Rating: 10/10

Though the title of the new Roots album appears to be an oxymoron, there is nothing contradictory about this heavy work of perfection. It’s just plain good.

“Rising Down,” the Roots’ 10th record, displays the Philadelphia-bred hip-hop band at the very top of its game. That’s not bad chemistry for a group that has been together since 1987. Guest star Mos Def kicks things off on the stimulating and euphoric “Rising Down,” which contains the soothing chorus, “I know where I’m goin’ even when it’s dark, and being led down that road / You don’t see that something’s wrong / Earth’s spinnin’ outta control / Everything’s for sale, even souls / Someone get God on the phone.” With that, and a strong verse from Styles P., this preludes into what will be a heavily conscious album with something to say.

On the track “@ 15,” we are blessed with an insight into what Black Thought, up-and-coming lyricist, was like as a 15-year-old, rapping over what sounds to be a simple rhythm of hands-to-pants percussion. For someone who’s supposed to be a freshman in high school, his lyrical ability and range of vocabulary are amazing.

The lead single, “Get Busy,” is a synth-heavy head-banger that hits hard in just the right way. “I’m used to the 1, 2 check / Not the 1, 2 step,” raps Peedi Peedi on the track, which also features Dice Raw.

With this undeniable blend of live instrumentation and ?uestlove’s genius production, Black Thought and the crew aren’t out to prove anything. This is something you can feel righteous listening to and still bump in your car.

The Roots seem to never miss. Whenever we think they’ve topped themselves, they re-emerge with a new method of getting their fans to do a double take. Then again, should we expect any less from hip-hop royalty? Hats off.

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