Ice-T - The Iceberg/Freedom of Speech...

Released in 1989

Towards the end of the decade the world of music was shaken up by the PMRC's attempts to censor any speech/albums that was deemed by them to be offensive and/or inappropriate for children. Although the PMRC's witchhunt first targeted metal bands, it wasn't long before they turned their attention to rap artists that incorporated vulgar content into their tracks.

The Iceberg/Freedom of Speech… Just Watch What You Say was Ice-T's scathing condemnation of the PMRC's attempted circumvention of the First Amendment. While he did not neglect the authentic gangster tales he's so well known for, the focus of this album is on the dangers of allowing an Orwellian government to start infringing on the freedoms of Americans.

Of course not all the album consists of angry, gloom and doom content. Ice-T takes the time to have some mindless fun, such as his hilarious rock-infused story of getting caught up with a dominatrix in The Girl Tried To Kill Me.

Some of the album highlights are:

• You Played Yourself – A scathing indictment against those who value crime and the streets over responsible behavior and education.
• Peel Their Caps Back – One of the most atmospheric and powerful tracks Ice-T ever created. A grim tale of gang violence that will absorb nearly any listener.
• The Girl Tried To Kill Me – A highly amusing story of Ice-T's encounter with a dominatrix, backed by roaring guitars that suit the frantic pace of the story perfectly.

Although the previous album, Power, was a top-notch album, ultimately I believe The Iceberg/Freedom of Speech… Just Watch What You Say to be Ice-T's best album, and one of the most definitive examples of the genre.

Rating: 9 stars

Track List Shut Up, Be Happy The Iceberg Lethal Weapon You Played Yourself Peel Their Caps Back The Girl Tried To Kill Me Black 'N' Decker Hit the Deck This One's for Me The Hunted Child What Ya Wanna Do? Freedom of Speech My Word Is Bond

Additional Resources:

• Rhyme Pays Review
• Power Review

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