Black August Revisited cover

Black August Revisited

Killah Priest · 2003

60 min · 16 tracks · hip-hop

A reflective blend of intricate lyricism and soulful instrumentation that delves into social issues and personal struggles.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Big World Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
  • →
    The Last Supper — This track features vivid storytelling that draws parallels between biblical themes and contemporary struggles, demonstrating Killah Priest's unique ability to weave complex narratives.
  • →
    Mind as a Weapon — Here, the introspective lyrics highlight the power of knowledge and self-awareness, which are central motifs throughout the album, exemplifying Priest's philosophical approach to hip-hop.
  • →
    Street Opera — This track stands out for its theatrical delivery and rich imagery, providing a compelling commentary on urban life while showcasing Priest's lyrical dexterity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

63 /100
Treeline
Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album's intricate lyricism and soulful production create a reflective experience, though it may not stand out widely beyond its genre.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of soulful samples layered with intricate drum patterns, creating a reflective atmosphere throughout.
  • Lyrically, Killah Priest employs complex rhyme schemes and multi-syllabic flows that address both personal struggles and broader social issues.
  • Several tracks incorporate spoken word interludes, which serve to deepen the thematic exploration of spirituality and political consciousness.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady progression through narratives
  • reflective moments for deep thinking
  • politically charged lyrical exploration
  • engaging storytelling with resolution

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek purely upbeat energy

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Critical Peak — Explores deep themes and showcases lyrical depth, marking a high point in his artistic journey.
Themes
political consciousness· personal resilience
Career context
By the time 'Black August Revisited' was released in 2003, Killah Priest had already established himself as a prominent figure in underground hip-hop, following his acclaimed debut 'Heavy Mental' in 1996. This album came after a series of collaborations and contributions to the Wu-Tang Clan's extended family, showcasing his evolving artistry and commitment to socially conscious themes.
Stylistic neighbors
Ras Kass· Canibus· Immortal Technique

Tracklist

  • 1 Intro 2:05
  • 2 Big World Start here 4:48
  • 3 Greatest Lesson 3:35
  • 4 The Last Supper 3:33
  • 5 Time 3:14
  • 6 Revisited 4:02
  • 7 Movie 3:40
  • 8 Mind as a Weapon 5:56
  • 9 Street Opera 5:53
  • 10 Do the Damn Thing (Remix) 3:49
  • 11 Turn Around 2:44
  • 12 Vengeance 2:44
  • 13 Militant 3:34
  • 14 The Rain 4:04
  • 15 People 3:20
  • 16 Genesis 3:54

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata