Tuesday, November 14, 2006

CD Review: GOAT’s Absolute Truth

By Erin Rice

There is something to be said for learning and studying one’s craft. Local hip-hop artist, GOAT (which stands for Grades of Absolute Truth), who has recently released his full length, solo album entitled Absolute Truth, holds a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of North Texas, with a concentration in classical voice. Anyone familiar with music education in the United States knows that UNT has one of the premier music programs covering a broad spectrum of study. Those who take the time to check out Absolute Truth will be treated to GOAT’s passion for and knowledge of his profession.

The theme of alcohol pervades throughout the entirety of Absolute Truth, including a playful reference in the title (think Citron, Raspberri, Mandarin… there you go). The listener, however, is not underwhelmed with countless trite party references. Instead, GOAT covers several situations where alcohol can play a role, including at the party, in the bedroom, and even the tragedies that can occur when mixed with driving. Heavily infusing this theme of alcohol and excess into the entire album may make it difficult for most artists to differentiate between songs, but for GOAT the task is easily met. Each of his songs takes on its own distinct flavor, pulling from varied musical and lyrical sources.

According to GOAT, he is influenced by musicians like Talib Kweli, Brandon Boyd of Incubus, and Stevie Ray Vaughn, as well as the poet Edgar Allen Poe. When paying close attention to the Absolute Truth one can hear GOAT’s varied influences given voice. The album starts off with the sounds and voices typical of a bar setting, which lead into the first track, “Count Me N," sure to be a frat party favorite across DFW colleges as the album gains in popularity. Then in “Hollowed LUV," GOAT steps out of the hip-hop mold and breaks it down with a furious, rock-inspired passion that I haven’t seen from this genre in far too long. GOAT later brings in an early 90’s groove with the track entitled “Sexual Playgrounds," featuring Stacia McNeil, which is reminiscent of L.L. Cool J’s old favorite “Doin’ It." Creepy factoid: a simple Google search reminded me that L.L. Cool J came out with an album entitled G.O.A.T. in 2000. Coincidence? Ok yeah, probably, but I can speculate.

What struck me the most about this album were its depth and its ability to transcend musical and artistic genres. From hip-hop lovers, to rock enthusiasts, to spoken-word poets, most everyone will be able to find something to appreciate in Absolute Truth.

If you missed TexasGigs’ interview with GOAT from last week, be sure to check it out here to find out more about the artist and the album in his own words.

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