Akala - Freedom Lasso

Akala

Released: October 01, 2007

Label: Illastate
Reviewed By: Aman Panglin
Rating: 9/10

Akala has changed his style from his debut album, and why not. The whole point in a sophomore album is to show what else you can do. We as consumers don't want to hear the same thing again and again, therefore the change here is totally welcomed.

Akala isn't suckered in by commercial expectations and clearly approaches his album on his own terms. The beats may be controversial to some, as they are raw compared to the more polished 'It 's Not a Rumour' but to those of you who are open-minded and haven't been numbed by the standardised american rap/r&b eminating from every major radio station then you will absolutely love it. Akala has created an album which makes British music proud.

Not only the beats stand out but vocally Akala has stepped up. Always with a no nonsense style and meaningful subject matter, Akala manages to display an array of vocal ability including rapping at extreme speeds as well as an indie-esque singing.

Standout tracks include, well I would say the whole album because it is quite easy to listen to it from beginning to end. 'You Put a Spell On Me' is great, a particular line strikes chord 'We're all crazy but we won't admit the one is just the one we're comfortable to be crazy with', that's great.
'Comedy Tragedy History' is a crazy track, try to count all the Shakespeare references. I love the transition from 'Defeated' to 'Bit By Bit' (his first single from the album). 'Where I'm From' is brilliant if only for the rant about rappers and the hood at the end. The whole album is great as I've already said, favourite tracks will change depending on how often you listen to it, as they do on any album. Some will grow on you while others you will immediately take a shine to.

You'd be a fool to miss out on this album.