K Banger

The bio info on New Jersey MC K Banger makes a point of saying what the MC is not. That would be a "feel-good, conscience, breath-of-fresh-air rapper.” Apparently, he’s not a "coke dealer” or "pimp hustler.” Fair enough, but for the first half of Truth Be Told, K Banger does sound awfully like the archetypal "conscious” MC. "All I Need” has a gorgeous, ethereal sample refrain of "love.” "Without Soul” laments wayward youth and not long after that we’re treated to sound clips from Mumia Abu-Jamal. Later, K Banger’s authoritative baritone tackles the requisite braggadocio joints and an old-school homage, but it’s obvious he shines brightest on the soulful and, ahem, conscious joints on the first half of the album. Despite the efforts to manage his image, K Banger’s Truth Be Told is simply a compelling, thought provoking, well-executed debut album that will appeal to those who like social commentary, introspection and soulful music in their hip-hop. Sometimes the MC doth protest too much.