It's been over ten years since the last Hieroglyphics release, Full Circle, and it's decently large fan base has been patiently waiting for years. I'm used to Domino's production so I was actually shocked to find out this album was entirely produced by Sacramento based producers Sleeprockers. The result is an album that has a fresh feel that was obviously created by some DJs. I know putting the words "fresh" and "DJ" in the same sentence seems horribly contradicting, but they make it work. This album isn't going platinum, I don't think I need to remind anyone of that. Instead of switching up their style for a more contemporary hip-hop scene, they stick to their roots. I would criticize their lack of artistic development, but hearing a group do whatever they want is quite refreshing. Hell, it might be a good thing there wasn't much growth, Full Circle was fantastic and I'll take that level of quality any day of the week.
The record starts off with an intro, which isn't as bad as the title may suggest, but shit really gets rolling on the first actual track, "Livin' It Up". It would be mind blowing if any of these MC's suddenly became bad at rapping, so I went into this song with my focus on the production. The simple horn sample and hand clapping all help give this an old school feel, but it doesn't get into full swing until the DJ presence on the hook. You all know I regularly I ask for DJ cuts and scratches to make more appearances on new music, so you can imagine I was ecstatic after hearing this. After testing the water in the first few tracks, Heiro finally settles in on the fourth track "Golden". The hook may have been terrible, but it's still one of my favorite tracks on the album. The electric guitar is put to good use, and you know it wouldn't be hip-hop track without an overwhelming shit storm of snare. It took me a few listens to get comfortable, but I'm quite satisfied the the Sleeprockers production. The track eventually ends with a skit from 'It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia". That's weird as shit, but it does a good job of introducing the next track.
"Gun Fever" feels over produced, but is one of the albums best tracks. In the era we're living in, gun control is a hot and sensitive topic, so the Heiro gang felt obliged to give their stance on the subject. This song was recorded in 2011, before the Trayvon Martin shooting (that also explains why this album feels a little disjointed), so they never go into too many specific, but paint an disturbing picture of gun use in America. Tajai's verse hits hardest, giving one of the better depictions on the subject I've ever heard. It's interesting as hell to hear rappers talk about guns as if they were a bad thing. I'd be lying if I said I didn't enjoy gangsta rap, but it's nice to see things on the other side of the spectrum. Pep Love gives a dope verse as well, but that's a reoccurring theme. He's one of raps most criminally underrated artist, who deserves to be on more fans radars. Hell, he takes a backseat to most members in his own damn group.
Ironically, his solo song is one of the albums worst songs. "Merch" doesn't contain any notable lyrics and I was far from getting behind the subject matter. The only other song that I really didn't like was "All As Above So Below". Yeah, the Madden references were funny the first couple of listens but there's no way I'm ever listening to that shit again. Maybe I would have liked it more it the title wasn't so damn confusing. I shouldn't be complaining, though. I wasn't expecting all that much going into this project and two bad songs out of seventeen is terrific. Hey, I had to find something to criticize, right? These reviews would be boring as shit If I was constantly praising songs.
Overall, I'm completely satisfied with The Kitchen. Whenever I hear an older group is coming out with new material, I'm just hoping it isn't terrible. That's not the case hear, as Hieroglyphics are able to pump out one more great album. Their newest project is fun and lighthearted, but never comes off as unfocused. One of the most impressive feats is their ability to engage you into the song, whether it be a political stance against guns, or a frivolous trip to the local McDonalds. The biggest variable facing the album was the new production from the Sleeprockers. It's odd not hearing Domino's beats, but the result is a consistently smooth experience with great use of soul and funk samples. The random interludes scattered throughout don't help the album, but they contribute to the relaxing vibes radiating out of your speakers. I highly recommend buying this album. There's nothing groundbreaking or innovative, but it's refreshing to hear a group of artists that have perfected their craft. Not my favorite album of the year, but I have a damn hard time criticizing it.
Rating: 3.5/5