Distant Relatives
Nas · 2010
61 min · 13 tracks · alternative hip-hop
A fusion of rich African rhythms and sharp lyrical storytelling that bridges cultural divides and addresses social issues.
Top tracks — play these first
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As We Enter Start here — This opening track establishes the album's thematic direction, blending energetic beats with a call for unity and resilience among listeners. Its infectious hook sets the tone for collaboration between Nas and Marley.
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Patience — A reflective piece that delves into the struggles faced by individuals within society, it highlights Nas's lyrical prowess while emphasizing the importance of perseverance amid adversity.
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Africa Must Wake Up — This track serves as a powerful anthem advocating for social change across the African continent, showcasing both artists' commitment to addressing global issues through their music.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's rich blend of African rhythms and sharp storytelling creates a unique sound that stands out in hip-hop.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a strong rhythmic pulse in 'As We Enter', immediately establishing its African musical influences.
- Lyrical themes of social justice and cultural identity are woven throughout, particularly in tracks like 'Leaders' and 'Africa Must Wake Up'.
- The collaboration between Nas and Damian Marley features alternating verses, creating a dynamic interplay that emphasizes their distinct voices.
- Several tracks incorporate traditional African instruments, blending them seamlessly with contemporary hip-hop beats.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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9/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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8/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. 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
- lyrical introspection with urgency
- dynamic journey with peaks
- reflective moments amidst rhythm
- engaging narratives of heritage
Maybe skip if you
- prefer instant gratification tracks
- seek consistent upbeat energy
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Critical Peak — The album showcases Nas's lyrical depth and cultural exploration, marking a high point in his career.
- Themes
- African heritage· social change anthems· cultural unity
- Career context
- In 2010, Nas was navigating a complex career trajectory, following the mixed reception of his previous album, 'Untitled' (2008). 'Distant Relatives', a collaborative project with Damian Marley, marked a significant artistic endeavor as it explored themes of heritage and identity, positioning itself as a return to form for Nas amidst his evolving discography.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Jay-Z· Rakim· The Notorious B.I.G.
Tracklist
- 1 As We Enter Start here 2:28
- 2 Tribes at War 4:30
- 3 Strong Will Continue 6:01
- 4 Leaders 4:19
- 5 Friends 4:49
- 6 Count Your Blessings 4:23
- 7 Dispear 5:53
- 8 Land of Promise 3:53
- 9 In His Own Words 5:00
- 10 Nah Mean 4:08
- 11 Patience 5:45
- 12 My Generation 3:59
- 13 Africa Must Wake Up 6:40
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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