It’s seldom these days to be absolutely impressed with a rap music project. With most artists on the rap scene regurgitating weak lines and repetitive hooks over trap beats, it’s easy to just walk away and wish you never tried to give someone’s music attention. Well this project isn’t one of those times. Thi’sl’s music embodies the best of what rap music can be if it were unmarred by the corporate invention of gangster rap. The quote “Heavy is the head that wears the crown.” is a well-known phrase which connotes the tremendous responsibility the king has in tending to the needs of his kingdom and the responsibilities of the crown. In Thi’sl’s latest offering it is obvious that he himself is burdened not only with events in St. Louis centered around Ferguson but with the plight of the youth and the very clear path in front of them that many may not ever get a chance to travel.
Heavy is the Head is a 14 track offering from Thi’sl a Westside native of St. Louis, who not only holds a Grammy for engineer work he has done but also has sold quite a number of albums and tours as an independent rap artist. This project was made to provide the youth an avenue to be exposed to Thi’sl’s music on platforms like Livemixtapes and others while also letting some frustrations out. Thi’sl brings out the bells, piano and synth chords with a gritty voice yet smooth flow in, “The Come Up”. Between his beginnings in the streets and needing to make the choice to pursue music he drops the hook:
This project is filled with great production, writing, and delivery and is a masterful work. On the song “Yesterday”, Thi’sl shares the track with songstress Theresa Payne and Hip Hop pioneer and living legend Scarface. The song is a somber tribute to those who we have lost and may lose due to street violence, a heartfelt remembrance to brothers and young kings, RIP Marcus Johnson. An actual tear running down your face is a testament to the power of this song as Theresa’s vocal encourages you to hope for a brighter day.
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