Comic book lore has been a part of Hip Hop culture since its inception. Jean Grae, DOOM, and Tony Starks are just a few of the (slightly) re-worked aliases used by some of the top emcees in the game to express their love and appreciation for the genre. Even 80’s rap icon, DMC, has entered the mix by lending a super-powered version of his likeness to a series of graphic novels. Up and coming Atlanta duo, superHero (DJ Ghost & Apollo), are also the kind of artists who would be at home in a televised debate over the merits of Marvel Vs DC…but to say they take things to an extreme would be an understatement. First off, the group is known for performing in full costumed garb as their favorite characters & their debut album “The Middle” is chock full of superhero movie samples guaranteed to keep comic book geeks in sonic paradise for months to come.
We begin our adventure with “In Medias Res,” a mellow track that serves as an introduction to a loopy, humorous spirit that imbues & enriches the entire project. As the song draws to a close the duo scan through hundreds of emails about saving the day before launching into the aptly titled “Saving The Day Pt. 2.” Acrobatic flows are on full display over an undeniably catchy groove with a Pop vibe. It’s refreshing to hear a rap group create their own unique lane instead of following the hardcore path most artists cling to in today’s musical climate. Next up is “The Mask,” another decidedly upbeat cut with comic book references galore that provides the perfect lead in to the crown jewel of the collection – the irresistible “Lifted.” A smooth southern flow combined with an infectious chorus and head nodding beat turn this album cut into something extraordinary. After getting lifted the next step is to get “Higher,” which is exactly what the super team do on the spacey cut. Off-kilter bars are spit over a dream-like track before “Ghost’s Interlude” shakes us out of our reverie with its triumphant soundscape.
“808’s & Hoes” is superHero’s attempt to appease black kids who might feel the group’s music is too mainstream. It’s a strong track that certifies that they’ll soon have fans of ALL ethnic backgrounds on a global scale. “Audio Dope” wins with a fantastic rhythm guitar sample while “Video Games” slows down the pace to cover the topics of bullying, depression, and the day-to-day struggle. When things get tough the group can always play video games. It’s the only time they can be in complete control. “Playstation” continues the “gaming” theme as Apollo mentions being part of a “generation of glitches”…Very clever line. Beats and sound effects bounce around the speakers as the group wonder how they can truly fulfill their destiny as superheroes, when in actuality, they’re mere mortals. “Apollo’s Outro” kicks in with a funky, minimalistic groove that drips with pure soul while “For You” wraps up the proceedings with a zany, go for broke styled cut that informs listeners exactly who they’re making music for, before descending into an ominous outro from The Joker, who declares them too much fun to kill.
superHero is the kind of group Hip Hop needs right now! They aren’t perfect(sometimes the faster beats get the better of ’em & the costume gimmick threatens to overshadow the fact they’re truly talented), but they are extremely gifted artists I for one, hope to see…and especially HEAR more from. Long live superHero! If you want a fun, exciting album to check out, “The Middle” should be at the top of your list!
– Kevin Keith
