Review: Roots Manuva's Run Come Save Me is a quintessential British rap record, showcasing a unique fusion of hip-hop with West Indian influences. Released in 2004, the album - his second - stands out for its inventive production and socially conscious lyrics. Roots Manuva's distinctive flow, reminiscent of DV Alias Khryst and Shabba Ranks, combines with beats that draw from garage, dub and electronica, creating a distinctive sound. Tracks like 'Bashment Boogie' and 'Witness (One Hope)' feature gritty basslines and pulsating rhythms, while 'Ital' offers a classic cipher vibe with compelling social commentary. The album's highlights include 'Sinny Sin Sins,' where Roots critiques religious dogma with incisive lyrics, and 'Dreamy Days,' which contrasts materialism with natural pleasures. His British perspective enriches the album, adding a unique cultural dimension. While some tracks like 'Trim Body' explore avant-garde territory, the overall effect is a powerful, fresh take on hip-hop. Run Come Save Me remains a significant and genre-defining work.
Review: Rodney Smith, aka Roots Manuva, is a titan of Black British music, renowned for his genre-blending production that fuses hip-hop with reggae, dub, and electronic influences. His groundbreaking debut, Brand New Second Hand (1999), marked his entrance into the UK music scene with its introspective lyrics and avant-garde beats, establishing him as a seminal figure. Celebrating the 25th anniversary of Brand New Second Hand, a special 2LP edition on smoky vinyl will be released, featuring bonus tracks and a portrait print of Roots Manuva. Despite the acclaim for Run Come Save Me (2001), his debut remains crucial, offering potent dub poetry over beats reminiscent of DJ Shadow's style mixed with Linton Kwesi Johnson. The album stands as one of the first great UK hip-hop records, with a unique sound that continues to influence and define the genre.
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