I finally dragged my ass to the record store to get their self-titled 14 track disc for a bargain of only $10. It makes me proud to hear some representation of my Seattle and amplifies my like; but regardless of my local-bias, they are awesome and well worth a ten dollar bill. I had heard from reviews read before my purchase that Blue Scholars were very political, but I almost believe now that these reviews downplayed their political messages. Lyrics are full of activism and youthful philosophy coming in probably the most hip beats and flow I have heard in awhile. There is a lot of Seattle-related messages as well- Geologic reflects on the lack of a hip hop/rap scene in the city since Sir Mix Alot, the beautiful blue sky of the Pacific Northwest, and the infamous "Ave" in Seattle and it's problems (the homeless, drugs, graffiti) among other things. I would say that the Blue Scholars definately have something going for them. I am sure that they will be arriving on MTV soon if they haven't already (sorry not an avid viewer of MTV). Check their MySpace here for some songs if you're at all interested. I recommend "No Rest for the Weary" just because it's a pretty easy song to get hooked on. Evening Chai, Life & Debt, Motion Movement, Sagaba, and The Inkwell are my favorite tracks. Hit up Amazon or wherever you shop online for CD's, I am unsure if they have spread to many other cities yet. I'd have to give a 4 out-of 5 star rating on self-entitled Blue Scholars (2005). The songs sometimes sound the same, but after a good hours hearing you begin to love the sound as it is upbeat yet very harmonious and relaxing.
