Hard to Earn (1994) Does this Brooklyn-based rap duo have something to prove? Certainly sounds like it on Hard to Earn . Leaning toward hard-edged funk and chaotic drumbeats… Gang Starr
Music Review

Hard to Earn (1994)

Gang Starr
Reviewed by James Bernard | Mar 18, 1994
EW's GRADE
A

Details Lead Performance: Gang Starr

Does this Brooklyn-based rap duo have something to prove? Certainly sounds like it on Hard to Earn. Leaning toward hard-edged funk and chaotic drumbeats with only the occasional horn, piano, or keyboard loop, DJ Premier seems determined to shake the ''jazz-rap'' label once and for all. In his patented raspy alto, rapper Guru reminds us how long he's been around and compensates for his lack of verbal gymnastics with charm and accessibility. A

Originally posted Mar 18, 1994 Published in issue #214 Mar 18, 1994 Order article reprints