CD Reviews

Akrobatik

Absolute Value | Fat Beats

By ANDREW GRAHAM | February 26, 2008

3.0 Stars

One of the hallmarks of Akrobatik’s style has always been his sincerity. The Boston MC’s previous album, Balance, packed so much raw, uncut positivity that Tipper Gore might have played it over tea with C. Dolores Tucker. (It’s also worth noting that Akrobatik’s debut EP had more bangers on it than many a “seasoned” rapper’s third or fourth full-length.) But Ak’s heartfelt approach doesn’t devolve into saccharine simplicity or one-dimensional platitudes — he proves that honest passion is as engaging and gripping as any gangsta pose. Absolute Value boasts a slew of A-list collaborations with big-timers like B-Real (of Cypress Hill), Chuck D, and Mr. Lif and even a Little Brother “reunion” of sorts. The lead single, “Put Ya Stamp on It,” offers a hot J Dilla beat and a vocal turn by conscious rap poster child Talib Kweli. But it’s not the guest list that makes Absolute Value priceless; it’s Akrobatik’s commitment to the music, culture, and community he loves.

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