Something From Nothing and Lemmy are two music docs with different results

Ice-T made a semi-entertaining documentary about hip hop last year and the soundtrack to the film doesn't fail in taking the listener through a hip hop journey.  I already owned most of the tracks from the soundtrack to Something Trom Nothing The Art of Rap, but I still recommend this as a gift to anyone that may only know modern hip hop.  I remember buying tapes to most of this music when I was in middle school back in the 80's.  The styles range from party hip hop "Don't Stop Planet Rock" by Afrika Bambaataa & The Soul Sonic Force of that era to gangster rap songs like "Straight Out of Compton" by N.W.A.  There are even songs from Melle Mel and Mc Lyte on this soundtrack. All gold in my opinion. If you don't own these songs, just pick up this album.

You remember when rappers were more clever and innocent and didn't sing about things like how many cars people own or the toxic cough syrup infused drinks they chug?  Yeah, that seems light years away.  Eric B & Rakim song "Follow The Leader" is probably one of the best examples of that era.   I remember playing this tape till it practically broke.

Check out the film if you haven't seen it yet.  I'm a big fan of music documentaries.  This one seems more aimed at people that are hip hop fans than just music fans.  Ice-T tries hard to make it edgy with his editing and grainy footage.  It feels very impersonal at times and too much in love with the inside jokes as Ice-T laughs along to stories of old.  He does get all the big time hip hop stars of past and present in this but maybe the numbers don't add up to a great film.  But don't get me wrong, this isn't a bad documentary but it's not a must see either.  If you like hip hop, definitely check this out.

Now on the other hand, I just caught Lemmy made a few years back and it was fantastic.  Loved how personal that documentary gets.  The Art of Rap tries really hard to be arthouse and attempts to be clever with editing techniques and using grain filters in After Effects to accomplish style.  Lemmy follows the godfather of metal and founding member of Motorhead, Lemmy Kilmister, around through his day to day life.   I felt like I really got to know Lemmy on a personal level and understand his passion for the music he plays.  It's the kind of documentary a none music fan would enjoy.  Lemmy is a fascinating character. 

Both documentaries are available on video on Netflix and other sites.  And if you're using netflix streaming, check out another fun hip hop documentary made by ESPN of all companies called Straight Outta LA.  Ice Cube made that film for the 30 For 30 series and it is a nice flashback to an era long gone in both rap and sports.