This is one of the more significant presentations in this coverage series, connecting a Wu-Tang lineage to an entirely distinct geographic and cultural imprint. Coming straight out of South Central's famous Leimert Park, Crip Jesus is the newest member of Killah Priest's ROYAL PRIESTHOOD clique. His content is heavily influenced by the Five Percent Nation of Gods and Earths — the same doctrine running through large parts of the classic Wu-Tang cosmos — combined with strong gang ties. Songs like "Blacc Africa" sound like a gangsta version of Killah Priest's own B.I.B.L.E. (Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth). The first official single and video, "Watts Prophet," draws heavily on the Watts Prophets and their member Amde Hamilton — one of the most important spoken-word and proto-rap predecessor formations from the late 60s. The track frames the blocks of L.A. through the lens of ancient history and street sermons; the beat carries that dark, sinister undertone common throughout the project. Most of the production is handled by DeKay Slaps, who has also worked with Rugged Monk, a key member of Black Knights (Westcoast Killa Beez). Additional beats come from The Beat Kollectorz, known for their work with Black Knights, Ras Kass, and Wu-Syndicate. That production lineage firmly anchors the album within the West Coast Wu-affiliated network. Particularly notable is Crip Jesus' feature selection: he inspires his homies to swing their lyrical swords in true Wu-Tang fashion while staying gangster throughout. The esoteric Crip slang used by the rappers deliberately echoes the Five Percenter lingo of classic Wu albums. Whether gangsta rap, conscious rap, or lyrical rap — this album covers all three registers at once.
No comments:
Post a Comment