Artist: Brand Nubian Album: One for All

Year: 1990
Duration: 1:13:23

One for All by Brand Nubian: A Critical Review

When it comes to the golden era of hip hop, the 90s, Brand Nubian is always a name that pops up. The group’s debut album, One for All, was their claim to fame and a classic in the genre. Let’s take a closer look at this album, its history, and what makes it so special.

Brand Nubian is a hip hop group from New Rochelle, New York, that formed in 1989. The group consists of Grand Puba, Lord Jamar, Sadat X, and DJ Alamo. They were known for their politically conscious lyrics and were in the same vein as other groups like Public Enemy and KRS-One. One for All was their debut album and was released in 1990.

One for All falls into the sub-genre of conscious hip hop, which was prevalent during this time. The album addresses themes like black nationalism, racism, and empowerment. The beats on the album are mostly sample-based, with some jazz and soul influences. The album opens up with the track “All for One,” which is an anthem that addresses the importance of unity among black people. The album also includes their hit single “Slow Down,” which had a smooth and funky groove.

One of the most innovative parts of the album is the use of samples. The group uses samples from a wide range of sources, like the James Brown’s “Funky Drummer,” which is a staple in hip hop. The samples are chopped and manipulated in a way that is unique to the group’s sound.

The best songs on the album are “All for One,” “Brand Nubian,” “Concerto in X Minor,” and “Wake Up.” The album has strong lyricism throughout, with poignant verses from all members of the group. The chemistry between the members is apparent, and their delivery is confident and powerful.

However, one criticism of the album is that it can be repetitive at times. The beats and production can be similar on some tracks, which can get monotonous. Also, some of the themes can be heavy-handed and preachy, which may not appeal to everyone.

Overall, One for All is a classic hip hop album that should be in any listener’s collection. The album has stood the test of time and is still relevant in today’s social and political climate. Brand Nubian’s debut album is a testament to the group’s talent, lyricism, and innovation. However, it’s not a perfect album, and there are some criticisms to be had. Nevertheless, it’s an album that should be appreciated for the role it played in the evolution of hip hop.