Big Dada Records
2004
Ty
Upwards
About This Album
Compared to fellow British rappers Roots Manuva and Dizzee Rascal, Ty's introduction into the recording ranks, his 2001 debut Awkward, came with a small impact. That low profile suited the mild-mannered rapper, whose lyrics, delivery, and production embodied traits -- thoughtfulness, modesty, introspection -- rarely celebrated in rap music, whether commercial or independent. A Ty track can celebrate his lyrical skills (of which he has plenty), reminisce over his shy-kid childhood as a Nigerian immigrant in London, or intelligently discuss a range of social concerns. That he spits lyrics that give pause while maintaining his groove and floating cutting-edge productions are extra feats, ones that made Awkward a left-field success for British rap. His second album, Upwards, is a contender for many 2003 end-of-the-year lists (although its American release came five months later). While not the unadulterated success that Ty truly deserves, Upwards is steadily interesting, it grows more bewitching with each listen (traits common to a mature artist), and it's occasionally brilliant. Early on, the single "Wait a Minute" has an interesting topic (lack of communication in romance) but a broken-beat hook that quickly wears out its welcome.
Track List (try tracks 1,3,4,6,9,10 and 11)

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