Over the past 12+ years, the name Jedi Mind Tricks has become
synonymous with raw, gritty underground hip-hop. With November 11th's
6th studio release, "A History of Violence," Vinnie Paz, beat maestro
Stoupe and long estranged "partner in rhyme" Jus Allah reunite,
rekindling the spirit of their last collaborative full length, 1998's
renowned classic "Violent By Design." A mature masterpiece, Jedi's
signature style continues to evolve as the group moves self-assuredly
into their second decade as undisputed leaders within the independent
hip-hop landscape; their unique sound, and the movement that it has
spawned, is responsible for no less than the genesis of an entire
sub-genre of music.
And now Jedi Mind Tricks has returned with a renewed vigor. With the
first single, "Monolith," Stoupe laces sultry vocals upon a
head-nodding drum line, setting the backdrop for Vinnie's politically
and socially incendiary lyrical delivery (political sentiment also
served to inspire the album title and accompanying cover imagery).
And for the first time in years, the duo's inimitable sound is rounded
out by the fiery vocals of erstwhile member Jus Allah. Re-united and
reconstituted, this is the Jedi Mind Tricks that both captivated a
generation and paved the way for a flourishing sub-culture of hardcore
independent hip-hop.
Be sure to catch Jedi on their "A History of Violence" Fall Tour
(dates below) and don't forget to check out "Divine Fire: The Story of
Jedi Mind Tricks" DVD and limited edition varsity jacket, available
exclusively through Ihiphop.com.