RBG: Revolutionary but Gangsta (2004) Dead Prez proved they were legitimate torchbearers of Public Enemy's brand of political rap with 2000's explosive pro-black manifesto Let's Get Free. But with ludicrous… Dead Prez

Details Release Date: Mar 30, 2004; Lead Performance: Dead Prez

Dead Prez proved they were legitimate torchbearers of Public Enemy's brand of political rap with 2000's explosive pro-black manifesto Let's Get Free. But with ludicrous lyrics like ''My J.O.B. is just like a plantation'' (from the antiwork anthem ''W-4''), their latest ideological assault is a revolutionary belly flop. Ironic highlight: the Bambaataa-ish remix of ''Hell Yeah (Pimp the System),'' on which Jay-Z flaunts unapologetic gangsta verve.

Originally posted Apr 02, 2004 Published in issue #758 Apr 02, 2004 Order article reprints