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 03/2007

    Air
    Pocket Symphony

  • reviewed 08/2011

    SHELBY LYNNE
    REVELATION ROAD

  • reviewed 06/2017

    Matthew Ryan
    HUSTLE UP STARLINGS

  • reviewed 03/2008

    EJ Ouellette and Crazy Maggy
    Row The Bow 5.0

  • reviewed 07/2007

    CASEY STRATTON
    The Crossing

  • reviewed 11/2016

    Mary Loves Molly
    Mary Loves Molly

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.