Record Label: Epitaph
Genre: Hip Hop
Band Link: link
Buy on Amazon.com link

Ironically, Epitaph’s hip-hop artists have become the best things on the label. Musically, I prefer Atmosphere and Eyedea & Abilities, but Sage Francis is the more lyrically astute of the group, and his verses showcase the poetic, thoughtful side of rap. Often more personal than political, his words are affecting, and I thank Epitaph for including the lyric sheets.

But unfortunately Sage doesn’t have an engaging rap style – partly because he seems to write more in a slam poet way, which doesn’t transfer well when sung, and also because his voice seems a little too high (almost Eminem-ish) and his lyrics and vocal lines would sound better delivered in a lower register. The music helps out though, with a mix of r&b, funk, techno, and hard rock. And let’s face it – I critique because I love, and Sage Francis is better than the last ten punk signings on this label.

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