Too many times a group makes changes for the sole purpose of making them. It is rare that a collective is able to take their first effort, and actually improve upon it. Fortunately, that is not the case for Nappy Roots’ sophomore release.
In reality, “Wooden Leather” is the fourth album for the Kentucky-based sextet, but their second release under Atlantic Records. The fun-loving, yet humble and introspective collective comprised of members Skinny DeVille, R. Prophet, Big V, Scales, Ron Clutch and B. Stille, bring a myriad of substance to their second opus. The intro begins fittingly with a hype-man groupie type talking about “we gon’ make this money … let’s get into it.”
That leads right into “Good God Almighty,” which sets the table for much of the production with its acoustic backdrop and sharp bass sequences. The lyrical content is also superb, as the group brings current events to focus, such as the anthrax scare. That tune sets the table for “Nappy Roots Day,” which offers superior production by D.B. Crump in the tales of growing up in the streets of Kentucky.
“Roun’ the Globe” may be the most popular song on the album, as the group pledges allegiance to a humble existence with lines like “I copped me a caddy/I said a hell with a benz.” If one still doubts the outlook and perception of Nappy Roots, all one needs to do is listen to the chorus, as the group repeats, “The whole damn world is country.”
There are several other tracks that hammer home a sense of perseverance throughout the everyday struggles of survival, specifically “Sick and Tired” and “Push On.” The latter, featuring Anthony Hamilton, offers soulful inspiration with Hamilton’s underestimated vocals, whereas “Sick and Tired” may be the most relatable track on the album. Most impressive of the sophomore effort are the political arenas that the group touches upon.
“War/Peace” offers a fusion of rock and hip-hop as it expounds upon various issues with violence. “Work in progress,” arguably the best track on the album, goes very political in talks of the battle of good and evil, and the racial tensions involved with being a black man in America. “These Walls” offers another world element.
Do not be confused, however; the Roots still know how to party. “Twang” serves almost as an “Awnaw” sequel; “Lac Hogs and Dogs” is in the mold of M.O.P.’s “Ante Up” with a southern twist; and “What Cha Gonna Do? (The anthem)” does its part to keep bodies moving towards the dance floor.
There’s even something for the streets in the adrenaline-pumped “No Good.”
The rest of the tracks are solid, and buttress this well-rounded and complete album. The Nappy Roots went out on their second effort to improve upon their first, while not losing the essence of what got them to where they are in the first place. Both missions were easily accomplished.
