Another more underground artist to balance out the mainstream stuff that’s been on here recently. This is real soulful hip-hop.
“Von Pea, Ilyas, and Don Will formed Tanya Morgan in 2003. They have received high praise from media elites such as Spin, The Source, XXL Magazine, a resounding seal of approval from the blogosphere, and are considered by many to be our generation’s torchbearers for De La Soul and A Tribe Called Quest. ”
I really like these guys, and think Brooklynati is a fantastic piece of work. However, I’ll let the good folks at Audible Treats introduce you to Tanya Morgan:
“Tanya Morgan once again put their skills on display with the unique hip-hop Americana sounds of their latest album, Brooklynati. Based on the fictitious city of Brooklynati, this release pushes the boundaries of a concept album by incorporating not only lyrical imagery but also cultivating a culture and mindset, which can be experienced through the City of Brooklynati Chamber of Commerce website.
Fancy a little critical praise for Tanya Morgan?
“Tanya Morgan’s sophomore album, Brooklynati, is their most accomplished to date, a milestone moment for their already contagiously soulful sound.” – XXL – Chairman’s Choice
“Tanya Morgan are like the sons of De La Soul– soulful, stressed, effortlessly smart flows, intricate production, the whole package.” - SPIN Music Editor Charles Aaron
They’ve got a mellow, harmonic sound, which ties into their vivid lyrics perfectly. Any hip-hop fan should check this out. The ATCQ comparisons are right on the money, and they definitely have a similar timeless sound to them: the music sounds like it could be from either 1990 or 2009. Pick up the lead single from Brooklynati below.
great post. i heard these on complex’s “leaders of the new cool” mixtape and then listened to brooklynati. brilliant. they are like a blend of Tribe/De La with D’Angelo
Brooklynati is a fantastic album, one of the best of ’09 for sure!