Mos Def Tru3 Magic

• Words: Derek Beres
• Label: Geffen
• XLR8R Rating: /10

Somewhere between Black on Both Sides and The New Danger lies magic-Tru3 Magic. The Mighty Mos returns with a lyrical depth rare in modern street slangers, reassuming his role of heroic hip-hop jester. Only nothing's funny on the socially poignant "Dollar Day (Surprise Surprise)," his tribute opus to New Orleans. Mos keeps it interesting by dropping the inspirational soul throwback "There Is a Way," and plenty of analog fuzz on "Sun, Moon, Stars," yet "Undeniable" is the true club killer, with bass turned high and Mos' pure poetic swagger.