In that sense, the Roots are still able to be a voice for the underclass, which is part of the reason hip-hop got started 30 years ago. Rising Down probably won't win the band any new fans, but it is honest lyrically and as politically aggressive as the politicians they criticize. Given the state of the world, ?uest says, they couldn't imagine making a record filled with joy. In fact, only a few weeks before the album was scheduled to drop, they cut their previously radio-friendly single — "Birthday Girl," featuring Patrick Stump of Fall Out Boy — from the album because it didn't mesh.

"Even though we're talking about some heavy shit on the album, we knew that the music would have to be banging," ?uest says. "The emotions lyrically are intense. At the same time, the music is as abrasive as ever, and it had to be that way. We know people want that chiropractic, break-ya-back, head-nod shit, so when people come and see us, they'll get plenty of that, as well."

<< Previous Page | 1 | 2 | All
 
My Voice Nation Help
0 comments
Sort: Newest | Oldest
 

Concert Calendar

  • May
  • Sat
    18
  • Sun
    19
  • Mon
    20
  • Tue
    21
  • Wed
    22
  • Thu
    23
  • Fri
    24
Phoenix Event Tickets
©2013 Phoenix New Times, LLC, All rights reserved.
Browse Voice Nation
  • Voice Places Phoenix

    Voice Places

    Find everything you're looking for in your city

  • Happy Hour App

    Happy Hour App

    Find the best happy hour deals in your city

  • Daily Deals

    Daily Deals

    Get today's exclusive deals at savings of anywhere from 50-90%

  • Best Of

    Best Of...

    Check out the hottest list of places and things to do around your city