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Sadly, music concerning real issues -- such as racism, sexism, materialism, poverty and conformity -- is being neglected for negativity in a majority of today’s Hip-Hop industry.

Had it not been for Tha Truth -- a political/alternative rapper and activist -- independently releasing his music on the streets and via the internet, we may not have been given the opportunity to hear a meaningful message from one of Hip-Hop's most promising and authentic emcees. (The major record labels seem more concerned with fake tales of violence over sloppy R 'n' B beats these days.)

Through persistent hard work, various political and social issues have been heard and acknowledged by the people on the streets since first discovering Truth’s music; and word of mouth has since contributed to a steadily-growing cult following for the Philadelphian-born rapper.

This year sees the release of the follow-up to 2006's Tha Civil Rights Movement, which further showcases his talent for producing progressive, revolutionary Hip-Hop.

‘Camden 28’, the first track on the album, immediately cements Truth’s message from a political standpoint: “Look up the mystery, learn real history.”

'Universal Healthcare' further portrays his desire to teach when he spits “I’m never hesitant to bring real issues to focus/In trying to find a job you like can seem hopeless/When you gotta worry first about healthcare choking us.”

Truth demonstrates, arguably, the most natural form of lyric writing -- the stream of consciousness -- and still manages to showcase an in-depth knowledge of a particular area of study. When writing lyrics with such a technique it is often easy for artists to get carried away and go off point, but the man remains very specific to his subject matter here, which is commendable.

Delivery wise, Truth is developing into a serious emcee within today’s Hip-Hop community. His voice is crisp, with every word easy to hear, and his flow seems to be on beat throughout. The softly-spoken rapping may not be to everyone’s taste, considering that many emcees prefer the aggressive delivery to get their point across, but Truth’s voice is consoling to the ears and mind of listener, making him feel at ease with the music.

Also notable is the sharp production on the album, which elevates his message to new heights, beyond much of that commercial nonsensicalness. At times with the first album, I felt the production lacked that certain edge, which would have given him further appeal to those people unfamiliar with this branch of Conscious Hip-Hop. The entirety of this album’s production, however, is on point, characterised by a diversity of beat styles. Even the skits are worthy of a listen more than once.

Admittedly, it will take a while for people to come to terms with the unjust reality portrayed in Truth’s music, but if there is any justice in this industry then Tha Civil Rights Movement: Part 2 will develop into a known classic among the masses of Hip-Hop listeners.

(C) Andy Carrington, 2008.