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 01/2007

    NEKO CASE
    Live from Austin TX

  • reviewed 06/2009

    STARDEATH AND WHITE DWARFS
    The Birth

  • reviewed 05/2006

    Jon Auer
    Songs From The Year Of Our Demise

  • reviewed 03/2009

    J.J. CALE
    ROLL ON

  • reviewed 12/2005

    JENS LEKMAN
    Oh You’re so Silent Jens

  • reviewed 03/2014

    YOUNG THE GIANT
    Mind Over Matter

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.