Lasers? That album was a loser. Despite it somehow crossing the 500,000 sold barrier, I would have to imagine that the confused,overproduced mess that was Lupe Fiasco’s last album doesn’t get too many repeat plays.
“Around My Way (Freedom Ain’t Free)” is the first single from Lupe’s upcoming fourth product, and is infinitely better than anything on Lasers. In an age of depoliticized music, Lupe decided to get his dead prez on. Even though I don’t always agree with the man’s politics (I’m still seething over the “Obama is a terrorist” thing,) it’s good to hear someone bringing a truly rebellious spirit back to hip-hop. The song rides over a sample of Pete Rock & CL Smooth’s “They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y.)”, which in itself sampled Tom Scott’s “Today.” Pete Rock’s comments criticizing the track sound opportunistic and desperate. I’m just happy that Lupe’s making listenable music.