Sound: Talib’s nimble, rapid and socially critical flow is unleashed over lots of laid back, r&b, jazzy and lounge-like grooves and a few funkier, grittier and more urgent bangers. A wide range of guest MCs and vocalists offer many different flavors on the hooks and verses.
Heavy Rotation tracks: “Hostile Gospel Pt. 1 (Deliver Us)”; “Soon the New Day” featuring Norah Jones; “Hot Thing” featuring Will.i.am
Medium Rotation tracks: “In the Mood” featuring Kanye West; “More or Less” featuring Dion
Recommended: Ear Drum showcases Talib in top lyrical form, but with 19 songs and one interlude the album is too long. When he’s on, it’s top shelf hip hop. He should have cut out at least five tracks, though.
Grade: B