IAM - Rimes essentielles

Released on December 3, 2021, via labels Côté Obscur and La Cosca, Rimes essentielles is the tenth studio album by Marseille-based group IAM. This project marks a symbolic turning point in the collective's discography, considered one of the founding fathers of French rap alongside MC Solaar and Suprême NTM. After four albums produced by Def Jam France, the group returns to an independent production approach similar to their first album Concept. This decision for members Akhenaton, Kheops, Imhotep, and Kephren to assume full production control redefines the artistic approach of the oriental sound. The title itself alludes to movements and commerce deemed "non-essential" by the French government during the coronavirus crisis. The sonic architecture reflecting this period is composed of a compilation of four EPs written and recorded during lockdown. Production distinguishes this return to roots. Produced by group IAM themselves (Akhenaton, Kheops, Imhotep, Kephren), without label Def Jam France, this production structure allows a return to an era of simplicity and authenticity. According to the group's wishes, the album gathers simpler compositions, reflecting the desire to return to the roots of their first album Concept. This aesthetic choice contrasts with the sometimes overwhelming complexity imposed by previous major record labels. The title becomes a direct allusion to the health crisis, confronting the audience with a period where movements were restricted and commerce closed.

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The album's subject matter is inseparable from the historical context in which it emerged. The track "Rimes essentielles" is an allusion to movements and trades deemed "non-essential" by the French government, creating a direct link with the sanitary restrictions in place at the time. This fragmented approach offers a sonic architecture that does not seek to impose but rather to reflect a collectively lived reality. The album is a compilation of four EPs composed and recorded during lockdown, influenced by the coronavirus crisis. This historical context permeates every track, transforming the album into an auditory testimony of a particular period.

Artistic Review Validating the Marseille Group's Return to Its Roots

Artistic review confirming the legacy of the cult project: Rimes essentielles validates this return to roots for the Marseille group, considered one of the founding fathers of French rap. This album of twenty-four tracks, five featuring guest appearances, marks a step in IAM's career by returning to self-produced production after four albums under Def Jam France. The album gathers simpler compositions, reflecting the group's wish to return to their roots. An assumed production architecture by Imhotep, Akhenaton, and Kephren allows for redefining the Eastern sound with a variety of styles. This return to the era of their first album Concept is a strong artistic act that validates the longevity of the group.