The Strange Fruit Project: The Healing

Miara Bonner

Formed in Waco, Texas, "The Strange Fruit Project" was an underground hiphop group consisting of emcees Symbolyc One (S1), Mythological (Myth), and Myone. The group's musical director Larry D. Griffin Jr. (S1) began playing musical instruments, at a young age. He and his cousin, Kevin Gaither (Myth) began writing rhymes after hearing Run-D.M.C.'s 1986 album Raising Hell. In 1996, the cousins formed a duo named Symbolyc Elementz, featuring in The Source's "Unsigned Hype" column in May of that year. S1 met Myone, at the time still a High School student, while working on a day job in 1998. Between 1999 and 2000, the three began recording together, officially forming "Strange Fruit Project". This underground hip-hop group's biggest exposure came with the release of their 2006 album, "The Healing", produced by the 9th Wonder, Chris "Daddy" Dave, Illmind, Jake One, Roger Blevins, Vitamin D, and their very own, S1.

Introducing a solution to the problem of "life", this breakthrough album consists of a mixture of genres (hip-hop, gospel, and jazz), interestingly setting the album apart from those of other independent artists. Avoiding a "preachy" sound, "The Strange Fruit Project" never hesitates to allude to religion or God through unique metaphors. However, their rhythmic beats and insightful lyrics promote an upbeat, yet, comforting feel. In addition to its unique sound, the album features various artists. "Get Live", one of their more lively songs, features Erykah Badu, whose jazzy voice effectively contributes to the theme of the song. Together, the artists express the joy of living a happy life, despite hardships. The album transitions through each song, continuing to support the group's strong foundation and steady faith. "God Is", the album's final song, provides a spiritually uplifting feel through its "churchy" piano chords and intense harmony. Furthermore, the album proves to be a musical standout among ordinary hip hop artists.

In summary, The Strange Fruit Project's comforting sound built upon their solid foundation contributes to the album's title, "The Healing". Furthermore, the group's interesting swagger influenced my rate of a 10 out of 10.









Rate: 10/10            

Music Review: Geto Boys "Greatest Hits"

Miara Bonner


 Through their intense diction and imagery, the Geto Boys placed millions on the front porch of the projects. Creating a realistic picture of "life in the hood", this gangsta rap group proved almost too extreme for widespread exposure. Originating in Houston, Texas, the Geto Boys (initially "Ghetto Boys") was formed by hip-hop entrepreneur, James "Lil' J" Smith and signed to his Rap-A-Lot label. Recruiting artists Prince Johnny C., the Slim Jukebox, and DJ Reddy Red, Smith invested his full budget and attention towards this promising group. However, after the failure of their debut album Making Trouble, the group added dwarf, dancer Bushwick Bill and solo acts,  Ackshen (aka Scarface) and Willie 'D' Dennis, following the loss of Slim Jukebox. In 1889, the Ghetto Boys released their breakthrough album Grip It! On Another Level, introducing their hardcore, gangsta rap style. From their sequenced album "Geto Boys" to their "final go-round" album "Da Good da Bad & da Ugly", the group gradually progressed, experiencing the ups and downs of the music industry.

In 2002, their release of "Greatest Hits" provided a selective package of the Geto Boys' best moments, inclusive of tracks from 1993's Till Death Do Us Part, 1996's Resurrection, and 1998's Da Good da Bad & da Ugly. Despite the use of various songs from many of their different albums, the album failed to include many of their most successful and impactful singles including "Assassins", "Still", and "Crooked Officer". However, the compilation album effectively establishes their position as the OG gangsters of rap, including two of the Geto Boys' greatest hits "Mind Playing Tricks on Me" and "Damn it Feels Good to be a Gangsta".

Though extremely hardcore, the featured tracks set up an interesting story, demonstrating the different aspects of living in the hood. The album begins with "Balls and My Word", an original, unreleased song by member, Scarface, discussing how the only person that you can rely on is yourself. Then, the album makes a unique transition to "Mind Playing Tricks on Me", discussing the mental toll that "living in the hood" can have on a person. The album ends with "Damn it Feels Good to be a Gangsta", concluding the different sides of being from the hood.

5/10