2010-10-25
Born in Tokyo and currently residing in Berkeley, Tom Shimura (a.k.a. Lyrics Born) is an MC, radio DJ, producer and musician. He's been on the music scene for quite a while, collaborating with the likes of Blackilicious, Poets of Rhythm, Stereo MC's, and KRS-One, among others. He was also half of the duo Latryx, with Lateef the Truthspeaker; but enough of his history. "As U Were" is essentially a hip hop album, but it's much more. It features cool beats, occasionally amusing lyrics, and even skits. There must be a keytar in use as the album opens with the very 1980's sounding "Kontrol Phreak". Then, the album seems to progress chronologically to a more current sound. There are some notable guests here as well; including Joyo Velarde (Mrs. Shimura) on "I've Lost Myself". If you like the artists Del the Funky Homosapien or Cee-Lo (other artists Lyrics Born has collaborated with), you might like this release. Rebecca RuthYoko Ono Plastic Ono Band
Take Me to the Land of Hell
Great Lakes Swimmers
Lost Channels
Evening Bell
Dying Stars
NEKO CASE
Live from Austin TX
JESSE SYKES & THE SWEET HEREAFTER
Like, Love, Lust & the Open Halls of the Soul
Air
Pocket Symphony
The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.