Lend Me Your Ear “Forbidden”

HipHop has no bounds. Which is apropos for the Austin, Texas based band that considers themselves “a space rap group from nowhere”.  Their sound is not limited to contemporary trends, their music is more reminiscent of ATLiens. Lend Me Your Ear the group consists of lead emcee Klein Klimp who’s lyrical prowess, cadence and vocal tone is eerily similar to that of Big Boi’s from Outkast. Alongside, Stank XM who wear two hats as an executive producer & emcee, to instrumentalist Sam Cabot who handles the keys, Nate Earthsong who plays the saxophone, and guest member Jean Loustaunau on drums. 

“Forbidden” is a conceptual album riddled with metaphors and prose. The production is grandiose, the writing is dense with dexterity. 

The music throughout is at times cozy and mellow. The Austin, Texas group enlists various artists for features that are cohesive. Lend Me Your Ear journeys musically on a mission to enrapture and capture the census. 

“The Goddess (Intro)” - majestically opens up the album with an elegant backdrop. The production replays a David Oliver “I Wanna Write You a Love Song” sample. Lend Me Your Ear instrumentalists create a mesmerizing palette luring the listener while Klein Klimp litters poetic quibbles to commence. 

“Luv EXP” the neo-soul, jazz influenced production is mellow and halcyon with a hint of bounce. This track features two emcees and guest a appearance with vocals by Casey Dion. The first cut featuring both emcees find the two delivering fun filled verses full of wit, and charm. Klein raps “that’s bank tree that paint tree so dangly , that’s dank tree in Eden, we heading out this evening that’s Un...intentional like aids on your minerals”. While Stank XM retorts “Welcome to the lions den, I’m like a nine to ten show me a pirate and I’ll show you who I’m nicer than”.

“Perfume” the saxophone employed is masterful relaying a longing, and salacious ambience. While the vocals by featuring artist Moda Magic adorns the recording. This recording is elegant which features both emcees narrating their pursuit on various exploits and while displaying their lyrical prowess. 

“Forbidden - Remix “ features a jazzy cool backdrop driven by rhodes and a mean bass line. While the lyrics like prior tracks flirt with religious concepts. 

“Gushy” features a guess appearance by Remidi who initiates with cunning flows and couplets unleashed in rapid succession while the band members deliver metaphorical onslaughts to match. The production is laced with nicely tuned 808s changing the pace of the album to a more convivial iteration.  

“The Goddess (Interlude)” comes at the juncture of the album while production carries over from the intro the lead emcee elicits divine inspired rhetoric. 

“She Walks” features an incredible reggae infused bass line, and Roger Troutman inspired auto-tuned vocal backdrops. This cut is packed with rhythm and movement while the emcees nonchalantly rap while complimenting the female saunter. 

“Rainy Day” is driven by filtered piano chords that are both emotional and riveting while Katie Jae vocals hovers over the production with an impassioned plea. This is reminiscent of a 1950s island influenced recording. One of the most compelling records featured on this album where everything is skillfully performed. Coupled with an introspective verse from Masta Ace, both him, and Klein Klip deliver on this recording. 

“Stay Educated” by now you can obviously make out the Big Boi influence in Klein Klimp’s approach, but the sample used makes it that much more difficult to distinguish whether it’s actually the lead emcee or the legendary Outkast member. However, the recording is well crafted Klein once again displays his lyrical adeptness his wordplay seems effortless but ingenious while stating “microphone prescription for my depression”. This record features a guest appearance by Backbone who brings it. 

“Righteous” is theatrical. The production trenscends to higher a altitude. Marinated with plush piano keys, a cold sax performance, and  a chilling lyrical performance this is another standout track on the album. 

“Forbidden” features Casey Dion who is featured on the remix as well. The sequencing is meticulously curated as this track is placed second to last. This original is an extended version. 

“The Goddess (Outro)” once again incorporates the same production from prior recordings and is utilized to tie the album together for a seamless experience. 

This album interjects faith based conceptual premises with eccentric wordplay and monumental production. Conceptually, aligning religious parables with the apotheosis of women, what this album seems to manifest into is an ode to Godly women. Driven by innovative concepts and sublime collaboration ”Forbidden” is an amazing listen and recommend for all to lend an ear. To see HipHop mature to where bands can be formed is awe inspiring and indicative that this culture is ever evolving and will forever be a team sport.