Thrust

THE CHOSEN ARE FEW
THRUST
Blueprint Records / EMI Music Canada
Ranking 4.5/10

After Thrust's amazing lyrical contributions to the Rascalz' hit 'Northern Touch' and Soul Decision's hit 'Faded', one couldn't help but take notice of this Canadian emcee. Thrust's stop and start rap style, combined with a voice reminiscent of The Notorious B.I.G., provide him with the potential to become a reckoning force. A six year wait since the release of his last EP, Past, Present, Future, has culminated in the release of Thrust's highly anticipated debut album, The Chosen Are Few.

The Chosen Are Few features a very diverse lineup of Canadian producers including Kardinal Offishall, Solitair, Da Grassroots and more. Unfortunately, this diverse production crew does not help to save Thrust on this album. The Chosen Are Few felt more like a freestyle album, than a well-engineered lyrical album. In fact, Thrust struggles to drop lyrics that do much more than flow. It was rather disappointing. This is especially evident on the title track, 'The Chosen Are Few'. It's the album's most amazing track, as Kardinal further establishes himself as a premiere hip hop producer, but its really hard to figure out if Thrust's lyrics have any meaning at all. As well, the first single, 'This Is For Sure' was rather disappointing as well. 'The Music' had the potential to be dope, as both Thrust and Solitair drop tight verses, but the Solitair-produced beat was weak and the chorus of: "Ain't nuttin' like hip hop music. You like it cause you choose it," was embarrassing. Aside from the title track, there was only one other truly impressive track: 'Pen And A Pad'. This song features tight lyrical flow from Frankenstein and a dope beat produced by Frankie Ano. Other artists to grace the album include Choclair, Divine Earth Essence, Remy, and 10. As well, the two hidden bonus tracks feature Saukrates, Ro Ro Dolla, Mr. Roam and Smokey.

Overall, this album failed to meet its expectations. Thrust has a great voice, but his lyrical skills need refining. When that has been accomplished, and combined with more impressive beats, then Thrust will find success. In the mean time, not all is lost, but it's Time for Thrust to head back to the drawing board.

Troy Neilson
This review was written September 27, 2001