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Okayplayer [View: Feature]
In 2008 dude still strikes me as the same street-savvy backpacker who’s likable despite his embodiment of the stereotypical self-aggrandizing, shit-talking emcee that he did in 2004. And while I wish he’d have dropped his First of All… sooner, he couldn’t have picked a better year year to come at the Hip-Hop game from that perspective since so many of his like-minded contemporaries — like Blu (not to mention C.R.A.C., his group with Ta’Raach), Black Spade and Kidz In the Hall, et al — have already found favor with fickle listeners sporting similar styles and points of view. [Link]
illRoots [View: Feature]
First and foremost his album “First of All” is fire and by far one of the better albums of the year. Shout out to Jon Kim for everything. Shawn is by far one of the hottest emcees coming out of the Left Coast this year. Honestly I wish that more people came out with these types of albums. Tracks one through 13 are more than just a problem they are masterpiece, the song with Guilty Simpson is fire. Tres Records is slowly making a name for themselves first with Blu and then with this guy. So without further adue… [Link]
HipHopDX [View: Review]
First of All is a pseudo-concept album that revolves around the night of Shawn’s sold-out performance in Los Angeles, complete with hilarious skits and cameo appearances. With the majority of the album’s songs overseen by Mekalek, a burgeoning producer who laces sample-heavy tracks for other Rhode Island emcees such as Time Machine, Jahpan and Fedd Hill, Jacko’s full-length effort promises listeners with bangin’ beats alongside the bangin’ lyrics. The result is a surprisingly enjoyable listening experience that hints at the scope of the rapper’s ambition and his desire for mainstream acceptance. [Link]
Oh Dang! [View: Feature]
When it comes to lyrical delivery Shawn Jackson definitely doesn’t suffer from a lack of confidence. First Of All... is self deprecation free and packed with unrelenting cockiness. Can anyone really blame him though? He’s worked and toured with acclaimed acts such as Time Machine, Gym Class Heroes, Giant Panda, and C.R.A.C. Knux’s Ta’Raach so he’s got a bit of wiggle room when it comes to bragging. Co-produced by Mekalek of Time Machine, First Of All captures their signature tongue-in-cheek trademark. Sticking with the album’s live venue theme, interludes dealing with crazy stalkers to bargaining at the merchandise table, litter the disc with humor. Despite little help from radio, singles like “Feelin' Jack” are creating lots of internet buzz. With it’s affinity for late 80s hip-hop beats, First Of All... is sure to please purists and convert new fans along the way. [Link]
Format Mag [View: Article]
What comprises a classic album? Lyrical content? A cohesive theme? Solo shine backed by polished beats? Overarching bravado? Yes and no. Then what? Context! A classic LP is always defined by the times. It fills the void in an otherwise murky, uninspired pool of emcees (yes, Lil Mama and Hurricane Chris, I’m talking about you). And west coast native Shawn Jackson’s debut installment, First of All …, does just that. It’s honest, soulful, and lyrically filling (peep tracks 1-13, then press repeat). Even the most cynical hip hop heads will have reason to believe again. If he’s anything like his Tres Records brethren Blu, then the game need not worry. Haters and emcees alike, take note, Shawn Jackson bout to show ya’ll how do this son.[Link]
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