Special to the ArgusReview: Nappy Roots: Wooden LeatherAtlantic Records
Back with their second album, “Wooden Leather,” off the success of their first, the boys of Nappy Roots have something to say as they address one lesson they have learned from their entire journey, “the who damn world country.”This time around Skinny Deville, Scales, R. Prophet, B Stille, Big V and Ron Clutch retain much of the formula that made their first CD Watermelon, Chicken and Grits a platinum-selling album.And for those who like the soulful tune of Anthony Hamilton, he’s back on a number of tracks on the CD, most notably, “Sick and Tired.” In the chorus to the song Hamilton belts out , “I’m sick and tired of being criticized, sick and tired of barely getting by/I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired,” Other thought provoking tracks include “Push On,” “These Walls,” “Work in Progress,” which are among some of the best the album has to offer. Besides Hamilton the sextet also collaborated with Raphael Saadiq who produced two tracks on the CD “Leave This Morning” and “Work In Progress.” Other producers included Kayne West, David Banner, Lil John and Mike City to name a few. While there is a blend of conscious music which is built off of much introspection, the boys seem to have fun on several of their other tracks. “Nappy Holiday,” which was produced by Banner, recalls the groups 2002 honor of having an official “Nappy Roots Day” declared by Kentucky Governor Paul E. Patton. The chorus of it all shows the dedication the group have made to each other as the chorus goes, “I am because I am/we are because we are.”Tracks such as “Twang,” Lac Dogs & Hogs,” “What Cha Gonna Do?” will no doubt be a pleasure on the club scene.If you’re a fan of Nappy Roots, this CD will be a pleasure, and even newcomers will enjoy it. The CD will have you stomping your feet, and nodding to your head to the beat.What this album represents most and does best is to showcase the struggles of staying together even when fame can drive a wedge between. It represents not forgetting where you come from even when they paycheck gets a little better. More so it is an anthem for all the people out there who are on the grind and on the hustle trying to find a better way.”Wooden Leather,” proves that the sequel can be as good as the first.