3 Years, 5 Months And 2 Days In The Life Of...

Happy to finally give a rap/hip hop album four stars.

Very catchy funk-hip-hop

There isn't any song on this album quite as good as 'Africa's Inside Me' (Zingalamaduni, 1994), but the whole record is filled with pleasant, feel-good hip hop that's just a pleasure to listen to.

Not bad

Not bad… Got a bit redundant after a while

Haven’t listened to this for years. What a great album though. Really enjoyed the groove, samples and intelligent lyrics.

This is fun, but it runs a bit too long.

7/10

Very cool

Really nice, maybe a bit too on the nose brings it down a touch for me

not my style but it was ok

Golden age hip hop. Fantastically eclectic.

The lyrics and content are great and all, I just find the music really boring. If more songs were Tennessee-adjacent or a bit bassier that would have improved the experience. As it stands now it's good, and I get it's impact, but I probably won't listen again. 2.7/5 -> 3/5

….Len Houmous. 4.2 5/15 Mr Wendal

Interesanti

Dažas dziesmas patika, bet albums pa garu

It's not good.

After (checking notes) 34 years, this still sounds fresh. Arrested Development were a very talented collective of hip hop artists, and this record shows off their talent very well. It may have sounded more adventurous in 1992, but I think it still holds up. Not my favorite genre, but it’s quite listenable and stays interesting. 3.5 stars

Overall, wasn’t massively fussed on this one. Didn’t do much for me and towards the end it really felt like it was going on forever. The one exception was Mr. Wendal. What an absolute belter of a track. Wish the rest of the album had been even half as good.

Mejor de lo que esperaba, pero no me terminó de gustar. No es mi estilo de música.

Really good early hip hop. “Tennessee” still resonates. 3.5?

six songs in...I'm not liking it much... okay, song 8 AND I CAN'T STAND IT ANYMORE

Decent.

8/13/26. Great discovery today! Reminds me a lot of De La Soul in terms of delivery, production, and storytelling. Love when rap is truly displayed as an art form. Need to check out the rest of AD's work.

This is rad. I really don't know much about this group, but I recognized a lot of the songs. I really like the aesthetic and vibes of this group. Cool beats, good raps. Fun pop culture references. I had a blast with this one!

It's an album for the time of black awareness and community building just not my type of music. It's like spoken word I can't stand spoken word. But the message is still relevant.

hm

Not bad for a hip-hop album as accompaniment to doing something else, but not really a proper’ listening’ experience for me. Competent but not really exciting. 3

I liked this a lot! I remember “Mr Wendel” and “People Everyday” from the time but never got the album or anything. This reminded me of a time when rap was a bit more fun and colourful but with political / social messages still. I’m saying that but I don’t know what I’m talking about with any rap beyond the mid-nineties. So I need to listen to more. Wikipedia says the album, “starkly contrasted the gangsta rap that ruled the hip hop charts in 1992 (such as Dr. Dre's The Chronic), focusing on spirituality, peace and love.[1]” and I think this is when I parted ways with hip hop. I liked De La Soul and even PM Dawn! On the other hand, a younger member of the family just walked in whilst I was listening to this and said, “Is this Will Smith?” So there you go. Maybe that’s the image of this branch of hip hop now!

Enjoyed this a lot. A forgotten band.

Kind of a mixed bag. Some songs were pretty cool and others a bit annoying

Not really my sort of thing but there were a few tracks that I recognised from my youth. I'm not sure it is necessarily a great album?

I enjoyed this a lot - really great beats and cool style. It's definitely a bit dated and some of the lyrics were pretty cheesy, but in terms of rap/R&B I enjoyed it more than most. Very easy to listen and I would revisit. Top Songs: Mama's Always on Stage, People Everyday, Mr. Wendal, Tennessee

Great example of early nineties positive hip hop (see also De La Soul). Great overall sound. Tennessee is an absolute classic. Easy to listen all the way through.

preachy public enemy

Whoever wrote that review I read somewhere comparing this to A Tribe Called Quest, I'm offended. The difference is that Tribe have so much more energy in their beats, whereas the beats here are generic, and so are the themes and messages. Songs like Dawn Of The Dreads have genuinely pretty awful beats, especially considering the bass line is called "funky" by the rapper, even though it sounds like a Bandlab virtual instrument with no effects, and it's just boring. Some of the songs are better, sure, like Tennessee or People Everyday, but overall I'd much rather listen to another hip hop album rather than this. All the songs are also quite repetitive unfortunately.

I remember one of my good friends had this album back when I was young and we would listen to Mr. Wendal over and over. Then we would philosophize about life and the nature of humanity. We thought we were super deep and insightful. I have not listened to this album since then and it really brought back a lot of great memories. It's really nice to be reminded of those times because I kind of forgot about them and don't really have friends like that anymore. The album is really good with great lyrics and music. I'm going to add this to my favorites so I can remember my friend and the talks we used to have when we were young.

Обычно я не слушаю хип-хоп, поэтому ожидания от альбома были низкими. Тем не менее он меня приятно удивил. Альбом звучит очень неплохо, а под конец стал даже лучше, чем в начале

There seems to be a strong social consciousness to this record. Uplifting African Americans while highlighting contemporary social issues. It's celebratory, hopeful, and a powerful reminder to not let go of your roots because they give you your foundation. Do prefer their other contemporaries though like ATCQ and De La Soul.

De La Soul men med mindre kreative samples, ræva production, og christne texter. Det er låter her som er ganske decent, spesielt tolkningen av Everyday People, men det er ikke til å komme unna at man hører på den christne versjonen av en bedre hip hop gruppe. Hvis man setter Mr. Wendal og Eye Know eller U og The Magic Number opp imot hverandre, så står man ikke ovenfor et reelt valg for å si det sånn.

Fete låter og fiffig samplebruk. Har ikke hørt dem før, men det fenga. Albumet lugger litt av og til, men kanskje ikke så rart med det antallet låter.

This was pretty good, I have a soft spot for that early 90s hip hop where things were in a transitional period between the 70s and 80s funk into the urban hip hop style. Lyrics are a bit too preachy for me, but I'm really not part of that culture so he's not singing at me. It's also a product of its time, when inner city crime was a bit priority for a lot of people. I have complex thoughts here but its not really my place to share.

It was alright.

I wanted to like it a lot more than I eventually did. Maybe it started strong and petered out or maybe I just got distracted. I threw this on while mowing and at times it was a fun ride, but at times I started keying in on the chore I was performing. When I mow, I like to be mindless. Low/mid 3 Highs: Mr. Wendal, People Everyday Lows: the run-time when I found myself bored

Old school hip hop can be a bit corny compared to today’s music, but this album holds up. Mr. Wendal is a fucking banger. Lingered a bit too long for a 5⭐️

Holds up surprisingly well for conscious hip hop that touches on spirituality quite a bit. Probably like a 3.5 both those three singles still hold up so I'm bumping it up!

Review - not great. Very dated. The production/beats are pretty good throughout but the lyricism is trash and the rapping is poop from a butt. Much better alternatives/conscious hip-hop out there. Score - 4.5/10 Need to listen? NO

The instrumentals crazy, really really cool

Music? BANGER Lyrics? BANGER Vibes? BANGER

I liked this, very chill and relaxed hip hop.

Kjennskap: 0% Groovy og laidback samplebasert hiphop. Nice.

That was unenjoyable from start to finish. Felt like that era of hip hop that really just should stay in the point of history.

Хуй знает. Добрый рэп? Не мое

Christian music has a very tall bar to clear, no matter the genre

C’était très bon mais trop long comme la plupart des albums de hip hop sur la liste.

I remember seeing these guys as part of the WOMAD festival on a bill that included Live, Peter Gabriel, Midnight Oil, and others. It was an amazing concert and Arrested Development definitely held their own. I've always been a huge fan of Tennessee. It's one of my favorite songs of the decade. Just an amazing groove and Speech really delivers on this track. Mr. Wendel (which probably appeals to more people than Tennessee) and People Everyday were the other big hits off this record and they were both cool tracks, though neither one hits the height of Tennessee, at least for me. Meanwhile, the rest of the record is very solid, with U and Fishin’ 4 Religion as other highlights. What's great about this record is that, despite the fact that its language is clean, it still has a rawness and power to it. An amazing balance which was struck. Probably why they sold 5m+ copies of it. It's a shame they kind of faded after this record. I loved Revolution, which quickly followed this album, and maybe they had another track or two which hit with some people, but I never really heard much after this (even if I had Zingalamaduni). It's too bad, they really had something. 4 stars.

So called revolutionaries supplying the masses with musical Opium!

In an attempt to clean up the rap game, Arrested Development also seemed to remove any edge from the music. You won't find any homophobia or glorifying of violence here, but there is no sense of danger here. I'm not saying that rap has to be dangerous, but that is a big part of the reason why this sounds so dated. Some of the lingo found out here makes this sound like a parody. The beats sound rather jazzy and funky and were the best part of this. This record felt like a drag, and I would only recommend it to someone who is curious about the development of hip-hop throughout the nineties. I imagine this sounded like old news by the time Tupac and Biggie were blowing up.

Me gustó mucho, divertido y diverso, estaba en el mood correcto y acompañó.

Mr Wendel bumps this up slightly

Ça vieilli aussi bien que des oeufs. 2.49 étoiles

5/10 I didn't hate it as much as Dr Dre, so I guess I know where I would have stood on early 90s hip-hop. The lyrics pass me by, unfortunately, but musically it is upbeat, steals well enough for its highlights

This was a Trip. Not super into southern hip-hop from the era, but there are some bangers on this one. Loved the sampling, and the spaciousness of the record, which is a rare occurence in rap music from the era. It’s a pretty good mix. Amazing samples of course. Low 4.

To hear the album in full for the first time is to realize that radio hits like 'Tennessee' were not isolated creative sparks, but windows into a massive, interconnected worldview. The album operates as a piece of living lineage. By anchoring raw reflections on family history along with the inclusion of bird chirps, acoustic guitars, and handclaps makes the album feel less like a studio recording and more like an open-air revival meeting in the Georgia woods.

Loved this when it came out. Happy to revisit. Still resonates today. Excellent beats, samples, structure, and lyrics.

I liked it alright, but then I read that Tennessee is on the “Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s List of Songs that Shaped Rock” and I’m flabbergasted. May be seminal in a way that I’m oblivious to.

Funky

Album 267. 3 Years, 5 Months And 2 Days In The Life Of... — Arrested Development (1992) No, that's a hard no from me. It belongs to hip hop genre, but I want to resist it. 2/5 No liked songs

it was fine.

One of the best albums of the 90's

Got a nice groove but doesn't go anywhere really. Mr Wendal! 3/5

I really like the hiphop sounds mixed with funk on this album, with strong vocals in the background. It feels like if hip hop artists discovered funk and soul and just went crazy and I love every moment. Really cool concepts and ideas here- Fishin' 4 Religion. I like how funky and creative the lyrics are on each track too. They truly tell a story, this album brings straight vibes and only good ones. "Give a man a fish, and he'll eat for a day, Teach him how to fish and he'll eat forever." The thing about these guys is they really do have something to say in their lyrics, while having a fun time with their instruments and new sounds they are also integrating some meaning into the lyrics! I think they are doing a sick job at this and im really enjoying it. Some tracks may just be a little too strange for my liking though. 🌟 - Dawn Of The Dreads

Like it 3/5

Pretty good.

Listened before?: nope Man's Final Frontier - 3/5 Mama's Always on Stage - 4/5 People Everyday - 4/5 Blues Happy - no rating Mr. Wendal - 4/5 Children Play With Earth - 2/5 Raining Revolution - 2/5 Fishin' 4 Religion - 4/5 Give a Man a Fish - 3/5 U - 2/5 Eve of Reality - no rating Natural - 3/5 Dawn of the Dreads - 3/5 Tennessee - 4/5 Washed Away - 3/5 Average score: 3.2/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ most tracks are pretty forgettable tbh. it's not a bad album on paper but it's doesn't stand out among groups like De La Soul or A Tribe Called Quest

Alternative hip hop built from warm live instrumentation, soulful samples, relaxed grooves, and conversational vocals feels like sitting through an unusually cheerful motivational seminar that keeps insisting you're having a great time—earnest, well-intentioned, but for me ultimately uninvolving. The album's positivity and easygoing style rarely translated into excitement, leaving me more detached than engaged.

There are some good songs, but I cannot really listen to the excessive scratching, man.

another milwaukee-related group. like most of the hip hop albums on this list so far, i appreciate the samples and construction of the songs more than the songs themselves. it was an enjoyable listen tho. i really enjoyed “mr. wendal” and “u”.

Just a classic. Ahead of its time in so many ways.

Aime of this is ok. The message is better than the execution. The singles are as you remember the rest is very bland and sounds tinny.

Hell of a debut, really love the instrumentals and a lot of the backing vocals. The 'hippity hop'-est of the albums so far on this list but it's really fantastic. Favorite track(s): Give a Man a Fish, Tennessee

I have sat on this rating for a month. I feel bad giving this a 2, but im just not into it. I feel I should like it more than I do, but I don't!

What an awesome album! I had so much fun listening to this today! 'People Everyday' was the only one I'd heard before, the rest of the album was really enjoyable - a high 4 from me :) May return to give it a 5. I've been thinking a lot about the weekend, torn between fantasy and reality. Flipping between 'spiritual bonds are connection.. what? an Erection?' and 'Man's final frontier is the soul' - put me in a real tizzy!! and a bit of a moral crisis. I guess this album is pretty good to commit thoughtcrime to!?!

Such a funky treat! Adding this one to my rotation.

Very cool album. Love the messaging and everything. Mr. Wendal, Fishin' 4 Religion and Dawn Of The Dreads are some of my favorites. 6.8/10

Bit like de la soul, but a bit less refined? Enjoyed it

the beats are super video game crushed bits and the rap flow just reminds of will smith rapping. not for me, i need a chorus and some singing in my rap songs or my fried brain can’t stay interested long enough. just not for me.

The hip hop act Gen X alternative rock fans loved. They weren’t bad and had an easygoing, but intelligent affect, with relatable liberation politics. But still always felt safe, possibly due to the melodic emphasis, but more that they stood out from the likes of NWA, Cube, etc.

Something about the fact that this came out the same year as The Chronicle is sending me.

Just didn’t need to be an hour long

Album art direction by Randall Martin, still working, and photography by Jeffrey Henson Scales, who is a legend. Got to say I really liked it when it came out as it was very distinct with lots of personality, just like the music. Hadn't listened to in years but quickly remembered how good it is. Another good combination of music and sleeve.

An album that didn't age well from 1992. The sound is quite dated. And while I have no love for gangsta rap, and I admire that AD was trying to be a positive force in the world, but this was irritating preachy nonsense. I am not in the market for Veggie-tales as a hip hop album. Every time I heard a classic sample it just made me want to press pause on AD and go listen to the classics they sampled instead. I didn't enjoy this when it came out in 1992, and I was hoping that a revisit would change my mind, but it feels even more irrelevant now. Not an album I would ever revisit. How in the heck did the music critics get it so wrong?

Crazy I had never heard of this group like ever. Is there a reason for this? What makes them different from other positive, progressive hip-hop artists such as De La Soul or A Tribe Called Quest? I think I have the answer. For starters, as other more experienced hip-hop reviewers have pointed out, a lot of the sounds and production is outdated, and the Speech's voice is friendly (referred to as a "gentle genius" in the book but that's really Mayfield's title). I actually LIKE it, as it's oldschool and warm. The lyrics are very positive and critical and the hits are worth the hype. I suppose, as the book points out, they are a precursor to Outkast (also Atlanta-based) in terms of looking back and forward from the black American cultural traditions and making it their own. But, it feels like a relic in the same way as music like Archie Bell & the Drells is. Unfair? Who knows - but as a historical reference, definitely no problem being in this book.

This has the second best track called U ever

Sounds like a bootleg De La Soul album at times But I like De La Soul

Like Public Enemy this band has strong fight the power political vibes that I dig. Nice beats, lyrics and vocals. I knew the singles but the album as a while is good. Not amazing some flaws maybe a little dated sound wise but overall good message and nice beats.

What a beauty. The social commentary and wisdom is just as fresh today as it was 30 years ago. Bright, funky, intelligent, inspiring.

Not for me, but very well done.

Anti-gangsta räppiä. Aika positiivisen kuuloista, sanatkin on myönteiset ja aika uskonnolliset. Ihan rentoa, mutta ei kummiskaan mun tyylistä kauheasti. Parhaat: People Everyday, Fishin' For Religion

Entertaining roots of rap - generally enjoyed it 3

Good album

Solid album. Though sometimes the albums feel a bit all over the place. Some of the drum tracks in particular are really grating. Others are sublime though. For every track I needed to skip partway through there was another that just gripped me. "People Everyday" was a standout. Great female vocals throughout. The singer on "Tennessee" is amazing.

Getting hyped for greenbelt

Heard of them but it's my first time listening to them. It was quite ok but not spectacular. Maybe on 2nd listen I'd give them a higher rating 2/5

I like when hip hop is used for its intended purposes which is to convey a message to the culture. I loved this album sonically and content wise.

Oof. This didn’t age well.

3.5

I guess there's some charm to this type of hip hop

I remember enjoying this when it came out but it didn’t really have any staying power, so hadn’t heard it for years. Revisiting it, I enjoyed it. There are some good tracks here, but about by the half way mark I think it loses its way a little. That said, it’s still strong for what it is. It’s curious how they just seemed to disappear and didn’t go on to continue the success of this album. But yeah, a competent debut and nice to revisit.

Hoo boy. This is a fraught selection! I remember Arrested Development coming out in the early 90s, back when I watched a fairly massive amount of MTV, and these guys were everywhere. Heavy rotation of "Tennessee" and "Mr. Wendal." At the time these guys were great - they didn't fit into the typical hip-hop mold, and seemed to offer something more optimistic and hopeful than gangster rap. I went to Wikipedia to see what awards this album won, becuase I remember that happening and - no mentions at all? It won two Grammies! And two MTV VMA's...... Hmmmm Ok - the album, totally out of context, is fine. It is much less "alt-hip hop" than I thought it would be, based on the singles. Like every other 90s hip hop record it is way too long. I had to skip "U" because of the incredibly annoying two-note piano sample behind that one. I tried giving more of my attention to the lyrics than I normally do with these things and - I found Speech's lyrics to be fairly tiresome. He believes he's found the solution to the troubles of all Black people in America, and it would all be solved if only all the other Black people would just listen to him! One of the most humble-braggy things I've ever heard in my life is from "Tennessee" - and I quote - "I ask you, Lord, why you enlightened me Without the enlightenment of all my folks" Like - gimme a break, man. "Oh God! WHY oh WHY did you make me so brilliant? And all these other folks so DUMB!??!" It's irritating. Anyways. It was fine. The singles were great, the rest was pretty decent. A generous - THREE STARS

This one took me on quite a journey. At first, I really wasn't vibing with it; it sounded like the really old-school hip-hop that sounds too dated to my ears, the whole 'I'm MC and I'm here to say!' kinda thing. And then I got to Mr. Wendal. LOVED that song. An old-school classic for me already. And then I started to like the latter half of the album. It almost sounded like you could hear hip-hop evolving in real time with this album. The roots of that old-school dance-y sound beginning to evolve into what hip-hop would quickly become in the next year or so.

Bastante lindo, que se yo. Me faltó algo de guau en todo. El tema final me encantó. Nota: 3.2

Aie j'ai bien compris que c'était un album fondateur du hip-hop mais j'ai pas apprécié l'écoute, je ne suis pas un grand fan non plus du gansta rap de cette époque mais je m'y retrouve plus au niveau des sonorités mais si les paroles d cette album sont plus pertinentes.

not my style but kinda fun

One of the better hip hop albums on the list. Neat!

I found myself nodding along, remembering why I fell in love with this era of hip-hop. It's like finding an old photograph that brings back a flood of memories you'd forgotten. Spins: 1 Playlist Additions - Mama's Always on Stage - People Everyday - Mr. Wendal - Tennessee

I think this just gets over the line for 5 stars. So funky and groovy, great flow

Mr. Wendell…best track by a long way

when it's actually a song its fun but theres too much talking.

Nothing really jumped out at me about this but it wasn’t bad

Good album. Some songs are just ok, some stand out. I appreciate the wider palette, and varied instrumentation. Speech does not have a great voice, which limits the impact of the music. And puts more pressure on the composition side of things. A more commanding voice might make a track like Mama's Always On Stage work better. It's ok; it needs a voice that can really sell it. The bass at times needs to boom more. I remember this album coming out, and hearing it at a friend's apartment, and thinking, it's ok. A little ... background-y. A more careful listen changes that judgement a bit, but not fundamentally. Mr. Wendel is a really good song.

Because "3 Years..." was an early success for an Atlanta hiphop crew, they deserve the "must listen" designation. They were not the first to chart non-violent lyrical content--De La Soul and Tribe Called Quest did that so well, and some years prior. Personally, I wasn't a fan at the time. They sounded too much like a supergroup to the ears I'd trained on the aforementioned Soul and Quest, as well as BDP and Queen Latifah. But I was by no means deep into the extraordinary development of hiphop. Live long and prosper, Arrested Development.

That was a surprise. I had this album and admittedly haven't listened to it or thought about it much but I harbored fond feelings for Arrested Development and still have a soft spot for "Tennessee" and "People Everyday." As it turned out, I found this hard to listen to. I like the music quite a bit on some of the tracks, but others are just unpleasant, and the lyrics are pretty tough to accept.

Alternative, conscious, thoughtful hip hop album that can balance fun with message and substance - generally a message of positivity, for peace, community, and unity. Tracks vary in tempo but generally have a groove of sampled drum breaks and basslines that can get you moving. The main vocalist is impressive but not often flashy, he’s got a clear, clean, smooth voice and raps with some melody, but is also capable of spitting long, quick, complex bars with a crisp delivery. He can be a bit direct on on the nose though - he just tells it as it is, which can be corny, preachy, or chill depending on your perspective. Overall, it’s got a sound similar to the Native Tongues stuff, and is just a fun and thoughtful album. But I’d also rather just revisit a few of my favorite songs than listen to the full album regularly.

Был норм, но что-то groundbreaking нет

Não é meu tipo de música

there was some good parts. early rap just isn’t for me though. it’s just so corny. tracks 6-9 is a pretty solid run though, i think

Sort of the antithesis of Wu Tang/NWA who came out not long before this, instrumentals are much lighter as are the lyrics, though almost exhaustingly “conscious” at times. Nice high energy on most tracks

I appreciate this may be influential or something but it just ain’t my style of music 2

My mom came in while I was listening to this album and said "What are you listening to?" "Arrested Development," I replied. "I didn't think you would like Arrested Development so much," My mom said. I them realized I was dancing along to the music.

Didn't finish listening to it, but it was good ?

Saved? ✅ Would listen again? ✅ Would recommend to anyone? 🤔 Would buy on Vinyl? ✅

En dan vragen mijn kinderen zich soms af waarom ik moderne hiphop vaak maar wat saai en samey vindt.

zo funky

heel refreshing om is een rap album te horen dat niet over gangsters en drugs gaat, zitten heel unieke tracks tussen, cool gemaakt. Soms wel iets te preachy voor mijn goesting

I always enjoy old school hip hop, this was a new one for me. Funky, upbeat, fun.

i had no expectations going into this, but wow what a vibe

When considered to its time it is good but to my personal preferences its not the cup of tea that id like to go with at hip hop

Thought this album was really fun, counter culture anti gangsta rap with lyrics glorifying spirituality and connection to the earth. Good lyricism and well performed. 3.5 (3) stars

3,5

Hip hop does not get funkier than this. Atlanta must have been a wild party with Arrested Development and OutKast kicking around town at the same time.

I’m behind so I’m going to drunkenly review a bunch of albums #4. This list has such a hard-on for a particular style of hip-hop: Common, Jurassic 5, Pharcyde, Lupe Fiasco, Q-Tip, De La Soul to name a few. I could make a low hanging skin colour joke here but I’m not going to. This is top tier of this bracket.

Powerfully groovy, great rhymes, and fantastic messages. Beautiful album.

Especially good on this album is the sound of the instrumentals. Samples are supplemented by very lively drums and bass lines. Yes the lyrics can be a bit preachy, but it's an ok sermon.

Hell yeah! Get the taste of yesterday's album out of my ears in fine style.

A solid straight-ahead effort

I'm not a huge lyrics person, so most hip hop goes over my head. On vibes alone, I really enjoyed this, was bopping. 4* Highlights: man's final frontier, u

This album is a very groovy, instrumental version of hip hop with clean lyrics. It feels very dated to me. The lyrics weren't that great either, they were overly positive. This sounded like it was straight out of an 80s or 90s sitcom. Not really my thing.

Fun and different, the obvious stand out songs becoming hits

Not a bad listen, quite enjoyable in places. Certainly on the more listenable side of hip hop

Less abrasive than most hip hop but a very dull listen. Did enjoy revisiting Mr Wendal though.

Surprised me insomuch as I really disliked the singles when they originally came out, and while that remains the case, the rest of the album I guess I’d describe as ‘pleasant’.

The instrumentals were mostly good, in direct contrast the lyrics were mostly crap. Seriously, Speech, the frontman, thinks so highly of himself compared to his contemporaries, that it's obnoxious. I'm glad these guys have been left in the dust. Highlights-Man's Final Frontier and Mama's Always On Stage

If you want to spend 22 more minutes on Arrested Development, check out this very entertaining episode of Todd In The Shadows' "Trainwreckords": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qqKPkVzJnN8&pp=ygUodG9kZCBpbiB0aGUgc2hhZG93cyBhcnJlc3RlZCBkZXZlbG9wbWVudNIHCQk5CwGHKiGM7w%3D%3D

And the review goes mild.

Not a genre I enjoy and not an album I enjoyed.

7/10 - Its a really fun album. Catchy, and dance-able. I want to listen to this in a dark room and read along with the lyrics. I get glimpses of some really deep topics Fav Tracks: U, People Everyday, Mr. Wendal Heard before? ---–- ❌ Saved a Song? ----- ✅ Saved Album? --–-- ✅ Will Listen Again? -- ✅ Album Cover -------Where's Mr. Bateman?

Big surprise hearing that version of People Everyday, I always thought this version was the alternative remixed one. Man. Well, People Everyday and Tennessee were already known and loved, and I figured the rest of the album would at least be good. And it is! Live band and solid interpolation of melodies and hooks (lotta Sly and Sly dna on this record fr) mixed with interesting and sometimes unusual sampling choices that really tie each track together. Speech's style isn't quite up to the cool factor of Q-Tip as far as laid-back intensity goes, but the sing-songy approach to flow is kinda neat. The album is a little bit preachy, but I can mostly forgive it for that, maybe because of my view of the landscape of pop culture in the late 80s/early 90s which could be and likely is flawed since I wasn't there till halfway through at which point I was pooping myself and crying. Can't forgive track 6 though, when they told me to set down my Nintendo joysticks, I will not be doing that, ma'am. I played with a branch and a Gamecube. Funky offering. I'd give a 5 if the best version of People Everyday was on here, but I think a straight 4 is appropriate otherwise. Maybe a 4.5 since the track "U" has not one, but TWO Schoolhouse Rock things on it.

Well this has a very interesting premise. Popularized spiritual and thoughtful rap over gangster rap. Interesting. Let's see what these guys are cooking up. Southern as well. Hmm. I hope I like this. Interesting intro. Groovy. I like this. It definitely sounds like a precursor. In that way that it doesn't quite sound flushed out in what it wants, but the things coming after it will know what it could've been. I like how it all flows into itself there's almost no breaks between songs they just flow. Tapeworm maxxing. Yeah man. Give me a fish ngl. But from the ocean. On my rod. Instrumental track really. Just not really to my tastes I think. Favourite: Children Play With Earth Least favourite: U

liked it, but its not really my thing

Turnt this on and promptly lost it to the minutia of everything else in my day. Totally forgettable, leaves no impression whatsoever.

This sounds like hip-hop made for an after school special. Like this is what a boy scout troop leader thinks good hip-hop is.

I remember this album playing quite often at a friend’s house, and even though hip-hop isn’t really my thing, I like the groovy, funky, and laid-back vibe of Arrested Development. Some parts of “3 Years...” are still a bit monotonous, but in a way that’s still somewhat tolerable. I suppose the reason for this is that they worked a lot with real instruments, which makes the production far more lively than that of their gangsta counterparts. I especially liked the bassline in “Dawn Of The Dread” today, even though it’s probably a synthesizer. Not my favorite album, but an important milestone and fully deserving of its place on this list.

Another quite fun album. I like this kind of 90's hip hop. Favorite Songs: People Everyday ; Mr Wendal

3.5

3.5

8/10 A new-to-me hip-hop group from the 90s. This album is really solid - it feels almost timeless despite very clearly emerging from the early 90's hip-hop scene. Great beats, overtly political lyrics, good stuff. My only critique is one that I'm not qualified to talk about but I'll mention it anyways: some of the lyrics talk about "bad" Black people, as opposed to the lead rapper, who is one of the "good" ones. This strict in-group/out-group division within a single community always makes me feel very uncomfortable, and is also problematic to boot (anyone who says one group is good and one is bad is, in reality, the real bas guy), but I know it's common discourse (especially in the US Black community) so it's certainly relevant. Anyways. I like this album overall.

I've been looking for this, like an evolutionist seeking out the missing piece. Finally, a connection between 70s funk and 90s rap. Other rap seems to have taken a step beyond other African American music (I mean, not really) as if there is no real connection. But here it is. And I love it. 4/5

Production is great, delivery is good. Everything works and has aged well, but I can't get over the lyrics. Points for doing positive stuff, but it's just so preachy.

Its been years since I have heard Arrested Development, and I enjoy it much more than I used to. Tennessee was always a good song, but I didn't love it before. Appreciate it much more now. Good album, may have to pick it up.

I still don’t like this sort of music, so only 2 stars…

Enjoyed this. Obviously knew Mr Wendal, Tennessee, and Everyday People but enjoyed the beats on the rest of the songs on this album. (4)

honestly pretty charming album, some of the message was pretty good even if some stuff here and there was a bit whatever. but i appreciate it for feeling authentic

I would like to give it a 3.5 but I don't feel like rounding up to 4 I like the sound but for the most part it's not super catchy to me, I also would like to be surprised more, songs sound interesting but get a bit boring imo, as much as I can enjoy long songs I don't have the same patience with repeated samples tbh fishin 4 religion is my favourite track

Quite a bit of fun. I really enjoy the production, especially how it sounds now (where it is a bit lower resolution).. it's a dusty sound but in a way I hadn't heard before. It's a new type of old, and that's exciting. My excitement waned over time.

This is fun, great beats and bombastic sound. Some of the religious messaging is a little too strong for my taste but not enough to stop me from enjoying the record.

There are a few classics on this album. Really different to a lot of things that were out of the time and still stands out.

Possibly the first hip hop album I ever bought. I remember how popular this was. Felt like everyone had it. Still kinda fun and some good social commentary.

habs nicht ganz geschafft. dafür, dass jedes lied gleich klingt einfach zu lang

I'm going 3 stars even though playing the same folk fest twice 15 years apart makes a hip hop group look real corny

Real Heads will know that these guys are extremely EFMF-coded. Real Heads will also know that this is an unfortunate thing for a hip hop group to be.

yeah it's fine

fun, buy nothing that stuck.

nie spodziewalam sie ze to iakis hip hop bedzie nie chce mi sie tego slucagc tbh juz wole robic lore w hokai moze i jest to niezle ale knie wkurwia pozatym jest w pizde dlugoe

Great album! I owned it, loved it, got tired of it a long time ago. Was so good hearing it again.

The backing tracks are great. This moment when DJs were assembling these incredible sample-collages was amazing; and tragically short lived - lasting only the few years between the arrival of samplers and the Court decision that arbitrarily decided that any sample over 1 second was a trademark violation. And I appreciate Speech's intentions in addressing issues that were important to him. The problem is the pretension and sentimentality of his lyrics is constantly cringe-inducing. It feels like I'm being preached to by an irritating 12 year old who grew up with WAAAAAY too much Motherly encouragement.

Some was pretty fun, but overall I wasn’t that captured by it.

Christian rap is not for me.

Still sounding fresh - bright and vibrant music and a slice of early 90s joy

ovi repnige, osim što odlučuju, dakako, repniški repnigovati (klasika), također odlučuju biti neizmjerni krindžušari koji će sakatiti semplove s dobrano izgrebanih ploča (mrzim, ali jebeno MRZIM to odvratno, usrano pucketanje na pločama, pogotovo kad je namjerno izabrano kao "artistic choice" ili kojim god drugim pojmom odlučite krstiti tu uševnu grdusinu koja se uvukla u pojedine glazbene djelatnosti). bljuc kako se bližilo kraju, mislio sam, ajde, možda će moći proći pod dvojku... i onda je došla zadnja stvar, s najviše usranog PUCKETANJA i s nekom toliko iritantnom melodijom koja zvuči kao ona arapska zvonjava s nokije (https://youtu.be/oS2ZPeat-w4?si=g2H_wyqW-mJ6ZHHj). bravo! smeće. jebite se

Very powerful messages, groovy Favourite track: Fishin 4 Religion

1.5/5. You know that bullshit line people pull when trying to dismiss rap music as a medium where they say something along the lines of “I don’t like all the drugs and sex and violence.” Arrested Development who rose to fame through the conscious hip-hop scene spend several tracks on this album basically doing just that. It is some absolutely irritating holier-than-thou stuff. They paint themselves as an Afro-centric conscious hip hop group but then chastise other rappers for essentially “doing it the wrong way.” This attitude culminates in the truly insane line on the song Tennessee “I ask you lord why you enlightened me, without the enlightenment of all my folks.” Which just oh my god is so bad. And the beats are fine enough, but basically every other conscious hip-hop group from this era had better production, better lyrics and a better attitude around the genre of rap and its place in the musical/cultural landscape. There is a reason that this group basically immediately tanked after this album. The moral of the story here being, I want to go listen to Low End Theory or some other significantly better execution of this style now.

Man this was funky and cool, reminded me of Toejam and Earl

Dope

I liked listening to it. I’m not a big hip hop guy but I really enjoyed the soul influenced beats. Speech also had some good observations about the world. I was a little tired by the end, feel like it could have used some trimming.

..

This album was really fun. Considering when it came out, it had the sound of earlier 90s/late 80s hip-hop, but lyrically it was more akin to its contemporaries (with a more life-affirming spin). I tended to like the first half of the album a bit more than the second half, but the whole thing was pretty enjoyable.

This was a really good album. It is a mix of fun, sometimes even goofy elements of old school 808 drums and MIDI sounds and some serious lyrical content. It can be a little silly, and it's probably a few tracks too long, but I enjoyed this album

Cool for someone who likes african rap

People everyday me gustó,el resto una bazofia

Love arrested development. The band is good too

I didn’t mind this one. It was innovative in its time and I appreciate they were contrasting from the early 90s gansta rap stuff which is a big positive straight up. I remember Mr Wendel well and even Give a man a fish did moderately well even in Australia. Good effort

This album totally gave happy 90’s hip-hop vibe, solid contrast to the gangsta rap popular at thr same time.

Idk man, same shi typa thing all threw-out

Ну не могу я воспринимать Рэп

The singles are great but the rest of this album suffers from really thin sampling: "Here. Have the same hook 150 times in 3 minutes."

Ich mag das Album eigentlich sehr, die beats und der Vibe generell machen einfach spaß. aber die Lyrics.. puh.. ich weiß nicht

Arrested Development are considered little more than a footnote in alternative hip hop history today, so it's easy to forget that this album sold millions and cleaned up at the award shows. The press genuinely thought this was the direction rap was going to go. Of course, we can't discount the press' attempt to distance hip hop from gangsta rap, the sub-genre that became the true herald of 90s hip hop. This album came out in the intermediate period between the 80s old school and the eventual gangsta takeover. Evidently, this is a very Afrofuturist record, conjuring up images of fists raised in the air, dashikis and Black Panther slogans. The music contained within is surprisingly mellow and offers a contemplative look at the social issues plaguing Black Americans in the early 90s. Despite the associated imagery, this record is less intent on calling a listener to direct action as much as it invites them to think about what's really going on. The cause is noble enough, though there's a fairy thick veneer of soapboxing and preachiness permeating this album. I mean, the frontman literally named himself Speech...! His raps have aged the most bizarrely, with some of them fitting right into music that came out years later while others are firmly dated to 1992 in both style and subject matter (that magical Black man allegory on "Mr. Wendal" is the prime example.) I actually appreciate this album being included on this list, because it offers a look into the general vibe and attitude of rap as it entered a new, more prolific decade. Though Arrested Development is largely confined to the memory holes of the early 90s, they played a vital part in shaping what would eventually become the gold standard alternative hip-hop style. Key Tracks: Mama's Always on Stage, U, Tennessee

He got no flow.

Pretty cool beats, uses of samples and melodies. Nothing really standout but might give it another go.

It's not a thing i'd listen to in my own free time, however i do think this album deserves all the praise it can get. I'm only giving it 4 because my 5 rating are for albums i'm going to buy physically, otherwise i would definitely give this a 5. It's amazing how this turns the rap scene from gangsta rap to something spiritual with very funky basslines and catchy beats, and probably is the sole reason why Southern hip hop got popular after.

Meh

Went back and forth between 3 and 4 for this one. I was pleasantly surprised and enjoyed it quite a bit for an album/artist that I've never heard of. That being said none of the songs really stood out enough to me to be a huge fan of it.

for me, this is very much a part of hip-hop history, but it is important to view it as such. This isn't comparable to Lupe Fiasco which I had straight after this, and it certainly cannot be looked at in the same lens as 2020s HH. I like it, but conscious rap that makes you very aware that they're not like one of those guys, a pick me, does and will always grate. Great sounds and textures but this isn't as fun or adventurous as it likes to think it is.

Loved it

This is my favorite hip-hop album I've listened to so far. The rap cadence sometimes reminds me of 80s hip-hop, but I thought the backing tracks and singing reminded me more of later hip-hop. The beats could be really creative and inventive with a lot of different types of sounds I didn't expect in the track. I didn't really pay attention to the lyrics when I heard these songs originally in the 90s, but hearing them years later as an adult with a job and kids, the lyrics really resonate. I appreciate how far against the grain Arrested Development went with regard to their themes and messages.

Not my favorite.

Listens: 2 Standout Tracks: People Everyday, Give A Man A Fish Good beats and okay rhyming/lyrics, but maybe a little too socially conscious. Or maybe it's just most of the songs seem increasingly particularly relevant these days :/ God, reality is so depressing. I don't exactly consume and listen to music to escape reality, but this is nearly an hour of decently heavy shit to process: homelessness, religion, making ends meet, motherhood, however you conceptualize the story being told in People Everyday, with a guy and his girlfriend having to confront a group of.. disrespecting hooligans, while trying to mind their own business, the raising of children with certain ideals (or not). I don't dislike or hate this, but I am not in love with it either. I think I would rather go listen to A Tribe Called Quest, Atmosphere (Slug and Ant), De La Soul or Mos Def.

wow, haven't listened to this album in a long time. it still holds up very well, though i don't think the 90s hip-hop skits phenomenon works as well now as it did (or didn't?) then. "people everyday" is still a stonecold jam oh yeah, so is "mr wendal". two fantastic singles double oh yeah, "tennessee". three fantastic singles

I am really enjoying this album. This is my favorite type of rap- where you can clearly understand what they are saying and there is a hook you can sing along to. A little too religious for my taste, but overall, I really enjoy the themes.

Mom, can we get De La Soul. We have De la Soul at home. It's Arrested Development. White people loved this

Strange music.

Pretty good, some corny lyrics and very 90's flows, but what do you expect from a 90's hip hop album lol

Man, I LOVED this back on the day!! Socially conscious, musical...I love how they sample without actually sampling...just a great album all around. 5

Enjoyed the upbeat yet easy going energy of this album. Never would've listened without this prompt

I think I like hip-hop albums so much because you can just feel the influence off of these older ones maybe not the best wrapping or lyricism I’ve heard but the production sampling definitely defined a generation of hip-hop music

Is it kinda corny? Yeah. But I'm not gonna pretend it doesn't also go stupid hard. Very preachy and Republican-coded but at the same time very musical and inspired. The beats/band carry this album entirely in a way that for me, makes up for the overly optimistic messages. I'd absolutely put this on as a casual listen even if it's a sermon in disguise.

Ok

Beautiful album!

Aunque tiene un par de tracks que me gustaron, en general me pareció odioso. Ya cuando llegó la canción aquella de “enséñale a un hombre a pescar” estaba llorando porque esto terminara.

An avalanche of good vibes

One of the better rap/hip-hop albums in my opinion. Songs have good structure and the lyrics are great.

This album was goooooood and made me feel like dancing!!! It also really reminded me of Digable Planets

Kjedelig

I want more of this type of rap. The historical roots of Chance, Noname, etc. An iteration on top of Tribe Called Quest. The best songs on this album are GREAT. It's a bit too long and loose to get 5 stars, but it coasted to 4 stars. It was never in doubt. - Energetic retro hip hop! How's it going to stand out though? - Production is killer, rapping is good enough. I'm entertained - Mr Wendal is a sick song - Clearly inspired Chance the Rapper's production/beat style. Very cool to hear - I LOVE this. It's too long and loose to be a 5, but it's an easy 4 by the end

Fine

this is like music from mars kinda thing

I had never heard of Arrested Development before this and I wasn't excited at all but wow, I take that back. I love this

this was a lot, but it was mostly good?

Delightfully fresh, I'm sure Chinua Achebe jamed out to this album.

Really hated this one honestly. Never been a fan of this style of music. Reminds me of will smith too much.

I like the old style hip-hop, the songs were fun, all around a good album.

Funky and precise in it's sound, this album is squarely in the middle of 90's hip hop. It pushes no boundaries and sounds exactly like one would expect for a band/production agency trying to create an album for broad appeal. It stays inside its lane and doesn't exert itself to make a strong point or convey a controversial message. Some of the songs are little too long and overstay their welcome, but overall it was a fun album to hear.

Really thoughtful, great music hidden behind vanilla ice style flows and production. This is a great list moment, this thing rips and I definitely would have just disregarded it entirely because of the production if I hadn’t been assigned to listen to it. Strong messaging, can be funny, can groove, it’s got everything. Really flirting with a 5 here.

Parts are kind of funky, and get me vibing along. But then, a lot of the songs, and especially lyrics, are just super dated and corny. I was not alive when this came out, so I don’t have a nostalgic feeling for the record. To me, a lot of it starts to sound like the Fresh Prince of Bel Air theme. I get what they were going for, and it’s certainly not terrible. I did really like Mr Wendal. But, as a whole, it’s pretty dated and doesn’t hold up. 2.8/5.

Lidt i stil med Public Enemy. Hvis det skal være sample-scratchy rap, er det sådan noget her, der er festligt nok at lytte til.

This was the perfect album for a nice warm spring weekend in the UK. I remember the album coming out in the early 90’s and it not really being my thing. I think Mr Wendal was everywhere, all the time! And that sort of got on my nerves but it was very refreshing to hear the song again after 34 years and it still sounded great as did the album. Maybe a touch to long…

It was creative but i js dont like the repetitive loud drums thats in every song

Hip hop with a message

Good sound and lyrics.

This was super fun! I loooved the funky beats

Didn't seem like Rap but more like music with with Rap. And I really liked it!

Mommy, I want to listen to A Tribe Called Quest. We have A tribe Called Quest at home.

Never heard of this band but this was kind of fun. Wholesome feel good funky rap. Nothing blew me away, but I quite enjoyed it. Almost four stars.

I was super excited when this one popped up today! I've listened to this album many, many times. We also saw Arrested Development a few years ago live, and they played a lot of the songs on the album. The songs were just as good live as they are on the album. I struggle a lot of times with rap and hip hop because it's often kind of upsetting and depressing to listen to the lyrics. So Arrested Development for me is perfect because the music is so positive and focuses more on peace and love than violence. Honestly, I could listen to "Mr. Wendal" and "Tennessee" both on repeat and be happy. Very happy to have this as my album today! A definite favorite! And as a bonus, probably one of my favorite album titles ever.

Not good.

I like Arrested Development, but if I had a gun to my head and needed to choose an inoffensive 90s rap group to listen to it’d be A Tribe Called Quest. Sorry, but the music is just a little better.

Day831 - mr wendell and tennessee were nostalgic listens. the rest of the album wasn’t as good as i remember

hip hop.

Being against abortion means being against the right for self-determination for women. Idk what shit in their heads made them think they're the good guys, basically blaming a young mother for getting a child the community has to care for because she is busy working her ass off. But thank god she did not abort WOW i'm gonna puke. Screwed up directly with the second song and I won't give these *you may chose an insult of your liking, but make sure it hurts* any more youtube views. I would give -5 if it was possible. this is the worst.

Νομίζω ανακάλυψα πως η κλασική χιπ χοπ και ραπ μου αρέσει ιδιαίτερα. Έχει πολύ γκρουβι αίσθηση και είναι κάπως η αντίθεση στη ραπ που μιλούσε για γκανγκς και 'αλητεία΄. Παρόλα αυτα είναι λίγο έντονο με τα πολιτικά του μυνήματα και προσπαθεί να τα σπρώξει αρκετά. Όχι ότι είναι κακό απλώς εμένα δεν με τρελένει Mama's Always On Stage

I've long loved Mr. Wendal, Tennessee and People Everyday (unfortunately the single version is much better than the album one) but the rest of this album let me down. I appreciate the positive vibes but a little preachy and weak at times.

Sure, it's ok.

Oh boy. I remember when Arrested Development came onto the scene in 1992. Gangsta rap was on top of the world in hip-hop, and I guess some record executive thought a rap collective like AD would be good counter-programming, as the group was more alternative rap that focused on social issues and subjects that were important to black communities. In fact, one reviewer referred to them as “anti-gangsta rap.” At the time, I’m not sure that it helped or hindered the group. The album’s title refers to the amount of time it took to record the album and get it ready for release. I can tell you that at the time, I was a senior in high school and heading into the home stretch of my high school career. By this point, I was way into Metallica, the last days of hair metal, and slowly getting into the new alternative rock scene that was "grunge." Though I blamed "grunge" for cutting the hair of hair metal. I was also into gangsta rap as it felt new and dangerous. And for some country boys in rural Kentucky, it was our only glimpse into the inner city. It was also funny at times and just wild to hear all the f'n and jeff'n in the lyrics. The first song I heard from AD was Tennessee, which was the first single off the album. I hated it. Not sure I ever listened to it all the way through one time. It was boring. Let’s see if 35 years have changed things. Arrested Development is made up of Todd Thomas, aka Speech, and Timothy Barnwell, aka Headliner. Speech is a rapper, and Headliner is a “turntablist.” I could have sworn there were like three or four others in the group, but it seems it’s mainly Speech and Headliner. Track 1 is Man’s Final Frontier, and it’s the stereotypical opening to a debut album by a hip-hop group. You aren’t prepared for what you are about to hear. It’s the greatest thing ever in the history of the universe. Stuff like that. Then the song transfers over to the usual late 80s hip-hop music built off of samples. At this point in time, it’s a bit dated. We never thought it would happen. The greatest rap group in the world has arrived.... and will soon depart. Track 2 is Mama’s Always on Stage and it is a bit bluesy with record scratching. The song has a good message. It’s about how the community should rally around the single mothers who decided to have their baby, rather than terminate it. The community should help raise the child and use their collective wisdom to nurture and protect both the mother and the child. Not a bad song, an even better idea. Track 3 is People Everyday and this song sounds like 1990s hip-hop. The music is based on the Sly and the Family Stone song Everyday People. I liked this song alright. You can easily understand the rapping, which I miss in today’s mumbling, BS they call hip-hop. The song is about violence in the inner city and respect and how silly things lead to shootings. Just like the movie Friday. That’s all I could think about was the Craig and Deebo altercation. Not sure if this song tempered tempers, but I think in today’s climate, this kind of stuff isn’t just in the black communities. I think these days people of all colors and creeds are a little meaner, but they’re not tougher. I liked the song alright, I’m just pleased to be able to understand the lyrics. Track 4 is Blues Happy, and Speech introduces all the members of the band, of which I thought there were only two. Oh, this is a 30-second interstitial. Track 5 is Mr. Wendal, and it sounds familiar. It was the third single off the album. It uses another sample from Sly and the Family Stone, this time from the song Sing a Simple Song. Mr. Wendal is about a homeless man whom most people don’t treat with humanity or dignity, just because he’s down on his luck. Again, I like this song, but is it because I like Sly and the Family Stone? That’s the thing with hip-hop that uses samples. You use a great song and people are more likely to connect their nostalgic feelings to that song and like your song. But it’s cheating. I'm looking at you Rob Ritchie. Track 6 is Children Play With Earth and there’s a woman yelling at me about how our kids are spending too much time playing Nintendo and not enough time digging in the dirt. I agree. I think we as human beings have lost our connection to nature, and it’s really messed with the collective unconscious. Maybe I’m wrong, but I wouldn’t bet on it. I find myself agreeing with most of the sentiments of the songs on this album, but the music is kind of boring. As songs, they’re mid, as ideas, they’re interesting, if not a little old-fashioned at this point. Who among us doesn’t think video games or phones are a scourge to children? Or thinks we should stop thinking murder first when there are disagreements? I think that’s pretty universal. Track 7 is Raining Revolution and it’s another okay song. I think the music is more for the people of that time. Maybe AD was way ahead of their time. There are some critics who looked at AD as the originators of Southern rap. At this time, we had the rap wars of New York versus Los Angeles, East Coast versus West Coast. I was always certain the beef was like pro wrestling and 2-Pac and Biggie were on the phone every night trying to figure out new angles to make people buy into the ruse. Unfortunately, they worked themselves into a shoot, literally, as someone decided there needed to be a death to really cement the idea that there was a feud. Again, why couldn’t you just punch someone in the mouth instead of shooting them dead? I digress. This album is rather boring. Track 8 is Fishin’ 4 Religion and it’s about how hopes and prayers sometimes aren’t enough. Speech believes just praying for a change won’t do anything if you don’t practice an active faith and go out into the world and be the change you want to see. Put feet on those prayers as my Pappaw would say. The song’s message is great, but the music is blah. I’m skipping right to the big single off the album, Tennessee. I remember hearing this song on MTV 24/7. Apparently, Speech lost his grandma and brother in a quick succession, and this song is him praying for strength from God to handle the pain and sorrow. Again, love the sentiment, but I loathe the song. I don’t know if I’m just off today, but I didn’t enjoy this album. It’s just boring. For people who love hip-hop with more of a social bent, you might love this. The music is wildly outdated at this point and is caught between the 80s and what was to come from Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg. Not a must-listen for me, but if you like hip-hop and have never heard of AD, check it out.

Pretty relaxed and positive hip hop, I like that in general. I actually knew "People everyday" before Sly Stone's original and found it great. It's much too long, though, and the lyrics are too preachy and religious for my taste. Still like it way better than anything by Kanye, Biggie or all the other mysoginist guys.

Good

Very Interesting.

Hh roots

This was genuinely great. You can feel the groundwork being laid for bands like Outkast and Black Eyed Peas, but less pop-y. Really good stuff.

Favorite Track: Tennessee

Nice, uncomplicated sunny hip hop that was very listenable if a little dated.

I actually bought "3 years" at the time of its release, played it once, never played it again, and then sold it sometime later. At 57 minutes in duration the album didn't hold my interest then and it doesn't now playing it again, all these years later. It's an okay album, just not to my taste. Two stars. 1. "Man's Final Frontier" (2/5) 2. "Mama's Always on Stage" (3/5) 3. "People Everyday" (3/5) 4. "Blues Happy" (3/5) 5. "Mr. Wendal" (3/5) 6. "Children Play with Earth" (2/5) 7. "Raining Revolution" (2/5) 8. "Fishin' 4 Religion" (2/5) 9. "Give a Man a Fish" (2/5) 10. "U" (3/5) 11. "Eve of Reality" (2/5) 12. "Natural" (2/5) 13. "Dawn of the Dreads" (2/5) 14. "Tennessee" (3/5) 15. "Washed Away" (2/5) Total - 36 Average - 2.40 296/1001 158/296 albums reviewed were new to me

At first I didn't think much of them, but I grew increasingly fond of their music, flow, style with the passing of the songs.

mostly hits the sweet spot of classic hip-hop for me, combining great backing tracks & samples with compelling verses 4.5/5

softer rap

I forgot how good Mr. Wendal was. The rest of it seemed sort of monotonous. I felt like I was listening to the same track over and over and there were parts in each song that just repeated over and over.

achei bacana, lembra bem a tribe called quest, mas com mais alegria no coração? as beats são da época né xD, mas bem produzido, tudo conversa entre si

definitivamente do início dos anos 90 mas bons beats, bons samples, boa banda e bons flows. mto massa!!

ok

64/100. I liked the overall meaning behind the album. An interesting record that moves at a surprisingly slow pace for hip hop, even by the standards of its time. It leans more into message and atmosphere than energy. Thoughtful and respectable, just not something I would listen to again.

I like it. Great vocals, simple, peaceful lyrics, with a touch of pride, angst, and humor. I could do without the god priase, but I enjoy the vibe.

It felt preachy in 1992 and it feels preachy today. The production is fun, but repetitive. There's a couple of bops.

Heard Before? Many times, but not in years. Notes: - this is what people mean when they call an album "dated". - i find these beats refreshing, a reminder of a certain golden age of sampling and turntablism. and fun fun fun. - all the rapping feels like Sesame Street, in form and content. depending on my mood, that's wonderful or nearly unlistenable. - for an album so preachy, the instrumentals have a surprising amount of room to breathe. - my friend compared it to Gorilla Biscuits. I'm sure the two acts would volunteer at a soup kitchen together. Verdict: Shockingly sincere, irony-free, positive messaging party music. Smile or else. Listen Again? I'll give it another long break, but probably.

2.5

basi musicali pazzesche, mi dispiace non capire bene l’inglese perchè intesti sembravano interessanti

This album is just straight-up fun to listen to. It made me feel happy, hopeful, and kinda proud all at the same time. There’s this warm, groovy energy that runs through the whole thing — funky samples, live percussion, and those sunny soulful hooks that make you want to nod your head and smile even when the topics get heavy. It’s not really a strict concept album with one continuous story, but the whole record revolves around Black life, African roots, and the everyday struggles people go through. Speech and the crew talk about spirituality, family, homelessness, respecting women, staying connected to nature, and fighting for a better way without ever sounding preachy or depressing. Instead, they wrap it all in this positive, uplifting vibe that feels like a celebration of Black culture and resilience. Tracks like “Tennessee,” “People Everyday,” and “Mr. Wendal” hit different — they make you think but also keep the party going. The production is so alive and organic compared to a lot of hip-hop from that era. It’s funky, soulful, and full of life. In a time when gangsta rap was taking over, this felt like a breath of fresh air. It still sounds fresh today. If you need some music that lifts your spirits while reminding you what really matters, put this one on. Pure joy mixed with real substance.

Taký rap... So škaredym hlasom...

I remember owning this at the time, it was probably one of my first albums and I may have even owned on cassette tape. Mr Wendal remains a great song and is worthy of a revisit alone. People Everyday is also good but it sounded different to how I remember it which confused me but I later realised the single was a remix. This has many plus points but at the end of the day, there must be a reason why it’s been a good 30 years since I last listened.

Cool album, but what is that version of People Everyday - not the one I know. And not as good. Mr Wendal is such a nice jam, I could listen to it all day. Still very solid album, a tad long. Favorite Tracks: Mr Wendal, Natural, Dawn of the Dreads 4.1/5

Tough record to review. I liked the first half a lot, while it started to feel repetitive in the second one. I love modern conscious hip hop, but i didn't know this retro classic. It feels a bit outdated, but I'm glad i gave it a listen.

I can't believe I had never heard these guys before. This is right up my alley for old school rap. I liked Mr. Wendal for sure.

A good time

Dug it.

this is super fun! i like the laid-back feeling...maybe due to the southern genre? i really enjoyed listening to the lyrics too. i don't think the beats here were the mooost compelling of some of the hip hop albums we've heard especially from the 90s, but this was also 92 so I have to remember where things were at the time and this might've been more interesting comparatively back then.

Couldn't give this one a 5 because it felt a little too preachy about God at times, but it's a whole-ass vibe. I loved this era of hip hop in the 90's.

2.5

Donc, aujourd'hui, c'était 3 Years, 5 Months And 2 Days In The Life Of..., d'Arrested Development. Donc on parle ici d'un groupe dont je n'avais jamais entendu parler. Si j'en crois la description de Wikipédia, c'est un album qui a grandement participé à populariser le rap du sud des États-Unis, avec un style et un état d'esprit un peu différent. Je sais pas si mon écoute a été influencée par cette description, mais j'ai senti cette différence. Le ton était plus positif, plus joyeux que ce que j'ai pu entendre jusque-là. Est-ce que c'est ça que j'étais censé entendre comme différence ? En tout cas, c'était fort sympathique !

Meh

Это определенно рэп/хип-хоп альбом....... Рандом меня не щадит, давая на прослушивание такие альбомы слишком уж часто. Это наверняка хороший альбом с лирической точки зрения, но моей личной заинтересованности слишком мало чтоб разбирать его самостоятельно. Семплы/биты интересные, оригинальные. Но плз, сколько ещё в этом челлендже будет "типа умных рэп-альбомов с лирикой о какой-нибудь проблематике с налётом интеллектуализма" ? Потому что за последнее время мне выпало 2 таких рэп-альбома. Уже немного поднадоедает.

3.5 stars. Debut hip hop album that kicked-off Southern Hip-Hop popularity. Lyrically more reflective than expected. Musically somehow feels nostalgic without having actually heard a lot of it. Standouts are "Everyday People" and "Tennessee".