5 STARS

When one thinks of Halloween, images of pumpkins, vampires, candy, and colors of orange and black come to mind. Who would ever think to think of purgatory? Luckily Purgatorio: Wrathful Ashes by Righteous Ones gives music lovers a reason to want to be in music limbo.

Righteous Ones should be a recognizable name on Northeastern Illinois University’s (NEIU) campus as they have performed for Que Ondee Sola and Union for Puerto Rican Students’ Que la Que Hay event in 2009 and NEIU’s Hip Hop for Haiti event in 2010. Back then Righteous Ones consisted of a few band members that incorporated the live sounds of drums, guitars and vocals into a type of music that combined many elements of different genres.

Righteous Ones still incorporates many different genres and stays true to its signature sound. Righteous Ones now consists of lyrical flows by band member Righteous. Although it is now a solo act, Righteous says he kept the name Righteous Ones as a tribute to his old band members.

It’s been two years since Righteous Ones’ last album, and while the wait seemed to last like an eternity in music purgatory, music lovers can now go to heaven.  Purgatorio: Wrathful Ashes has an overall dark sound to most its music, but there are a few songs that tickle your funny bone and pull at the heart strings.

In track three, “What’s Wrong,” Righteous definitely expresses his dislike for the slaughter of his love of music.  He pokes fun at rappers such as Gucci Mane, Chief Keef, and Waka Flocka, but to really understand the humor you have to listen carefully to the lyrics and the effects on his voice.

In track five, “Loving Hate,” Righteous talks about a relationship that many know too well, a relationship that wants to wants to grow in its love but is constantly fighting doubts.
Interestingly enough track ten, “LIP,” seems to pay a tribute to NEIU’s Latinas In Power (LIP) organization. Righteous uses slick rhyme and rhythm to address issues of beauty, self esteem and a sense of pride all of which affect the Latina identity.

If those songs weren’t enough, the track 16, “Just a Dream (Remix),” is a song that can appeal to anyone as it is about accomplishing one’s dream regardless of the obstacles and doubts.
Purgatorio: Wrathful Ashes takes the listener on a wild ride that deals with identity, personal struggle, and musical satire. It combines the musical influences of Midwest rap, rock, jazz, freestyle and club all into one for a sound unlike any other.  Instead asking for tricks or treats this year and hoping for that giant candy bar, treat yourself to the sounds of Purgatorio.  The album will be released on Oct. 31,2012 for seven dollars.

For more information, visit www.deafeq.com