Album Review: Better Late Than Never by Danny Riggs

 

Better Late Than Never

By

Danny Riggs

 

It has been a while since I last had the Nottingham based emcee, singer, song writer and drummer, Danny on the blog. In fact, I was introduced to him via Pandamonium when they collaborated on the EP TimesChange, which I reviewed back in December of 2024.

Danny is now back with his debut album release which he has been writing since 2022. When I wrote the review back in 2024, I felt then that Danny was one of those to watch on the UK scene, so to have him back with a full album, it will be interesting to see how far he has come in the last year or so.

Better Late Than Naver is a big fifteen track album and see’s Danny flying solo on most of this one. The features come from 1^st Blood, Kenny Cadence and the legendary Scorzayzee, plus Angelface. There is also big line up of producers providing the beats, and these include Danny himself alongside NEO Hannan, XavrPryme, Tom Hodson, KPrymetheJaegar, Wigz, MaugzMade, and Zar!

With that said, let’s not hang around and get straight into it…

The album kicks off with JD’s Intro coming from my good friend John Dugan aka JD Hip Hop Reviews (Who also gave me the heads up on this album the same day as Danny), here we find JD hitting up Danny about the album and bringing a focus to the appearance of one Angelface, do we have a biter here or something else?

Step By Step is produced by NEO Hannan and brings a trap style beat with a sparce beat, synth sound and that high paced cymbal sound that gives this one a vibe that does get you focused. Here we have Danny giving us the lowdown on who he is and how he approaches life, giving us a step-by-step guide to how he got where he is now and how it is going to take him further. Now we have a bit more of an insight into Danny as an artist, Movin’ sees XavrPryme take on production duties with a more head nod beat that is backed with guitar vibes that give this an upbeat feel. This on has a far more personal feel to it as Danny details the hurdles he has faces and overcome as he has walked the path of life. This gives us more of a look at who he is behind the mic and the foundations he builds on as an artist focusing on his dreams.

No Extinguisher features 1^st Blood and is produced by Tom Hodson. The heavy beat and keys give this one a fresh sound that seems to tweak at your nerves with each keynote while also tempting you to bounce to the beat. This one is two emcees giving you a demonstration of their lyrical prowess and wordplay, one of those you just need to sit back and enjoy. KPrymetheJaegar brings production on Sunshine with a sound that has a laid-back, but heavy sound that will get you moving to this one and definitely puts you in mind of the fresh summer days to come. There is an uplifting air about this one that seems to fit with being sat alone ruminating over things as you watch the sun go down. Just thinking over things and how the music has helped you through the bad times. Rhythm & The Rhyme is produced by Wigz and brings us a sound that has synth notes as the main sound mixed with bass and laid-back percussion, giving this one a sound that has a strangely infectious sound. There is also a comedic use of a zipper to bring a scratch sound. Here we get the sense that Danny encompassing many aspects of his life, from his relationship with music and his family to looking at the world and society around him. Fitting so much into just over four minutes is a tall order but, he does it perfectly here. Far From Friends is produced by Tom Hodson and has a head nod beat backed by horns that has a heavier sound overall that gives you the sense this one has a stronger more emotive edge. This one has an edge that seems to hint at mental health and those times you wrestle with your own thoughts about what is really most important, who is a friend and who is a foe, and much more. There is also a bit of a comedic edge to this one two which allows Danny to speak on this without getting too deep and making too emotive.    

Next up is the Angelface Interlude, a little skit that seems to hint at an alter ego for Danny? Angelface features on The Beast Within, produced by KPrymetheJaegar, this one has a solid head nod sound that will get you bouncing from the get-go. This one has a light-hearted vibe to it as Angelface makes his debut, as the alter-ego of Danny Riggs. These guys show the yin and yang of one man’s character but done in a way that has that tongue-in-cheek aspect that you can just enjoy with a smile, especially that comedic scratch sound.

Crazy Daily is produced by Wigz alongside Danny Riggs and brings a sound that has this big bass and drum sound with a background vibe that has this electronic sampled vibe. Altogether the sound might appear to be too much but, it gets you nodding for sure. On the face of it this one might just appear to be one of those rap braggadocio tracks but, while there is some of that mixed in with some jus for fun wordplay, there are also more that a few references to more of those hurdles he has overcome in life. So, this one gives a great overall look at Danny and where he sees himself going and the energy, he has inside to get there. MaugzMade brings production on Pleasure 2 The Max with a sound that has this mix of heavy drum beat mixed with electronic elements and a guitar sound that gives you this wicked sound you can’t help but move to. Here Danny gives us his own version of track that is dedicated to that special someone in his life. Not a love song but, more of tale of how two people’s energies can work in tandem. MaugzMade continues with production on What’s Up, where the sound has a different guitar vibe alongside a heavy beat, giving this one a deeper sound with a reflective edge. The message here is one of making a change in the world; a world that is full of darkness, power struggles, control and death. The people in power are the ones doing this to the world and its peoples, and the key is to keep yourself safe and not listen to the fake news and lies being perpetrated by those in power.

The penultimate full track of the album is Roads, which features Kenny Cadence and is produced by Tom Hodson. This one has cuts and wicked funky beat that will have you moving while this electronic siren type sound will grip your awareness, even though I feel the track would still work without it. There is a depth to the words within this one as main message seems to focus on the fact that you should not get too far ahead of yourself in this industry, but pace yourself and take you time getting where you need to go, because the more time you take, will help you progress at the pace which is right for you and allow to mature, and not burn out before your time. The final full track of the album is Back 2 Back which features the legendary Scorzayzee and production from ZAR! (Who also featured on the Times Change EP). This one takes the sound back to a more grime sound; one that has a heavy beat and electronic vibes that scratch at your nerves alongside that rapid ticking sound. This one is all about two emcees bouncing off each other with the kind of bars that would not be out of place on any stage.

The album is rounded off with Danny’s Outro. Where Danny Riggs just gives us a quick personal message. He also touches on the appearance on Angelface, perhaps hinting at the fact we have not heard the last of that name…

 

Overall, I found Better Late Than Never to be a highly enjoyable listen and one which was surprisingly easy to write to, which is something that I noted when reviewing the Times Change EP too. I think this comes down to the fact of how Danny writes his lyrics. He is very down to earth and does not write in a way that makes what he says too complex in the wordplay. That does not make his lyricism too basic either. It says that he has taken time to write an album that says what he wants it to say, in a way that anyone can understand. It is still cleaver in its construction and delivered in a way that shows he is constantly leaning and developing his craft. I can see that the future for Danny will show him to keep developing and honing his craft, and with a lot more to give to the UK scene as he works towards his dreams. There is also that little view of his alter ego, Angelface, who could serve Danny Well and give him another avenue to express his craft in a slightly different way.

 When I heard the first track, it took me buy surprise a little. I am not a huge fan of trap style music and especially the high paced ticking sound, for me that takes the focus from the vocals and overshadows the track somewhat. However, that said, it is good to mix things up a bit and the album is book ended by those two tracks that have a vastly different sound from the rest of the album. Better Late Than Never is predominantly an album rooted in boom bap Hip Hop, but using those elements of trap and grime, show that Danny is prepared to step outside the box and into other genre’s, and there is nothing wrong in spreading your wings and showing that you have what it takes to be a cross genre artist.

The production on this one is all top notch and gives Danny the perfect platform to bring his long-awaited album into the limelight. I was not familiar with many of these producers prior to the album but, have to say that following this review, I am really impressed with what I have heard from all involved and will be looking out for them in the future.

It was also refreshing to see Danny taking the forefront on this album and filling it with too many features. Those that do feature fit perfectly on the album and do not take anything away from or overshadow Danny in any way; and only serve to compliment him on the album.

For me, as a debut album, this one ticks so many boxes. Danny has taken the time to deliver an album that perfectly showcases him as an emcee and also gives us a glimpse at his production. It shows that he has a lot more to give us as time goes on. It also shows us he has many strings to his bow and has many avenues to explore, especially where Angelface is concerned and in production too.

Better Late Than Never is out today. So, give it a listen and see what you think.

Huge thanks to both Danny Riggs and John Dugen (JD Hip Hop Reviews) for helping me bring this one to you.

 

Be seeing you,

Steve.  

LINKS

Here is the one link you need:

https://linktr.ee/dannyriggsuk

VIDEOs

Step By Step

Back 2 Back ft Scorzayzee

   

 

 

Album Review: Manners and Respect by Kaos Krew

 

Manners and Respect

By

KAOS Krew

 

Marking the final album which I have in my list that came to me last year, It’s good to have Jonie D, TJ Chill and Peekaboo, aka KAOS Krew, back on the blog with their most recent album Manners and Respect. This is their fourth studio album which is produced by Jonie D.

As noted in the press release, Manners and Respect is an album that reflects the Krew’s trademark blend of roots-conscious lyricism and grounded production. They also note that the album stands as a testament to longevity, message, and the timeless power of true-school artistry.

Those few words alone will speak volumes to those true school heads out there. They also give someone like myself plenty to think about as I get ready to do a deep dive into the album.

So, Let’s get into it…

 

Manners and Respect is a twelve track album that was released in November of last year (2025). It begins with the albums title track Manners and Respect. A heavy drumbeat and acoustic guitar give this one a mariachi feel, especially when the horns kick in on the bridge, giving you cause to nod your head along to the beat. As you listen to this one you really get the feel that not only is this one setting the tone of the album but, there is the fact that both manners and respect go hand in hand. Something which is true in so many aspects of life, you need to have respect for those who have come before you and paved the way. When you find yourself in the presence of these people it is only right that your respect is matched by your manners in how you behave. This might initially be something you think of in the rap game but, it goes beyond that, far beyond. With you now in the correct frame of mind, up next is Don’t Play That, The solid boom bap sound here is backed by guitar notes and a classic computer game loading sound, from back in the eighties. The heavy sound here has an energy that fires you up from the get-go. There is an edge to the lyrics here, one that speaks a lot because, in life there are a lot of things that you should not play with and a great many other things that it is ok to play with. Here the Krew detail some of the things you should never play with, just as they don’t play around with their music; in not playing with their music, they invite you to step up, because this is one of the things you can play with and enjoy in life. Lickshot hits with a funk fuelled vibe on the beat, mixed with strings and guitar vibes that all merge to bring you a big upbeat sound. Here the only shots being fired are those of the verbal kind, and the Krew do a cracking job of unloading some high calibre wordplay with pinpoint accuracy, giving the listener plenty to enjoy and bounce to.

Patrizio is a word of Italian origin, meaning Nobleman, and puts you in mind of Jonie D’s Italian roots, before the tracks even begins. The sound hits with a solid beat backed by bongo’s, harmonica and vocal samples which all combine to bring a sound that has an infectious feel to it. As you listen to the vocals, the wordplay has this tendency to take you off in different directions as the Krew speak on AI and subjects that make you wonder just what nobleman is, are we all not noblemen in some way, shape and form? We all have our standing in life and how we conduct ourselves and present ourselves says a lot about who we truly are. Now, I’m not saying that I might have nailed the meaning behind this one but, there is this feeling that it says a lot about who we are and how we see ourselves that truly gives us that noble standing, and not necessarily because we were born into some so called bloodline. Stains brings us a wicked boom bap sound that gets you nodding as soon as it hits, but there is also a deep edge to the sound too. This one deals with the stains that are left by the things we do, be that on a personal level or those of a country. All actions have a consequence and very often those consequences leave an indelible stain on your reputation as a person or as a nation. Sometimes these stains can’t be avoided, but there are many times when the choices we make are the difference. With those thoughts still raw in our minds, Cap brings another sound that has a heavy beat with guitar vibes and vocal samples that gives this one thoughtful storytelling air about it. The Krew goes in deep on this one giving you much to think about, because a cap has many meanings. We use caps to cover things, stop things, even signify the end or the limit of something. When you consider all these different meanings and listen to the track, you realise that the Krew is diving deep into everything that happens from a more personal level, as you cover you head or face with a cap, to looking at more of what happens in society around us. Everything affects us in some way and not all of it can be avoided.

Halfway through the album and already the KAOS Krew has given us much to enjoy and ponder along the way. So, what will Reality bring to the table. This one hits with a heavy bass reggae sound which vibrates through your entire body. This one is a look at the fact that reality is like a double edged sword, it can reflect how we are feeling and help raise us up but, there are also the times when it appears to be completely at odds with how we are feeling! The thing is, not to let that stark reality to affect you, but to give you a reason to see it and use it to your own ends. Next Plateau continues a sound that has that Hip Hop reggae vibe with drums and horns. The title might immediately put you in mind of the classic NYC Record label but, for me, this one had a different feel that seemed to speak on always looking to raise yourself up, even the face of adversity. You can feel comfortable, for a time, but sooner or later you need to test yourself, push yourself on to the next plateau, a place you can feel safe until ready to push yourself once more. Next up, the Kaos Krew bring us a Big Sound with heavy drums and bass, in fact saying this one is Big is totally on point here. The idea of things being big, continues in the lyrics where all things big are explored and reinforced. There is a feeling that this one has a slightly light-hearted edge to it as well as pounding your ears.

As we head into the final quarter of the album, Funky brings the kinda intro that hypes you up, after this the beat is solid head nod with some nice bass notes and wicked samples to boot. This one sees the Krew dropping some slick wordplay to get you bouncing and grinning. This one is an example of the kinda lyricism the guys can drop when they are not focusing on deeper subject matter. The penultimate track is Diamonds. Here we have a heavy reggae sound of keys behind the heavy beat, which gets you moving with the energy it brings. The brings us a track that looks at everything that is or could be considered to be a Diamond. From the description of an actual diamond, to tracks and more that are some special they given that diamond status. The Album ends with Ajer, a word that has a number of meanings including reward or prize. The sound has that acoustic guitar sound accompanying the heavy drum beat, giving this that mariachi vibe once again. Here there is a distinct link to the idea of a prize or reward, but also there is also much to be said about just what drives someone to seek the prize and what the ultimate reward might be. Too many times, we see that people seek money for their own ends. Billionaires gain and keep wealth they can never spend while so many people live in poverty. On the flip side of this you have the likes of the Kaos Krew whose only prize is to be the best they can be, at the top of their game, and the same can be said of a great many of us, and it is something I see so often when I review music that artists are not doing it for the monetary gain but, for the love of what they do. I guess that is key here, what are you seeking and why are you seeking it…

What is immediately noticeable with Manners and Respect is that the KAOS Krew, once more bring us an album that is packed with intelligent subject matter and wordplay. Every track, even those that have that display of wordplay and less heavy on the subject matter, has this lyrical edge that just seems to hit a little deeper than most. They almost spin their wordplay in a way that makes you constantly second guess what you hear, something that gives you reason to replay every track in order to help you grasp exactly what is being said. The impact is quite intense at times, which works so well with the depth of what is being said.

This is the kind of album that shows the range of what KAOS Krew is capable of, delivering tracks that speak to the soul as much as they speak to your adrenaline levels. There is a lot here that we can all associate with as much of it focuses on subjects that we all see and face every day of our lives, and this is why they feel so deep and seem to hit us on many levels. There is that underlying tone to the album that focuses very much on the idea of everyone behaving with manners and respect in everything they do, because we live in a world where so any of those in positions of power look down on most of the population, only giving a level of manners and respect to those they consider their equals or more.

Jonie D brings some quality production here too. Drawing on a number of different inspirations to create a sound that has its roots in real Hip Hop but, also brings enough variation to keep you guessing at times. Every track has a sound that brings its own energy and hits in different ways. Being both highly enjoyable and emotive at the same time, considering what frame of mind you are in and how you want to hear it.

As I have already noted the lyrics and wordplay is intelligent and at times complex, delivered in a way that means you have to focus to get the full impact from their delivery. Something that brings that element of longevity to the album as it not one of those you are likely to tire of quickly.

The full impact of the album is something that you need to experience for yourself. So, if you have not checked this one yet, then I highly recommend that you have a listen soon, because Kaos Krew are not to be slept on.

 

Manners and Respect is out now, and I give my thanks to TJ Chill, Jonie D and Peekaboo for the chance to bring this one to you.

 

I’ll see ya next time.

Steve.

LINKS

Grab your copy here:

https://kaoskrewldn.bandcamp.com/album/manners-and-respect

KAOS Krew Socials:

https://www.instagram.com/kaoskrewldn/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgx1VZOcV5Qn9g4XmODXfvQ

https://www.youtube.com/@OriginalRockerzChannel

Read the review of Over The Iron Bridge Here:

https://infinitesoundsuk.blogspot.com/2024/03/album-review-over-iron-bridge-by-kaos.html

VIDEOS

Manners and Respect

 

Album Review: Four Four by Legs MC

 

Four Four

By

Legs MC

 

Following on my reviews of the last three of his Grown Up series of albums, Grown Up Too (08, 2023), Grown Up Free (01, 2024) and (What You Actin’ So) Grown Up For? (06, 2024)  I am glad to welcome Legs MC back to the Blog with his latest offering Four Four, a thirteen track album released back at the start of November 2025.

I’m not going to do a long intro myself here, you can check the previous reviews for that. But there is a bit of a story behind this one which I’m going to put here in its entirety:

 

After releasing my last EP, The Anti Social Media, I kind of felt like I had said all I had needed to say for a while.
I had moved to a new area of England, a much safer and community driven area compared to the viscous rat race of life in London and a much more welcoming environment to raise my step daughter and two young boys.
Life has calmed down and being in my forties has caught up.
But then a lot has happened in the UK for us to be weary of and although at times I don't feel like we are in the firing line where we are now but we are still keeping an eye on the major cities and watching as the madness unfolds. At times in London it felt like it really was gonna be a civil war on your door step, now I am up north in a rural town and it all feels like just something I see on TV now. Until it isn't.
Anyway, over the summer I hadn't recorded. My recording setup had broken and I wasn't feeling up to it. Although I would fiddle with a beat or a rhyme every now and then.
So around the start of August I got a new setup, just as things in the world started to ramp up again and the writing began to flow.
I had intended to record 50 songs and put out the best 12 next year but what I have been recording for the past few months was coming out so well I decided to just go with it.
So now its mastered and ready to listen to.
We always strive for perfection as artists but as an individual it is something I aim for but never quite achieve and to be honest at forty four that lack of perfection is something I can accept and even embrace.
I'm happy - it is some of the best recording I have done over some of the best beats I have made so that is good enough for me.

These songs aren't perfect but in this world, nothing is. 

With all that said, lets get straight into the album…

 

With Legs MC mentioning that this is some of his best beats and vocals, the bar is set pretty high, expectation wise, and so we wait with bated breath as it all kicks off with The Baddest. This one hits with a head nob beat, this is almost overshadowed, at times, by this heavy rock guitar vibe, which gives this a raw, gritty sound. Legs goes in hard on this one with a tone that seems to mirror the reality of London’s tough streets. But this one is all about being the baddest rapper, and many of us old school Hip Hoppers with know that Bad means good. So, there is that link to the real Hip Hop vibe where you had to be the baddest, just to be good, and his lyrics seem to reflect that by having faith in himself and doing it for all the right reasons. Up next, is Big Jobs which drops with another heavy sound, but this time the beat is backed by heavy piano vibes which still have that hard edge but, with a vibe that seem to vibrate from you core outward. For a minute, I wondered where this one was taking me, but then something occurred to me as I played it again, it felt just like someone, having taken some time away from things, was struggling to get back to what they once did. The world and the pressures of everyday life weighed hard, and it seemed like a big job to actually get back, before something simple ignites the flame and fire begins to burn bright once more. The presence of strings on Take A Joke makes the vibe feel more laid-back, even though the beat still has a heavy edge. The sound of this one makes you think this one might have a reflective or more personal tone, but as you listen, you realise that the title of this one reflects exactly what it’s all about. It’s one of those moments that you might just take it more at face value, than get the fact that it has a much lighter tone, one that is aimed at no one in particular.

Delete Your Last Post hits with a far heavier sound as a pounding beat merges with a heavy synth vibe to create a sound that has your mind throbbing. This one takes us into the realms of social media and how the real world mixes with people personal views. The message here is more about thinking before you make a comment, as a flippant remake made in the heart of the moment can cause far more harm. This is very much relevant in a world where social media has become for anyone and everyone to be able to comment on anything. Fall of the Goliathes hits with a deep sound a pounding beat is backed with bass vibes and synth sounds. This all merges together to bring a sound that has a heavy feel but, still gives you cause to nod your head. On the face of it this one might just feel like a wicked display of wordplay but, there is something deeper here. It kind of says to you that we live in a world built by goliath’s, people in places of power, but those entities are slowly crumbling, and it is time for us come together, because together we can form the foundations of what is to come. Moody Chandelier is next and hits with a sound full of percussion sounds and more thar gives this one a deep moody feel that seems to hover between light and dark. There is also a reflective edge here as Legs speaks on what you have to do to protect those who are closest to you. These days the big cities have became a far more dangerous place to how they were fifteen or twenty years ago, and sometimes you have to make tough choices to make sure your loved ones can live and grow in relative safety, even if than means moving away from where you call home.

Next up is Four Four Two, which seems like the albums title track, in a way. There is a nice head nod sound to this one with piano vibes and more giving this one the sound you just wanna bounce to. This one has more football (Soccer to some) references that you can shake a stick at. Aside from that this one is also a platform for Legs to drop a bit of that classic rap braggadocio. The boom bap sound gets more heavy with Release The Hostages, where the heavy beat is backed with bass vibes and electronic sound to give you a sound that will have you bouncing non-stop. Legs continues with the slick wordplay and rap braggadocio to drop a track that shows just what can be achieved when you write with the kind of venom when time is short. Real Top Hip Hop MC has this uplifting sound with a slick beat, keys and bass vibes. This one finds Legs MC detailing his dream of being a top Hip Hop MC. This mixes his own experiences, hopes and dreams with classic storytelling and, yes, a sprinkling of rap braggadocio because that has always run through the foundations of Hip Hop emceeing.

Killing The Vibe mixes bass and keys with proper beat to bring a sound that gets you nodding to the keys rather than the drumbeat. There is a deep aspect to this one as it seems to focus on all the things that come externally, that draw us in because we think it will raise us up and help how we are feeling, but so often these things actually detract from how we are feeling and only end up leaving us missing something or even feeling worse off. It is always better to go with your gut feeling and stick to something that will uplift, and fast food, social media and the like are very rarely able to do that, and as for the media, forget it. Another pounding beat with a double bass note brings a heavy sound on Distractions in the Kitchen. This one does get you bouncing and nodding your head as well, as the vibe is kind of infectious. It is often doing the most mundane things, such as washing dishes, where so much can occur to us as thoughts run wild. The things that truths but, we feel cannot be talked about as they seem to be subjects that that are like touch paper to so many. You may well live in this country that has such a varied history but, the minute you begin to speak on that, someone will seize that and take it to an extreme. I know this feeling as I used to do a lot of driving for work, listening to review music for hours on end and the thoughts I would come up with on those solo drives would often lead me to interesting places, not all of which have ever made it into my written content.

We now come to the penultimate track, Ill No Brain, which has a beat and guitar sound that almost makes to feel like slow plodding footsteps, but footsteps that are made with purpose. There is a dark edge to this track, one that focuses on the fact that social media, and certain types of productions coming out of Hollywood do nothing except waste people minds. So many, especially the younger generations are becoming slaves to smart phones and social media. They rely on internet searches for the foundation of their knowledge and contact with others. Is this breading a world of zombies or sheep? The counter to this is to put down the phone and connect with nature, see what is really outside your door and remember how to think for yourself. Now, that last track might have brought some deep thoughts about the world around us but, has it set us up for the final track? Sit with the Worms drops with a pounding beat with keys that brings a sound that teases your nerves one the chorus. Here Legs does a solid job of building on the last message by speaking plain and simple on what he sees around him. This track encourages you not to just listen to what he says, but to really hear those words, and if you can’t do that then need to take yourself outside and have a word with yourself. Only you can make the choice on how you open your mind and hear the messages that are being given to you…

 

So, lets face it here, the first thing that is abundantly clear on Four Four is the fact that Legs MC does indeed deliver an album that is packed full of solid Hip Hop boom bap beats and the kind of cleaver lyrical wordplay that delivers important messages in a way that almost hits you in a subliminal way.

Legs MC gives us a highly enjoyable album that, on first impressions, is packed full of intelligent wordplay, impeccable delivery and a style that mixes deep messages with slick displays of lyrical dexterity and rap flows. However, when you take the time to really listen, those messages almost come alive because they are written in a way that makes them instantly relatable as situations any one of us can experience from one day to the next. This is one of those albums where you think to yourself, if I was an emcee writing lyrics, this is where I would be taking my work, mixing it up, while making it deep and something that speaks to everyone who hears it.

You can easily see why Legs feels this is some of his best work yet, both lyrically and production wise. Everything here works so well, now I have already touched on the vocal aspect but, what about the production? Well, there are a variety of sounds and vibes that permeate the album, with vibes that are darker to those that hit as solid boom bap bangers. You can feel the essence of that real Hip Hop sound coming through from the skilled wordplay to the fact that every beat here gets you moving in some way, it has that pure energy that has always made Hip Hop music a force a way where every beat accentuates the impact of the lyrics.

 

In a way I am gutted that I did not get round to bringing you the review for this when it dropped last year as it definitely would have been high on my list of albums for 2025, and I have to say that now I have heard it properly, it does slide in high on that list and solidifies the fact that Legs MC is a force on the UK scene.

Four Four is out now, so be sure to check it out.

Before I go, be sure to check out Legs MC’s alias Barton Stacey for some detective noir Hip Hop story telling.

 

Huge thanks to Legs MC for giving me the chance to bring this one to you.

 

I’ll be seeing ya.

 

Steve.

LINKS

Grab or stream the Album Here:

https://linktr.ee/legsmc

Legs MC Socials:

https://www.instagram.com/daddylegsmc/

https://www.facebook.com/legsmc

VIDEOS

Four Four Two

Take A Joke

 

 

 

Album Review: You Got No Fans by KJ

 

You Got No Fans

By

KJ

 

It was nearly two years ago now that I featured KJ with his album Taxi Ride (2024). During that time, he has had a few projects out, one of which in this one, You Got No Fans. This one was originally released a year ago in February of 2025, but I didn’t get a copy until recently. The reason for that is KJ sent me another album, which went awol in the post (a couple of CD’s have done so recently sadly) and so he sent me this one instead, which was cool as I remember all the fun video’s KJ put out to promo the album.

I’m not going to drop a lengthy intro here, so if you want to know more about the Welsh emcee/producer, check the Taxi Ride review for more info. That said let’s get straight into things…

 

The album kicks off with the title track You Got No Fans which features internet legend The Wealdstone Raider (you find plenty about him on the web, trust me), which samples the infamous video he features in from 2013. This one has a nice beat, that gets ya head nodding, backed by keys, bass and more, giving you a sound that is solid Hip Hop, with a little LoFi edge. KJ’s lyrics have a very tongue-in-cheek vibe about them as he gives us look at his wordplay while taking pot shots at the other rappers out there. This one brings that football banter style to Hip Hop braggadocio. Guitar vibes and a solid head nod beat form the backdrop of Skillz.  Here KJ continues a bit of that Hip Hop braggadocio by bigging up the skills he has to do a great many things. The light-hearted vibe continues here too as he invites others to step up by goading them on the chorus by saying ‘Yeah, I got skills, what you gonna do about it’. Simping brings a chilled beat with a big bass guitar vibe giving this one a chilled out edge with the keys and vocal elements. This one is all about being attracted to someone and showing an abundance of attention. It feels like this one is all about the things you would love to say to someone, who might not know or show the same in return, but the desire for attraction and close contact is there all the same.

Siren brings a beat that is backed by horns, keys and vocal samples, giving this one a sound that has that LoFi edge to it. This is one of those tracks that is a dedication to that special woman in his life. But this not a track where things get too soppy, this is a Hip Hop love song where similes and metaphors do all the talking by taking you off to another realm. Samurai is a short track where a pounding beat is backed by Japanese musical sounds to give this one a sound that transports you a place that seems far more personal. There are elements to this one that strike you as a frank discussion on the internal struggles of what you see around you and how you carry yourself in the face of that adversity, so you are able to raise yourself up. Cleaning The Mind (Phase 4) hits with a heavy beat that is back with some electronic sounds that give this on a very reflective air to it. Listening to this one you instantly realise that this is a deeply personal track. Touching on subjects such as addiction, depression, and much more. Reflecting on this type of lived experience is something many of us can associate with. I know there has been many times I have felt like clearing my own mind by opening up about my life. The deeply personal aspect of this one is hard to convey, in truth, and is the kind of track that you just need to listen to and understand.

ART-IST merges acoustic guitar elements with a more chilled beat and electric guitar vibes which give this one a different reflective sound. KJ gives a look at what it means to him to be an artist, doing what he does and bringing a wide range of styles and vibes to the listener. It’s not about the payday but, about the music and what that means to both KJ and those who listen to what he has to offer. Now we have an insight into KJ as an artist its time to turn our attention to I Don’t Battle. This one kicks off and features elements of Cartman from South Park, which should tell you a lot about where this one is headed. The beat is pounding with a nerve jangling flute kind of aspect and vocal samples, which kind of soften things a little. KJ goes all in on this one, in a tongue-in-cheek kind of way with unapologetic and no punches pulled vocals that will probably have you laughing out loud, unless you have some reservations over the content, it’s definitely not for kids by the way. KJ says he don’t battle anymore but, with wordplay like this any battle would quickly descend into chaotic scenes with everyone falling about laughing. Before we realise it we are already at the penultimate track of the album, Marmyte. More deep bass guitar vibes and a pulse pounding beat gets your head nodding to this one from the get-go. Here, KJ mixes Hip Hop braggadocio with just fun kind of wordplay, and just like a certain food stuff with a similar name, you are gonna love it or hate it. For me, I love it personally, just like that certain food stuff. So, just listen to this one and enjoy it with a smile. The final track of the album is Monster, which hits with another head nod vibe alongside an electronic vibe that puts you in mind of some weird lab where a crazed doctor creates a monster. This on sees KJ take us into the mind of both the creator and the monster, using distorted vocals for the monster. It takes us on crazed journey from the creation  of the monster, its rampage, and then the final meeting with its creator…

 

There is a lot to like about You Got No Fans, because KJ had moved away from the boom bap sound and had dipped more into LoFi sounds with deeper story telling vibes, but here he takes himself back to a more solid Hip Hop sound, although elements of the LoFi sound can be heard creeping in here too. KJ also brings together two incredibly important elements of Hip Hop music as the album is kind of two thirds just for fun and Hip Hop braggadocio, and one third deeply personal and relevant storytelling that gives you much to think about. Incorporating these two aspects was something that I felt worked so well. Having deeply personal and relatable content is always something that makes for quality Hip Hop music and keeps this relevant, relatable, and authentic for the listener. But once in a while it is good to listen to Hip Hop that has a fun and uplifting edge which makes you smile as much as you enjoy listening to it, which also means you don’t have to give it too much thought, and there is nothing wrong with that either. We all need a little break from reality every now and then.

You Got No Fans is a quality self-produced album which gives us plenty of slick wordplay, whether it is making us smile, which the appearance of The Wealdstone Raider certainly does, or making us think. KJ shows us that he is more than able to switch things up both in his production and in his delivery and flows. The outcome is a ten track album that really needs little in the way of words from me to tell you what it is all about, even though I have done just that. What this album really needs is for you to give it a listen and enjoy it. I do feel that, although this one is primarily Hip Hop at heart, it has enough additional influences as to make it highly listenable to a lot of people.

So, a huge happy one year anniversary to You Got No Fans and a huge thanks to KJ for giving me the chance to bring this one to you.

 

On that note,

I’ll catch ya next time.

Steve.

LINKS

Check this one link for the Album and all things KJ:

https://linktr.ee/kieranjulio

VIDEOS

You Got No Fans ft The Wealdstone Raider

 

 

 

Album Review: After The Party by Mackenzie

 

After The Party

By

Mackenzie

 

It is not very often that a submission gets lost in the haze of digital clutter. However, that is just what happened with today’s review.

After The Party comes from Scottish rapper, producer, promoter and videographer Mackenzie. The album was released back in Mid-2025, so it had to go to the top of the list.

Mackenzie, a veteran of the Scottish Hip Hop scene, who crafted a name for himself across fifteen years working in multi-disciplines. Alongside having significant impact on the scene and culture, Mackenzie has also made a mark on the battle rap scene across the last decade. He has competed both in the UK and US, across renown platforms such as Don’t Flop, Premier Battles, King of the Dot, and iBattle. Between 2016 and 2023 he ran the Scottish battle rap league Iron Barz which provided a platform for both new and emerging talent across Scotland.

After The Party marks a new chapter in MacKenzie’s artistic journey—a reflection of growth, resilience, and an evolving understanding of both his craft and the world around him. The album, which produced and written by Mackenzie, looks at the ups and downs of the Scottish party scene:

 With a mix of hard-hitting storytelling, sharp social commentary, and a matured perspective, the album also examines the evolution of both the artist and the Scottish hip-hop scene. While some tracks take a tongue-in-cheek approach to party life, others serve as a serious reflection on addiction, excess, and societal norms. At its core, "After The Party" is a project of balance—one that offers both anthems to motivate and uplift, as well as cautionary tales for those lost in the haze of late-night indulgence.

The album also features a mix of featured artists in Wends, who is a powerful female dub and reggae artist, Gluco, a Glasgow based rapper, and RamZee, a female rapper and spoken word artist.

With all that said, I now invite you join me as I take my own look at After The Party…

 

Our night, or nights, out with Mackenzie begin with the album’s title track After The Party. This one has a sound that gets your head spinning, mixing the sounds along the way from heavy bass and pounding sounds to more relaxed sounds. There is a vibe that has a grime, trap edge to it too. Mackenzie immerses us deep in mind numbing vibe that takes you to the very edge of your sanity. This is the place you find yourself in following a heavy party night and what happens afterward, where are you going and where will you find yourself in morning. This is a place where alcohol impacts your memory, but the desire for enjoying moment overrides all else. It is clear, now, that we have been dropped in at the deep end here and now move on to Lie Like That, where the sound is on that grime edge with pounding bass, cymbals ticking and keys tweaking your nerves. This one took we a while to get to terms with but, as I listened there seemed to be this element of wrestling with yourself, and coming to terms with the fact that sometimes it is just easier not to be completely honest with where you are going and what you are doing; and that can be as much about lying to yourself as to those around you. This might not be exactly what Mackenzie was putting across but, it was what it said to me as I listened. Total Satisfaction features Wends and brings more of a raggae infused sound, but still with a heavy edge to it that vibrates through your whole body. Wends not only drops a verse here but, adds some soulful vocals on the chorus that brings a lighter moment to a track that examines how that darker side of your nature will always look to feed its desires, regardless of what is going on in your life. You might be struggling from day to day, and yet you still find the means to go out and feed on whatever brings those good feelings and helps you forget everything else.

Guitar vibes and cuts bring in Slow Down, a proper head nod vibe for all the real headz out there. Juxtaposed to the title, this one will have you bouncing. There are also two parts to this track as the beat switches, a little over mid-way through. This shows the distinct difference those who chose to slow down on a night out, taking it easy when called for. Which is opposed to those who chose to keep going, spiralling downward at full speed, because to slow down would mean to allow the intrusive thoughts to surface. So, they keep going, regardless of the consequences. Long Walk Home features Gluco and a sound that has a pounding beat with a huge horn sound which keeps your head nodding. There are few among us who cannot relate to this one as Mackenzie and Gluco speak on those long walks home after a night out, as the alcohol influence begins to subside and you ponder the nights events, something which can range from remembering everything to the times you question where you have been and who you were there with? Bounce begins with a more chilled vibe with that reverse sound that tweaks your nervous system. Once the beat kicks in it amps things up a few notches. Mackenzie switches his flows here back and forth, mirroring your thoughts as you begin to question your life, looking toward something better, but wondering if that will really happen. This is like the wake up call to a life that has been spiralling out of control, and you suddenly begin to understand that there is more to life.

Don’t Leave My Side brings a far more laid-back sound that is comprised of guitars and vocal samples. This one has a thoughtful vibe about it which brings an energy of someone wrestling with their thoughts and feelings as they look both within and at the world around them. These are the kinds of things that happen to us as we let go of the party life and reconnect with the world. It also makes us realise that we lose so many along the way, in different ways, and all we really want is someone or something which will always be there for us, especially when we need them most. Lift takes the adrenaline levels up once more with a pulse pounding beat, bass notes and synth vibes, which combine to lift you up once more. Here that is a shift in the idea of what the party culture is from a drug and alcohol induced downward spiral, to an energy that speaks to everyone, using you craft to inspire the listeners; bringing the party vibe to uplift, in a way that is not self-centred but, is there for the culture and those who look to you for something more. Don’t Speak (It’s Over) features RamZee and has a sound that uses No Doubt’s Don’t Speak but merges it with a more modern sound which has a trap edge to it, giving the whole thing a heavy vibe. There is a heaviness to this as it looks at a relationship break up, one of the sad things that can happen when you spend too much time focusing on your own selfish needs and not those closest to you, those who truly love you.

The Penultimate track of the album is Poison which has a beat that seems to vibrate throughout your mind, with guitar notes and synth vibes, all of which come together with an energy that seeps inside, holding your attention all the while. This one is a deep track that looks at how the poison is the mind state of the weekend being your escape from everyday life and getting through the week is just something you do in between those moments of escape. The desire to get through the week and the conflict it can produce, means the weekend becomes more of an escape and the poison takes more of a hold. You have to recognise you are poisoning yourself before you can heal. The album ends on With Us. This one hits with a heavy sound and vocal sample that has this powerful sound, with the beat hitting it all combines to bring a heavy sound that has a deep vibe to it. The beat also switches toward the end becoming a heavy drum beat to round the track out. There is very much a vibe to this one which is looking towards a higher power to be with you as you navigate your way in a world away from excess. This is a way to find peace in a world of chaos, be it with god, your own god or even the energy and memory of a passed loved one.

 

Now, every review has its challenges, some are easier than others, and this one certainly had its challenges, some of which may stem from my own situation. This might mean that some of the interpretations might have missed the mark originally intended by Mackenzie. That is something I enjoy about music is that it can take you to many places, depending on your own situation at the time of listening.

Mackenzie has crafted something here that will probably speak to our Scottish neighbours instantly, but it might take time for others to really get into it. However, there is a nice mix of influences within this album which will make it one of those that can be enjoyed by a fairly wide variety of listeners. The roots are in that Hip Hop and rap scene, but there are enough other vibes that it will appeal to those who like grime, trap, and other vibes too. It just takes a good ear to give it the right listen.

Something that is also worthy of note is the depth of the story telling across the album. Mackenzie delivers some just for fun energy while packing in some raw and, deeply personal vibes which come from not just his own lived experience but, those of friends too, and if you take that time to listen, there is a progression to the storytelling in that it covers the fun of a night out but, also speaks on the flip side of that, the addiction to that party culture and the problems that can arise as a result. There is also a grown man edge that opens you up to the realisations of what you have become immersed in and what happens when you take the time to accept that and work to become a better person, finding your true self and letting it shine through.

It is clear that Mackenzie has put the work in over the years developing a wide range of flows and intricate wordplay, giving him a platform to easily be able to pursue a cross genre career if he so chooses. The broad Scottish accent will mean that some listeners will need to give his work an extra listen to fully appreciate it, but this is the authentic sound we want to hear on the vocals and it grounds in Scotland and speaks volumes on where he is from. His production work is solid and gives each track the right sound and energy to allow you to take in the message, at least the message that it speaks to you in the moment. Also, his choice of feature artists is spot on as each, whether you know them or not, bring a solid performance and adding exactly what was needed to compliment Mackenzie's sound and message.

What After The Party goes to prove is that the Hip Hop and Rap scene is huge in Scotland and is helping to keep the scene alive the world over with a diverse range of artists bringing their own energy to the mix and Mackenzie is certainly one of those. So, anyone who has not checked out his work yet, should definitely give him a listen and this album is the perfect starting point.

After The Party is out now.

Huge thanks to my good friend Conscious Route for bringing this one to my attention.

I’ll see ya next time.

Steve.

LINKS

Grab or stream the Album Here:

https://mackenzie.bandcamp.com/album/after-the-party

https://open.spotify.com/artist/2tcp9R71FS8noRgUrtxwNM

Mackenzie Socials:

https://www.instagram.com/mackenziescottishrap/

https://www.facebook.com/mackenziescottishrap

https://www.youtube.com/@MackenziePro

VIDEOS

Don't Speak (It's Over) ft RamZee

Lie Like That

Total Satisfaction ft Wends

Bounce

 

Album Review: Never Really Accepted by PRIDE

 

Never Really Accepted

By

Pride

 

It is always a pleasure to have a new artist on the blog, and this time I welcome one of the UK’s legendary figures and former member of the incredible Suspekt crew. Pride brings his hot solo album Never Really Accepted to the table. An album which has been around three decades in the making, as dropping a solo album has been a focus for Pride since he first got into the game.

Pride and Suspekt, alongside the likes of Blade, Blue eyes, Son Of Noise, Killa Instinct, Deliverance, and others shaped my view of the UK scene. So, it is an honour to be able to bring you my humble view of this debut solo release. I have heard some great things about this release from Remark (who features on the album) and Whirlwind D, not to mention the many posts on social media that have been popping up.

Alongside Pride on this album are some top notch producers and features, but rather than list those hear, I thought I’d break with my normal way of doing things, it’s always good to mix things up every now and again and introduce you as we go.

So, I’m going to keep this intro short, dive in and take you through Never Really Accepted…

 

We kick things off on the A-Side with The Reckoning which features Producer and DJ Haynesy. The sound immediately switches your adrenaline levels past ten, with Haynesy mixing electric guitar elements with a banging beat and cuts to remind you this is Hip Hop. You might think that a reckoning is something that comes at the end, but here Pride unleashes his at the very start, giving those who don’t know an insight into the wordplay and delivery that gives him a pedigree within the UK scene. All those other rappers out there who think they are all that and might consider that artist from years back can’t do this anymore, well Pride has your number and is here show you how its done. After such an incredible start, there is no let up as Monster hits with an original beat from Seek The Northerner, mixed by Guided Mindz, and featuring Remark. This one hits with a funk fuelled sound with proper head nod beat that keeps you moving. The energy in this one works so well as Pride and Remark pull no punches as they take aim at the society we live in. There are references to how the media has been weaponised and how those in places of power only seek to keep us all locked in a place of fear, in order control us and make it look like they are working for our best interests while lining their own pockets. There is only so far you can push people before it creates a monster, the very think you feared the most, and here are Pride and Remark, emcees with an axe to grind and the perfect stage on which to do it. Next up Pride is joined by producer and DJ Stanton Miles for On The Up. This one has a heavy and rough sound with plenty of cuts, bringing a deep sound with an electronic organ sound that threatens to fray every one of your nerves. Here Pride drops a track that focuses on Knife crime as her details a story of one young mad driven to take a stand against others but, who is ultimately taken from the world and his loved ones. This track details a story that is echoed across the country, even the world, as young people fight over nothing, leaving grieving families and pain in their wake. It is a wake up call, a cry to all those young people out there to put down their knives, stop the violence, and ease the pain that touches so many.

The A-Side continues as Haynesy joins us once more on Till My Name Remains. This one has a sound, with plenty of cuts, that hits like kick from Bruce Lee. Lifting you up and slamming you down in the same instance, while inviting you to jump around. Here Pride drops a battle rap sound, hitting out, not at anyone individual, but at anyone who might chose to step up, and particularly those who think they are good enough to expect respect without earning it. Now, you might think that’s a bit much, but when you have been in the game as long as Pride, you have earned some bragging rights; and there has always been this thing in Hip Hop where emcees showed their prowess with more than a little braggadocio. So, respect the pedigree. Hard Yardz gives us our first look at production from Guided Mindz (aka Steve B) who has been working with pride for some time, and here the sound has a pounding beat with some slick guitar and organ notes, giving you a nice funky sound to vibe to. Here Pride gives us a look at just what he can do when he unleashes bars. Each one hitting hard, delivering a potent vocal punch that rocks your eardrums. Each bar delivered is a statement, showing you just how a talented emcee rocks the mic. The A-Side comes to a close with Guided Mindz on production and Murkyman on the cut for Sub Assassin. The sound on this one has a big ragga sound system vibe that will get your whole body moving to the beat. As you listen to this one you get the feeling that Pride is going all out to entertain you with a blistering display of wordplay that fits so well with the energy and vibe of the track. You couldn’t end the side in a better way that to uplift the listener and get them hyped up to get the vinyl flipped as soon as possible.

 

Side-B begins with the albums title track Never Really Accepted which brings an original beat from Seek The Northerner and an appearance from DJ Renegade (Son of Noise) on the cut. Heavy drums, heavy horns and more give this one a sound that seems to have anthem written all over it, it has that elevated kind of vibe. Here Pride gives us the kind of track that will allow you to get out of it, how you chose to listen to it! Give this one a surface listen and you will hear a solid banger that will get you amped up but, chose to listen a little closer and you will hear a track that is packed with skilled wordplay that seems to speak on an underrated artist who has not received the recognition he deserves, despite years of putting his heart and soul into his craft. This is something that a great many other artist can associate with as underground and independent artists. So, listen with the right ears and this one is indeed your anthem and one that encourages you to keep pushing to be the best you can be and to leave a legacy for your children and others to build on. Next up is Mirrorz which features production from Guided Mindz and Drew Stansall (sax, The Specials) alongside Pride. Guitars and horns create the sound with another head nod beat creating a 2 Tone sound that you just can’t help but nod your head to. Great sample from The English Beat’s, Mirror In The Bathroom (1980). There is a definite air about this one that is looking at the scene and the struggles of the artists. From streaming sites who don’t pay what an artist deserves to those who don’t push themselves enough. A lot of the time it all comes down to looking at yourself and how you market yourself and your craft. You can’t just put stuff out there and expect things to happen, it is all down to you to promote yourself. It’s not easy but, only you know your worth, so only you can push yourself you the point where people really sit up and take notice. Pride is joined on Not To Be Liked by DJ/Producer/Emcee and fellow UK Legend Chrome (Chrome and Illinspired, Chrome +). This one has a cracking upbeat sound that tweaks the energy levels and delivers a solid funky sound that gets you bouncing. From Pride’s solid vocals and Chrome’s blistering pace there is an air about this one that says doing what you love is not always about doing it to be liked, it’s about doing it because you love the craft, you love the sound, and you love the product you put out. There is a difference between doing something for the money and doing it for the love of it, when you it for the love of it, you bring passion and authenticity, two things that set you apart from the rest.

 

Midz Connect features DJ Fever and brings a banging sound of drums and bass, and cuts of course. The Incredible Bongo Band, It’s Just Begun sample mixed in gives this one a proper Hip Hop sound that will definitely resonate with the old skool heads as it gets your head nodding. This one see’s Pride reminiscing over some of the moments that had a huge impact on who he is, changing his life’s path and setting him on a journey that all led to this point in time and a solo album that lays his cards on the table and brings you the man and the music. Wabaabaam is the penultimate track of the album and see’s Haynesy return for one last track. The sound here begins with a laid-back sound before really kicking off with a heavy beat and horn heavy sound that seems to fire you up from the inside out. Here Pride takes a look at the grim state the country and society. This is not just a look at the powers that be, but a look at the role of social media, racism, and a whole lot more. It might seem like the sound puts an upbeat spin a very bleak outlook of life in England but, sometimes you just can’t sugar coat the truth and laying it out in this way helps to open the mind to what’s going on around you and perhaps, give you just enough to start the change. The album ends with an appearance from Reggiemental and production from Guided Mindz on Put Ya Mic Down. This one brings that ragga, 2 Tone sound back, but with a more multi-layered sound that switches things up in a way that you can either bounce to you kick back and chill with. The message here is all about knowing your worth and standing by that. At the end of the day everyone has bills to pay, especially in a world where everyone wants something for nothing, you have to stand firm by your values and if money is not there, then it is ok to just walk away. Now this might seem like a strange way to end the album but, this is a very real aspect of what underground artists are faced with. Promoters who will book for shows with little or no fees, and when you are an artist of thirty plus years standing, it takes money to survive and there is no shame in requesting a fee for your time…

 

Now, I know I have said this before, somewhere along the way but, there is an old saying that ‘good things come to those who wait and that can certainly be said of Never Really Accepted. When you have waited thirty plus years to finally put out a solo album and what you are able to deliver is something of this quality, then you could very easily drop the mic now and walk away, job done.

Let’s be honest here, with everything you have just read, you could be thinking that there is not a low point on this album, and you would be correct. There are no fillers and no tracks that are simply ok, every track here is a banger in one way or another. There was no point during the album I thought that any track was any less that any of the others. What I did find was that here are twelve tracks and the best part of fifty minutes of some of the best UK Hip Hop that money can buy, and to be fair I could leave it there, but I won’t…

Pride has worked with Guided Mindz aka Steve B to bring you a solid Hip Hop album that is born of the true foundations of what Hip Hop is about. They have brought in some additional top quality producers to add some substance and then some top quality emcees to add the icing to the cake. Everyone of those guest emcees stand shoulder to shoulder with Pride, as do the producers with Guided Mindz. The guest features are not over done and there is plenty of space for Pride to display the quality of his own craft, which he does with aplomb with a top tier display of wordplay, flows and, at times, emotive lived experience, all with a quality of delivery that speaks directly to you, allowing you to hear and associate with everything along the way. Proving, without a shadow of doubt that he has lost none of his edge and delivers the kind of top quality display of an artist who has taken the time to craft something special for himself, and the listener. 

The basis of Never Really Accepted might be Hip Hop but, with the 2 Tone and reggae, plus the funk vibes too this one has enough variety and substance to keep you going no matter where you are and what you are doing.

What this proves to me is two fold really, the first thing is that Hip Hop, that real Hip Hop sound is far from dead and buried. It might have returned to the underground to flourish, but flourish it is. The second thing is that more and more I see quality UK acts coming up or, in this case, returning to the stage and standing up for the culture and the music that we grew up with and made our own, to a point anyway. It kinda says to you that we are seeing that the quality has been ebbing and flowing and its time to bring it back and that is what Pride is doing here, alongside Steve B, he looking to bring that beat back, bring the soul and the real Hip Hop back.

 

Never Really Accepted is out now with a limited edition vinyl. If you have not heard this one yet, take it from me, you don’t want to miss this.

My humble thanks to Pride and Steve B for giving me the chance to bring you my take on this one.

 

I’ll see ya next time,

Steve.

LINKS

Get your copy of the Album here:

https://www.discogs.com/sell/release/35732956

Album Review: 3 Days, 8 Beats, 1 Take by Jonie D

 

Three Days Eight Beats One Take

By

Jonie D

 

Jonie D has featured on the blog before with Kaos Crew and most recently with his single Journey, back in July 2025. It is good to have him back with his latest solo project Three Days, Eight Beats, One Take, which was originally released back in October 2025 and is produced by LSK.

The Derbyshire based emcee also has some Italian roots and descries this album as follows:

This one is personal and built on the sounds and the movies we grew up with. Each track reflects where I’ve been, what I’ve seen, and what I’m still figuring out after more than 30 years in music and 50 years on our planet. The lyrics are for anyone who’s ever had to stop and take a look at where they came from and where they’re headed. This project means a lot to me, and I can’t wait for you to hear it. 381 is known as the Angel Number and is a combination of the energies and vibrations of 3 (creativity, & self-expression), 8 (achievement), and 1 (new beginnings).

From those few words, you really get the feeling that this is going to be an album that hits some deep notes, especially with the very personal and spiritual aspects.

So, lets get straight into it…

Our journey with Jonie D begins with Call Me and an Intro that gives a brief look at that Italian heritage. The sound of this one has a chilled edge to the beat, this is backed by bass and organ notes that hold that chilled edge, also bringing a sound that has this thoughtful vibe. Plus, I’m fairly sure the chorus comes from Peter Gabriels Sledghammer. The vibe of the sound works so well here as the track is very much a dedication to his children and his love for them. As a father myself, I can feel everyone of these words and being there for your children, just at the end of the phone, mirrors my own sentiments when it comes to my own children. This is such a great way to kick off the album with a hugely personal track that gives the listener a deep look at what to expect, while also touching you deeply. It also leaves you wondering where Jonie will take us next with Apollo. This one has a heavier beat which is backed by horns and keys that give this one a ragga vibe, getting you moving. This one has a broader feel to it, as it looks at the world around us now but also sees Jonie taking a look back over live and some of the key things that have moulded who he is. The reference to Apollo here shows how he remains focused, precise and controlled in how he approaches life and what is important to him. Those ideals of focus, precision and control were all key aspects for the NASA Apollo missions.

Next up is No Strings Attached, which hits with a laid-back sound made up of bass and a solid drum beat. There is also no reference to growing up watching the likes of Thunderbirds and other Gerry Anderson produced TV Series. This one is all about relationships that have no strings attached. However, living that way can have an impact on the other person in the relationship who might see things as more that they are. There is also another aspect to this one, which is about not being a puppet to anyone and having your own autonomy when living your life. I also liked the addition of the sample from Smokey Robinson and The Miracles, The Tracks of My Tears, which adds a nice little, almost light-hearted edge to things. Loose Cannon comes with a nice soulful edge over the heavy drum beat, getting your head nodding as you listen. That soulful vibe lends itself nicely here as Jonie looks at how we change over time, from someone who might have been a bit of a loose cannon at one time, to someone who has truly found themselves through education, self-exploration and perhaps a dash of spiritual enlightenment along the way. This one reminds us of how time and aging, with all that brings with it, does change the essence of who we are, as does the knowledge and lived experience we carry along the way.

As we cross the halfway point of the album our focus is brought to Time, where the sound mixes a solid Hip Hop beat with a sixty’s guitar riff loop, giving this one a vibe that switches up the adrenaline levels just a little, encouraging the head nodding to get a little more heavy along with it. Here Jonie takes us on a ride that looks at the things that we often find difficult to explain or come to terms with as we navigate the journey of like. From the funs and games we had in the past to wading through the pressures of modern day living, there will always be times we wonder how we got here or how we will through the present and into the future. Roses brings another upbeat sound with a beat and keys that bring that ragga sound once more. The light feeling of this one really fuels some good vibes within as you listen. This is one of those tracks, that for me, might mean something different to different people. It says a lot about how we move through life dealing with the struggles from the past and the present, but ultimately, we are aware that within all this, there is somethings beautiful. Like, holding on to roses we see the beauty that they bring, but there is also that awareness that holding onto them brings pain from the thorns that cut our hands. It is that understanding that there is always pleasure and pain through life, we just have to choose the weather the storm in order to see the blue skies that will come.

We move into the final two tracks of the album with Tell It, which brings a heavy beat with keys that has a sound that keeps that upbeat sound going, getting you moving, but maybe in a more mellow way. Here Jonie does exactly what the title suggests, telling it like it is. This is like sitting with a good friend or perhaps with your children, giving them an unfiltered and honest view of life. We pick up so much knowledge as we move through life that there comes a time when we can only speak on where we have been and what we see that comes forth in a way that has no rose tinted glasses but, just how we see it from our hearts. Because, as we grow, we understand that the truth is the only way forward. The album ends with Higher Plane, The sound mixes a laid-back beat with guitar vibes that give this one a more thoughtful and reflective edge, a sound that seems to touch and vibrate through all seven chakras. Now, I might not be on point with this one but, it really made me think about all those people that touch or lives as we walk life’s path. There are times when we meet someone who touches us deeply and we feel that person will always be with us, but they only stay for as long as it takes for them to teach what we need to know. We might not even realise what the lesson is, it might make us feel like life has kicked us in the teeth or deserted us. But there is a level, a higher plane if you will, where we understand what happened and why, and on a level that stays with us forever.

 

Now, I do love it when you listen to music that just allows the words to flow out of you and Three Days, Eight Beats, One Take is definitely one of those. It is probably because of the deeply personal nature of the entire album that allows that to happen. Every track here has a vibe that touches you, from LSK’s emotive production to Jonie D’s wordplay and deeply personal aspects that are locked into each track. It just allows to listen to each and every word, every bar, every beat, and then to allow that to draw out something from within your own lived experiences that allows you to perfectly associate with what is being said.

There is such a wealth of knowledge and personal experience here from Jonie D that makes you understand just how much this album must mean to him. At the same time, it helps you realise how much your own experiences mean to you.

This album has been crafted in such a way that it is not just another Hip Hop album. Yes, as you listen to it, you feel that the roots of the sound are well and truly in that Hip Hop vibe, but there is also more to it. Jonie’s vocals are clear and spoken in a way that allows to hear everything, so as to let the emotive elements sink in, regardless of the flow he uses. LSK’s production, in its sounds, mirrors the emotive nature of what Jonie is putting across, in such a way as to perfectly open up your mind to allow the messages to seep into the very core of your being.

There is a spiritual aspect to the album, which is unavoidable in way, because when you put so much deeply personal information and feeling into a project like this, the music and words become more than just a source of enjoyment, the sound and vibration touch you on a level you might not even realise. But it any track on this album brings up some deeply personal feelings then, you already understand on a deep level.

Three Days, Eight Beats, One Take is one of those albums that you might not put high on your list of classic albums but, it is definitely one you need to listen to and let it sink in and speak to you.

The album is out now on streaming and with some limited vinyl copies available too, so don’t sleep on it.

My huge thanks to Jonie D for allowing me to bring you my humble take on this album.

 

I’ll see you next time.

Steve.

 

Footnote: There is something I want to add here. Now, I always forward my reviews for fact checking before I drop them online, and part of the response I got from Jonie D, is worthy of note here.

There is also some additional information regarding the album title, which is this; The album was recorded over three days, with eight beats and using one take. Jonie D had the following to say about the process:

You hit it on the head with the 'the roots of the sound are well and truly in that Hip Hop vibe, but there is also more’. We kept the 1 take idea to keep it as honest as possible and when we finished it (in 3 quite emotional days) we felt much of what you’ve written. 

When I get feedback like this it really helps me in knowing my reviewing process is spot on. But more than that, that little line about the process of recording the album gives a huge insight in what it is like for the artist, producer, engineer etc in bringing a project like this to the listener.

I hope that gives you a little more of an insight into things from this side.

Steve.

 

LINKS

Here is One link for Jonie D, Inc Bandcamp for the Album:

https://linktr.ee/JonieD

Get the album on elasticStage Here:

https://elasticstage.com/jonied/releases/3-days-8-beats-1-take-album

Jonie D YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/@JonieDChannel/videos