Tech N9ne

My first thought, when I saw the cover mocking Michael Jackson's Thriller album was, "Who in their right mind is going to pay tribute to the gloved one in this day and age?" Then I looked closer and saw it was Tech N9ne, and it all made sense because Tech has never been in his right mind. Things must be getting worse for the Kansas City-based rapper as Killer, a double album boasting 32 tracks, begins with Tech sitting in a shrink's office and goes on to explore the lighter and darker sides of the artist's life.

Kicking things off in a party mood, "Like Yeah" stands out as one of the best tracks on Killer with a strong chorus and verses peppered with Tech's staccato vocal attack. The lighthearted sentiment continues with "Wheaties" (featuring Shawnna) and the mid-paced "Get The Fuck Outta Here," which brings The Popper and Paul Wall into the mix. Tech swings to a cynical mood on "Crybaby," where he lashes out at his industry peers who find nothing better to do but whine and bitch despite their success. Ice Cube and Brother J of X-Clan bring their own contempt to "BlackBoy."

Following the theme of building negativity, "Paint You A Dark Picture" and the apocalyptic "Hope For A Higher Power" see Tech N9ne unleashing his dark side in a big way. Mixing the heavy guitars of (hed) p.e. and the wild vocals of Kottonmouth Kings, "I Am Everything" captures the angst-ridden energy of hard rock and amplifies the emotion with Tech's contagious venom. Speaking of emotions, Tech N9ne bears his soul on the introverted tale of sacrificed love, "Happy Ending." Killer closes with the equally introspective and spiteful "Last Words." While the lyrics hint at an end to the career of Tech N9ne, the quality of this song and many others on this disc are sure to leave fans thirsty for more.

Since 1999, the unpredictable and talented Tech N9ne has clawed and fought his way towards elusive success. While the bigwigs behind the scenes haven't caught on yet, the caliber of guests that lent their talents (which also include Scarface, Liquid Assassin, and an army of fellow Kansas City rappers) have. It could be a blessing in disguise, however, that Tech has been left to his own devices as Killer proves, he's well on his way to being one of the most memorable in the genre.

–Ryan Ogle
07.25.08