Album Review: Big Tone – The Art Of Ink (2009)

Album Review: Big Tone – The Art Of Ink (2009)
Rating: 4 out of 5 Potholes

Big Tone attempts to succinctly describe The Art Of Ink as being both a tribute to the articulation of written thought as well as tattoo art on the album’s introduction, but it would be unfair to suggest that his latest studio effort tarries in the particular. While the general concept is an adequate and intriguing one – Big Tone clearly sees the album release as a canvas in which he pens his viewpoint and perspective – The Art Of Ink is a well rounded piece of work both in terms of content and production. From the majestic Detroit bounce of ‘Pedigree’, to the almost modernist take on Motown of ‘Chocolate’, or the helplessly heartsick soul of ‘Squo’, he has crafted a full and rich project that showcases his ability to make music covering almost all bases.

The production works particularly well here; The Art Of Ink is made all the more accessible for those not previously familiar with the artist’s material as a result of some wonderfully melodic and distinctive soundscapes that provide an interesting introduction to the deeply personal lyricism at the heart of the album.

There are missteps, but nothing that could be used as a criticism to demean the album as a whole, and there is certainly not anything that could be vehemently dismissed as terrible. Generally, it has to be said that this is a consistent offering in a time in which it can be so difficult to find something that provides more than two or three memorable tracks, and in a climate in which the merits of production and the emphasis placed upon it seem to increasingly outweight those brought to the table by the MC themselves, The Art Of Ink deserves a considerable amount of appreciation. This album may not necessarily change your own life, but it is important to recognise it as a successful and satisfying exploration of Big Tone’s.