A lot of great songs appear on albums and never get released (or are released in extremely limited capacity), leaving them very little exposure. I like to call these undiscovered gems. Check out these examples.
Dj Shadow - You Made It
This gem was hidden on the otherwise extremely disappointing DJ Shadow album, The Outsider. While it does sound a bit like a Coldplay knockoff, it still works. Don't bother getting the album, as it only has this song and a song by Phonte (from Little Brother) called "Backstage Girl." The rest is hot garbage.
N.E.R.D - Run to the Sun
Why this song was never released is beyond me. It's easily the best song on a very solid album. It sounds even better on the re-released version that was recorded with all live instruments.
Kelis - Glow
I think this album was disregarded because of its largely saccharine first single "Milkshake." Believe it or not, its actually a pretty good album. Combine "Glow" with the Andre 3000 produced "Millionaire" and this album could have gone triple platinum. Instead they went with the Nas collabo "In Public," as their follow-up single, a song which was catchy for about five minutes.
Nas - Doo Rags
Speaking of Nas, I guess his whole Lost Tapes album could fit under the title "Undiscovered Gems," but this joint has particularly potent because it's such a feel-good track that still manages to drop a lot of knowledge. Of course, it's done in a way that only Nas could.
Damian Marley - Move
Damian samples his father's "Exodus" but uniquely makes it all his own. This song must have been overshadowed by the smash that was "Welcome to Jamrock" but it certainly stands out on its own.
Mos Def - There is a Way
Okay so Mos Def released this album with no singles and no videos. The CD has no artwork whatsover and on top of that the Mighty Mos thought it would be a good idea to rap about Hurricance Katrina over a Juvenile beat. Needless to say, if you missed this album all is forgiven. Sometimes I wish I had. But then I listen to "There is a Way" and I think maybe there is a way...for Mos Def to revive his rap career.
Talib Kweli - Soon the New Day
I might be a bit early on this since this came out relatively recently. Hopefully the label will wise up and put this out and not the lame Kanye track. This is one of the tightest tracks on a very tight album.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Undiscovered Gems
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