Madhattan, the enigmatic underground hip-hop duo, delivers a powerful punch with their 2019 release, "Brown Water Bible." Clocking in at just 27 minutes, this concise yet impactful album is a testament to Madhattan's ability to pack a wealth of lyrical prowess and boom bap beats into a short span. The album, released on DXA Records, LLC and Madhattan's own imprint, Madhattan, is a gritty exploration of urban life, featuring a roster of notable guests including Benny The Butcher, Rome Streetz, and Fastlife.
"Brown Water Bible" opens with "Fly Ignorance," a hard-hitting track that sets the tone for the album's raw and unapologetic approach. The album's standout moments include "Friday the 13th," a menacing collaboration with Benny The Butcher, and "Stop and Frisk," a poignant commentary on police brutality featuring Rome Streetz. The album's title track, "Brown Water Bible," is a haunting reflection on the struggles of inner-city life, while "Curtains" provides a fittingly somber close to the album.
The production on "Brown Water Bible" is characteristically rugged and sample-heavy, harkening back to the golden age of hip-hop. Madhattan's signature boom bap style is on full display, with dusty drums and eerie melodies creating a dark and atmospheric soundscape. The album's brevity is not a detriment but rather a strength, as each track is tightly crafted and packed with substance.
Fans of underground hip-hop and boom bap will find much to appreciate in "Brown Water Bible." Madhattan's distinctive style and uncompromising vision make this album a standout release in the genre. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to Madhattan's music, "Brown Water Bible" is sure to leave a lasting impression.