Brother Ali raps more gratitude than attitude, sending a refreshing surge of celebration through Chicago’s Metro.

Jake Brown takes advantage of the 25th anniversary of Def Jam Records to present music fans with his appreciation of its co-founder, Rick Rubin.

On the historic day that America elects its first African-American president, an eloquent messenger for “change,” Q-Tip releases The Renaissance. Coincidence? John-Thomas Crockett sits down with “The Abstract” prior to the outcome to discuss The Renaissance, Obama, and how he feels about Q-Tip vs. Lil Wayne.

Paper Trails (Grand Hustle/Atlantic). Review by John-Thomas Crockett.

The Recession (Def Jam/Universal/Corporate Thugz Entertainment). Review by John-Thomas Crockett.

As music festivals spring up all over the country, Bonnaroo attempts to live up to its reputation as Rolling Stone Magazine’s “Best Festival.” Jen Cray fears that the heart has gone right out of it.

Chris Catania is utterly floored by Brother Ali’s recent Chicago performance. Is the future of indie rap an albino Muslim who comes off equal parts Muhammed Ali, KRS-One and southern preacher? Maybe you should find out for yourself…

Finding Forever (Geffen Records). Review by Tim Wardyn.

Shelton Hull puts on his media critic hat to review DVD documentaries on Rastafari women and the Black Panther Party, while taking in Kool Keith’s recent TRL performance all in one sitting.

Brit-pop smash Starsailor is working on a foothold in America. Chris Catania sat down with James Walsh to find out about breaking in a new country, Bright Eyes and why American crowds giggle during “Alcoholic.”

San Francisco Debut, Unfinished Symphony (Kufala Recordings). Review by Shelton Hull.