K’naan The Dusty Foot Philosopher

• Words: Zoneil Maharaj
• Label: Interdependent Media
• XLR8R Rating: 7/10

Originally released in Canada in 2005, K’naan’s The Dusty Foot Philosopher is an ode to African culture (in its production) and a protest to African politics and social injustice (in its lyrics). The Somalia-born MC flexes versatile vocals over African-inspired production, resulting in innovative joints like opening track “Wash It Down” (which contains only the sound of crashing water), the raw and improvisational “African Way” (recorded with nomadic musicians in a Kenyan restaurant), and the urgent, drum-driven “Soobax.” He even puts American gangsters to shame on “What’s Hardcore,” detailing life in his hometown where they duck rocket-propelled grenades instead of stray 9mm bullets. The deluxe edition comes with a DVD and bonus track featuring M-1 of Dead Prez.