2014 was not a hugely notable year for hip-hop, but one particular album stood out above all else. Hip Hip duo El-P and Killer Mike, collectively known as Run the Jewels, released their sophomore album (aptly titled Run the Jewels 2) to reviews of the highest praise. The futuristic production, with fast tempo bass beats, heavily layered over Killer Mikes extraordinarily dark lyrics, provide the perfect compliment. The deeply personal threats, and general shit talking, on the album, provide the perfect soundtrack to a black culture that had a tumultuous 2014. Despite everything, however, there is a certain triumph floating through the album. Mike and El-P take a machiavellian approach to competition, and revel in their success. Run the Jewels 2 is the sonic equivalent of a shabby flower growing out of a pot of dirt.
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