid214tour
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