MUSIC MUST-HAVE: Professional Hobbyist by Praverb The Wise
Okay, so I’m a day late and a dollar short when it comes to my write-up of my man Praverb’s “Professional Hobbyist”CD. After all, it was released last October and here we are going into April . . . fortunately, I believe that any press is good press; and, along with the fact that Praverb recently made the acapella’s available to producers and beat-makers for remix purposes, there is still quite a bit of buzz surrounding the project. And it is for good reason that there is still a buzz . . . .
Before I get into my review of Professional Hobbyist, let me share with you some of the reasons why I am a fan of Praverb in general. First of all, the man has a tremendous work ethic. For an unsigned artist, I don’t think I know of anyone else who has put in as much work on their own material as well as collaborations on a global level. Second, Praverb is a Christian; and, he does not allow his faith to be a hindrance. Instead, Praverb embraces it and allows it to strengthen his music. And finally, he is a lyricist who appreciates the essence of what makes hip-hop the unique art that it is. I can safely say that I look up to Praverb as an example because of these traits. He has many more; but, these, to me, are at the core of who he is as an emcee.
As for the album, itself, PraverbDotNet describes it as, “. . . a ten track journey that examines a man who is a blue collar man by day and an emcee by night. The project highlights the struggles associated with vocation, educational goals, personal life and a time consuming hobby. . .” The album features production talents from global beat-makers such as This Is Tomorrow , Manu Beats , LX-Beats , Skipless , Muneshine and more. BrainStormers crew mate, Dj Grazzhoppa , adds scratch hooks on three of the ten tracks; and, the project also boasts a feature from longtime collaborator Don Streat. Impressive collaborations; but, how does it sound? (Dope, of course!)
It isn’t very often any more that you pick up an album and enjoy every track (my own included). Professional Hobbyist is that rare exception. Of the ten tracks on the album, not one is even remotely average. My favorite track would have to be NOTHING TO GAIN. Praverb brings masterful delivery of well-written lyrics over dope production. What more could you ask for?!?!?!?!? Other tracks from the album that are in constant rotation on my android player are the title track PROFESSIONAL HOBBYIST, THE CRITIC, and THAT’S HOW IT IS FEATURING DON STREAT.
So in summary, Professional Hobbyist is an eclectic collection of beats and rhymes, each track unique in its own way; but, perfectly suited to fit together in one package. Praverbs rhyme voice lends itself well to just about any type of production; and, he proves it on each of the ten tracks on this album. I highly recommend that you check out Professional Hobbyist by Praverb The Wyse. I rate this album a four out of five.