Violent by Design
Jedi Mind Tricks · 2000
64 min · 22 tracks · rapping
A visceral blend of gritty lyricism and haunting production that immerses listeners in a world of inner turmoil and societal conflict.
Top tracks — play these first
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I Against I — This track encapsulates the album's themes of struggle and conflict, featuring intense verses that highlight personal battles within a broader societal context.
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Heavenly Divine — Combining philosophical musings with vivid imagery, this track exemplifies the duo's ability to merge introspection with high-impact delivery, making it a standout piece.
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Blood Reign — With its aggressive flow and sharp commentary on systemic oppression, 'Blood Reign' serves as a powerful critique that resonates deeply with the album's overarching message.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's intricate lyricism and cohesive production create a strong underground hip-hop experience.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of dark, atmospheric beats that complement the aggressive and introspective lyrics throughout.
- Several tracks incorporate interludes that serve as thematic transitions, creating a narrative flow across the album.
- The majority of tracks maintain a mid to slow tempo, with only a few moments of heightened intensity, which contributes to an overall sense of tension.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- 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
- immersive storytelling through interludes
- haunting production for deep reflection
- urgent pacing with intense themes
- gritty lyricism for emotional release
- long-form journey of inner conflict
Maybe skip if you
- prefer light-hearted, upbeat tracks
- seek instant gratification and hooks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on January 1, 2000, 'Violent by Design' was Jedi Mind Tricks' third studio album, solidifying their reputation as leaders in underground hip-hop. Following the success of their previous album, 'The Psycho-Social,' this release marked a significant evolution in their sound and thematic depth, showcasing complex narratives woven into their lyrics.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Immortal Technique· Vinnie Paz· Aesop Rock
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Intro 0:45
- 2 Retaliation 3:46
- 3 Contra 3:20
- 4 Speech Cobras 4:24
- 5 Breath of God (interlude) 0:39
- 6 Death March 3:36
- 7 Words From Mr. Len, Part One 1:00
- 8 I Against I 3:51
- 9 Exertions (remix) 3:16
- 10 The Prophecy (interlude) 0:38
- 11 Heavenly Divine 4:36
- 12 Sacrifice 3:22
- 13 Permanent Midnight (interlude) 0:41
- 14 The Deer Hunter 3:43
- 15 Blood Reign 3:39
- 16 Words From Mr. Len, Part Two 0:31
- 17 Genghis Khan 3:52
- 18 Trinity 3:38
- 19 The Executioners Dream 3:54
- 20 Muerte 3:59
- 21 Heavenly Divine (remix) 3:22
- 22 War Ensemble 4:07
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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