Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

New Jersey hip hop act TheKnuBlack (also known as TKB and previously Out Of The Blue) consists of KnuOrigen and Kay Sade and the duo's second full length release is a pleasingly complex affair. Experts in delivering organic hip hop that continually morphs from one mode to another, TKB (we'll call them that) have a sound and style that is hard to pin down but this makes for an intriguing listen with minimalistic beats and soulful sounds forming the backdrop to KnuOrigen's intricately fast rapping and Kay Sade's heartfelt and introspective vocals. Lyrically, TKB keep things cryptic which refreshingly means that the listener has to fully engage in the process in order to interpret meaning from each track. However, the underlying message of hope found in God is woven throughout this release via fleeting faith-related lines that pop up now and again whilst the likes of "The Kids That Can" and "The Friend (Hokage)" have more straightforward themes of rising up against adversity and recognising true friendship respectively. Short interludes nestle amongst full length tracks meaning that TKB have packed this fascinating offering to the gunnels with both content and diversity.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.

This track data is supplied by the Cross Rhythms CD/DVD review library. Please note that CD tracks may vary according to release region or product version.