Blackalicious – Imani Vol. 1

After nearly 20 years in the game, it seems almost platitudinous to peg Gift of Gab as one of rap's most underrated sons. Yet it’s a label which seems destined to stick, such is the consistency of the emcee’s rhymes coupled with the forever puzzling disregard for Blackalicious outwith the realm of alternative hip-hop.

After nearly a decade away, the Sacramento duo resurface with Imani, Vol.1, the first of an intended new trio. Even if Imani lacks some of the stardust names and funky experimentalism that defined landmarks like Nia and Blacking Arrow, it feels as if the time apart has been spent refining and alchemising the minutiae (propulsive production/uplifting lyrics/eclectic samples) that made Blackalicious so unique in the first place, as opposed to seguing to any au courant fads. Rather than a mere return, Imani feels instead like an overdue celebration. [Graeme Campbell]