Though it’s his fourth solo LP, Gutter Rainbows is the first album from Talib Kweli since his release from Warner Bros. Records.
The 14-track work — a digital-only release — features production from S1, Ski Beats and Khrysis. Cameos include Sean Price, Jean Grae and Nigel Hall, among others.
The album opens with people discussing their dreams while passing around weed. The title track is hopeful, but it reminds the listener that the span of colors won’t yield a pot of gold: “It’s the voice for the voiceless/Hope for the hopeless/Spit game way too real, they don’t promote it.”
“I’m On One” is among the best tracks on the album, simply because the combination of lyrics and production is solid. But Ed Lover could have easily been left out of the song. His contribution is so loud, it’s like he’s a DJ trying to hype a crowd.
Aside from the hard beats and thought-provoking lyrics, there’s an element of soul in Gutter Rainbows, like on “Mr. International,” and “How You Love Me.” The track “Ain’t Waiting” has a ‘70’s funk feel.
On “Friends and Family,” Talib Kweli states, “You are now witnessing the demise of the music business,” then he proceeds to talk about his many affiliations with record companies and how he eventually went independent.
Gutter Rainbows is a grand opening for hip-hop in 2011. Talib Kweli remains steadfast in his own lane, and reaffirms that real hip-hop isn’t dead.
