Afu-Ra: Life Force Radio

Live shows seem to rank somewhere between an afterthought and a necessary evil for most rappers, but Afu-Ra is part of a small but growing number of artists as renowned for their shows as for their recorded output. With his striking looks, boundless energy, and karate-inspired stage moves, Ra ranks as one of rap's most charismatic live performers, but his otherwise-solid 2000 debut, Body Of The Life Force, only intermittently captured the excitement of his stage show. His second album, Life Force Radio, does a far better job of recreating that energy while showcasing his growth as a lyricist. Executive-produced by DJ Premier, who also produced two tracks, Life Force Radio flows together so cohesively that it's easy to overlook its striking variety. Just as Ra's persona combines aspects of Eastern culture, True School ethics, and Rastafarian beliefs, Life Force Radio borrows wisely from an impressive array of sounds and styles. The Easy Mo Bee-produced "Hip-Hop" is a rock-guitar-fueled banger along the lines of M.O.P.'s "Ante Up" and "How About Some Hardcore." M.O.P. itself turns up on the next track, threatening to beat Osama bin Laden down Brownsville-style. "Readjustment" offers political commentary of a less aggressive variety, while the aptly titled "Lyrical Monster" showcases the chemistry between Ra and mentor Premier, who delivers his signature brand of minimalist perfection. Elsewhere, Ra pays tribute to mothers, wives, and daughters on "1, 2, 3," joins forces with ace beat-boxer Human Orchestra on "Aural Fixation," and reconnects with his Rastafarian roots on the reggae-flavored "Think Before You…" Premier takes a less hands-on approach here than on Ra's debut, but production-wise, Radio marks a distinct improvement. A righteous student of hip-hop, Afu-Ra has clearly studied the lessons of his elders, and the terrific Life Force Radio proves the charismatic MC more than worthy of carrying on their legacy.