I first came to know the artist MF Doom upon the release of his seminal opus American Hunger—a three-disk, 60-song, behemoth of an album project that actually housed more hits than misses. Later, in a passing quote by freestyle impresario Supernatural, there was a mention that of all the people (Craig G and Eminem included) that Nat had battled, the only one he would like to battle again—that is to say, the only one he believes game him proper competition—was a certain MC named MF Grimm.
Wow!
Grimm was subsequently shot and paralyzed, also losing his sight and hearing in an attempt to take his life, before said rematch could be held. However, much like the heralded (though less than artistic) Curtis Jackson before him, Grimm is a survivor. And, though he remains wheel-chair bound due to the loss of mobility below the waist, he has rebounded against all doctor’s expectations, regaining his sight, sound, and hearing senses. This miracle apparently motivated him to get back into the studio, and like the mass, creative producer that he is (I think that’s how you get the MF moniker? See MF Doom’s output), he has released an ambitious concept album called The Hunt For the Gingerbread Man that comes with a “Gingy,” (the affectionate nom de plure for the fairytale legend) bio. The songs, which are said to be co-written by the storybook character, are sonically simple, strong on percussion, bass and synthesized noise, while following a noir-style serial storyline. Production comes primarily from the artist.
Songs that rise to the level I’ve come to appreciate from Grimm include the title track, which basically retails the story in street vernacular. “Half Baked” employs an ethereal female vocal, while incorporating many witty and nifty metaphors and candy references to tell of Gingy wild’n out in Candyland. Just as “My House” uses the tale of Hansel and Gretyl to give Gingy some pimp cred, as he picks up on young Gretyl at the local hot spot over bouncy percussion and bright keys. “The Fox,” is helped by borrowing a few lines from the famous Grandmaster Melle Mel song, as Gingy recounts his encounter with the fox and how retribution was his in the end. “Gangsta Pastries” featuring Chico Stick is reminiscent of old school Wu-Tang, though not as grimy. “Head In The Clouds” takes a decidedly different turn from the rest of the record, as the grim sonic backdrop allows Grimm to recount a recent trip to a Heaven where the war between the angels has been violently re-imagined. The song “See No Evil” is slightly more hopeful, and also features Grimm as the protagonist.
Though this project isn’t as good as Hunger it is still an interesting concept that allows for Grimm’s immense creative well to spill forth. I mean, who doesn’t know the Gingerbread Man? Well, you’ll know him a lot better after this record, and love him or hate him; you’ll definitely have an opinion.
