Blak Madeen

Al-J and Yusuf form the elite Boston unit, Blak Madeen. They share a bond created by their mutual love of positive music and the religion of Islam. After years of performing and opening up for the likes of Lupe Fiasco, Brother Ali and Immortal Technique, the duo is now releasing their debut album Sacred Defense. The next powerhouse release from Leedz Edutainment, the project features collaborations with Lord Jamar (Brand Nubian), Hell Razah (Sunz of Man), Hasan Salaam and Reef the Lost Cauze. It is backed by the majorleague production talents of Matty Trump, Falside and many more.

Blak Madeen hopes the album will launch a new era of conscious Hip Hop in this materialistic age. Interestingly, it is the apparent differences of the two MCs, along with their similarities, that make them unique. Long-considered one of the most slept-on lyricists in the game, Al-J's rapid-fire, multisyllabic flow contrasts beautifully with Yusuf's calm, deadpan delivery. Their performances on the mic are also symbolic of their respective personalities. Despite this, the two have come together to record Sacred Defense, a focused, hard-hitting album that touches upon several sociopolitical and spiritual issues.