December 10, 2004 @ 2:36 pm

Review: Pass The Mic - Def Poetry: Season 1 (HBO)

by: Kevin Wong

With its roots based in the African oral tradition, slam poetry relies heavily upon delivery. The right delivery coupled with poignant words is what brings it to life. Running the gamut of subject matter —

Containing all four original, uncensored episodes, the DVD features a lineup of spoken word artists performing in front of a packed house at New York's Supper Club. Each spoken word artist recites a single poem on the mic, enabling a many artists to perform as well as offering variety to the audience so that they don't zone out. Black Ice spits a rapid-fire poem urging young black males to take responsibility for their actions. Sarah Jones performs a sexually charged, call-to-arms for women of the hip hop generation. And Poetri laments about his relationship problems with "Money." Other highlights include a famous or established poet, such as Nikki Giovanni and Amiri Baraka, taking center stage to perform an original work. Unfortunately the producer's weren't as on point when they decided to invite other celebrities to recite poems. While folksinger Jewel smashed at paralleling sex with the beauty of America's open land, Cedric The Entertainer and Dave Chappelle didn't shine quite so well. And forget about the DVD extras. There's only one - a documentary on the creation of Def Poetry that renders as a chopped up, badly edited series of interviews that add little value to the production. Despite its missteps, Def Poetry is worthy of entering your DVD player. Besides, it captures the hip hop generation's myriad reactions to a post 911 America. In an era where apathy rules, this DVD is a breath of fresh, creative air. To buy this DVD click here

Article tags: Review, Pass, Mic, Def, Poetry, Season, 1, HBO

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