Search - Ali & Gipp :: Kinfolk

Ali & Gipp - Kinfolk

Constant | Vancouver, BC Canada | 08/16/2007

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Rap duo Ali (A.K.A. Ali Jones) of the St. Lunatics & Gipp (A.K.A. Cameron Gipp) of Goodie Mob provide their first album with "Kinfolk" (2007). This is a sixteen track collaboration which has been in the works for over two years. I like the concept of having Rappers from different groups collaborate, would like to see more of it in the future. Guest appearances come from Big Rube, Pimp C, Nelly, Chocolate Tai, Letoya, David Banner, Murphy Lee, Cee-Lo, Bun B, Lloyd, Jasper, Three Six Mafia, Avery Storm, Juvenile, Tamala Jones & Kyjuan. My favourite track on this release is the smooth fourth single "Almost Made Ya" which features some soulful vocals from former Destiny's Child singer LeToya and some memorable storytelling from Ali & Gipp who tell a story of betrayl. A lot of the music on this release does not appeal to me as I am not into an album full of dance/party tracks or the less lyrics more beat formula which is found throughout this release. Veteran's Bun B and Cee-Lo make an appearance on "I Told Ya" while "Get By" features singer Tamala Jones & Kyjuan of the St. Lunatics who deliver a mellow contribution. Three Six Mafia drop in for a semi-decent (not of the quality that will be found on their upcoming album Last 2 Walk) cut in "What's the Business" while "No God But You" is something different, Ali & Gipp put aside the typical and provide a solid track while giving praise to God on a substantial track. Substance is one of things that I found generally missing on this album. Maybe its not to be expected though. "Kinfolk" will probably appeal to fans of the duo and their groups, for others I recommend checking it out before adding it to the collection. 2.5."