Tanya Morgan

Album Review: Brooklynati, written by Kelly D. Williams

Tanya Morgan

Brooklynati

(IMCulture)

May 12, 2009

Perhaps one of the most anticipated underground hip-hop records of the year, the latest effort by Tanya Morgan (the minds behind The Bridge and Tanya Morgan Is A Rap Group albums) is not only a listenable pleasure, but also an open invitation to visit their fantastical hometown of Brooklynati. Members Von Pea, Ilyas, and Donwil set out to create an LL Cool J-like legacy in the form of Tanya Morgan, and the best part is they don’t take themselves too seriously. The lyrics are genuine and the beats are large, but unlike many of their peers, Tanya Morgan successfully stays clear of rap’s tedium; I’m pretty sure this is just the beginning of their tour de force.
All of the hype about this album probably came from a lot of talk about these guys being the next A Tribe Called Quest. I’ll let you decide whether they are worthy of that comparison, but I can’t wait to hear more from them. Seriously good hip-hop with civic command. The album drops May 12th, so get a one-way bus ticket to Brooklynati and enjoy the trip. -- Kelly D. Williams

Standout Track: Bang 'n Boogie

Have A Listen: "So Damn Down"