Admittedly, I've never been a Slum Village fan. They've released some good music, but i've never taken time out to listen to a whole album, at least not until now. Villa Manifesto is the group's 6th and final album. It is a reunion album featuring all five members of the group of the group's up and down run. This is the first time all five members appear on an album.
Sadly its also the first project since the passing of J Dilla since his battle with Lupus came to an end a couple years ago and since the passing of Baatin from unknown causes last year. Dilla and Baatin are founding members of the group, while Illa J (Dilla's younger brother) and Elhzi make up the heart of the album. T3 is the driving force behind the project hoping to cement the legacy of that is Slum Village.
The album's production is flawless, but still its hearing all five members on records that makes this album most special. Appearances by De La Soul, Phife Dawg, Dwele and Little Brother give the album a classic feel. The stand-out track appears to be "Faster," but honestly its hard to choose among a slew of hits.
Its always good to hear Hip-Hop of this caliber even if it marks the end of an era. Slum Village fans will appreciate the music and Hip-Hop lovers will have a collectors item.
