Lavell William Crump, known to the masses as David Banner, released his first solo album Mississippi: The Album about 13 years ago; but he’s not letting up. Banner still manages to keep his presence very relevant from movies, interviews, and all the way back down to the music, the Jackson, MS, native has kept his audience on their toes with his work. The southern wordsmith will release his anticipated The God Box later this month, but already has 15 tracks uploaded onto iTunes. The truth and passion that will fill Mister Banner’s release can be tasted — and sampled — in the appetizer, he cooked up for us, Before The Box. It’s 16 tracks of real and relevant talk.
On “Uzi,” Banner raps “they say this shit is about black and white/all this shit is pretty Freddie Grey,” as he verbally attacks the oppressive regime; this single will be on the album. “Black Fist” featuring Tito Lo, who also hails from Mississippi, sees the pair rap over an electric, rock n roll infused beat with brief intermissions of the depiction of the black man in America. “F La Policia,” “Marry Me,” and “Warrior,” are instant classics that are sure to rock the fans with positive messages.
The era of bling, bravado, and vixens, is dying slowly because there is too much pain to ignore; a new generation is on the horizon, and they are asking questions. Before The Box will deliver many answers to the common folk. The tape seems to be inspired by Nat Turner’s spirit and the scourge/plight of the black man in this world. The class is in session, so take a listen and learn something!
