Despite the unfortunate passing of J Dilla, aka Jay Dee, Popular Demand proves that the Detroit sound in hip hop is still going strong. A mixture of hard rhymes and soulful production has brought widespread attention to the region and producer/rapper Black Milk is currently carrying the torch with his debut album Popular Demand.
Already known as one of the game’s prolific upcoming producers, Black Milk’s strength is pushed to the forefront with head nodding, bass thumping, and expressive, sampled beats. There definitely is a Dilla influence within his sound, but to his credit he has put his own signature on it.
As an emcee, Black Milk is more than competent. His rhymes combine rawness with cleverly written lines, although at times you wish the showiness would subside to show a more introspective side. His bravado and rhyme skill, rather than oft-redundant subject matter, are his main concentration.
Nonetheless, the album has many highlights, such as the collaboration with a reunited Slum Village on “Action,” and all the guest spots shine quite nicely, featuring a lot of up and coming and local emcees. Michigan’s own One Be Lo stands out on “Take It There” and Guilty Simpson compliments the hard-hitting lead single “Sound The Alarm.” Overall, Popular Demand is a fitting introduction to Black Milk’s abilities.
– Mike LaCroix
Black Milk (Fat Beats)