Evitan: Homage to Hip Hop

Speed of Life by Evitan Album Cover (Source: PR Newswire)

 

Paramount stories usually begin with a grand epiphany or realization. Jarobi, the enigma of the legendary rhyme group A Tribe Called Quest had one a few years ago. “I got to this period in my life where I decided to stop saying no to things,” said the well-versed MC. 

 

Three hours after that statement, his hip hop soul brother Dres - of the equally-epic flow masters Black Sheep - called him. Jarobi’s “no” to recording an inaugural EP for his Pool of Genius Label had turned to a resounding “yes.” He was ready to seize an opportunity, joining with Dres in recording Speed of Life under the moniker Evitan (Native spelled backwards.)

 

They begin in 2011 with the classic-sounding “Keep Keepin’ On,” a musical throwback to hip hop’s golden age. The song’s positive undercurrent reminds us that the like-minded duo were once in hip hop's elite; they built careers on penetrating, thought-provoking lyrics. Back then, there was magic, and the duo now sought to re-create that present day. 

 

Their songs give us highbrow rap in the forms of profound lyrics, witty flows, and authentic beats. With the stamp of approval from another Tribe Called Quest alum, Q-Tip, the duo has some good support. With it, they cover the tempo of urban life with honest and poetic soul. 

 

Their first official single, “P.T.I. (Pardon The Interruption) Occupy Wall Street ” marries brilliant flows with pure conscience lyrics about social injustice. Released in late 2011, the song was an unofficial impetus for the 15-track album. On Speed of Life, the duo collaborate with Bootsy Collins, Rah Digga, Havoc of Mobb Deep, Sadat X of Brand Nubian, and more. 

 

They prove that in today’s hip hop world - where materialism is a badge of honor - creativity has a higher value. 

 

For more, visit evitan.net.

 

 

By Clarissa Hamlin

 

Source PR Newswire