I love all types of music and Hip Hop is one of my favorite genres. There’s a time for mindless party music and then there’s a time for something real. August Greene has done just that. Don’t feel bad if the name sounds unfamiliar. The group just released their debut album, but its members are some of music’s biggest heavyweights. August Greene is compromised of rapper Common, Hip Hop/Jazz musician Robert Glasper and super producer, Karriem Riggins. The group has crafted an album with a sonic sound that reflects the world around us today.

The first single, “Optimistic”, featuring Brandy, borrows from the Sounds of Blackness classic of the same name. This is a perfect Monday morning song to start your week off right. Brandy’s smoky vocals are a perfect match to Common’s signature raspy rhymes. The album’s intro, “Meditation” is more intimate and poignant. The song serves as a syrupy slow, jazzy Hip Hop declaration of self realization. You may have already heard “Black Kennedy”, which is a tribute to President John F. Kennedy. The group debuted it at a concert well before the release of the album. It’s one of several tracks that features Samora Pinderhughes. 

August Greene is void of any bubble gum pop infused hooks and over-complicated production. However, this is just the kind of music that’s needed right now. “Practice” features some of Common’s most memorable versus (not to mention his quick witted delivery). The overall theme of the song is somewhat dark, although it’s traced with glimmers of hope. “Aya” is that perfect, contemplative type of song that gets your creative juices flowing. Despite having few words, it’s definitely one of the standout tracks from the album. 

“No Apologies” is an uptempo groove that simply cannot be denied. Common raps about being aware of his roots. He also details how he broke through the ceiling of low expectations. Everything about this song is triumphant, celebratory and funky. The group ends the album with the 12 minute jam session, “Swisha Suite”. August Greene directly plays their part in infusing a better way of life and thought. Common says, “I got a wish list for my people at the crib to get it right”. Thanks Common, Robert Glasper and Karriem Riggins for sharing such an inspirational, lyrically dense and thought provoking body of work. Hopefully they will continue to make more music together.