The hip-hop scene, as incestuous and derivative as it is, constantly needs a unique voice to keep it fresh and relevant. Jonah (http://www.j-jonah.com) belongs to the category of rappers who are trying to do something different, sneaking in some social commentary amidst the toe-tapping urban beats and lyrics about chicks.
He puts his best foot first with the catchy and wonderfully empathetic "Tip Yo Waiter," which addresses the hard work but low wages waiters earn. Compared to the obnoxious wealth-spewing attitudes of many popular hip-hop acts, showing off their expensive jewelery and glossy automobiles, what a breath of fresh air it is to hear a rapper find sympathy in the plight of the working class. "Tip Yo Waiter" is a powerful track, one of the year's best singles.
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On "Keep On," Jonah continues his focus on inner-city life, lamenting the violence that pulls brotherhoods - and neighborhoods - apart. As a rapper, Jonah is more laid back, closer to the warmth of A Tribe Called Quest and De La Soul than the brass-knuckled angst of Public Enemy.
Musically, too, Jonah doesn't settle for generic Top-40 rhythms, utlizing Spanish flavors on "Straw to Bricks" that is really surprising, and exciting, for this genre.
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