Macklemore’s Incendiary Album, “The Heist”

It’s a damn shame that the two songs from Macklemore’s first studio album The Heist are “Thrift Shop” and “Can’t Hold Us”. It shows how devolved we have become as a society. Anything with a beat and a catchy hook is topping the charts and on everyone’s iPod. But as you bee-bop down the road, don’t forget to browse through the other 13 songs on the CD, which have depth, character, and purpose. All delivered with a gritty, yet soulful tone.

“Neon Cathedral” talks about alcoholism and the struggles he faces through the ups and downs. Allen Stone, one of the most soulful voices in the music business, sings the hook, “Underneath this fragile frame, lives a battle between pride and shame. But I misplaced that   sense of fright, this crown of thorns is perched atop my spine. But listen closely as I testify, Dependency has been a thief at night.”

Songs like this don’t seem to make it out of the box, but they make the album. Introspective, real, and raw.

“Same Love” talks about Gay rights. In a rare move by any musician, Macklemore supports gay marriage and stresses equality.

“Ten Thousand Hours”  is largely based from Malcom Gladwell’s book, Outliers, which talks about the 10,000-hour rule (The key to success in any field is brought on by practicing for around 10,00 hours)

“Wing$” touches on how we’ve become corporate puppets over things like Air Jordan’s. He talks specifically about growing up and how important it was for him to have Nikes versus other shoes.

Overall, the album is phenomenal. A must listen for anyone that wants to listen to actual music with purpose. If not, go buy Lil Wayne’s new CD.