Pharoahe Monch - Desire

Pharoahe Monch is a profound of example of why we love hip hop. Even through adversity, hip-hop's loved Pharoahe never gave up on his dreams, which have finally been realised it seems with the release of his second solo album, Desire. The album begins in church with anguish filled gospel vocals awakening its listener to Pharoahe's struggle to become free from the confines of the music industry. With concept driven lyrics, Pharoahe doesn't disappoint the true hip-hop heads who are used to the well thought-out topical content that he has famed himself for throughout his career. The Trilogy is a gory tail of marital breakdown, savagery and vengeance, laced throughout three seamless scores, featuring Denaun Porter, Dwele and Tone. A nice change of sound and style comes when Pharoahe tries his hand at production on Push. This classic album has all the essentials; from wordplay to production, but what makes it refreshing listening is the fact that Pharoahe actually has something to say! [Omar Jenning]