Review: Kali Mac's "Grown Ass Kid" Mixtape
Why is @kali_mac album “Grown Ass Kid” not monetized, and in a store, or on a pay for download service? I counted at least six singles...
Generally, I don’t start out with criticism toward an artist. Artists put their soul and life blood into something that most of us workout, clean the house, or mow the lawn to. That being said: Why is Kali Mac’s album “Grown Ass Kid” not monetized, and in a store, or on a pay for download service? I counted at least six singles. I feel like I owe you money.
Kali Mac’s “Grown Ass Kid” is a lesson in song making, production selection, and hook making. The whole album is as infectious as pink eye in a kindergarten class. Kali Mac has a fast Meek Mill type flow devoid of the caffeine, and is a “hook aficionado.” Just listen to the way he belts out the chorus on the “Intro.” It’s just incredibly catchy. The emcee shows his versatility moving from the higher BPMed “Far From Timid” to the chill, souled out, Isley Brothers and Notorious B.I.G sampled banger “Can’t Quit.” On songs like “Not Gone Lie” which is a turn-up anthem and “U Mad” further prove that Kali knows not just how to rap, but how to make a song. On the “Brothers Johnson sampled, “Just To Get By” themed “U Mad” featured artist “Sake Bahm” gives us a spoken word moment in the tradition of “Outkast’s” Big Rube. Well Done!! “Childish”, a track about the antics of the opposite sex is radio ready…now. The bouncy “So Far” has the rapper respecting the journey, and reminiscing on where he came from. “All My Life” is an underground account of the perils of growing up in Long Island, New York. The interlude “Find My Way” is a song; a great song. Do us and the Hip-Hop Community a favor, and add another sixteen on the end of it. Joints like “Lonely”, “Realization”, and “For You” showcase Kali_Mac’s vulnerability about family, relationship issues, and apathy. “Getaway” (I appreciate the chop and screw at the end) illustrates the stresses and pressures of the world and “Hakuna Matata” explains how Kali conquers it all. Every producer on “Grown Ass Kid” needs to take a bow, but I find myself saying “Who is this Lombardi Young?"
“Grown Ass Kid" is a great mixtape. For me it was nostalgic. It was like “new school” “Kid N Play”, “D.J Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince” and “Slick Rick.” But it is missing something…A barcode.
Review: "solve" by Pro Zay
On the hit show “The X-Files” Special Agent Fox Mulder has a quote”…anything that cannot be programmed, categorized or easily referenced.” Enter @pro_zay “solve”...
On the hit show “The X-Files” Special Agent Fox Mulder has a quote ”…anything that cannot be programmed, categorized or easily referenced.” Enter Pro Zay’s “solve”. Is it “Trip-Hop” in the tradition of Massive Attack or Portishead? Pro Zay hails from Texas so I thought it may be new school chopped and screwed or perhaps backpacker chopped and screwed? Pro Zay’s style sounds like A$AP Rocky and Earl Sweatshirt had a baby, and raised it on edibles until its age of emancipation. But in a great way.
The alarm like title track “Solved” starts out with a screwed sample of Nas’s "Memory Lane". The emcee like a psychologist on mushrooms asks you questions that you know you ain’t got the answer to. “Balance” is an exercise in trippy screwed vocals with Pro Zay rhyming about choices in life, and how they help or hinder you. If there is such a thing as a suicide prayer it’s the creative interlude “Carry”. On the song “Mantra” Pro Zay floats over the track chanting about money and marijuana like an African Medicine Man. The track ends with a piano rift that sounds like it belongs in a scene of a Quentin Tarantino movie before the gratuitous violence.
Just when Pro Zay hypnotizes you with this dreamscape of a project; he snaps his fingers, and presents the bouncy Bryson Tiller sampled track “Dopamine”. Then he drags you back down to purgatory with the dark stringed 808 pounding “Two Step.” Whoever Por Vida is… the production is on point.
Let me be honest on the strength of this project, I wouldn’t take Pro Zay on the freestyle battle rap circuit. Quite frankly he’s not that type of emcee, and he doesn’t need to be. His abstract lyrics, voice inflection, and brutally honest, and introspective subject matter makes him just as compelling. Sonically, “Evolve” is like a blunt and a bubble bath. It’s oddly relaxing, surreal, cathartic, and a little weird, but worth it.
Review: Syn "The BlakOut EP"
@synco_music "The BlakOut EP" is one of the most professional projects that I have ever heard by a new, and upcoming artist...
First and foremost I’ve listened to a lot of “starts.” “Starts” on mp3, on compact discs, “starts” on neon yellow colored Sony Walkman’s with the foam headphone covers. (Google It) By “starts” I mean an artist or group that has not been financially backed by a major label, or isn’t nationally known.
Syn’s "The BlakOut EP" is one of the most professional projects that I have ever heard by a new, and upcoming artist. From the creative intro that challenges the current state of Hip-Hop, and states Syn’s aspiration to be one of the all-time greats; to the world class engineering on this project. In the hallowed history of Hip-Hop folklore it rumored that engineers in Death Row Record Studios would get assaulted for rewinding the tape “incorrectly.” Whoever “mixed down” this EP needs to be recognized. In a laptop, stereo, car, or iPhone “The BlakOut EP” plays great everywhere. Instead of a “fade”, perhaps an Edible Arrangement, or Amazon Gift Card is in order for the engineer of this project.
The producers need to be praised as well. Every kick and snare is quantized to perfection. It’s my guess that the majority of this album is played or not sampled. Then when I listen to it again I find myself saying is that a sample? That is the hallmark of a seasoned producer. Instead of “song jacking“ and just throwing some drums on it, experienced beatsmiths will chop their samples. These tracks are more layered than my grandma’s banana pudding (And that ain’t no easy feat) Also, it doesn’t hurt to have Dylan Dili formally known as Dylan “I spit hot fire” the Dillinger of “Making the Band” fame bless the first track “Piece of the Pie”. He does not disappoint. Puff Daddy might need to send him some cheesecake, and reconsider their business relationship. Make no mistake Syn holds his own with a fast flow, “BAR” friendly, crazy cadence verse. Rarely in the conversation of emcee prowess do the words enunciation, and pronunciation get mentioned but it’s a MUST with this artist. I’m not going to lie “Pieces of the Pie” had me standing up like Young Joc’s hair.
The song “BlakOut” is an underground hustler’s anthem with Syn solidifying his place in the rap game by differentiating himself from his peers. Syn drops a much needed jewel to the industry “It’s strange how opportunity ain’t attractive as jewelry.” “Lemme Grab That” is one of the reasons I’m so high on this EP. What New York based rappers are detailing the pursuit of the opposite sex over traditional West Coast beats? Most West Coast wordsmiths aren’t flowing over traditional West Coast tracks. Check out the Good Father Snoop Doggs new album on the first track “Neva Left” he’s rapping over a modified Wu-Tang C.R.E.A.M Beat.
“The BlakOut EP” takes risks and executes. “B.S.H & “Hold Up” are turn up joints sure to get the head rocking especially in the ride. I suffer from “Old Head Syndrome.” (See Joe Budden) I like my Timberlands brown, my pants slightly baggy, rappers vying for the top spot, and if you want me to wear one of those Lil Uzi Vert Shirts I’ll probably tell you about yourself. That being said I would really like to see Syn embrace his New York roots, and get on some D.J Premier like, Pete Rock approved, Just Blaze “ish”.
My only criticism for “The BlakOut EP” is its length. Throw six or seven more joints on there and make an album. Syncoe Entertainment, Mr. Chandler (Yeah I looked you up) WELL DONE!!
Click to Stream/Download "The BlakOut EP" by Syn
Review: Des Brennan's "For A While" EP
I must admit I’m a sucker for abstract, conversational flows over New York BOOM-BAP, and @desbrennanmusic does not disappoint...
One of the greatest compliments you can pay to an artist is to listen to their latest offering, and of the strength of those songs find their previous projects. I found this to be the case with Des Brennan. Des Brennan out of Rockland, New York responsible for “Don’t Try This At Home”, “Exit 98”, and “Serene” brings us his latest project “For A While.”
I must admit I’m a sucker for abstract, conversational flows over New York BOOM-BAP, and Des Brennan does not disappoint. On songs like “Stillness” using an impressive vocabulary the emcee gives us a glimpse of his lifestyle, and day today. Like most underground artists, Des puts an emphasis on skills, and rides the track with ease and clarity. On “Before it Ends” Mr. Brennan urges us to Carpe Diem, and appreciate people, and situations that might fade. Des takes a hard look into who he is; with his craft being his guiding light. The opposite sex passing him by is the subject of the track “Parting.” “I couldn’t write enough paragraphs/about your soon to be married ass”, is one of the more standout lyrics of the album, and one of the many testaments to Des’s lyrical prowess. The producer ADMB did his thing on the beat.
On the record “Inner (Too Close)" Brennan examines his own longevity in hip-hop. Citing over two hundred songs that no one quotes, and while people tell him to persevere, he reminds himself that he’s the one that has to deal with repercussions of his hustle. Also, you can’t go wrong using “A Tribe Called Quest” lyrics for the hook. What Des Brennan and “For A While” accomplish is what all great EPs accomplish. They leave us wanting more.
Connect with Des Brennan: Facebook Twitter Soundcloud Instagram
Review: Don Neil's "BREAK" EP
Baltimore native @imdonneil blesses us with an album highlighting the problems, and challenges of the hustle...
If you asked me what I knew about Baltimore, Maryland a week ago it would consist of the city’s homicide rate and Freddy Gray (R.I.P). Perhaps I could quote you a line from Omar, or remember a scene of stylized violence, and despair depicting the cities drug problem from “The Wire.” But that was before I was put on to Don Neil and his project “Break".
Baltimore native Don Neil blesses us with an album highlighting the problems, and challenges of the hustle. Whether it’s navigating the rocky terrain of the rap game, or having to let go of people, and situations that don’t benefit his success; Don Neil continues to search not only for recognition but himself. The album starts with “Be” a track dedicated to the rappers dream chasing lifestyle. Don Neil reminds us that he has been working even sacrificing his education to maybe his grandma’s chagrin for a career in hip-hop. Throughout the pitfalls and tireless days and nights of the grind, he emphasizes the most important rule of being an artist: “Be Yourself.” Joints like “Break” and “Nixon” solidify the rappers blue collar approach to his craft. Neil pleads with us not to sleep on him because he is on the cusp of upgrading his watch, lifestyle and position in hip-hop.
The song “I’m Weak “focuses on the opposition plotting his downfall, and delighting in Don Neil’s defeat, but he refuses to listen to the haters. “Talk to Me” is an exercise in introspection, and self-doubt, and how the emcee counters that with perseverance and belief. Failed love and heartbreak permeates the track “Find Your Love”. The fledgling artist reassures his love interest of his fondness and dedication. Last but certainly not least the record “God Bless.” Maybe not the most radio friendly record on the album but I believe that it is the most important. “God Bless” showcases the talent that is Mr. Don Neil. The wordplay, and the singing are exceptional on this track. The honesty and vulnerability on this record is palpable. “God Bless” is a sonic signal of the potential of this artist. Hopefully Don Neil keeps his word that he has been working; because that leads to what we all want: More Music.
Stream/Download "Break" by Don Neil: Spotify Google Play Music iTunes Soundcloud
Review: Kendrick Lamar's "DAMN."
Kendrick Lamar Duckworth, the Compton based rapper responsible for “Section.80”, “Good Kid, Maad City” and the Barack Obama approved “To Pimp A Butterfly” has released his much anticipated album “Damn.”...
Kendrick Lamar Duckworth, the Compton based rapper responsible for “Section.80”, “Good Kid, Maad City” and the Barack Obama approved “To Pimp A Butterfly” has released his much anticipated album “Damn.”. Once again Kung Fu Kenny has distinguished himself among his peers with his latest project. I like mumble rap. I like Little Yachty. I like Lil Uzi Vert. I listen to Future’s “Mask Off” at least once a day. Rick Ross’s “Rather You Than Me” was one of his best. “More Life” was another good album, but let’s be honest as much as a pop powerhouse that Aubrey Drake Graham is, that album could be classified as R&B. (I mean Kanye sung on it for God sakes). There is something about audio craftsmanship that never gets old. A concept, a message, expert beat smiths with years of experience in their craft, and of course Quality BARS will always stand the test of time. The creativity of A Tribe Called Quest’s virtual tour guide in “Midnight Marauders.” The nineties defining wordplay of Sean Corey Carter’s “Reasonable Doubt.” DMX’s praise and worship on “Its Dark And Hell Is Hot.” The code like jargon and slang of Raekwon and Ghostface Killa on “Only Built for Cubans Linx.” The self-therapy and healing of J.Cole’s “2014 Forest Hill Drive.” Artists that appreciate the process and method quickly separate themselves from the industry standard of a group of A&R check listed songs designed and marketed to get product sponsorship or ring tone buys. “Damn.” is Kendrick Lamar’s sonic protest to the majority of hip-hop being produced today.
The prevailing theme of “Damn.” is a familiar one to the rap community. How do I deal with success and why isn’t this more enjoyable? The assassinated legend Notorious B.I.G said it best “More money, More problems.” On Coldplay’s “Lost" Jay-Z rhymes “See Martin, see Malcom/see Biggie, see Pac/ See success and it outcome/ see Jesus, see Judas/see Caesar, see Brutus/see success is like suicide. Kendrick is no stranger to this feeling and makes it known on this album. The song “DNA” and its East Indian influenced sample is a testament to the duality of Kendrick Lamar. The MC speaks of power, pain, poison and joy in his D.N.A. while still stating that he has evil that rots in his genetic code also. The most striking moment in this song is a sound bite from Geraldo Rivera stating that Hip-hop has done more to harm African Americans than racism to which Kendrick shouts this back buy yelling the chorus ”I got royalty and loyalty inside my D.N.A.” In the song “Elements” over a subtle piano sample K.Dot pays homage to Cash Money Records Juvenile and the Houston influenced Chopped and Screwed sound while informing us that he is never going back to his former lifestyle. The rapper has paid his dues in the game and is proud to have turned his daddy’s commissary to commas. Mr. Duckworth rambles on the song “Fear” that he has been put in a position to bless others but receives no blessing in return. Over a relaxing piano and a chopping rim shot snare he constantly reiterates that no one is praying for him. “I feel like I’m boxin demons/monsters/false prophets/scheming sponsors/industry promises.” The Top Dawg Entertainment Artist even mentions Tupac on the song which makes sense with the “Me Against The World” theme which was prevalent in most of Shakur’s work. On the radio ready “Loyalty” Kendrick explores and asks the listener, groupie, old friend, and record exec what do I control or possess that makes you loyal to me. On a side note I understand why Chris and Drake were throwing bottles in the club. Ms. Robyn Rihanna Fenty who is featured on this song is amazing. The songstresses voice rhyming feels like warm blankets on a snow day that requires no make-up or change on the exam schedule. Also you can’t go wrong using a Jay-Z lyric from his song “Get your mind right mami” on the hook. On the soul sampled track “Fear” Lamar lists the many things his parents will corporal punish him for, and then goes on to list the many ways he could die in his neighborhood. He also illustrates his fear of failure, judgement, and being impoverished and rhymes one of the more poignant lines on this album. “I’ll prolly die/cause that’s what you do when you’re seventeen.” The art of storytelling is most prevalent on the track “Duckworth.” Over 9th Wonder production (Carolina Stand Up) utilizing the “Butterfly Effect” Mr. Duckworth explains how a chance meeting between his father and label head could have seriously altered his life. The production changes beat and sample three times. If you’re a hip-hop head like I am go to Ninth Wonders Instagram site and see him chop the samples on his workstation. It’s masterful. Be careful. I own a Maschine Groove Studio the same sampler Mr. Douthit owns. When I witnessed him in three posts chopping those samples it took all of God and creation not to take my sampler outside and sacrifice it to the memory of J.Dilla. (R.I.P)
Great albums and artists like “Damn.” and Kendrick Lamar succeed by doing the opposite of what their counterparts do. Instead of spoon feeding a watered downed, sterilized view of the culture to the mainstream; Kendrick pied pipers with skill and execution the masses down to the culture.