Nujabes - Metaphorical Music

Nujabes
"Blessing It (Remix) feat. Substantial and Pase Rock" from Metaphorical Music (2003, Hyde Out Productions)

"Horn in the Middle" from Metaphorical Music (2003, Hyde Out Productions)

Metaphorical Music: the melodic full length debut of Japanese born Hip Hop producer Nujabes. The soulful, rhythmic, often jazz-based style exerted through Nujabes' music has made this album a Diggin’ favorite since its release in 2003.

The moment I popped in this gem I was sold. The first track, "Blessing It (Remix)", is a reflection of Hip Hop’s true spirit from self-proclaimed "Hip Hop apostles" Substantial (QN5 Extended F@mm member) and Pase Rock (of Five Deez fame). As a pair, Substantial and Pase Rock lead you on a trek through their thoughts on Hip Hop culture and their promise to stay “on point like the pens we right with” through conscious, thought provoking lyricism. Nujabes "stays blessin’ it" himself via a soothing, saxaphone laced instrumental masterpiece.

Next on deck is a jazzy, electronic fused instrumental entitled "Horn in the Middle". Man am I a sucker for brasswind, this track reminds me why. Nujabes brings the heat with an addictive horn loop you won’t soon forget. The track is broken up with somewhat unintelligible speaking and electronica inspired breakdowns, then wraps up with a solid drum solo. Aspiring Fruity Loops producers, take notes. I know you’re out there.

The album continues on as a relaxing, part instrumental, part lyrical affair. Guest spots include Cise Star from CYNE, Uyama Hiroto, Shing02 and the whole Five Deez crew. Do yourself a favor and pick this one up, I promise you won’t regret it. You’ll most likely have to import it (yeah, more imports!). An easy place to do so would be HMV Japan.

From his beginnings as the label head of the highly lauded Japanese Hip Hop imprint, Hyde Out Productions, to his current success as co-creator of the soundtrack to Japan’s animated television series "Samurai Champloo", Nujabes is an amazing producer that demands your listening attention. Until next time, keep diggin' ya'll.