LYRICS BORN

As U Were

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 Ruth

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Rock

  • reviewed 12/2006

    MIDLAKE
    The Trials of Van Occupanther

  • reviewed 05/2017

    Beth Garner
    SNAKE FARM

  • reviewed 03/2013

    UNA
    The Laughing Man

  • reviewed 07/2006

    MUSTARD PLUG
    Masterpieces

  • reviewed 03/2005

    Everything But the Girl
    Adapt or Die - Ten Years of Remixes

  • reviewed 10/2015

    Mod Hippie
    Tomorrow Then

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

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.