Imani Vol. 1 cover

Imani Vol. 1

Blackalicious · 2015

57 min · 16 tracks · alternative hip-hop

A vibrant fusion of lyrical dexterity and soulful instrumentation that reflects personal and cultural introspection.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady flow with lyrical depth
  • introspective moments for reflection
  • soulful instrumentation and storytelling
  • engaging personal and cultural themes

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer standalone singles

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2015, 'Imani Vol. 1' marked Blackalicious' return after a lengthy hiatus since their last album, 'Blazing Arrow' in 2002. The duo, consisting of rapper Gift of Gab and producer Chief Xcel, sought to re-establish their presence in the alternative hip-hop scene while evolving their sound with contemporary influences.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Faith 1:23
  • 2 Blacka 2:43
  • 3 Ashes to Ashes 3:28
  • 4 On Fire Tonight 2:40
  • 5 Escape 4:40
  • 6 The Sun 3:26
  • 7 That Night 5:54
  • 8 Inspired By 3:29
  • 9 We Did It Again 3:55
  • 10 I Like the Way You Talk 2:30
  • 11 Twist of Time 3:12
  • 12 The Blowup 4:01
  • 13 Love’s Gonna Save the Day 3:13
  • 14 Alpha and Omega 5:31
  • 15 The Hourglass 3:22
  • 16 Imani 3:31

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata