Done By The Forces Of Nature

Ah, to muse on what could have been. First thing to note is the cover: where is the parental advisory sticker? No need for one. For you see, what we have here is a less famous entry in daisy age rap, a short-lived tendency in hip-hop circa 1990 when rappers adopted a gentler, more playful, more positive stance. Of course, pop rap has been a perennial since Rapper's Delight, and daisy age led directly to the positive hip-hop of Arrested Development, but then it all died a death, buried under the juggernaut of gangsta rap. And I think everyone can nowadays agree that this was a real shame. Plenty of angsta rap has really not aged well (you know what, kids? People might get a bit sniffy if you express misogynistic and homophobic sentiments), and more generally, people would like a softer, more thoughtful take on hip-hop, which this album is. And from the off, the album delights. This is an immensely charming album, the flow charismatic as only old-skool hip-hop couplets can be. It's genuinely pleasant to hear a rap contain the lines: Stay out the dark and you'll find that you'll be strong Believe in yourself and nothin' will go wrong There's room out there for those who want some Because everybody's got a little light, under the sun. Even the tracks about the ladies are about good-natured flirting rather than objectification, and Black Woman outright praises, well, black women, directly saying that, along with love and protection, black women deserve respect, a most appealing concept. Also, the music itself impresses in its funky diversity, ranging from bebop to doowop to 80s squelchy synths. There are nits to pick. The album is a little too long, and I didn't really appreciate the message of In Dayz 2 Come, but I'm all prepared to overlook those because the album is such a joy regardless. I came away wishing that this had taken off, rather than The Chronic, a conclusion with which I suspect many would concur. Sometimes the best doesn't win. C'est la vie.

This was a good album from that golden age of hip-hop before gangsta rap dominated the scene. Groovy, funky and very danceable. The lyricism is great, and it's refreshing to hear some hip-hop that takes a more light-hearted stance. Some of the songs sound a little cheesy now, but maybe it's just where everybody got so jaded by the gangsta rap juggernaut. Wonder what would be different in the world today if this was the hip-hop subgenre that persisted? Favourite: Tribe Vibes

Pioneers of mixing hip-hop with house and jazz (in fact they were the first to do the former), Jungle Brothers pack their second album full of irresistible beats and singsong flow. Some of the rhymes are wonderfully corny in that special late 80s way.

Jolly, but the appeal comes and goes.

reminds me of NWA with less punchy beats, less punchy lyricism and less character

This album by the Jungle Brothers is pretty diverse and sets itself apart from the growing trend of Gangsta Rap that started with N.W.A.'s debut. It is playful and conscious and has some nice Jazz inspirations throughout. It was definitely an influential album and I think that this might be the kind of influence that got A Tribe Called Quest to make "The Low End Theory". The album starts with 'Beyond This World' which combines Hip Hop with some House music and some Jazz inspirations. It feels like the bridge between Planet Rock (which is mentioned here) and The Low End Theory. It's got a pretty interesting beat and the lyrics are quite alright with some mainly funny highlights. It's overall an alright song that does some things but doesn't really end up sticking with me as the performances feel a little unfocused and too much like they try to impress their contemporaries instead of doing their own thing. That song transitions into 'Feelin' Alright' which removes some of the House and goes more into Jazz Rap and Boom Bap which results in it working much better. It's a pretty great song with some really well done verses and performances. They all just harmonize much better together. The hook is great, the playful and silly details are fun and the beat is simple but oh so effective. The only problem is that it streches a bit too much towards the end. 'Sunshine' adds a little nursery rhyme twist to it and with the whole theme of sun just makes this a really cute song even if there are some deeper topics worked into it. It's a pretty great and catchy song though with the radio interludes and some pretty well made verses. The slight House grooves come back on 'What "U" Waitin' 4?' but the result is much better as the song is pretty awesome. The beat is phenomenal, the hook is really fun and the verses are performed really great. It's a really incredible song with some of the best arranged and thought through moments on the entire album. '"U" Make Me Sweat' keeps the things its predecessor did great and adds some more sincerity to it. It works as well with a great beat and performances. It's a really fun listen with a great groove even if the hook is something that I'll not get used too. I just don't like the sound of it much but it doesn't make the whole song unlistenable just that part a little weird. The track 'Acknowledge Your Own History' talks about how the black community is put down by how their own history is teached and they now try to get the young generations of black kids to learn about their actual own history. It's a lovely song with some pretty funny bars and a great vibe to it. I just feel like they should've done a little more with the beat even if the lyrics and meaning is the main thing that is supposed to shine here. The end also feels a little streched. 'Belly Dancin' Dina' is a pretty horny track but not in a bad way. It doesn't feel like he's about to rip off her clothes and more like just a shy but still pretty horny crush. It's pretty funny and some of the rhymes are pretty good. It just doesn't really achieve the high points that some other songs got to. The song 'Good Newz Comin'' which closes the albums first half is actually purely instrumental showcasing what they could do with a turntable. Even if there is no Rap to be found here it is still filled to the brim with funny details and added sounds that turn the song into a pretty nice moment on the album. I really enjoy this song all the way through. Side 2 of the album starts with the title track 'Done by the Forces of Nature' which is a pretty good title, no doubt there, and the song itself has some really nice additions in the beat which is the main thing that I like about this song. The beat is done so well, just phenomenal. The Rap performances are also pretty good especially some of the rhymes and the added sax and flute moments that are tied to with the lyrics. It's just a great and stunning listen especially with the beat. I just love it that much. In comparison, 'Beeds on a String' is a much more common and standard Hip Hop song. It's pretty good, especially the beat, but it has too many pauses that don't really add that much. The whole Rap performance is pretty average and doesn't really work here. It's an alright song. The beat of 'Tribe Vibes' feels similar to 'Good Newz Comin'' with some of the vocal chops and the detail work here is pretty well made as are the performances. The songs energy is pretty much unmatched on the album, it feels just very energetic and raw and just like so much fun. The song Is so much fun to listen to. It transitions into the next song 'J. Beez Comin' Trough' which has a really silly beat at the start but it works actually pretty well. The song is pretty good but they could've turned it into much more as the performances are pretty short and the chorus is just way too long. It feels just a little unfocused with pretty much everything here but there are still some nice moments. Even if 'Black Woman' might have inspired one of the best moments on To Pimp a Butterfly, the song itself feels forced and ends up being pretty boring instead of being though provoking and conscious. It's just not a good song but it also doesn't annoy, it just moves past me without anything really sticking not even instrumentally. 'In Dayz "2" Come' starts with a snippet from a tv show which reminded me a bit of BLOOD. by Kendrick Lamar (again). The song itself is alright. I think they had something bigger planned with it but the result feels unfocused and with not enough substance. There are still some nice details worked into all of it but it isn't more than just a good song. Remember how I mentioned A Tribe Called Quest at the start? Well, they are actually featured on this song together with Queen Latifah and De La Soul. Four legendary Hip Hop artists/groups in one song is just a match made in heaven. This is a perfect showcase of what some parts of rap were going to in the years that followed. Anyway, it's funky, has some incredible performances and this is a perfect song... That's it: Perfect! The albums short outro 'Kool Accordin' "2" a Jungle Brother' is alright... Like, they didn't need it but it is kind of silly and kind of puts a nice end to the album in a way that it fits but the track itself doesn't really carry much that would make me return to it. favourites: Doin' Our Own Dang, What "U" Waitin' 4?, Feelin' Alright, Done by the Forces of Nature, Sunshine least favourites: Kool Accordin' "2" a Jungle Brother, Black Woman, Beeds on a String, Beyond This World Rating: decent 7 https://rateyourmusic.com/~Emil_ph for more ratings, reviews and takes

This was enjoyable to listen to. Comfortable, like a soft pair of jeans. Can’t explain it.

amazing album, where have you been all my life

A stone cold hip hop classic - I needed no introduction to this - conscious rap over some wonderful samples probably my favourite rap album ever....

I really enjoy discovering the environmental message of these 80s hip hop

I mean, it's 80s hip-hop. What do you want me to say? This album has everything that one would expect from 80s hip-hop. Group name-dropping, socially conscious lyrics, elements of African culture. Those aren't bad things, they're just things I've already experienced through other similar albums. I will say though that there is a very feel-good energy in "Done by the Forces of Nature" that makes this a pleasant listen. There's some good messages in here. I especially like the messaging in the song "Acknowledge your own History" with what it has to say about history and culture. I also like the part in that song where they diss Christopher Columbus. I just think that's funny. The beats are well made and the rapping is decent. Overall, while this album doesn't stand out much to me, it's still a positive, albeit a bit long, experience that gives me no real reason to truly dislike it. Light 3/5.

Some decent hip-hop. Never got especially boring but wouldn't listen to again and some songs got a bit too preachy.

Shades of Tribe, De La - and shockingly contemporary sounding for being so early in hip hop's era.

The rise of gangsta just killed my interest in mainstream hip hop, so it is a joy to go back and revisit an album like this that is much more to my tastes. I dig the Native Tongues era hip hop. It's clever and funky and varied and funny and smart. This represents a direction that hip hop _could_ have gone, but didn't (which is a bit sad). The best material is front-loaded on the album; some of side 2 is still very old skool, with some hilariously dated flow. But I can forgive it for being a lot of fun. An enjoyable listen.

Didn't hate it but its a one and done for me.

nope

Done By the Forces of Nature I’ve never listened to this until today, and although I know a few JB tracks I wasn’t really aware of this album and that it is considered one of the classics of Golden Age hip-hop, alongside A Tribe Called Quest and De La Soul (who make appearances on Doin’ Our Own Dang) Being a fan of DLS and ATCQ and Natives Tongues in general, I feel I should really have known about this, as it is an excellent album, right in that late 80s Afro-centric socially conscious hip hip sweet spot. I’ll House You from before this is a great song, and that house influence carries on in places here, What U Waitin’ 4 has a nice house beat and a great synth bass (and a reference to I’ll House You’). There’s also a slight presaging of the west coast sound with the high pitched synth on Belly Dancin’ Dina. But there’s also some great jazz inflections across it too, as on the title track, as well as some early 80s synth influences, and that hip-hop-house-synth-jazz synthesis gives it a slightly different feel to the other Native Tongues stuff, with a more consistently upbeat dance/party vibe, albeit with similar lyrical themes like on Acknowledge Your Own History and Black Woman. This has been a great discovery, I’ve listened quite a few times and have looked forward to coming back to it each time. The only thing is that although it’s brilliantly constructed with great samples, the overall sound lacks a bit clarity especially compared to 3 Feet High and Rising and the first two Tribe albums, but that’s a minor quibble, that doesn’t really detract from the overall quality. Was a 4 on first listen but on repeat it just tips over to 5, it’s a great companion to 3 Feet High and Rising and People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm 🌴🌴🌴🌴🌴 Playlist submission: Doin’ Our Own Dang

Really cool album where I recognised samples that lots of other bands used in their music, from Snoop Dogg to The Prodigy.

5/5. A danceable and super upbeat rap album despite having lyrical themes of social politics and the "good ol' days." It feels so real and well-produced, so smooth and flows well like they knew they were making a great album but still having fun with it. Full of black love and reminding people that black people are not always mad about life but have a good reason to be so while still keeping love at the forefront. Best Song: Beyond This World, Acknowledge Your Own History, Doin' Our Own Dang

Aw yea. The simple kick snare pattern starts this trance like background where instruments and voices come in and fade out. sneaky Parliament sample at the end of Sunshine. Good Newz Comin' is a house beat jam. damn what a cool album.

Find yourself someone who loves you as much as Robert Dimery loves Native Tongues-era hip-hop.

Another band known but unheard until today, the purposeful awkwardness, the harshness of sample transitions, and surprising air of menace offset the idealism and hop of the record. Prepared for the usual overlong hour, I was impressed with the variety and, on a couple of occasions, the banging dance rhythms that had me on my toes in the kitchen this afternoon, a rare experience for me and this list. Only one listen, so not sure if this has a claim to the pantheon. Close if not.

Pre-listening thoughts: I have never heard of this album/group. I saw it was hip hop and I'm ngl I'm a little excited cause this era of hip hop is so fun and distinct. Post/during listening thoughts: While the actual rapping is not as impressive as contemporary rap and sometimes the flow is awkward to squeeze in a rhyme, I think overall this is a decent body of work. Sometimes the beats are lacking complexity but I honestly don't mind that cause it allows me to focus on the lyrics, arguably the most important part of hip hop/rap. The scatting in Feelin' Alright is making me laugh a little bit. I love the samples in this album - they're used so well without overtaking the song (cough cough Jack Harlow mumbling over Fergie's song). This is such good music to walk to and dance to. I really need to listen to more rap/hip hop especially from the 80s/90s. I know a lot of people don't like that era of hip hop but I have such a soft spot for it. I would however weed this album's song count down by 2-3 songs. 7.5/10 DID I NEED TO HEAR THIS BEFORE I DIE: not necessarily but also I think everyone should hear some rap/hip hop songs from this era so this isn't a bad place to start Fav tracks: Feelin' Alright, What "U" Waitin "4"?, "U" Make Me Sweat, Tribe Vibes, Doin' Our Own Dang Least Fav tracks: none really

When I started listening to this yesterday, it was a 3. Today, when I picked it up, I'm not sure if my mood was better, it was sunnier, because it was Friday or maybe the second half of the album is better... but it hit me more like a 4. Maybe tomorrow it will be a 3 again.

I was skeptical when I saw a rap album from 1989 because lots of early rap is corny and overly long and not very interesting. This album surprised me with its catchy beats and well-produced songs. Even in "Doin our Own Dang" the ideas of sell outs and copycats are discussed , showing that Jungle Brothers had something worth emulating. The Mc's don't always have very insightful bars, but their flow is alright. Even at an hour long I didn't think any song overstayed its welcome. Like, 3.75 stars

Could not listen because it is no longer available on Spotify. A shame.

Nothin wrong with this but I expected to be more into it. Beats feel very plain and the tracks mostly run together. Some funk, but I want more.

Done by the Forces of Nature is the second album by American hip hop group Jungle Brothers. It is an influential and classic album from the golden age of hip hop that was praised for its smart lyrics, house-inspired beats, wide range of samples from many different genres, and its Afrocentric themes. It's an underrated classic that's been overlooked by the general public, but the quality of the production is high just like the vibes on the album. I really enjoyed the classic hip hop on this Jungle Brothers album. The lyrics were quick and witty, with enriching themes about African-American culture and its urbanized naturalism. It's comfort music for the inner city youth that spreads positivity instead of violence or hate. I recommend this album.

i can respect jungle brothers being on this list! i don't know as much about hip hop, but i can appreciate the classic style of hip hop and the variety of samples used on this album. some of them were unexpected but still delightful. and for a song like "black woman" to be released in 1989? i'm impressed! unless if i missed something glaringly offensive, i didn't catch any misogyny, which is always a highlight.

I'm no hip-hop expert, but it was fun to hear what was largely a positive and upbeat hip hop album. Misogyny is often so present in hip hop music, even songs that are supposedly "praising" women, and so the song "Black Woman" was a refreshing, truly positive listen. While all of hip-hop maybe didn't maintain that "positive" sound that this album reflects, I do feel like this is a standout of that era, musically!

Fat and funky baselines and old school raps. Smart, political, socially conscious lyrics. But the music is also a lot of fun with plenty of playful moments. “Belly Dancin’ Dina” is a cool one. The music has that high-pitched Dr. Dre g-funk synth and one of the rappers even has a Snoop Dogg flow for a moment. And this was 1988, four years before “The Chronic.” A lot of interesting production throughout this album. It kept surprising me. The dense sampling is a lot of fun too. Lots of “Ooh I recognize that! What song is this from?” moments.

Fun 80s/90s funky / new jack swingy hip hop. I've always liked this sound, and appreciated this era of hip hop that happened just before gangsta rap started to become so prevalent. I do really love gangsta rap, but this sound was so fun and light and loose and musical. It's like it had more intentional musicality and the voices were intended to mesh with the music more, as opposed to gangsta rap where the voice is the main instrument that stands on top of the beat / music. "What "U" Waitin' "4"" is a super fun quintessential 80's hip hop track. Cool album cover too.

Not terrible, but there were much better imitations of this album.

Had to go to youtube, wasn't worth it.

Starts auspiciously enough with a snatch of "White Lines", unfortunately all downhill from there. Another daisy age doze, with guest appearances from some of the chief dullards of the period (KRS-One, Monie Love (corblimey!)); sounds *very* late-80's, some interesting lyrics in part but quite FUBU overall. You can see how LL Cool J was considered "hardcore" in context

It's perfectly enjoyable, but not very profound.

I get it but don't like it

As a concept this seemed like it would be an interesting and enjoyable listen. I’m afraid I liked it more in theory than in reality. I was mostly just waiting for it to end.

Well – I tried, but that was absolutely awful… And over an hour, really – weren’t the first 5 or 6 tracks enough of this drivel… It reminded me of a cross between The Sugarhill Gang from the early 80’s, and early DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince albums – all of which came before this… Nothing wrong with that, but there is absolutely nothing new in terms of the style, and I can’t believe that the Jungle Brothers didn’t get bored recording this themselves – as every freakin’ song sounds just like the last – only with a few different lyrics… Same beat, same style, just on and on, and on… Best song is the title track “Done By The Forces Of Nature” – and that’s NOT because it’s particularly good, it’s just that it’s a bit different from everything else that totally sucked on this album… No redeeming qualities, I’d give it a “0” if I could, and have absolutely no idea how this album wound up on the 1,001…

Aaaaaand another hip hop album. Hard pass. 1/5.

mehhhh

I am a huge hip-hop fan but I have never listened to this LP. I know other Jungle Brothers LPs, straight out the jungle, and raw deluxe get a thumbs up J Beez wit da remedy, not so much. I have also caught them live but the group just didn’t grab my attention like Tribe or De La, but Done by the forces of nature is really good, who knew? I really should have listened sooner.

Love that old school hip hop sound, gets you moving and the lyricism is creative

Day537 - a bummer it’s not on apple music but it’s a pretty awesome album

Loved this album. I was previously unfamiliar with the Jungle Brothers, heard of them but not much of their stuff. I don’t know why, but I’m glad that’s changed. However, this is why I don’t like modern rap…really just about anything from this century. Jungle Brothers are able to express themselves, rap about political views and chasing girls, all without being vulgar and cursing every other word. Maybe that doesn’t bother most people, but I like to be able to listen to good music with my kids. They’re also not misogynistic, unlike every rap album I’ve heard on this list that was made in the last 25 or 30 years. The Jungle Brothers, along with other contemporaries such as Tribe or Arrested Development, prove you can actually respect women and make great hip hop.

A bit of a missing link for me. It came out at the time I graduated and having heard (and liked) a bunch of rap and hip-hop at university, I moved towards indie and missed this. A crying shame on my part because it's fantastic.

Man this was good. It seems like there were just a few years where hip hop was fun, funky, political and most of all positive. This album lifts you up, and centres the Black experience. I'll come back to this one for sure.

Was blown away by this one...a Native Tongues group I hadn't had exposure to before. Really, really liked it...almost as well as any Tribe album. 4.5/5

Not my usual style but damn it was good!

How is it that this was a first listen to this album. Sure, I knew some of the songs, but what a superb piece of work!

Beats were fun and funky. Love 90s hip hop

That album seems like a prototype for so much that came after

A somewhat neglected group from the Native Tongues, Jungle Brothers epitomize the best of nineties creativity in the hip-hop format. It's party music, in its own way, but it also swaggers a literariness that could be called poetry, but in fact resembles something older in quality: 'Shake your butt but don't break your back / Tap your feet and let your fingers snap'; 'All you read about is slavery / Never 'bout the Black man's bravery.' It's the combination of body-positivity and mental-positivity that makes this album an exemplar release - whether they're rapping about 'Belly Dancin' Dina' and being 'junglistically horny' or how 'the oppressed will be saved from oppression,' their pedagogy is inseparable from the dance floor.

You could probably put together a cogent argument that the amount I like this means I’m old.

Done by the Forces of Nature is Jungle Brothers’ underrated masterpiece, a funk-fueled celebration of hip-hop’s golden age that sits comfortably in the Native Tongues collective while marching to its own beat. In 1989, while others were rapping about revolution and rebellion, Jungle Brothers offered a vision of unity, self-expression, and musical experimentation, blending jazz, Afrocentric themes, and minimalist beats in ways that felt ahead of their time. Their intricate rhyme schemes and socially conscious messaging laid the groundwork for future artists like The Roots, J Dilla, and Chance The Rapper to carry the torch of positivity and musical fusion. Though it never quite reached the commercial success of their peers, Jungle Brothers’ second album remains a crucial touchstone in hip-hop's evolution—a work that holds its ground alongside the genre's most iconic releases. Done by the Forces of Nature may not have dominated the charts, but its influence is undeniable, and its message still resonates today.

Wonderful old school hiphop. Great beats, good lyrics. No complaints.

This is what I’m talking about!! Tribe is my favorite but never got into Jungle Brothers. It is excellent! Will save and listen in rotation.

This should be required listening. It is 80's hip-hop, sure... but so much jazz and James Brown and just MORE than Sugar Hill or harder, rougher genre samples.

Wild that the JBs did every single beat on here, and every one is fresh. No misses.

A classic of the golden age, when everyone involved in hip-hop knew the four elements - and used them to elevate their blocks, boroughs, and cities.

A seminal early native tongues release. Loved it.

Really dug this album. It transported me to 90s New York.

A great album by a solid undervalued group. As solid and groundbreaking as their partners in the Native Tongues.

Really good! Peaceful, intelligent, informative, cool and groovy. Well done Jungle Brothers, I get why this is a Must Listen

I was more familiar with the JB’s debut album and was never really able to get into it. This one on the other hand really hits the Golden Era hot spot.

Wow, I'm blown away by this. Sounds amazing for 1989 - has aged considerably more gracefully than a lot of hip-hop from around then and a bunch of it still sounds fresh as hell! Ugly Duckling are one of my fave recent hip-hop acts and I know they're deliberately trying to hark back to golden age hip-hop, and I reckon this is the album they have in mind. I gave this a second play through right away, and I'm gonna listen to their first album next. Great stuff! Fave tracks - "Acknowledge Your Own History", "Tribe Vibes", "J. Beez Comin' Through", "Black Woman", "Doin' Our Own Dang"

It’s so nice to hear hip hop that’s fun, playful, positive, and well put together. I just cannot listen to any rap or hip hop that’s full of gang violence, hustle culture, misogyny, and homophobia. Like, I have no time for any of that. I’d rather listen to artists like Jungle Brothers, or (ignoring some religious themes) Arrested Development, or (ignoring some of the controversies) Public Enemy.

Absolute class.

Fire classic rap 👍

Sure, it's fun, varied and inventive, but where's the misogyny, feuding with other rappers, and petty diss tracks?

i miss hip hop like this

Brilliant! The samples are ace. It’s all over the place with so many genres. Loved it. 4.7

What a blast revisiting this criminally underrated masterpiece from the hip hop golden age (underrated in the sense that it's still forgotten in some retrospective best hip hop albums lists). *Down By the Forces of Nature* is the quintessential Native Tongues (and Zulu Nation-adjacent) album. And as such, it paved the way for the commercial success of De La Soul (who had already released *3 Feet High And Rising* in 1989) and A Tribe Called Quest (who would release their own debut the year after). Both acts (plus Monie Love) feature in the funky party cut *Doing Our Own Dang" by the way, and you can find the latter towards the end of this tracklist--another reason this record is "historical" for all hip hop heads out there. Forget "Daisy Age" rap, a term mentioned in one of the reviews up there--this was just a joke De La Soul used to promote their debut LP, and they quickly disowned that reductive tag. The name of that collective was NATIVE TONGUES: conscious and afrocentric-minded lyrics, some humourous moments to give a human spin to the latter, and most of all, rich, multi-layered music piling up tribal rhythms, infectious basslines, Parliament-Funkadelic-like guitars, house music-tinted trippy synth touches, and huge sprinklings of jazzy textures and tones. It's probably hard for younger listeneners to realize this today, but the overall sound of this album marked a *huge step forward* for the whole rap genre, and this almost singlehandedly. Just compare this to 90% of the other rap albums released in 1989. So the influence of *Down By the Forces Of Nature* cannot be overstated. The Pharcyde and Souls Of Mischief also owed a lot to this record, for instance. And oddly enough, so did West Coast gangster rap: listen to snarly "U Make Me Sweat" and good-spirited "Belly Dancin' Dina" (the subtle lyrics of both cuts about how women can entice and obsess men, coincidentally--but without any blatant misogyny either) and once you've listened to those two cuts, make the connection yourself. Here it is, in "Belly Dancing Dina": the same winks and quotes going back to the George Clinton songs that Dr. Dré would recycle a few years later for Snoop Dogg. Dré listened to that album for sure. Funny how you can find hidden bridges between those two parts of the rap world that were officially "competing" with each other at the time... Speaking about rap and misogyny, "Black Woman", featuring Soul II Soul's Caron Wheeler, makes it clear woman-hating and women-objectifying has no place in the Jungle Brothers world. Of course, that good-natured track also exemplifies the few moments on this LP that sound a little too naive or dated today (In terms of the rap flows and some of the instrumentals used for instance--but also when it comes to the cheesy artwork on the cover). After all, *Down By The Forces Of Nature* was released in 1989, so it can't have aged *that* well. But the minor flaws are easily outweighed by the manifold assets present in this record. Take moody-yet-tight-and-driven opener "Beyond This World", airy-yet-lively "What U Waiting 4?"--with its sci-fi-adjacent synth loop coupled with hard P-funk rhythm--or "Acknowledge Your Own History", a proud and dignified track--both lyrically and musically--aptly explaining why systemic issues in education got Black students uninterested in history classes given how white and European-centered the latter were... Even more impressive is the *perfect* string of cuts gracing the middle part of this album. Starting with the wonderful, cinematic instrumental highlight "Good Newz Comin'" (what a stellar breakbeat!--and don't miss the frankly incredible electric guitar flourishes at the end of the instrumental!), that admirable string of tracks then lines up bangers after bangers: the title-track, "Beeds On A String" (beads on a string indeed, ha ha), "Tribe Vibes (featuring KRS One!) and "J Beez Coming Through". As some other reviewers on this app, I wish that sort of album had taken precedence over the more mind-numbing (yet more commercially successful) Gangster Rap albums that followed--even though I like or even love some of them, and readily recognize their cultural importance as well. Unfortunately, Western societies--including American society--are indeed *violent*, competitive societies. Hence why the utopia represented by that sort of hip hop record couldn't take hold. I have the CD of this album in front of me, and on its back cover, I can see a logo saying "Stop the 🔫" ("Stop the guns and violence", in case that emoji doesn't look clear enough for you guys). In this day and age, one cannot praise *Down By The Forces Of Nature* enough for pointing the way towards a sort of rap entertainment that promotes political consciousness and positivity, and this over music that slaps as hard as this on an artistic level! Here's me hoping new versions of that sort of rap albums can go back in style one day. And I also hope some of you concur, especially younger listeners. I can admire rappers such as 21Savage or Future these days. Doesn't mean other philosophies and aesthetics aren't possible. And this even today. Food for thought, I guess... 4.5/5 for the purposes of this app, rounded up to 5. Which translates to a 9.5/10 grade for more general purposes. Number of albums left to review: 219 Number of albums from the list I find relevant enough to be mandatory listens: 339 (including this one) Albums from the list I *might* include in mine later on: 199 Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 251

Great, conscious, afro-cenrtric, thoughtful raps, great beats and good vibes.

I had this on a tape since it first came out. Love it still to this day. One of the great examples of sampling.

Not into rap but this was great

Pleasantly surprised with how good this was 5/5 listened to multiple times and will listen again

This is an album that I would have been into back in the time of its release. Why did I not know of it??

Very fun, very groovy, very good.

Haven’t heard this one before. I love the healthy start to his day the narrator makes in Sunshine. Veggies and fruit with a glass of water haha. The single Doin’ Our Own Dang is so fun. It must be a semi-popular song based on the number of plays on Spotify; I didn’t recognize it but I’m glad I know it now, what a tune! Tribe Vibes is pure excellence as well. This reminds me a lot of A Tribe Called Quest, which is as strong of an endorsement as I could give. It’s cerebral, funky, jazzy, and dare I say wholesome? I think jazz and hip hop mash beautifully when done well, and I imagine this record has influenced some of my favorite hip hop albums (I hear Tribe, Wu Tang, even Kendrick at times in these songs [“the blacker the berry, the sweeter the juice!”]). I could honestly see this becoming one of my favorite hip hop albums ever, after two listens I think I have it alongside Paul’s Boutique for best of the 80’s? Superb.

LOVE. This is the best of hip-hop...can't not dance!

The positivity of this album! It's full of "believe in yourself", "accept your brothers and sisters", and "know thyself". I'm loving this. Albums like these are why I keep slogging through this project. I grew up in a music-less house. This never made it past my radar at all. No age is too old to be introduced to great music. Hip-hop was going to take a stylistic change around this time. These guys are preaching a message of peace and acceptance. I don't know how I would have taken this when I was younger, but this is exactly the message I needed to hear today. The sampling is outstanding and the production is on point. This whole album is an instant party, just add speakers. Going to let this one keep washing over me as I get my work done.

Awesome. It's on my list!!!

5/5

Loved "Beeds On a String"

A surprising hit

I bought this album on release, back in the day, and listened to it more times than I can remember. It was a seminal part of my musical experience back then and it has fully stood the test of time. There was nothing else like it at the time. Imitators by the hundreds followed, which gives some idea of its impact. Every single track is momentous, an absolute joy to listen to.

Damn I've never heard of these dudes before! This was sick. Groups like Tribe obviously took a lot of inspiration from this. One of my favorite eras of rap. Can we talk about the production?! These beats are sickkkkk, especially the first track. Super ahead of their time and on-par with De La Soul in my opinion.

In the rich tapestry of hip-hop's evolution, few albums stand out as boldly and brilliantly as Jungle Brothers' sophomore release, "Done by the Forces of Nature." Bursting onto the scene in 1988, this pioneering collective hailing from New York City managed to redefine the boundaries of hip-hop by infusing it with a potent blend of Afrocentric consciousness, jazz-inspired melodies, and an unapologetic celebration of life. From the moment the needle drops on the vinyl, "Done by the Forces of Nature" commands your attention. The album's opener, "Beyond This World," is a sublime introduction that immerses you in a world where the mundane is left behind. It's a hypnotic journey of tribal rhythms and entrancing vocal samples that instantly transports you to a higher plane. Throughout the album, Jungle Brothers display a remarkable ability to seamlessly merge diverse musical influences. Tracks like "Feelin' Alright" and "Tribe Vibes" showcase their knack for marrying jazz and funk elements with the gritty beats of hip-hop. It's a testament to their musical prowess and willingness to push the boundaries of the genre. Lyrically, the album shines with an insightful and thought-provoking narrative. The socially conscious themes explored in songs like "What 'U' Waitin' 4?" and "Beeds on a String" reveal the group's deep commitment to addressing issues such as racism and inequality. These tracks serve as a powerful reminder of hip-hop's roots as a platform for social commentary. One of the album's standout tracks, "Doin' Our Own Dang," features a memorable collaboration with A Tribe Called Quest and De La Soul. This hip-hop supergroup creates an infectious, feel-good anthem that celebrates individuality and creativity. The chemistry between these iconic groups is palpable and a testament to the era's collaborative spirit. "Done by the Forces of Nature" also possesses an innate ability to uplift and inspire. Tracks like "Acknowledge Your Own History" and "Done by the Forces of Nature" encourage listeners to embrace their heritage and connect with the world around them. The positive energy exuded by these songs is infectious and speaks to the album's enduring appeal. Production-wise, the album is a marvel of its time. The intricate layering of samples, innovative drum patterns, and diverse instrumentation make for a sonically rich and rewarding listening experience. The meticulous craftsmanship of the album's production, courtesy of the Jungle Brothers and legendary producer Kool DJ Red Alert, is a testament to the meticulous attention to detail. In conclusion, "Done by the Forces of Nature" by Jungle Brothers is not just an album; it's a transcendent work of art that transcends the boundaries of hip-hop. Its fusion of genres, socially conscious lyrics, and infectious positivity make it a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences today. It's an essential addition to any hip-hop aficionado's collection and a shining example of the genre's boundless potential to inspire and uplift.

I love this era of Hip Hop and this record never gets the love it deserves compared to others from the same time including groups like A Tribe Called Quest. The Brothers were doing it first and were a clear influence on Tribe and others of the era. A great record.

Kick ass! Like super cool. Kinda like tribe.

9/10 idk man, this sounds A LOT like A Tribe Called Quest - can’t say one is ripping off the other, but seems kinda sus

I'd never come across this before and was listening to a lot of hip hop and rap at the time. Great album, full of clever samples and grade A lyricism.

Dope! So fun! Will have to revisit!

These guys should write a manual like "How to do 90s hip-hop sound even more 90s". I felt transported to another time listening to this album, and I liked it much more than when I lived in the 90s. The mixture of sound and percussion instruments/beats is unique (at the same time, that was extensively used around hip-hop for the next 10 years after this release), and the lyrics and voices are unforgettable. It looks like a very influential album I should listen to more times in the following years. Hip-Hop albums are always too many dependents on the context, but they shine when some are also so influential and time-transporting like this one.

Absolutely no prior knowledge of this but what an album. Another gem from indisputably the golden age of hip hop. This sort of stuff is why I can't say I don't like hip hop, I'm just very selective.

cool

Great old school hip hop with very funky beats

Love the lyrics and style, clearly influential in the scene of hip hop/rap

Liked it.