Rating:
Genre:
Rap
Release Date: 04/22/2008
Run Time: 45:14
Main Source's debut album,
Breaking Atoms, is one of the quintessential cult classics in
hip-hop history. Underappreciated compared to peers like
A Tribe Called Quest,
Gang Starr, or even
Brand Nubian, the album probably doesn't get wider acclaim because it was recorded for the ill-fated
Wild Pitch label, and thus remained out of print for much of the time its reputation was spreading. Group focal point
the Large Professor is a fine rapper, but the album's legend rests more on his production -- he debuts one of the most influential styles in
hip-hop here, popularizing a number of now widely imitated techniques. Luckily, you don't have to know how to operate an SP-1200, or exactly what panning, chopping, and filtered basslines are, to appreciate the vibrant-sounding results. His intricately constructed tracks are filled with
jazz and
soul samples, layered percussion, off-kilter sampling effects, and an overall sonic richness. That's doubtlessly enhanced by the presence of two DJs in the group, who contribute lively scratching to the proceedings as well. The album is rather brief, clocking in at around 45 minutes even with a bonus remix, but there's also no wasted space whatsoever. The brightly soulful
"Lookin' at the Front Door" is perhaps the best-known single, but there are plenty of other highlights.
"Just a Friendly Game of Baseball" is anything but, with its moody backing track and extended lyrical metaphor about police brutality and racial profiling. Meanwhile,
"Live at the Barbeque" is one of the most legendary posse cuts ever recorded, featuring guests
Joe Fatal,
Akinyele, and
Nas (the latter two make their recorded debuts here). Aficionados hype
Breaking Atoms as one of the greatest
hip-hop albums of all time, and at least musically speaking, they're not far off.
~Steve Huey, All Music Guide
;)
Listen
