LYRICS BORN

As U Were

2010-10-25

Born in Tokyo and currently residing in Berkeley, Tom Shimura (a.k.a. Lyrics Born) is an MC, radio DJ, producer and musician. He's been on the music scene for quite a while, collaborating with the likes of Blackilicious, Poets of Rhythm, Stereo MC's, and KRS-One, among others. He was also half of the duo Latryx, with Lateef the Truthspeaker; but enough of his history. "As U Were" is essentially a hip hop album, but it's much more. It features cool beats, occasionally amusing lyrics, and even skits. There must be a keytar in use as the album opens with the very 1980's sounding "Kontrol Phreak". Then, the album seems to progress chronologically to a more current sound. There are some notable guests here as well; including Joyo Velarde (Mrs. Shimura) on "I've Lost Myself". If you like the artists Del the Funky Homosapien or Cee-Lo (other artists Lyrics Born has collaborated with), you might like this release. Rebecca Ruth

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Rock

  • reviewed 01/2017

    Cheap Emotion
    Hospital Talk

  • reviewed 07/2014

    GOT A GIRL
    I love You But I Must Drive Off This Cliff Now

  • reviewed 08/2016

    Matt Brown
    Walk Into The Light

  • reviewed 05/2007

    Arjun
    Pieces

  • reviewed 11/2016

    Batwings Catwings
    Coast To Coast

  • reviewed 07/2007

    THE WHITE STRIPES
    Icky Thump

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.