Very Mercenary
The Herbaliser · 1999
69 min · 16 tracks · jazz
A fusion of jazzy samples, intricate beats, and playful lyricism that embodies the eclectic spirit of late '90s hip-hop.
Top tracks — play these first
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Mission Improbable — This track features a catchy brass sample paired with clever wordplay, showcasing the group's ability to blend jazz influences with hip-hop vibrancy.
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Who's the Realest? — The song delivers sharp verses over a smooth yet dynamic beat, encapsulating the group's lyrical prowess and musical versatility.
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Goldrush — With its rich instrumentation and layered production, this track exemplifies The Herbaliser's signature style while inviting listeners into a lush sonic landscape.
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Mind in the Frame — A standout for its introspective lyrics accompanied by a mesmerizing melody, this track deepens the album's exploration of consciousness and creativity.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album showcases intricate compositions and strong production, defining its unique sound within the late '90s hip-hop landscape.
What we noticed
- Several tracks incorporate spoken word elements, adding an additional layer of texture to the instrumental foundation.
- The sequencing includes interludes that serve as transitions between more rhythmically complex pieces, maintaining listener engagement.
- 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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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
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
- cinematic soundscape exploration
- long, immersive listening sessions
- dynamic emotional journeys
- layered, dense sonic textures
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1999, Very Mercenary is The Herbaliser's third studio album, following their acclaimed second album, Blow Your Headphones. At this point, the group was solidifying their reputation in the UK hip-hop scene, known for blending jazz elements with innovative production techniques.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Bonobo· Jazzyfatnastees· Amon Tobin
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Intro 1:03
- 2 Mission Improbable 3:11
- 3 Who's the Realest? 4:46
- 4 When I Shine 3:56
- 5 Goldrush 6:11
- 6 Moon Sequence 6:22
- 7 Mind in the Frame 5:13
- 8 Funny? 0:54
- 9 Shattered Soul 5:17
- 10 Road of Many Signs 4:55
- 11 Wall Crawling Giant Insect Breaks 5:41
- 12 The Sensual Woman 5:02
- 13 Let It Go 5:28
- 14 Jake's Backache 0:23
- 15 The Missing Suitcase 5:35
- 16 Starlight 5:07
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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