1st Listen: Scarface, "Deeply Rooted"

      There's a good chance Scarface is your favorite rapper's favorite rapper (or at least, one of them). He is known to all true fans of hip-hop, yet he has never veered out of his lane. He has always remained true to who he is, true to his roots. His return to rap is with a collection of songs that remind us why we respect his work so much. In 2008, Scarface released "Emeritus." In Latin, that word basically is an honor bestowed upon those who have retired to mark distinguished service. It would have been fitting for 'face to end his career with that, but obviously he loves music too much to call it quits. 
      If, for some reason you are not familiar with Scarface, let me explain something. He is not your average rapper. His purpose is not to create catchy hooks and dance trends. Mr. Jordan is a story teller and he creates audio movies with each track he puts a verse on. "Deeply Rooted" is no exception. From the cinematic intro, even if you've never heard any of Scarface's music before, you can feel it is something different than what plays all day on most of our radio stations. "Deeply Rooted" is the type of musical release you can just press play, close your eyes and "see" everything Scarface is talking about. It is as if he is able to give you a close and personal view of the streets of his hometown, Houston, TX. 

      All of the tracks on "Deeply Rooted" flow together, making a very cohesive collection. It's amazing that Scarface has always had the ability to rap  hardcore lyrics over melodic tracks and it never feels out of place. It's an amazing accomplishment that most rappers wouldn't be able to pull off. As each track ends, you realize more and more Scarface doesn't do "gangster" rap, he makes life music. Life is not all moments of happiness, nor is it all negative. This is exactly how the subject matter of "Deeply Rooted" is. 'Face finds a way to rap about the pain of relationships (Keep it Movin'), his spiritual connection with the Creator (God feat. John Legend), moments of very personal reflection (You feat. Ceelo Green), battling internal battles (Voices) and somehow he's able to do this while still telling street tales (Dopeman), his view of the violence on the streets and police brutality with the bonus song/video that was not on the album (Mental Exorcism) and even showcasing the bravado only a true legend has the right to show (No Problem).
      In my opinion, Scarface is a genius. He is one of the handful of rappers who has somehow remained at the top of their game since the 80's. Newer artists and veterans all understand and respect the importance of Scarface. He is more than a rapper, though. He is a legend and one of the best to ever do it. "Deeply Rooted" shows 'Face still has a lot left in the tank. So excuse me, I have to start at the beginning of "Deeply Rooted," press play and listen to the album over and over again. I advise you to do the same