Jin Gets 3 and half in vibe

[KURUPTION-81]

Jin
The Rest Is History
Ruff Ryders/Virgin

After battling MCs on 106 & Park, Jin-the first Chinese American rapper on a major label-almost became a hip hop novelty with his gimmicky lead single, "Learn Chinese." However, on his debut, The Rest Is History, the Ruff Ryder displays a multilayered depth with incredibly sincere and honest lyrics.

Jin's Asian roots allow him to bring a perspective not yet heard in hip hop. On "Love Story," the intensity of young romance vies with the upheaval caused by an interracial relationship. The soft acoustics of "Same Cry" are iced out with jewels about Chinese history, and Jin reminds those infatuated with Jordans, "The sneakers on your feet cost 100 a pop / My people get 15 cents a day in sweatshops."

Realizing that folks don't like being preached to, he lightens up, humorously thwarting gold diggers over Kanye West's strings and doubled-up kicks on "I Gotta Love," while "Get Your Handz Off" and "Karaoke Night" recall his cocky demeanor on 106 & Park.

Despite the overall lack of quotables from the renowned mike ripper, Jin wins the biggest battle of his career thus far by adeptly crafting songs.

Pics at

http://www.holla-front.com/forum/showthread.php?t=36703

[Sikotic™]

The Learn Chineese video was on rotation for about half a day.

[Darksider]

good review