Editor’s Note: The Albumism staff has selected what we believe to be the 110 Best Albums of the 2010s, representing a varied cross-section of artists, genres, and styles. Click “Next Album” below to explore each album in the list or for easier navigation, view the full introduction & album index here.
KA | Grief Pedigree
Iron Works (2012)
Selected by Jesse Ducker
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When he’s not working as a captain in the FDNY, Brownsville’s Ka has been helping lead the resurgence of gritty East Coast hip-hop. Grief Pedigree is his masterpiece, a grim, severe soundtrack to the grimy streets and dark alleyways. Rapping in a harsh near-whisper, Ka blesses the often-drumless production with sharp insights and observations on how to survive an often unforgiving environment. It’s a cold world out there, but Ka packs enough lyrical and musical heat for everyone.
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