A lot of classicists and purists in the rap game complain about the lack of substance in today’s rap. Those folks have never heard of Isaiah Toothtaker. A two time convicted felon and tattoo parlor owner, there is no questioning the badassness of Mr. Toothtaker, and upon a first listen to “Numb”, you’ll understand very quickly how serious this guy is.
The track itself discusses Toothtaker’s past: his crimes, his vices, and his problems, while the video portrays flowing codeine in double cups and Isaiah smoking plenty of weed. The duality is intense, and the haunting beat from Steel Tipped Dove provides the perfect backdrop for Isaiah’s story. The cinematography from the famed Ricky Shabazz tie it all together quite nicely, making “Numb” one of the most striking singles I’ve seen out of 2013.
“Numb” will be featured on Isaiah Toothtaker’s solo mixtape, due out March 1.