Posted on 09/04/2008
To label Immortal Technique’s musical offerings over the last few years intense is a towering understatement. There isn’t an adjective strong enough to capture the scope of the fiery Harlem, NY (by way of Peru) MC’s rhymes and choice of subject matter. Coupled with his well-publicized activist involvements, his music serve as a sonic reminder of his convictions. After two critically acclaimed releases (which also featured a re-release of his debut Revolutionary Vol. 1), Immortal Technique returns with his uncompromising and equally vehement latest release which plays as both a mixtape and LP – The 3rd World – alongside the well-known mixtape and radio personality DJ Green Lantern.

From the onset “Death March,” produced by DJ Green Lantern, sets up the tone of the disc with its relentless drums and Immortal Tech’s anger-tinged vocals. If one is familiar with Immortal Technique, this is not a deviation from his typical fare yet it remains refreshing. The paces picks up with “That’s What It Is” produced by Spictacular. Immortal again remains in the revolutionary chamber and plays his lane well. The track provides just enough drama in the background to lend necessary weight to the serious edge of the lyrics. Another standout track, “Harlem Renaissance,” depicts the bleak ascension and subsequent decline of Immortal’s hometown in glaring, gritty detail. DJ Green Lantern’s somber yet familiar track does just enough to allow Immortal to shine. The title track, produced by DJ Green Lantern, takes the listener on Immortal Technique’s semi-autobiographical journey from Peru to America. Among the better-produced tracks on the disc, it signals the beginning of a snag.

“Hollywood Driveby,” by producer Shuko, is underwhelming and plodding. However, the extremely underrated MC Sick Jacken of Psycho Realm offers a stellar cameo verse. The downturn continues with “Open Your Eyes,” produced by Mesone and Southpaw. Immortal Tech tones down the vocals to a near whisper (for him) but it renders the song dull and the flat production doesn’t help give the track any life. However, thanks to an explosive Ras Kass cameo, “Payback” is an absolute banger. The beat, from Wutang affiliate Bronze Nazareth, is possibly the strongest track on the LP. Immortal Technique shines but Carson, California’s Ras Kass steals the show from him and Diabolic. The LP closes out with “Crimes of the Heart.” Produced by Southpaw Young Elite and featuring the dynamic vocals of Maya Azucena – an upcoming vocalist out of New York’s underground scene. While love songs should be an area Immortal should typically avoid like the plague, the song is a good listen. In all, Immortal Technique delivers another solid disc full of unapologetic revolution, aggressive rhyming and focused passion. Those who are not acclimated with his work may find this album a tough pill to swallow but in time the messages will stand out in a climate rife with themes that counter everything Immortal Technique stands for.

- D.L. Chandler