ATCQ: People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm

When people talk about monumental debuts, People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm should definitely be near the top of the list. The world was formally introduced to A Tribe Called Quest and it’s not going to be easy for anyone to forget them.

Right from the jump we knew we were in for a gem. I personally love this album because it was so different than a lot from things we had during this era, minus De La Soul. Tribe always had a jazzy vibe and this is what made it so easy for people to love their music. You never had to front like you were a gangster and you didn’t have to play the conscious role in order to love Tribe. Tip, Phife, Jarobi and Ali made good music that was fun to listen to.

“Push It Along” starts off the album, with a much harder beat than usual but it let us know that Q-Tip was much more than the regular emcee. “Footprints” may be one of my favorite Tribe tracks of all time. I love the way the beat breaks and the way Tip rides that beat. This is the part of the album where Tribe shows their muscle with hit after hit. “I Left My Wallet in El Segundo”, “Public Enemy”, “Bonita Applebaum” and “Can I Kick It”. The beauty of this stretch of music is the fact that every song shows a different element of Tribe. “Public Enemy” made V.D funny, if that seems possible and that scratching is legendary. “Bonita Applebaum” is the definition of dope and if I’m lying please prove me wrong. “Can I Kick It” is classic, how much more can be said? “Go Ahead in the Rain” is a funky cut that kind of lightens up the mood of the album. The album ends with “Description of a Fool”, a lethal cut with a deadly beat and it is still relevant to this day. Because we all know that this world and industry specifically is filled with fools. Thank God Tip laid down this blueprint for us!

How often does a musician or group make its mark right from the beginning of their career? A Tribe Called Quest not only dropped a classic debut album, they laid the groundwork for one of the greatest careers in Hip Hop history. Q-Tip was the epitome of a front man; his flow, persona and attitude made him a superstar. The best part about Tribe is the fact that all 4 members knew their roles and perfected them. This debut should be the guideline for all emcees who aspire to do anything in this industry.

Overall Score: 4.5/5