Known for his history being a part of the legendary west coast hip-hop group Dilated Peoples, Rakaa Iriscience has always played his role within the group. The group has released some quality albums through the years such as the Platform, 20/20, and Expansion Team. Aside from the group albums though it seemed that only Evidence and DJ Babu managed to drop solo efforts. Now coming into his own and showing what he can do on the solo tip Rakaa Iriscience brings you his debut “Crown of Thorns”. 

A good intro on any album is a must, which has to be something to draw in the listener fast.  Starting things off on the very first cut he brings you the self-titled album cut “Crown of Thorns” Ft. Aloe Blacc. The record offers insight on his long history in the game being a veteran emcee.  The production is very dope in which nice thumping sound is laced into the record for the usual head-mover.  The standout verse is when Rakaa describes a conversation with fellow group member Evidence on how he should make his music. Rakaa states that Ev told him to go the emo rap route but decided that’s not what he wants in his craft. In the end the both agreed what’s best and which is why Rakaa explodes on this record into a rhyming machine, breaking down the realities of life. Having his team involved on “Crown of Thorns”, Rakaa snatches up a beat from Evidence as well on the record “Delilah”. Rakka goes in on “Deliah” which tells a story which seems to be a relationship and how infidelity got in the way. The story was good but at the same time with the production by Evidence to blend it together is what made the song a good listen.

As the album continues you gain the feeling that Rakaa has a mind full of jewels. Listening to his rhymes you can tell he focuses on knowledge, wisdom, and understanding. Getting down with hip-hop pioneer aka The Teacha, KRS-ONE the word is bond on “Human Nature”. Rakaa spits out some rhymes on current tragedies and how to some extent the minds of the people are lost. KRS-ONE shows off as well and a listener will find it interesting when KRS said how the mind and brain are not the same. Rakaa has one hell of a mind that’s full of intelligence, which you can’t deny. At the same time he is a human being that enjoys the pleasures of life. This is why he gives you the fun up-beat record like “C.T.D.” produced by fellow group member DJ Babu. “C.T.D.” is a personal dialogue speaking on everything from California culture to his vision of the world and what it offers. Hip-hop heads love lyrical bombs and “Crown of Thorns” gives you just that with “Ambassador Slang”. The cut features a dope handful of artist which are too many too name.  You should dig “Ambassador Slang” at the end of the day for the fact each emcee offers a fierce verse showing their lyrical skills which hip-hop is all about.  

There are some low points are the album as well to be honest. The messages spoken on the album are great and knowledge is something the people always need.  Yet, you can’t always focus on what you want to say and still have to spit over an ill beat as well. “Eyes Wide” Featuring Krondon is an example of this where Rakaa’s beat selection is very questionable. Another example of poor production is “Mean Streak” Ft. Chali 2na which is very forgettable after one listen.   

While the cuts previously mentioned took “Crown of Thorns” rating down a bit, “Aces High” came to the rescue. Rakaa links up with Evidence, Defari and west coast new comer Fashawn. Each emcee gave a hot verse showcasing why their dope emcees in the first place. If I have to pick who stole the show though, I’m going with Fashawn and Evidence who usually never disappoints.

 After hearing and seeing what DJ Babu and Evidence can offer on solo efforts outside a Dilated Peoples album, it was good to see Rakaa finally hold his own.  As a hip-hop fan that’s looking to hear rhyme-infested lyrics on knowledge, the world, and truth I highly recommend “Crown of Thorns”.