A French rapper of Congolese heritage, Abd Al Malik draws on traditions far outside of the hip-hop idiom, embracing elements of blues, jazz, and slam poetry. No less unique are his uncommonly philosophical lyrics, which often serve to champion his deep-rooted Muslim faith. He first earned notice during the late '90s leading the New African Poets, a rap collective inspired by the pioneering jazz-funk of Gil Scott-Heron and the Last Poets. His solo career began in 2004 with Le Face à Face des Coeurs, and Gibraltar followed in 2006, earning Malik the sought-after Le Prix Constantin award. ~ Jason Ankeny