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CD Reviews

The Narcicyst | Self-titled

Paranoid Arab Boy (2009)

By CHRIS FARAONE | June 9, 2009

4.0 Stars

I doubted that Montreal-based Iraqi MC Narcicyst would ever drop a more potent project than the 2004 Euphrates masterpiece Stereotypes Incorporated. Following the death of his muse and producer Nofy Fannan (who was one half of the production duo Sandhill) shortly after the group wrapped that anti-totalitarian manifesto, it seemed that Narcy lacked enough inspiration to compose another magnum opus.

But with titanic beats from ace Canadians including his remaining Sandhill homey Habilis, Montreal's most sophisticated saliva slinger returns to the progressive rap forefront with vengeance. It doesn't matter that George Bush no longer sits as king; for this "first-class citizen" with a "second-hand experience," the plight of his native Middle East remains a "same shit, different Saddam" scenario.

Although Narcy lightens up on such battle bangers as "No More Mr. Nice Guy" — and, on catchy flamboyant cuts like "Stars" and "Brass," explores musical territories similar to those traveled by his countrymate K-OS — the undisputed monarch of metaphors settles scores and twists daggers at every turn. Some rappers have the gift of heightened intellect and understanding; others enjoy savant-like linguistic skills. Narcy may be blessed with the deadliest combination of the two that hip-hop has ever seen.

Related: DJ Quik and Kurupt | BlaQKout, Busdriver | Jhelli Beam, He shall overcome, More

Topics: CD Reviews , Entertainment, Hip-Hop and Rap, Music, More

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