Slime & Reason
Roots Manuva · 2008
57 min · 15 tracks · alternative hip-hop
A vibrant fusion of UK hip-hop, dub rhythms, and introspective lyricism unfolds in an eclectic sonic landscape.
Top tracks — play these first
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C.R.U.F.F. — This track encapsulates the album's playful yet socially conscious spirit, combining infectious beats with sharp commentary on authenticity in the music industry.
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Let the Spirit — Blending reggae influences with reflective lyrics, this track serves as a spiritual anthem that captures the essence of resilience and hope throughout the album.
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A Man’s Talk — This track stands out for its candid exploration of masculinity and vulnerability, showcasing Roots Manuva's ability to tackle complex themes with honesty.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases strong writing and production, blending genres while maintaining a unique sound.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a strong mid-tempo track, followed by a shift to more upbeat rhythms in the next two songs, creating an energetic start.
- Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies and call-and-response patterns, enhancing the communal feel of the music.
- The final three tracks slow down significantly, introducing a reflective tone that contrasts with the earlier energy.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- 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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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
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
- wave-like pacing with peaks
- introspective lyrics for reflection
- vibrant beats for active listening
- gradual build to energetic moments
Maybe skip if you
- prefer instant gratification
- seek standalone hit singles
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on September 1, 2008, Slime & Reason is Roots Manuva's fourth studio album, following his critically acclaimed release, Awfully Deep. At this point in his career, he was solidifying his position as a pioneering voice in British hip-hop while exploring deeper themes of identity and resilience.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Tricky· DJ Shadow· Massive Attack
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Again & Again 4:05
- 2 C.R.U.F.F. 3:54
- 3 Do Nah Bodda Mi 3:14
- 4 Let the Spirit 4:38
- 5 Kick Up Your Foot 3:44
- 6 A Man’s Talk 3:47
- 7 Buff Nuff 2:14
- 8 It’s Me Oh Lord 3:33
- 9 2 Much 2 Soon 5:23
- 10 Do 4 Self 3:10
- 11 The Show Must Go On 6:09
- 12 I’m a New Man 3:05
- 13 Well Alright 3:57
- 14 The Struggle 3:50
- 15 Run Dem We Run 2:36
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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