People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm
A Tribe Called Quest
Reviews (page 2 of 14)
Really nice relaxed flow. Love the playful samples and the bass. Great album.
Sonically this is so timeless and rewarding it just lets me down lyrically sometimes.
I have been wanting to check out A Tribe Called Quest for so long and just never quite got around to it. This is where this list really appeals to me - what an album. Enjoyed all my time with this one and will absolutely return. I am very much in a discovery state for hip-hop and it only feels right that this was an early stop for me. What a great album.
As much as ive loved tribe for many years at this point ive never got around to this record. I know Bonita Applebum, can I kick it, and i left my wallet ect. Those songs ive heard bit never anything else here. To be fair those kinda are the absolute heaters here but the rest of the album is also very good. Maybe not the same level as low end theory or midnight marauders but very well formed from the jump. They do all the tribe things. Jazzy beats, conscious raps, and just have fun. Its no differnt then the other two records in that way. I just think the quality is slightly lower. Thos later records are amazing song back to back to back to back. Its easier to name the songs I dont vibe with than listing 99% of the album I do fuck with. This is a more 50/50 split. I like a bunch of songs and a bunch also dont do that much for me. Luck of Lucian is a good one early on with that silly French shit going on. Ham n eggs is a perfect little goofy tribe song. Not eveyone is off the ham and eggs for their cholesterol. That always gets me when the dissenter hops in. Rhythm has one of thr coolest beats on the record. And with the pedigree of beats on all tribe stuff its a gem. I really liked this record quite alot even with my gripes with it it stands out as a great record. I know what they turn into later down the line. And even tbough I still prefer that im glad to have heard this one where it all started and am very happy to see what I love In a less refined and raw form.
La verdad, pa' ser rapcito, ta bueitooo
Takes me back this. I don’t mean the album, but the sound of a baby crying that starts Track 1. All very unsettling. Which is true of the rest of the album. The jazzy funk sound (mostly samples, so not attributable to them) would be fine if not for the rapping over the top. Which is, like Kanye before it, mostly too fast and too packed with rap lingo to make any sense. I’m old and I don’t care. It’s not the worst, but it is still a rap album. I’m not listening to 75 mins of it.
Dig it.
This is the hip hop we needed. We got what we deserved. We got Kayne...
I actually mostly enjoyed this, but did get a but tired of it by the end. Too many words I guess, and some of the backing rhythms got a bit repetitive. That said, much more lively and chaotic than expected.
Stone cold classic, so glad to hear it again
Be careful, my friends. Once you dip your toe in these waters, you are never going to be the same. People who don't like a record this good also don't like chocolate, puppies or fun.
What a great debut album!
Some insane samples in this album. Overall a banger. I will come back and listen to it again
I've listened to this one many a times, iconic instrumentals, undeniably slick bars, and mega catchy riffs.
oookay
I feel similarly to Low End Theory, very enjoyable listen and I enjoy the beats and experience, but the rhymes often feel simple/predictable. I'm sure lot of that's because these guys were early and influential
Fun beats but very samey after a while
Not too bad, just a bit too long and repetitive. 2.5
Pretty good. In my playlist now
One of the most fun rap albums I've listened to and a true inflection point for hip-hop. You can hear the boombap of the 80s starting to something deeper with the jazz samples. Highlights: I Left My Wallet In El Segundo, Bonita Applebum
Tribe is an incredible group, and this is arguably their best album. It flows, it stays fresh, and it's got some hits. The beat for Public Enemy is dope as hell. Can I Kick It? is such a hit, that I may have heard it too many times, haha but that doesn't mean it isn't great. Bonita Applebum is catchy too.
Starting the 90s off right. Proving hip hop could grow. A perfect transition to a new era. Unique samples throughout.
4/5. A Tribe Called Quest have always been one of my favorite hip hop groups so I am absolutely going to be very biased when talking about their albums. That being said, this debut is great, it perfectly captures the personality of the group and their members with both its social commentary and sense of humor. The production isn’t as amazing as future tribe albums like “The Low end theory” or “We got it from here…” but there’s still some very fun samples here, like “footprints” which gets a lot of mileage out of the horn line from Stevie Wonders “Sir Duke.” I also love the weird almost slice-of-life story of “I left my wallet in El Segundo.” The group would go on to make a handful of even better albums than this, but as a first effort this is some great stuff.
Didn't care for this as much as the other album on the list. It was fine background music, but some of the tracks were a bit on the repetitive side and sounded the same, other than Left My Wallet in El Segundo and Can You Kick It. (3)
ATCQ are the boom bap jazz masters
I absolutely love Tribe’s brand of rap. Full of humor and some great sampling choices, there’s a relaxed feel to it. These guys are masters of the craft but make it feel smooth as butter.
It's so interesting how the day you listen to an album can impact your thoughts and feelings on it. Some days you might love an album and others you might hate it. This is a cool album, while not my genre, I enjoyed it. 7.3/10
Good, but not the subtle and swift masterpiece that is The Low End Theory
Matt and lee used to listen to this non stop in high school
With all due respect to Wu Tang, ATCQ is the best rap group ever.
Did not like. It was well made, but not my kind of music at all. I think if I was born in that time period it would’ve meant more to me.
A great debut album by beloved hip-hop group, A Tribe Called Quest. While it doesn't stand the test of time against some other ATCQ albums such as Midnight Marauders and The Low End Theory in my eyes, is it still a great album with notable hits, and set the stage for jazz influenced, east-coast hip-hop. Favorite Song: Can I Kick It? Score: 80/100
Really cool, smooth and clever response to gangster rap. A super intelligent album, filled with some brilliant songs. Can I Kick It? was my fav song of the album. Rhythm (Devoted to the Art of Moving Butts) and I Left My Wallet in El Segundo were my other highlights
Vaca catchers up
Genre-defining
never heard before apart from Can I Kick It of course - ended up loving 4.5/5 rounded down
This album is the most important fun you’ll have in you entire life. It’s hard to listen to this with fresh ears because it so obviously permeated pretty much all great hip-hop since. And it’s so incredibly enjoyable, fantastic lyricism and production on every track, and such an interesting sort of doubleness in both - it exists in a world of it’s own while still adressing both the individual and the collective simultaneously. Also, I think I slightly prefer this to low end theory - but I am a little sad that there’s not more tribe on this list now 10/10
eles arrasam!!!!!!!!
beğenmedim monoton ve tarzım değil
pek tarzım değildi
Fine
I liked a some of the bits that weren't them
Antagligen ett av mina favorit hiphopalbum ever!
Solid rap album with creative sampling and good as ever flow
Bangers
I liked it. Thought the production was great and many of the tracks quite clever with some throwbacks. Never going to choose rap as a go to - but if I did - this would be one I’d listen to.
I liked this album but didn’t love it. It felt very one note, and while it’s a very good one note, it fell flat. Good to hang out to, but it didn’t move me. Definitely interested enough to try other albums by A Tribe Called Quest.
The instrumentals on this album are awesome, but the super 80's vocal delivery made it feel a bit dated. Despite this gripe the I thought their sound was interesting enough to merit listening to more of their work, so I tried low end theory and it was amazing. Low end theory keeps the stellar beats going but trades in some of the corny moments present on this album for a smoother, more intelligent flow that takes the group’s sound to the next level. I highly recommend it. I think the most important thing this list taught me is that the best hip-hop doesn't usually garner mainstream popularity. This has been been true of rock music for decades, so I don't know why I was surprised that it was true for rap as well.
I’m sure different things were happening in the lyrics each time but the repetitiveness of the style of rap made it so easy to zone out until it all blended together. They also sampled so many other songs I kept getting faked out and wondering if I knew the song. All that said, I can hear the roots of later artists in this so it’s cool to be able to trace how this might have influenced some later rappers.
Good, but not my thing. I mean don't get me wrong. The lyrics tell a story and reward a good listen. Had my musical roots been different I'd probably rate it differently. But for me 3/5.
7/10
Not nearly as good as low end theory
Love this album, probably my third favorite with Tribe called Quest. Low end theory and beats, rhymes, and life taking 1st and 2nd, but amazing album. Tribe got me really into 90s hip hop.
Ännu mer gammel hiphop. Denna var dock inte så farlig och det var lite kul att man kände igen en hel del samplingar.
Better than I thought it would be.
Kinda cool but not really cachy, vocals are pretty much the same entire album
MANO QUE DEBUT!!! O TRECHINHO DOS BEATLESSSS EH OS GURI MSM N TEM JEITO PEDRADA APOS PEDRADAAAAA
I'm hoping to find hip-hop albums to add to the rotation through this project, but I'm starting to suspect I'm just not that into classic hip-hop. Unfortunately after listening to this, the only song I can recall is that ham and eggs one and I did not like it.
This is one of my favorite classic hip hop albums. Great catchy beats and tunes -- it's fun to pick out the many classic songs sampled here from the likes of the Beatles, Lou Reed, Stevie Wonder and many others.
Our third Native Tongues record comes from the most recognizable group of the collective, A Tribe Called Quest. The lead member and collective co-founder Q-Tip had already made significant headway in hip-hop in the late 80’s before forming Tribe. This is an excellent debut from an excellent group, bringing a laid-back, jazzy feel and clever bars that defined their sound. It isn’t their best work but I enjoy so much of what they went for here, the infectiousness of the beats and rhythmic flows are so sweet. Jazz and hip-hop are a match made in heaven for me and this is a shining example as to why. 1 re-listen Favorite Tracks: Can I Kick It?, Push It Along, Bonita Applebum
Sporadic inattentive listening had this at a 4-rating. Once locked in, this is clearly a 5 for me.
I don't think hip hop gets much better than this. Bonita Applebum is a banger
I'm not a hip hop fan, but this is on the edge of something I do enjoy. There's a kind of genuineness to it that isn't present in rap today. It's made in good fun, and it doesn't grate.
The boom, the bip; the boom bip. 5 stars
Gran álbum. Muy buenos samples, que seguro se ganaron varios reclamos por Copyright. Entretenido y muy original para la época siento que fue. 7/10
I mean it’s Tribe. What did you expect?
I enjoyed this. It had some good samples and interesting lyrics. I also recognized samples that were used in future songs that I like. I know and like Can I Kick It? especially since it uses Walk on the Wild Side as a sample. I also recognized Bonita Applebum.
These beats give me life. Solid 5 Stars.
I’m way above a 5. It’ll probably be a 10 in the future, just like “The Low End Theory”. I mean, what do you really have to say? If you’ve heard it, you know; it’s Q-Tip & Phife Dawg introducing the world to their Tribe Called Quest & their ethos as a group. They’re here to spread positivity, razz on their French friends, have some deep convos at 1:00 AM, leave their footprint on the music industry at large, forget their wallets on cross-country trips, spread the word about the plights of STDs, get some ladies with apple bottoms, kick it, ask the youth to join them, revel in the rhythm of the ‘90s, give love to their producer, preach about the foods they love, and describe the people they consider to be fools. It’s 14 tracks that lay it all out, and I’d say it IS an instinctive travel through the paths of rhythm. That’s a genuinely great title to describe this album’s overall energy. These are lyrics that flow through them innately, formed by the journey of their life that led them to this point (as told on “Footprints”), and it’s all just instinctual to them, done behind some of the best production of early ‘90s rap you can imagine. It’s insane that they improved this formula even more by “The Low End Theory”, because this already feels like they’ve mastered it on a debut album. There’s really not that much more to say. Q-Tip & Phife Dawg & the rest of the Tribe knock it out of the fucking park here; the only minor nitpicks I could give would be some endings feeling a little long & a few interludes feeling mumbled underneath the beat, but they’re total nitpicks compared to the groove, flow & rhythm that truly defines the music here. This feels like a perfect debut album, and while I certainly wish we had even more of A Tribe Called Quest on the list, their first two albums feel like the proper stepping stone to ride all the way to “We Got It from Here... Thank You 4 Your Service”. Regardless, this album is way above a 5, and I’m certain it’ll get to a 10 on another pass or two. Thank goodness this is on the list.
Ist halt ATCQ
Mystic
Stunning rythmic hip hop
This is both Tribe's first album, and in the eyes of most, their first of three masterworks (maybe 4, depending on who you ask). I have listened to quite a bit of hip hop from this era, and I can safely say that when this came out, Tribe were truly one of a kind. Their lyrics focused so explicitly on positivity, and in such a playful, clever way. Obviously, other rappers had elements of this, but no one did it like Tribe did, and no one seemed to have as much fun doing it as them either. The beats here were also in stark contrast with a lot what was coming out at the time. Tribe is basically inventing jazz rap here. They use a different palate, a different energy, and a different pool of samples than a lot of people were. And the beats all end up super breezy and colorful in a way that very much compliments the lyrics. The score of this mostly just reflects a lack of familiarity. I'm not sold on every song, but I can appreciate just how consistent this is for being like an hour long. Basically, I could see myself liking this even more in the future. Tribe's attitude is just infectious, their songs are funky, and their verses are insightful and witty. I do definitely see this as the masterpiece that it's often called, and I think it sits very nicely next to Tribe's own Low End Theory and Midnight Marauders, which are some of the most acclaimed rap albums of all time. *And* this manages to stick to a tone all it's own with singles like I Left My Wallet in El Segundo and Can I Kick It? Neither of which you can really get anywhere else in the discography. I Left My Wallet In El Segundo is utterly charming in it's sunny disposition towards an annoying situation. And the palate of samples on Can I Kick It?, led by a *generational* sample flip of Walk On The Wild Side by Lou Reed. This thing is amazing.
BANGER AFTER BANGER
I like how the bases have famous songs in them (can I kick it -- lou reed, they actually make no money off of that song because of the sample lol) I don't really listen to hip-hop but it's a nice album
Tribe is my favorite rap group! This is one of your classic cases of “I know there’s room for improvement“ here though
relaxed yet precise rapping of some fairly chill and generally solid lyrics over a very impressive set of beats - never dense, always punchy and dancing. great sampling and scratching, perfect timing, and a fantastic sense of style.
Great for people who like smooth, chill hip-hop. Some of the pioneers of not just jazz rap, but hip hop as a whole. Great debut album. Favorites: Bonita Applebum, Pubic Enemy, Luck of Lucien, and Can I Kick It?
Still can't say this genre is my jam, but this album was a fun listen. I like the energy.
Here’s another artist that I really want to like more than I actually like. I’ve heard “Can I Kick It?” too many times to count and maybe that is also sullying my view of this album… but I didn’t love it in its whole. One thing I like about these guys is that their songs almost sound like a jam band in a sense. I can’t justify my reasoning for that, it just makes sense in my head. Mid 3
Can I kick it est mon son préféré de Tribe mais l'album est mon second derriere Low end theory. Bref un gros banger quand même et ça mérite 5.
Another great album from the Native Tongues Collective. I’ve already scored The Jungle Brothers highly and my favourites De La Soul got a full 5. This, ATCQ’s debut, is also solid throughout and imo benefits most from the likeable and distinctive vocal style of Q-Tip (no shade on the other three). There seems to be an attempt generally to extend the typical hip hop vocabulary and it is largely successful throughout. In addition they take a refreshing attitude towards everything questionable about the majority of rap at the time. My only real criticism is that the album is probably a good 25% too long. This is not due to weaker material, but rather that the majority of tracks are individually too lengthy.
Aningen sämre än De la Souls första men det är på marginalen Det är så här hiphop ska låta. Hitsen är fantastiska även om dom kanske är ännu bättre i singel (re)mixarna. 'Can I kick it", "Bonita Applebum" och "I left my wallet..." är alla topp 20 hiphop-anthemes. Har nån gång rattat in Yo! Mtv Raps under fôrsta halvan av 90talet vet man precis vad jag menar. Väldigt väldigt nära en femma
Stabilt, lite tillbakalutat hiphopalbum. Bra svängiga val och utförande av samplingar. Texterna känns långt från gängse hip hop-clicheer, jag ser det som något bra.
A Tribe Called Quest, småtrevligt men inte jättespännande
Me gustó más que el otro que tuve que escuchar de la banda. Divertido, normal, hasta ahí. Está bueno para tener de fondo.
Not for me
As with the De la Soul album, this is very hard to rate after one listen, but I kind of liked it. Hip Hop is mostly a genre I don't like that much, especially the newer stuff the last 30 years, so I would say that this is the kind of Hip Hop I like. But other than 'Can I Kick It?' and 'I Left My Wallet in El Segundo', I haven't heard any of the tracks, so it needs some more listens before I can rate it properly. But it feels like at least a 3 for me.
This album was more focused on poetry which I didn't understand much cuz im not from the hood. Intro track was like 7 mins which was nice then after hours was nice. Then I found bonita applebum nice. Then I liked rhythm, hams n eggs go ahead in the rain and a sitar in the bonita applebum btw. Overall it was a nice album ysh I got some fav tracks in hear.
Not the best A Tribe Called Quest album but you can already see what a magnificent group they would become. This record is much more Q-Tip focus and therefore a little less dynamic in the storytelling point of view compared to later records
yes, brilliant. The reason I listen to these random ass 1000 odd albums is to discover gems like this one.
Not bad - nothing special
It was certainly very fresh, I absolutely enjoyed every minute of it, it was an experience I didn't have before, it was retro and groovy
I never sat with a tribe called quest album, but this album is really good like they are really, really good. I had some of the songs in my head all day rest in peace Fife. And they seem like they had a lot of fun making this album. I guess that’s what happens when you do projects with friends.
cool
Great album. Tribe called Quest just became an interesting group fr
Was listening to this while reading it was nice to have in the background. It isn’t something I’d reach for but I think they sound really good. I can see why they are well-loved.
Good. Just not my style.
Bonita applebum I love the whole album nice rhythm and lyricism! Really impactful when you listen deeply. Also some insane beats and samples
classic, nostalgic
It wasn’t my vibe
The beats are unmatched. I enjoyed the hint of goofiness.
I liked this one better than the low end theory, mostly for Can I Kick It and I Left My Wallet in El Segundo
Didn’t like this quite as much as low end theory but still great stuff.
Banger
The vocals are generally really smooth, not overly quick. It's easy to listen to, almost relaxing. Some of the tracks are even quite funny! There's some important messaging here too, being proud of your heritage is a big theme. It's got all the fun effects that you'd expect, while typically not going over the top with them. It doesn't take itself too seriously - just some guys having a bit of fun. On the whole, the journey this album takes you on is interesting. It starts out quite strong, went funny in the middle, and weird in the end. Even when it was going full weird, I still liked what I was hearing. I can absolutely see the similarities to 3 feet... - it's similar in all the good ways. There's no De la Orgee moment here, though some tracks are quite absurd all the same.
not bad indeed
What a record, such a great production with memorable samples
They have great lyrics but what stayed with me were the beats. Damn good
another one i don't need to listen to for rating but am certainly happy to do so. classic debut. an easy 5 stars from me
When this came out I wasn't into this sort of mindful, "intellectual" hip hop, but looking back, it's very good, especially when compared with the mindless drivel we get these days.
Incredible debut
Nice album but too much rap to my taste.
Also solid overall
I've tried not to read reviews of albums before I get a chance to listen to them on my own, but in this case I felt like the Tribe album was such a seminal and groundbreaking album, and having not been born yet, the additional context was helpful. Such a thoroughly enjoyable album that clearly influenced EVERY rapper/hip hop artist to come.
ахуєть чотінько
Strangely, this album seems to have aged better than the later album. Enjoyed it.
nah, sorry
I was so surprised by this as I have been let down by many rap albums from this time. Thankfully this wasn't the case with A Tribe Called Quest. Their sample usage feels very tasteful and the utilisation of jazz into their sound has made this LP age like a fine wine. The laid-back beats have so much warmth and every member has excellent flow. They are more than willing to be playful as they rap about losing their wallet and worrying about their cholesterol. I'll admit that I wasn't happy to get yet another rap album from this era when I woke up today. They tend to be overstuffed with unfunny skits, filler tracks, dated production and a whole lot of bigotry. You wouldn't find any of the above on A Tribe Called Quest's debut offering.
classics left and right
Can they kick? Yes they can! But only up to 3!
Quality music. Thinking music. Art.
Great album, super chill.
I mean the music speaks for itself. The production and sampling is fantastic, the rhymes and flows are just as great. Shit's just very enjoyable to listen to. Feels old school but ages REALLY well and can still be enjoyed by modern hip hop fans. This album is pretty cool, the production isn't too crazy but it's fun on most songs.
Not as fun or polished lyrically as Low End Theory but there’s something more adventurous and unique about the music and production. More musicality to the beats instead of just straight loops. A good start by a promising band.
A celebration Instead of an elegy. Funky beyond hope.
Similar to the last A Tribe Called Quest album. I'm sure it deserves its place for it's historical significance but it's just not my thing. 3/5.
It's a solid listen, but it's almost too smooth: an ongoing flow of gentle beats and fun wordplay in which nothing really stands out. And it lacks the wiggly grooves of their followup, The Low End Theory.
If this had become the dominant form of rap, I might feel differently about the genre. Credit to these guys for having things to say and not bragging about it or threatening to kill people. Their rapping flows well, too. The downside is that most of the tracks are musically pretty plain. The beats are simple, the samples are few and extended. It does let the rapping be the main focus, but that's about all there is.
1. 3.5 2. 4 3. 4.5 4. 3 5. 5 6. 4.5 7. 5 8. 5 9. 4 10. 3.5 11. 3.5 12. 4.5 13. 3.5 14. 3.5
Rhythms are boring, lyrics are basic AF. Interesting historical piece? Not for me.
Remember this album.......sounds contemporary still....not my bag really but wouldn't turn it off if stumbled upon
Such a great vibe! The whole album had me chill as hell!
I like this album. can i kick it is my fave
Love the old skool beats and slow rap style these guys have. Nice use of samples and deck scratches however I got bored it because too melodic towards the end
Very mellow, not high energy enough to keep me engaged for a rap album
I liked this. Good vibes
Another solid album by this mob. It melds genres nocely, has lyrical, thoughtful and witty rap what’s not to like?
Good
4/5
Appropriately groovy like the Low End Theory, but unlike that record, does not hit the listener with as good of hooks. Something I actually dislike about this group is the fact that Arrested Development is "corny" but this album seemingly gets a pass despite the lyrics on tracks like "Ham n' Eggs" and "Luck of Lucien"
Favorite Tribe album
Its a solid debut album. Q-tip's flow is amazing and the production is good for the ear, even though its nothing complex. However, the album is simply too long, which can drag the album listening a bit. No denying that the first half of the album is way superior than the second, mostly due to the fact that this album is Over 1 hour long. That saying, i give this a light 7.
love. how they play with the song transitions is really fun too.
I don't smoke dope...
While I don’t think this album is as cohesive and good as the low end theory, this is still a great introduction to tribe, this album is a vibe and such a great relaxing album although it can be a bit bloated it’s still fun to sit down and chill out to. Can I kick it is also one of the greatest rap songs too
Not sure if I like this more than Low End Theory or not. Regardless, a fun jazzy rap record filled with good stories, flows, and beats. Likes: Push it Along; Luck of Lucien; After Hours; Footprints; Can I Kick It; Youthful Expression
Relentless drums but so smooth
Every Tribe album is great, every instrumental on here is smooth. I don't think there's a bad song. I think PITATPOR lacks a little bit of the cool of Low End Theory, and is a little bit unconcise, but these are small gripes. Fave Tracks: Push It Along, Luck of Lucien, I Left My Wallet in El Segundo, Bonita Applebum, Mr. Muhammad, 4.5/5
had this quite a bit too
bonita applebum you gotta put me on
Album 269. People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm (https://open.spotify.com/album/5DMRGZTzA3vVcLDNQS1ynv?si=n1r246ECReeGKltO9s_AKQ) — A Tribe Called Quest (1990) Oh yeah, it's finally jazz rap that I love so much. Two of my favorite genres in one. A Tribe Called Quest is great. Fantastic samples and beats. Flow and rhythm are unbeatable. Genius debut album, basically Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!) Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!) Can I kick it? (Yes, you can!) 5/5 Liked: — Push It Along — Luck of Lucien — I Left My Wallet in El Segundo — Bonita Applebum — Can I Kick It? — Youthful Expression — Go Ahead In the Rain — Description of a Fool
a tribe called quest es espectacular y creo que a cualquiera en su sano juicio le gustaría este album
I liked this more than I thought I would. Good 90s era rap album with great sampling
Nothing special but good classic rap I guess
Very few deviations on the entire album from Lightweight and Gimmicky Afrocentric themes. 1.5 star
The flows are impressive and keep your head bobbing. It did feel like a long album... Do you think he ever got his wallet back?
Love it
i really liked "i left my wallet in el segundo' very fun album!
Immaculate vibes and groove. One of those hip-hop albums you just can’t get enough of. Favorites: Push It Along, After Hours, Bonita Applebum, Youthful Expression, Go Ahead In The Rain
There's obviously some really amazing stuff on this (Can I Kick It is a classic song), but I think Tribe is just so not my thing. I don't love The Low End Theory either, they feel so of a past time. I feel like their style, especially in their lyrics and flow, is so dated now in a way that a lot of 90s rap isn't. There is a lot to like here though, I love how interconnected the tracks feel, it feels very intentional in its sequencing. And the production is pretty stellar, there are a couple really nice beats on here. Favorites: Push It Along, Can I Kick It?, Rhythm (Devoted to the Art of Moving Butts)
REALLY COOL ONE - I love a tribe called quest, mainly low end theory and electric relaxation tho, its nice to be able to go deeper into their discography with this banger. Not the same as the other ones tho and I feel electric relaxation should fricking be on album of the day instead of this one. >:(
Jazz-infused production and playful, socially conscious lyricism and samples characterise this varied album. It has a touch too many songs, though, making it seem less concise than its later albums. Additionally, it can be repetitive at times - although this is likely intended in its trance like beats.
TRIBE! (but not their best)
Surreal
Only managed a couple of songs,didn't grab me
One good track, the rest filler. Shame really, I know they could do better
Love the laid back groove. But there's a hole in the middle where the melody should be so it gets old quite quickly. I wanted to like this more than I did. 2*
Gotta get it!
I miss the days when "mainstream" hip-hop wasn't afraid to experiment, creating more variety of sound and style. This is another genre defining masterpiece from start to finish.
노래가 전체적으로 다 좋았다. 분위기도 좋고, 힙합의 느낌이 좋았다. The songs were great overall. The atmosphere was good, and I liked the hip-hop vibe.
This was a good album. Some old school samples are always fun.
me likey
How did I not hear this before? What a trip, so many creative ways with samples, has such a smoothness and easy going feel to it. All the rapping is distinctive and compliments each other, must have been a total revalation at the time, and still sounds really fresh and unique now.
Early 80s/90s style hip hop. The delivery is smooth and easy to listen to, but the beats were a bit simple and the choice of mundane topics for many of the songs meant I didn't really get into it. I can appreciate how groundbreaking it was and the laid back vibe, but it's probably not something I'll return to.
"The art of moving butts" is an accurate description.
Push It Along is very good. A lot of songs get a bit repetitive. I like that each song transitions into the next one at the end. Can I Kick It? is of course iconic, and the sample brings up fun memories from Hensford. Skipped the modern remixes at the end.
Good news: generally positive messaging. Bad news: often this is not all that interesting rhythmically or lyrically.
Yeah. Not for me.
These beats are amazing. The vibe is of it's time, and yet it all holds up so well. Lyrically very complex. Some tracks are laid back and fun, and then you get hit with something real. I dig it. Bonita Applebum Can I Kick It?
rap
J’aime
They’re not my favourite hip hop group, but this is a top pick for them. Quest brings a vibe that is positive, fun and catchy as hell. There are some great samples used and you’ll remember to never leave your wallet in el sugando.
A classic for a reason - has a lot of bangers but don't know if I would listen to the whole thing again - not my fave albums of theirs
We the people...
Can I kick it? Yes you can! Great use of samples on this album
Slick rhymes and steady flow, hallmarks of old school hip-hop. A Tribe Called Quest were doing it and doing it right, and it remains a touchstone for the present day.
Solid hip hop
Admittedly, I am no fan of hip-hop/rap (from whichever coast nor in the middle). This wasn't an abominable listen though. I am hesitant to add to my library since I doubt if I ever listen to it again. Not because I wouldn't want to, but simply my library is not conducive to random listens to this genre (generally speaking). I'd have to be motivated for some reason. And I dobut if I will given the genre. So this will most likely be my first and last listen of PITnThePOR. 3 "I might've been tempted to go higher" stars.
smor
This one really grew on me. At first, at least compared to The Low End Theory, it felt somewhat lengthy and directionless, a group trying out lots of different things but not doing any of them quite as well. But further listens revealed this is nearly as good, just in a different way: it’s far less focused, but each track has something to recommend it. The samples are obvious yet perfect, and the lyrics themselves traverse a dizzying range of topics. A grower. Best track: “Bonita Applebum”
The production is so good that the album feels timeless even with lines like "Mr. Dinkins will you please be my mayor?". Not enough people sample jazz albums it just instantly gives such a cool vibe - but you lose a lot of the energy you get from sampling funk I guess. That said kinda hate like half the songs on this album - the lyrics are so far behind the production - all these comedy songs and like talking about food it feels very Rapper's Delight.
Classic
I don't think I'm the target audience for this but it's cool. The album had a slow start for me but once the Stevie Wonder sampling hit in Footprints that was pretty lit. I think the second half picks up or maybe I just got accustomed to the music but I was liking the beats more. Interesting songs throughout like Footprints, Bonita Applebum, and Can I Kick it?. I thought Ham and Eggs was also so fun and silly. Maybe this is the nature of hip hop music but the guy's voice had a very similar cadence throughout the entire album. I enjoyed the beats and smooth flow. 3 stars
Some weird editing decisions here. A couple songs sound like they completely end before restarting with a completely different sound. Some just end seemingly in the middle of a line. Other than that, generic early rap.
Gear: ZMF Auteur Classic LTD Shedua Artwork: 🏚️🔰🏚️ Production (25th Anniversary Edition): 🎧😘🤌 Music: 🧈🧠🎤 Rating: ❓❓❓❓(❓)/5
Not really my music taste
This one was neat, it really *felt* like a classic. Best song: Luck of Lucien Notable(s): Can I Kick It? I Left My Wallet in El Segundo
Luck of Lucien Footprints Bonita Applebum Can I Kick It?
Solid, a bit one note.
Maybe being more strict, but not a perfect album. Very good
I ‘hate rap,’ but this was awesome. No n**** b**** f*** crap.
Smoooooth
Enjoyed.
there are some classic Tribe songs on this one. I love Bonita Applebum and I Left My Wallet in El Segundo like everyone else, but some of the deeper cuts like Go Ahead in the Rain are up there for me too. it's definitely not as fully formed as The Low End Theory or Midnight Marauders but i still really like it. deserves to be one of the 1001? i would swap this for Midnight Marauders but i'm also fine with ATCQ having three albums. they've earned it. but i would probably put We Got it From Here on over this. now THAT is a comeback album worth its salt.
Smooth as hell
fuck yesssss.... more tribe called quest........! what can i say, it's another banger. it's definitely not as refined as low end theory but in exchange i think it's a lot more fun? it definitely feels like there's a higher ratio of tracks where they're just rapping about some bullshit on this one, like the (half-hearted) endorsement of vegetarianism "ham 'n' eggs", and "i left my wallet in el segundo", which is about, exactly what it says it is. the same goes for the production really, the beats are still sick as fuck but stuff like the frog ribbit sample on "after hours" got me losing my shit. its awesome. im not even gonna bother trying to pick out favourite tracks cos it's truly wall to wall bangers. u just gotta listen to it. my only complaint is that there's no more of these guys on the list now ;_;
que risa me encanto
I liked the sampling in this one but as always, hate any weird moaning.
Killer, would be high if it wasn't for that Bonita Applebum song
Af rap- og sample-musik at være er det ikke dumt, men jeg orkede ikke hele albumet. I Left my Wallet in El Segundo kunne noget med storytelling. Det kunne det hele nok, men jeg mistede koncentrationen.
This album takes me right back to the start of 90s alternative hip-hop. It’s such a chill, fun, jazzy trip that totally skips the usual gangsta rap tropes, focusing instead on clever storytelling, like that whole saga about losing a wallet in El Segundo, and just pure, youthful energy. Q-Tip’s samples and the group's flow make the whole thing feel super smooth, even if you can tell they were still figuring out their sound. It drags a little bit toward the end, and I definitely wish Phife had more mic time, but the creativity is undeniable. "Can I Kick It?" is still a massive classic, and it's wild to think they followed this up with The Low End Theory and Midnight Marauders. It's a foundational, feel-good groove that never gets old.
One of the best hip-hop albums of all time from the World's Borough. One of the few albums with no skips.
Some good brass, some clever sampling, but the rap is relentlessly repetitive & laboured. Innovative at the time maybe, but it has not aged well (or at all). Didn’t make it to the end.
Great. Good to hear after so long a time.
A Tribe Called Quest has an argument for the greatest hip hop group of all time. This, my least favorite of their iconic three records but their debut, is still a pleasure to listen to. Some of the groups best singles are to be found here, those being Can I Kick It and I Left My Wallet In El Segundo. I find myself returning to The Low End Theory and Midnight Marauders more, but Peoples Instinctive Travels… has plenty worth sticking around for.
Rap is not my genre, but this was very listenable.
Really great samples. Hip Hop isn't always my thing but this is. Very fun, chilled out and groovy.
Only gets a 4 because I know The Low End Theory is better and is a 5
Not for me
Je sais pas, d’un cote j’aime bien. J’ai completement decouvert et c’etait sympa, d’un autre j’ai l’impression d’entendre souvent la meme rythmique. Bonne découverte donc mais je ne réecouterai pas, par contre j’ai envie d’ecouter lou reed apres le morceau can i kick it
Wow!! Yes!! That was a pleasant find.
Enjoyed 5his.
Sehr old school für 1990, aber ganz nice
I had a fun time fr just not my flavor right now
I didn't know much about ATCQ - I read only just now about the Native Tongues collective - I was into some other acts in that collective, I definitely liked the positivity, relaxed and good-natured rapping, eclectic samples and jazz influences. All of which I recognised as soon as I started listening to this, ATCQ's first album. There are some very nice funky grooves here, it's pretty enjoyable though without being earth-shaking. Extended use of small number of core samples and core beats for each track produces relatively simple tracks from musical perspective - less stimulating than eg De La Soul - but still interesting enough, not wowing me but not boring. The album is long but there is variety in the feel of different tracks so it's okay. I read some reviews here - was struck by a comment about how many people praise this album by reference to what it isn't (hip hop with aggressive rap, gangsta, misogynist etc). but really to be praised it has to be not just not the bad things, it also has to be good. I'm happy that this is good in itself - it's not just a relief (relaxing) to get the funky hip hop and not be put off by the rap, the rhythmic play in delivery of lyrics is part of the pleasure. That said, I'm not wild about the words, they don't do that much for me, that's okay by me, I'm happy enough with the musicality. Small coincidence from my Generator journey: my album before this was Electric Ladyland, I was touched to recognise sample from "Rainy Day, Dream Away" at the beginning of Go Ahead In The Rain :-) This album, overall, it's Very Good at being what it is, 8/10.
I had only ever listened to "Can I Kick It?" before.
É um bom álbum de Hip-Hop. Possui samples bem legais, batidas divertidas e impacto sonoro. QKZXHBB.
Some fun jams, but you definitely get all you need from their rap rhythm about halfway through the album
Just class innit
Starts fairly plainly but gathers steam fairly quickly. At first I thought that this wasn't for me. Never been into early 90s hip hop, but the songs crept under my skin throughout my listen. Favorite song: Pubic Enemy.
An almost perfect blend of hip hop, rap, funk, even a riff or two from the likes of Lou Reed and Stevie Wonder. Like the “daisy age” the sound of a tribe called quest deserved a bigger impact.
This was a 5 on The Source Microphone scale in 1990. That is good enough for me. Tip is great, Phife and Jarobi are too. The production is maybe the best part. Please listen to all of their albums if you liked this one at all.
Репчина честно не зашла
okkk
Favs - Luck of Lucien - Footprints Such a cool use of Stevie wonder - Can I Kick It This album has such a cool sampling style - Youthful Expression Really love the lyrics - Description of a Fool you gotta love a song by a man critiquing male violence Apparently this album was ranked as one of the least danceable albums by Rolling Stone, and I honestly can’t disagree more. Really great album and such an impressive testament to Q-Tips lyricism and his abilities as a producer.
Really good jazzy, interesting, fun
REALLY fun samples, got a little sick of it at the end because i have a terrible attention span. nice listening music, got me through an entire shaft on this spreadsheet. Super catchy would listen to again. SAMPLES were so fun cannot reiterate more
kind of conflicted about this one, love the beats and the energy but i am a bit thrown off by the rapping, especially q-tips there are some really good wordplays and lyrics, but the flows and delivery just dont click with me; i feel like they end up being repetitive and predictable the album is ultimately sustained by the production and the choice of sounds, with samples of iconic melodies over hardcore funk beats
Tutaj już bardziej słychać zmiany utworów mimo, że dalej mam z nimi problem gdy słucham albumów. Album jest dość rapowo-hip hopowy i ma też fajne instrumentale. Z artystów których słucham daje mi mocny vibe tyler, the creator. Podoba mi sie tu wykorzystanie dźwięków które można usłyszeć na codzień jako melodia lub rytm piosenki
Classic. Top 20 rap albums for me
Well this was definitely a whole vibe in the early 90s and on through the decade. I honestly never found it all that compelling which is such a shameful thing to say. I did like Arrested Development a lot more for whatever that is worth, but their influence seems to have very much faded. Some fun tracks and whenever El Segundo comes up (I live in LA) I do make the dad joke that I think I left my wallet there, which lands about 15 percent of the time. So rounding up for that.
Timeless. Just wish I could have been more into this back in the day.
Some groups' first album is the pinnacle of their creative output, and for others it's a prelude. People's Instinctive Travels... is the latter. I looooove ATCQ, but I have returned to this album only slightly more than the stuff that followed Midnight Marauders. Obviously it has some classics, notably "Can I Kick It?", but Phife is barely on this album, and it's kinda sprawling and overlong. But even baby ATCQ still rules. Even though Midnight Marauders should be in the 1,001 book instead of this one, five stars.
Great album!
sunshine, rainbows, women and friendship
Foundational hip-hop. You can hear their finger prints in music today. This album took me a couple listens to really enjoy. The first time it was background while I was doing stuff, that did not give this album the respect it deserved. The second listen was more intentional and that really made a huge difference for what I got out of the album.
This was really good, I have a soft spot for that vintage hip hop from the 90s, and this album hits that on all cylinders
I bet they have done a steady business for the last 25 years selling tourists wallets in El Segundo
Going from the big hit singles and the irreverent, almost "cute" tales they weave, you could’ve been forgiven for judging A Tribe Called Quest as a novelty act based on their debut. But while “El Segundo” and “Ham & Eggs” bring the light-hearted fun, they’re also not afraid to tackle weightier topics, like venereal disease and partner abuse. To me, this album works best as an introduction to the group’s skill at establishing a deep and irresistible groove, such as on “Youthful Expression” or “Pubic Enemy,” for which they would become so famous, plus introducing the world to the dual charms of Q-Tip and Phife Dawg.
Freaking love the sample of the Reuben Wilson cover of Marvin Gaye's Inner City Blues on Youthful Expression, so good!
Imagine how great life would be if it had been Q-tip instead of Snoop dog who was America's favorite rap pitch man, hanging out with Martha Stewart and showing up as a guest judge on talent competitions.
hahahahaha yeah i like this album it's not quite as good as what came after it, but man they had some ones on here. i remember getting really into Go Ahead In the Rain (the chop!!) and Description of the Fool because the samples are so weird. Footprints too I'm gonna be so real Q-Tip is a way better sounding rapper than he is lyrically; like he's fun to listen to and the flow and voice are impeccable, but his lyrics and storytelling are just dated more often than not (I like Midnight, but that's not on this one). This is probably the most apparent on this one.. buuut it is 1990 early Native Tongues, so that fun and goofiness is part of the charm. Push It Along is a great intro to the group, very simple After Hours is one of the tracks on this album where I think the sample choice really shines! It's very spacey and jazzy combined with a solid break. More storytelling that I think is okay, relatable though; I've been here before. Most of this album is just Q-Tip if you listen carefully; Phife said he was too busy bullshittin to make it to the studio and he regrets it. Footprints is kind of the exact same situation as the last song, but Tip is a little more vague with his lyrics and I think it's for the better - not a long ass story this time. The flow is dated though. I love how primitive the drum chop is. El Segundo is a classic! Definitely a silly one, what the fuck was he doing in El Segundo to begin with?? That's such a drive man. Lowkey the song is kind of boring outside of the hook and the absurdity. I ordered enchiladas and I ate em... Pubic Enemy is ridiculous, not a highlight for me. Yes STDs scary women "dirty" it's the 90's. The hook is also ridiculous, and Q-Tip making all these HUP! noises on top. Not a fan of silly interjections into the verse either. Bonita Applebum... shoutout Roy Ayers and RAMP. Not much going on, but not much is needed. Can I Kick It? Probably! Unless Lou Reed takes all your money. Classic sample, classic break, we finally get some good stuff from Phife! It’s always bugged me how the very last line of his verse doesn’t rhyme with the rest of it “as you inhale like a breath of fresh air..”.; he could’ve said ay-er at least. Tip sounds great, the break is perfect, what else can you say. The scratches are fun too. Youthful Expression never stood out to me that much. The sample is fine, the lyrics are actually kind of good on this one! Very interesting, laid back flow. Callout to Rakim “I like fried foods, especially fish”. The piece of the sample they use for the hook is good and the bassline is nice, maybe this song isn’t so bad. Still doesn’t do it for me like the other deep cuts do, this song is ok. Rhythm is another sleeper with a sample and break combo I love. There’s that weird sub bass sound in the verses that works well with the drums (that I have to add sound great), but it disappears when the sample comes back in. Dave from De La comes in to say a line Mr. Muhammad is a lot like the other sleepers but a bit of a dud for me again, the sample isn’t as fun outside of the vocals, and the drums are a little more basic. Ali Shaheed definitely deserved some shine though; it tripped me out as a kid learning Tip made all of these beats and not Ali Shaheed! Phife is here and he sounds great! His juvenile flow worked better than Tip’s on the rare occasion he pops in. Ham N Eggs is a fun back and forth cut with them both over a classic sample that I forgot the name of. Definitely a bit more gimmicky than I would like but this track is just a good time. Bridge!!!! Go Ahead In the Rain is my shit. The sample is SO good, especially those high pitched chords that come in the last part of the 2 bar. The vocals going from side to side make it sound a little trippy. Tip sounds SLEEPY on this one, he’s got this low register as if he’s trying to sound older or something lol. Nice drum fill that lets the 808 bass shine - I LOVE when an 808 kick is on boom bap drums. It fills the track out so well, it works super well when I’ve done it. I like the drum solo towards the end, and the beat rides out to really let you hear how good it grooves. Description of a Fool! The break is great, the lyrics are there on this one. More standard hip hop shit talking that we would see more from Tribe on their 3rd and 4th albums, but with a twist towards pumps and abusive men. What’s da matter withcha BOYYYY?? Love the keys that come in on the latter half of the verses, one of my favorite parts. The vocal sample echoes out once we get towards the hook and really shape out the track. Not a fan of the HOOOO! scratched into the hook, but then the next verse pops in and we’re right back. Favorites: Footprints, Description of a Fool, Go Ahead In the Rain Least favorite: Pubic Enemy Shoutouts: Bonita Applebum :) 7, but we’ll lean towards 4 stars! I don’t care for the remixes and never have. I don’t care what J Cole is doing to Can I Kick It. Ok the Pharrell one is kind of cool…
Really, really good jazzy hip-hop album. Definitely an album and group I'll be revisiting pretty regularly.
Not their best album but that doesn't say much - an important, impressive, highly enjoyable early jazz rap album.
Muy buena oportunidad de escuchar a esta banda que tiene tanto reconocimiento me parece que especialmente en el lado underground Muy melódicos, sus samples son particulares Muy líricos, se puede uno imaginar a N.W.A, pero con letras más divertidas en incluso menos explícitas El humor está impregnado en su música Can I Kick It? Mi favorita Entiendo que aún esto no fue lo mejor de ellos, así que lo esperaremos pacientemente Recomendado 3.4
Left my wallet in El Segundo - I gotta get it I got- got-ta get it
Awesome album, first one i got given on here and has set a great precedent!
Easy 5 stars. One of my all-time favorites.
Þetta er hip hop mér að skapi. Nær næstum því Digable planets, en ekki alveg.
I give up if this sort of thing can make it into "must hear". Why must I. Who says. More like Tripe than Tribe. Music Wankers
I really enjoyed this album, especially considering that it's an album I probably wouldn't have chosen by myself.
Ihan ok, hivenen liian ”laid back”. Tykkäsin sampleista.
i love atcq and this album far surpassed what expectation I had, I can tell I'll have el segundo stuck in my head for the next few weeks
a first listen. this is fantastic. the beats are great, and i recognize a lot of stuff from this that gets sampled by artists later on. i also really appreciate the flow. the lyrics are really great too. just a fantastic record. favorite tracks: After Hours, Footprints, I Left My Wallet in El Segundo, Public Enemy, Bonita Applebum, Can I Kick It?, Go Ahead in the Rain, Description of a Fool
Loved this, my favourite kind of hip hop and one of my favourite new discoveries from the project.
2nd Tribe Called Quest album from the generator. Just like with the other one, the beats are great but the rapping itself wasn't very interesting. Overall an ok album, just not for me 2/5
i love bonita applebum but that is one of the ones i already knew. i also liked the footprints remix
cool!!!
The song "I left my wallet.." was for a long time my favourite hiphop track without knowing the artists behind it. After a decennia I discovered the music of A Tribe Called Quest and still today it is one of my go to hiphop acts. The whole album sounds a bit more of the same as the hit singles, so therefor for lack of some diversity 4/5
I don't like rap
Rap is not my thing, but this understated minimalist approach is such a delightful listen. Jazzy, chill and the lyrics are refreshingly positive.
This was a drudge for me. Pros here are some cool samplings. Cons are some of the lamest lyrics and weakest flow you will hear from a rap album in a while. Way too lengthy of an album for so little on offer — and what little is there to offer is stuff from other, *better artist's songs.* I made it a point to look at the good reviews after listening to see what people liked, and a good portion of them make this point about how it's a "repudiation of the toxic culture that surrounded the genre," or something like that. And sure, that is nice and all, but you also need your counterculture product to be *good.* I think of all the Christian rock bands that disavow the hedonism and amoral behavior that they perceive as being rife in rock and roll, but utterly failing to make good music in their effort to change the direction of the genre. Looking at how rap and hip hop proceeded from the 90s and on, I think that's a good comparison. ATCQ didn't provide a good enough alternative. Keeping this at a 2 instead of a 1, since there were moments that were pleasant. These guys definitely have talent, but it's being deployed really poorly here. As a whole, totally forgettable and a mostly lame display of early rap.
Not an album or group I had heard of before, but an experience for sure. Catchier than I expected and an enjoyable listen overall.
A favourite. ATCQ on the way to greatness
Great album… enjoyed this one a lot. Kinda forgot about it
"НУ ИЗВИНИТЕ ЧТО Я ТАК ПРЕДВЗЯТ К ОЧЕРЕДНОМУ РЭП АЛЬБОМУ" ... Хотел было я начать. Но когда дошло до уже второго трека, мне начало нравится? Прикольные джазовые семплы, взятый кусочек из вступления к all you need is love, типа как намекающий на музыкальную подкованность коллектива, расслабленный флоу, как мне нравится. Крч, не так уж и плохо. Даже прикольно. Я уже видел примеры "интеллегентного репчика" на этом сайте, и знаю что эти ребятки из того же стана. Но я плевать хотел на их исключительность и нетакусечность если их скучно слушать. Этих не скучно.
Listen later but know them always banging
If you wanna get the rhythm then you gotta join a tribe, this album is a vibe. 4/5 Top tracks: luck of Lucien, can I kick it?, Mr muhammed
A great record. It’s not like other hip hop, not heavy on the self aggrandisement and sexism, heavy on the actual groove and their biggest concern could very well be a lost wallet. So much more musical that you may expect
Meh. Sounds almost like someone is telling me a story
I'm on track 12, nothing against hip-hop but I just can't keep listening to this album. Some tracks are good but nothing that i'd play by choice. If the music is playing that's fine but i wouldn't pick it on my own to play. I'll just listen to to track 12 because it's called Ham ´n Eggs and then I'm quitting.
Wow these beats are vibacious. Perfect.
Meh
Amazing use of samples and rhythms. A mix of old school rap with RnB beats makes for a very good listen. Much more upbeat lyrically than modern rap and ruminations on society are delivered in carefree ways.
I really struggle with the rap albums from this era. There’s nothing wrong with them but the production is so simple and minimalist with samples and very little variation, all the focus is on the lyrical craft which doesn’t really grab me as a white Australian male.
Absolutely delightful. 9/10. Only two songs that took it away from a perfect album. "Pubic Enemy" and "Ham 'n' Eggs" really don't belong here despite their cultural relevance. They're just bad songs.
8/10
Overall it’s a good album, there’s some great rapping and lyrical content.
Essential
No private session used for Spotify. Whenever I hear a hip hop album like this that is so upbeat and positive I get a little sad about what the genre could have been instead we got angry and misogynistic gangsta rap. This album is delight, its like chilling out a summer's day in the shade with a cold beverage of your choice. Love the beats and the lyrics.
For modern ears the beats and rhymes are a little primitive.
not my favorite tribe album, but not my least favorite. they are so cool and epic
Not my favorite Tribe album but I understand the importance. A lot of great samples and conscious rhymes I think some of Phife’s most underrated work. Not everyone will feel the lyrics this was a very progressive pan African time in hip hop.
#31 This album is a good contrast to the gangster rap of the early 90s, maintaining a nice laid-back and jazzy vibe throughout. It stays cohesive without getting too repetitive (at least as far as Boom-Bap goes), and the sampling is very creative. The lyrics are well-written and flow nicely, and even when they get corny a few times it comes across humorously instead of cringey. Very impressive for a debut album! Footprints, El Segundo, and Mr. Muhammad are all excellent, and of course Can I Kick It? is a classic.
Just a tad long at 65 minutes but I definitely was digging the rhythms.
No notes, the ideal kick push albums. Something that hasn’t been done of the time, it captured the essence of chill, funk, punk, and rap at the same time. An anthem of sorts for certain areas, particularly the skate genre
😃 Tribe y’all
9 / 10
Like a lot of the samples.