This is not the first time a group has taken a hiatus so that the members could do solo projects. Although in many cases, those solo projects aren’t necessary as the artists need the group dynamic to shine. This is not the case with Non Phixion. After a stunning debut from Ill Bill, Sabac Red is barely a step behind with his own “Sabacolypse: A Change Gon’ Come.” Much like Bill, Sabac is a mixture of a thoughtful, conscious young man and a violent individual with a thirst for some of life’s shadier aspects. The difference is that Sabac is much more of the first, and much less of the second. “Sabacolypse” is very much a collection of Sabac’s revelations, protests, solutions, dreams, and his commentary on the ills of the world.
You would be hard pressed to find a verse from Sabac that isn’t dedicated to a critical subject matter. From the jump off, Sabac opens up his mind to the world and pleads everyone to “Organize.” Over Necro’s booming drums and gentle guitar licks, Sabac encourages “all my peoples gettin’ rich, let’s organize/gangs from bloods to crips, let’s organize/old folks to the kids, let’s organize/organize means freedom, hear what I’m speaking.” The message of this song really sets the tone for the remainder of the album, much like Bill’s opening track did for his. Whether it is an introspective effort (“Sabacolypse (Truth)”), blanket global statements (“Positive & Negative” f. Necro), or well-aimed diatribes at abusive cops (“Fight Until The End” f. Immortal Technique), Sabac expresses himself articulately and intelligently. “The Scientist” is among his best lyrical expositions as he examines the AIDS conspiracy, pointing fingers and justifying his claims. “Unsolved Mysteries” is more conspiracy theorizing, but he is questioning here, not so much accusing. Sabac offers even more truth (and solutions) on “A Change Gon’ Come,” a wonderfully produced Necro joint.
I could really go on and on about all the dope material here, “I Have a Dream,” “Speak Militant,” and “Freestyle Freedom” are all more than worthy of mention be it for Sabac’s rhymes or Necro’s production. Sabac never misses a step content-wise, but he doesn’t always meet his mark sonically. His Bob Marley-inspired “Protest Music” comes off as corny, despite the poignant message. Similarly “Bac’s Anthem” just doesn’t connect. The massive posse cut “P.O.W.’s” featuring Ill Bill, Necro, Mr. Hyde and Goretex is somewhat lackluster due to Necro’s uninspired beat (something you can’t often say). Speaking of which, Necro once again produced this album from front to back and did an excellent job. His diversity is becoming more apparent and did a great job of complimenting Sabac, tailoring his beats to capture Sabac’s message. Another excellent album from the crew, it is possible people are still fronting on these guys?
8/10
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