Cruch Kill Destory: Stress

Straight out of Boston Jeffery Haynes, aka Mr. Lif, is arguably the brightest star in the Def Jux universe. After dropping out of Colgate University, Lif immersed himself in hip-hop culture and quickly became a living legend within the conscious/progressive rap underground. I Phantom is a concept album that details the life of an everyman who ascends from poverty and enters a demoralizing corporate workforce, only to suffer the weight of success and family life. Soon, the story rises above a single character, questioning the human race's desire to control its universe through self-destructive means, ultimately bringing I Phantom to an apocalyptic ending. The album's in-depth tales of the human experience are subtly enhanced by Lif's distinctive voice and intricate wordplay. Be sure to check out "Live from the Plantation," a track that will send chills down the spine of any corporate cubicle worker.