Buffalo emcee Jae Skeese joins forces with Superior for his 4th full-length studio LP. Starting off the strength of his debut mixtape WACK (Women, Alcohol, Cash & Kicks) In the fall of 2010, just over a decade later, he and 7xvethegenius gained widespread exposure as the first signees to Conway the Machine's own EMPIRE Distribution Imprint Drumwork Music Group. 3rd EP produced by The Big Ghost Ltd Authenticity check & the previous album Uncertainties have been removed Both have increased Skeese's popularity over the past couple of years, so Testament of the Times it can only enhance it.
To start, “Union 2” jumps over an instrumental boom bam with guitar saying that it is dangerous when this has already been proven with his last 2 projects that I named near the end of the previous paragraph in my opinion while “ In My Hands » has a more jazzy approach with the goal of staying focused. “Cement 4's” work on some instruments and ask why do you think he did that since he was on a lifer leading to the “2Cents” flute which is mentioned in the actual game as priceless.
“Cantonese Characters” featuring Rome Streetz and Ty Farris come together to deliver a nearly 4-minute lyrical assault before the sumptuous keyboard embellishments on “Preguntas” speak of staying hungry and blessed. “Ksubi Tags” isn't really an interlude, but it's Jae over a heavy boom bap beat sample that feels like a wake-up threat, but then “Risk & Reward” draws inspiration from rap rock that talks about having to work to become beautiful as it is now.
OT the Realist comes into the picture on “Sign of the Cross” wistfully advising to let problems pile up while the delicately produced “Broken Mirrors” talks about being in his head and overthinking at times. “Mothers & Gods” clarifies that he's never been anyone's favorite but his mom alongside the highest power in piano chords, until “Skycraper” ends the LP on a drumless note, continuing to lay down the time and labor from ground level.
The introspective story that Uncertainties have been removed they said almost a year ago this month was a personal way for Jae to introduce himself to a wider audience, but I think I might have preferred Testament of the Times more. Superior continues to be one of the most interesting German producers in hip hop, the guest list is tighter and Skeese here intends to encourage everyone to reach new heights.
Rating: 9/10
