The Roots-- Game Theory

[Josh]

Full disclosure: I wouldn't call myself a hip-hop fan. Not even close, really. It's not that I dislike the genre-- I'm coming to appreciate its strengths more and more-- but simply that I'm woefully ignorant about it, having only heard a handful of the genre's real classics.

Thus, for me to make some sweeping superlative statement about The Roots' new album-- calling it one of the best hip-hop albums of the year, of the decade, or whatever-- would be absurd. But what I can say is that Game Theory is riveting. It''s not just great hip-hop-- it's great music, period.

It's a very lean, focused album with a powerful vision-- dark, politically charged, filled with righteous anger. Indeed, it's at times a terrifying document of the times in which we live, but it's also empowering, even inspiring at times.

And it's enthralling, so full of dreadful emotion. For this listener, it's Exhibit A in making the case for hip-hop as a powerful, creatively vibrant medium. Don't miss this one; it's a defining album in many ways, and will likely be remembered in many circles as a landmark recording.

[Josh Powell]

I agree... I'm in the same posistion.. not really a hip-hop person, but this album is really great.

Is any of their older stuff worth checking out if I like this?

Josh