THE B.U.R.N. U MOVEMENT

 

 

LaRue's First Album Review LaRue’s LaRue is the Real Name (Soundtrack 2 Life) Review By TGCMM for FTP Consultancy Becoming an artist can be a confusing game: An artist usually finds his/her self juggling between keeping up the tradition, following contemporary trends, and developing the unique voice within. Achieving an outcome that is balanced between these fields is no easy feat; yet, such endeavor is what makes the journey of being an artist worthwhile. LaRue is the Real Name is the first album of Hip-Hop artist LaRue, who hails from the Bronx. Through the album, he flows with a confidence that emanates from an attained sense of maturity; a sense of comfort that comes with being able to speak on real issues, in addition to having a good time downtown. The simplicity displayed in his writing ability comes worth noting: With the proper study and focus, I believe that he may be able to rise to achieve a unique blend of uplifting street poetry. The introduction to LaRue’s debut effort, produced by Damon DLS Shelton, begins with head-nodding drumming accompanied by triumphant piano notes and chords, and notes from a synthesizer and string(s) that eventually join in. Formerly known as La La the lyrical lyricist, he confidently welcomes us into his musical world speaking on a few things a listener might need to know. I will return to this towards the end of this review. The next track titled LaRue is the Real Name, and produced by Rics Melody (the dynamic bass-line and synthesizer within the track deserves mention), introduces what I would consider the signature of this debut presentation: A move towards balanced expression. For instance, he spits that “…NASDAQ/ On Wall Street we getting greasy (Holler!)/ On the paper chase…I never pay a hundred thou for no blinged out watch/ Get some bonds and stocks/ Why you steady pitching rocks on your block/ Probably end up getting knocked by the cops/ Your Scarface fantasies needs to stop/ this is real Hip-Hop/ All a y’all turn it up a notch…”. From this track, and through much of the album, LaRue walks us through a stable line between streetwise knowledge and the pride in holding a job to fend for his family. Of course, there is also the desire of succeeding independently through his musical entrepreneurship. One of my favorite tracks on the album is entitled Bailout (also composed by Rics Melody) with a chorus that goes as so: “I’m glad to be alive And thank god I’m blessed With no money left to invest, yes, I guess I need a bailout She needs a bailout He needs a bailout We all need a bailout!” If this kind of social commentary is not considered a part of what makes Hip-Hop a genuine art-form, then I am clueless as to what does. With the broad energy from Rics Melody’s composition, LaRue begins with his individual quest for a sustainable livelihood, moving through the B.U.R.N. U Movement (The Best Under Rated Now Unified), and eventually speaking on the community: “…I’m so motivated, focused, ready for the future/ I’m about my business/ I’m signing artists and producers/ My alliance/ Got hearts of lions that defying/ My people dying/ From lying on the block/ While they’re trying…Crabs in a barrel reveal constantly/ If we work together we all could be free/ I help you, you help me/ But that’s impossible/ Illogical/ And somewhat comical/ Cuz the mind control of the diabolical/ Peep the Ponzi schemes and pyramids that threw us in/ The US, built on so many sins…”. Another track that stood out to me is titled My Way, also produced by Rics Melody. Aside from being the motivational track to get you to face the day, the voice that sang the chorus really grabbed my attention. The joyous energy from the vocals blend well with the music production, and I would argue that this needs a video. I really liked this track, probably my favorite. Experimental production that explores the open fabric of minimalism or orchestral-sized works is not for all. While I would not consider the production on LaRue is the Real Name experimental, the music certainly moves and blends well with LaRue’s bulky and silky voice – and vision. The beats are futuristic and, from my limited knowledge, without loops. As one who appreciates music, I get the sense that the producers understand the need for serious innovation within Hip-Hop music. As a critic, I hope that the production team continues on improving/developing their skill toward newer heights of structure and arrangement. The potential is certainly there. “But my true reason is my two daughters are my biggest fans, so its [sic] my duty to teach them about Hip Hop and why not gear them to the positive side of Hip Hop. My mission as an artist and Hip Hop survivor is to give a good name to Hip Hop. So many people turn Hip Hop down off the jump, when you tell them you are a Hip Hop artist. Many shows I performed at this summer denied Hip Hop until I showed them my side of it. Because I'm a positive Hip Hop artist it opened up many different doors that the average underground artist will never get in. Hopefully I can bring a good name back to HIP HOP.” LaRue in an email correspondence In all honesty, I was surprised at what I found within LaRue’s debut album. I expected crap. But I found jewels. For instance, LaRue does not use the N-word. This, I respect and really wish other Emcees would follow suit. Additionally, LaRue does not use curse words but still manages to keep it real. This, for me, shows his level of commitment to promoting positive Hip-Hop. However – Much of the club songs in the album just didn’t work for me. As much as I understand the need for having a good time through the night life of the weekends, I can no longer stand the “I wanna see your booty clap”. Its like, “Oh, for real?” And while the techno experiment of Shawty (produced by Ric Melody) is refreshing, I could not listen to the entire song. I just could not. Ultimately, I will say that Emcees need to be mindful of how they speak on/to women…If they truly care about the “community”. It requires serious and uncompromising self examination. Yes, not all women are angels. Still, Emcees need to let the worthy women know that they are more than vibrating slabs of meat. At the start of this critique, I spoke a bit on the introductory track to LaRue is the Real Name. On it, LaRue asks the listener to check him out “Google me or something…”. So, I took up the suggestion. Two pages deep into Google (using search words “LaRue” and “LaRue Music”) and I could not find him. Certainly, this is a small thing. Yet most people do not go past the first page when using Google – The point I want to make is that, again, Emcees need to be mindful of how they say what they do say. One seldom knows who might be paying attention, who might actually take up a perceived challenge; and how that affects reception. Last of all, the production team could have tied the album together more coherently. On listening to it, LaRue is the Real Name at times comes off as a bunch of singles thrown together. For instance, there are barely any interludes between each song. The use interludes could have helped to create more a sense of unity between the various themes of the musical work – one way to control the highs and lows, to breathe in life to the project. There are times when LaRue spits stereotypically, in my opinion. For instance in So Ugly he says, “I love Hip-Hop like blacks love chicken…”. Yet, the fact that I found substance in his debut release is commendable. LaRue certainly has the potential to find his own niche within Hip-Hop music, to be amongst those Emcees who can revitalize the music and culture on a mainstream level. Will he fulfill it? LaRue is the Real Name is, in my final analysis, for those who like the mainstream appeal of Hip-Hop music – with more substance. If you enjoy your favorite Emcee’s club/street song but wished s/he covered more in-depth topics, or spoke more realistically/honestly, perhaps you can find something in LaRue. I can honestly say I did.

LaRue Puts it Down for the Bronx Maybe the best set of the night came from Bronx native, LaRue. His energy was up. His tone was clear and professional and seemed to have no trouble navigating the wired mics like some of the artists. With Noodle Noodle, Damon and Kitana Blade to back him up he was good to go. The track that stood out was his joint Un-Huh. "When I walk up in the club, they be like Un-Huh!" From ShadesRadio.com Newsletter – Fri. May 30th, 2008.

OK, OK, Kurt Nice! Shadesofhiphopradio.com! Hip Hop Appreciation Day! Imagine if you will, a coach bus full of heads staraight out of Newark, ready to go the f#*k in!!! I admit, I didn't realize the magnitude of what was lined up. The shit went down, Jerz rolled through 40 deep and absolutely obliterated shit. Media, cameras, radio drops, the works, it was looking like HollyHood at the spot. Artist after artist got on and off stage without losing momentum. "Salute" to every MC that graced the stage.... Solomon Jazz and K Kash, dope ass showcase! The Spityourbestverse.com Massive, big ups!!! And EOW new comer LaRue, wow... The kids sick! Shiii, we didn't finish till almost three in the morning, but it was well worth it. Everyone rocked, the spirit of Hip Hop was everywhere and shiii, WE DA BEST! EO Dub! From EOW Recap: - 5.25.08

July 15, 2008 www.thatshiphop.com Up & Coming Interview with Check Mate Big Apple & Nona THH: What about some of the other companies you’ve aligned yourself with… Checkmate New York (Big Apple): We feel networking is key, and we only align ourselves with companies we believe will make an impression within this saturated game. Thisrespekwear is a clothing company designed to say what you feel but are sacred to say. Its sole purpose is to let your inner voice be heard, and to let others know respek is earned not given, but sometimes you can buy it. We also are affiliated with the burn u movement, we feel that they are a positive force within the underground community, and provide entertainers and producers a chance to shine. Our association with gen art which is a company for the arts allows every day people a chance to walk the red carpet, at events they would normally never be able to attend. This company was started to shed light on film makers, artists, musicians, and the fashion designers of tomorrow.