Put Your Hands Together and Welcome Brother Ali

Brother Ali will save us, or at least independent rap. He was born legally blind as a result of a unique genetic condition known as Albinism, which also causes the eyes, skin and hair to lack their color. This condition, combined with his teenage conversion to Islam, give Ali a unique message and view of the world that he relates skillfully within his lyrics. Brother Ali's words combine with the motownesque instrumentals and beats laid down by his producer Ant (of Atmosphere fame) to create a complete sound I have rarely been able to find in a rap album.

Ali has released three full-length albums and two EPs under the Rhymesayers label. His first, and in my opinion his best, Shadows on the Sun, was followed by his Champion EP, then The Undisputed Truth and his follow up EP The Truth is Here, which was accompanied by a DVD. His latest album Us was released September 22, 2009. Over these albums Ali raps about and takes inspiration from R&B and Soul greats such as Donny Hathaway and Al Green, he discusses his youth, political and social issues, love and hate, and delivers a passion that makes his music truly one of a kind.



His latest album Us has allowed Brother Ali and Ant to experiment, rapping over gospel choirs, trumpet blasts, and xylophones. Ali has yet again given us a solid album but has shown an exciting progression that shows he won't rest on the laurels of his former success. It's no Shadows on the Sun but I give Brother Ali's Us a favorable nod and a eager anticipation of things to come.