Median - Median's Relief

What a breathe of fresh air, it's been a while since I've come across such a down to earth hip hop album from the the states. Unfortunately Median's Relief didn't make noise on MTV or for that fact even ruffle the surface of the underground.

Median is a member of the Justus League who hail from North Carolina and over the last eight or so years have been releasing some classic underground albums, and gaining some mainstream buzz with releases from Little Brother. The Justus League has also delivered one of hip hop's most sort after beat makers in 9th Wonder and following in his steps Khrysis. With this production duo plus the talent of the Justus League roster of MC's it always creates a buzz when any member of the Justus League releases an album. This formula is repeated on Median's Relief.

Median's flow is laid back stop and go style with suits the production of both 9th Wonder and Khrysis and provides some entertaining tracks. Median's ability to make the most mundane of activities sound exciting (check the opening verse on "Personified") helps him stand out from the pack. He has also mastered his story telling skills on the captivating "Brenda's Baby" which see's Median pick up the story from 2pac's "Brenda".

"Rize" sees Median explain his roots and how is upbringing lead him to the microphone to inspire and raise children with line like "Since I was raised a little different, its got to be way to rise outside of what was given here, Jump shot could score a scholarship to get him there, plus I couldn't pump rock on my block as junkies wasn't living there". It's a great uplifting track.



"Pardon Me Dude" see Median once again flow effortlessly over a laid back track explaining how he likes to relax, pick his nose "I like to pick my nose, and get a good booger" and spend time enjoying the city where he stays. A great track to chill out to on a Sunday afternoon with a nice cold beer.



Overall I'm glad I finally got around to picking this album up and strongly advise you do the same if you come across it.

Enjoy
Average Music Fan.