Few people know that Gonzo Journalism is an actual form of journalism. Created by the journalist/author
Hunter S. Thompson, G. J. fuses fiction and factual journalism, which together form a new way of expression. A stylebook that Arsenic takes a page out of. This is evident by his slick use of quotes, sarcasm, humor and exaggeration throughout this album.
On “Gonzo Journalism,” Arsenic and his slew of producers prove to be a powerful combination to be reckoned with. The beats are straightforward and are used to compliment Arsenic’s singing style of rhyming. The first track “You Took 2Much” is an interlude with Hunter, the journalist, setting things off. The song includes sarcastic views and leftfield thoughts. The second track “Gonzo Journalism” is where the fun begins. First off, the beat provided by Masturbeats is tight, and Arsenic starts his barrage with:
“Minds wide open sealed family closed in
Social corrosion emotion leaving lives frozen,
Oceans are castaway with the heartless spade
The sky is gray murder heartless souls of day,
I guess it’s just a way of showing you what not to be
It’s just a slaughter you see.”
On the next track “American Life,” Hunter starts the track off and jumps right into a beautiful piano loop accompanied by a fantastic arrangement of kicks and snares. This song attacks those who infringe on our American rights. This is expressed throughout the track and the chorus:
“You can’t say that in public
You can’t express your views,
Cause as much as you want your freedom
They’re gonna take it from you, They gonna take it from you!”
This song touches on a lot of sensitive topics, and whether you agree with Arsenics’ views or not. The next page in this audio novel is “Through the Eyes of an Old Timer” in which an elder drops knowledge on a young cat employing him to open his mind and build for the future. “Hear Ms?” is Arsenic’s version of the Pharcyde classic “Passing Me By.” Here, he yearns for the love of a woman who just plays games with his emotions. This is a very sentimental track that many may identify with.
Other notable tracks are “Take Control” which features a tight MC named Predicate; a personal track called “Escape to the Sun,” with cameos by Aria Silenced and Detour 9. Another track that stands out and runs a close second to “American Life,” as my favorite track, is “Silent Voices” featuring the up and coming Wild Life Refuge Crew. All emcees deliver acidic verses over a rough beats produced by Arsenic himself. The last song of many on this release is the socially conscious, “We Have the Fangs of Animals,” which touches on global problems faced by society today.
Arsenic has incredible production skill, which is evident on two unbelievable instrumental tracks featured on the disc. Other notable talent is DJ Elixir. His razor sharp scratches bring back memories of the original DJ Premier.
Some might find Arsenic ranting about social ills, as many artists do on their albums. However, he does offer much in the way of positive solutions. He also brings forth vital questioning, while raising awareness, and sounding good doing it. “Gonzo Journalism” is a crucial release. Not only serving up a resurrection of sorts for Hip Hop, in the way you can feel the passion and soul, that many times has been forgotten in the face of the overwhelming successful Hip Pop. Don’t be intimidated by deep Hip Hop, support it and realize releases like this are true to form of what Hip Hop was once was. To purchase “Gonzo Journalism” go to http://www.myspace.com/arsenic2012 or deathstarzcult.com. CyPhEr777
