Immortal Technique - Revolutionary Vol. 1
Viper Records
On this day in 2001 Felipe Coronel, known by his stage name 'Immortal Technique', released his debut album 'Revolutionary Vol. 1' on Viper Records.
Revolutionary Vol. 1 is the worlds introduction to one of hip-hop's most alert, aware and you could say 'dangerous' minds. Dangerous to the powers that be, uplifting to the people beneath said powers. A lot of what Immortal Technique does would come under the umbrella of something that I would refer to as 'Reality Rap'. It calls you out on your, and others, inconsequential bullshit ways and woes. Acts like Technique tend to remain among the most respected and well regarded individuals on the contemporary scene. His content and reassured delivery of said content make him a go-to for political views and wise words surrounding historical occurrences. A lot of the material found on Revolutionary Vol. 1 could be seen as delicate territory. The discussions, somewhat taboo in nature, and conversations swept under the rug for another generation to stare down the barrel are dragged up for air. Revolutionary Vol. 1 serves as a political rally with intent on bringing the seedy workings of world events to light. A rough around the edges presentation style is adopted throughout. It's the only way the subject matter would work to its full power.
Dance With The Devil is the kind of track that lives long in the memory. It's the sort of material that becomes, or rather has become, street folklore. Technique's cold-hearted take no prisoners approach to story-telling leaves an indelible mark on each and every listener. Potentially scarring depending on circumstance. Ask any hip-hop head about their first time hearing it and they'll have a story to tell. It's impossible not to mention Dance With the Devil when Immortal Technique's name is brought into the mix.
"If you were given freedom by the same people who made you into a slave, then do you really know what freedom is and have you ever really experienced it at all?"
September 14th, 2001.
