Posted on 09/15/2008
Those outside of Toronto may find it difficult to understand what Kardinal Offishall’s Not 4 Sale means to the city. In a scene long overlooked by an industry whose center was just south of its border, Kardinal (alongside few others), has been carrying a generation of heads on his shoulders for years. For many internationally, Kardinal has become the quintessential Toronto emcee, building a rep locally while outside recognition crept in.

Some Kardi fans, in defense of hip-hop and in the name of “realness,” may take issue with a few of the high profile (read: mainstream, commercial, pop) guest spots. They might question T-Pain’s talent and hate on Akon’s skills. But really, “Numba 1 (Tide is High)” is a clever remake, even with Rihanna lacing it.

Listeners will be hard pressed to find fault with “Due Me A Favour,” featuring Estelle and “Set it Off,” will be a definite hit for the club kids. “Nina,” a sweet tune reminiscent of Beres Hammond, conjures up memories of couples in dimly lit basement jams. And “Burnt,” with its creative lyrics, dancehall influence, and signature cadence, is classic Kardinal.

Toronto, a city in which residents acknowledge its long standing self-hate issues, rarely ever cheered for the home team. However, with Not 4 Sale the T Dot can proudly support one of its own without the guilt of nepotism. Kardinal Offishall skanks to the beat of his own riddim – a rude bwoy with a rude bwoy walk.

- Alison Isaac