Almost 3 years before Andre 3000 told the world "the South has something to say," Atlanta, Georgia's Arrested Development dropped an afro-centric album that spoke, loudly and clearly, the message of love, harmony, and positivity. 3 Years, 5 Months and 2 Days In The Life Of… came out when gangsta rap was de rigueur for the urban music market, and the sound, look, and energy AD brought to the table offered a refreshing, vibrant alternative. 25 years later, the album—named after the exact amount of time it took for Speech, Headliner, and the rest of the gang to score a record contract—once again reminds us of its classic status in the hip-hop narrative, and the mix of gospel, blues, funk, jazz, and rap that it so brilliantly pulls off has certainly stood the test of time. Essential listening for sure, highlights include "Tennessee," "Mr Wendal," "People Everyday," "Mama's Always On Stage," "Give a Man a Fish," and "Natural."

• music label: Capitol 1992 / 2017

reviewed by bal elbat 03/2017