Tanya Morgan: Brooklynati

With the country in a recession and odd named diseases plaguing our mental state, most people navigate towards music for a peaceful retreat. And some artists provide a ticket to that destination but it seems as though second-rate music is taking over causing folks to be at their wits end. But lucky for us, Tanya Morgan (Ilyas, Donwill and Von Pea) offers up a safe haven for citizens to relocate by way of Brooklynati.

But don’t misunderstand; Brooklynati is not your average concept album. Not only does it hold remarkable production and lyrics that transform into appealing stories; it is a virtual city full of Hip Hop purists that enjoy the simple yet finer things in life. Providing its residents with cultural diversity, beautiful landscapes and opportunity for growth, TM’s world proves to be one of the most promising.

“On Our Way” comes first out the gate with a catchy hook inviting the listener along for the transition from boring city dwelling to the pleasant confines of a metropolis setting that most see in their dreams. Lyrics like “I’ve been feeling like Manute Bol, and the roof too low, the box they put us in, aint big enough for me to grow” shows where TM is coming from but ultimately where they are trying to go. Lyrically, this song provides an introduction to a city drenched in nirvana while the beat is the perfect backdrop that becomes your compass through the city.

Some songs capture nostalgia very well and “Plan B” does that by taking us to moving day as we get a first hand look at what these artists are up against. Anyone that’s pursued a dream would appreciate this story of following your instincts to your destiny. “So simply from the fact I can see I exist, we look like three, but we are one, get my drift.”

What makes TM so phenomenal vocally is their uncanny ability to switch their tone. “Hardcore Gentleman” is classic because it almost sounds like a cross between Ahmad and The Pharcyde with a dash of ODB. This track is like getting a three for one deal because you get a new group that is versatile enough to switch it up while distinguishing themselves, which is not an easy thing to do.

“So Damn Down” is one of those songs that sounds so good, your fingers will press the rewind button continuously to fall back into it’s realm. The heightened encapsulating energy over the sharp production allows these gifted emcees to truly showcase why you want to change your citizenship status.

As Tanya Morgan continues on as your tour guide through Brooklynati, they offer even better crafted metaphors over yielding beats. They seem to keep with the formula of soulful, harmonious melodies that coincide with drums that are not too aggressive. And your tour remains enjoyable with “Morgan Blu,” “She’s Gone Without You” featuring Phonte and Brittany Bosco and “Never Enough” which all add an even greater depth to this comprehensive album. Although some of the lyrics can fall down to an average level, superb versus like “That means I speak from depths below my chest, where old souls rest, from beyond ya peons, eons ago the flow froze the planet, left you primates and granite fossilize, ya hostilize, so you can watch me monopolize the earth and now I got the skies” more than make it for it.

Overall Tanya Morgan does not disappoint with this sixteen-track album: mental stimulation, contagious energies and elliptical production make it a must have for any head. This vigorous trio has ushered in a fearless and authentic album that will be just as good twenty years from now. So if you haven’t already, purchase a one way ticket and travel to Brooklynati because you will be glad you did.

88/100

“Just Not True”

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“Forgot 2 Say”

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“We’re Fly” featuring Kay of The Foundation & Chop

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