Recently released on Northentic Records is the debut offering from the Obselites, titled Surplus to Requirements. This is a three track EP from two guys who are arguably outstanding figures in the UK Hip Hop scene, Karlow and Lomax.
Producer and emcee Karlow, from Burnley UK, has been making waves on the UK scene for a couple of years now and his debut album, Jesus in a Jason Mask (2021), really showed his pedigree, whilst staying true to his faith and proving he is a formidable figure both lyrically and on production.
Wigan emcee Lomax has spent the last couple of years building a reputation for complex and hard-hitting lyrics with flows to match. He also stands alongside Karlow, Seek The Northener, Bruva Smokes and DJ Musicarl in the crew T.H.E.M. who have also been making a lot of noise recently.
So, with Karlow and Lomax joining forces as the Obselites, just what do they have to offer us on Surplus To Requirements? Let me take you through these three tracks…
Heavy Drums, organ notes and some tweaked vocal samples merge to carry you into the Summer Rain. There is a reflective air to this one, it’s not really dark in its overall vibe but, Karlow and Lomax, with their two different vocal styles, speak on what seems to be two sides of the same story. You get the feeling you are listening to the troubled mind of someone as they reflect on the pain and the hurt in their life. It appears this is a place where dark clouds are the norm and the sunshine only makes the briefest of appearances But, the light is still there, just waiting for the right moment to dispel those grey clouds.
Treading Water has a far more upbeat vibe that is based on drumbeats and keys. It feels like we have moved on from the dark clouds and are now in a place where Karlow and Lomax speak on doing the things that uplift us and bring the positive vibes. Music is one of those that provides an outlet for our thoughts and feelings, it helps give others a way to move past their own dark places. It may seem like we are treading water sometimes as we look to keep the darkness at bay but, there is also a scene here that Karlow and Lomax are encouraging the listener to keep going, go with the flow and keep the light our focus.
The EP ends on a proper head nod vibe of horns, guitar, keys, drums, and cuts on Off The Meter, there is real energy and real Hip Hop feel good vibes here. What Karlow and Lomax give us here seems to be focused on the art of rap. It’s all about what the music means to them and how it makes them feel. You need to move forward with your craft, giving it 100% and producing good music to keep the crowd moving. There is not much more you can say about this one as it speaks for itself as you let the music and the lyrics seep into your soul and feel the vibe that puts you in a place where everything is Off The Meter...
What I liked about this one is that there is a real sense of progression as you move through the EP. It kinda starts of in a dark place but, then gets more positive as we move through ending with a solid feel-good feeling. Karlow and Lomax may appear to have slightly differing lyrical styles, in their flows and quality of wordplay but, they bounce off each other with ease, each complimenting the other perfectly. You also get this feeling that they are about doing what they do with style and keeping the lyrics solid and with intellect, allowing their words to truly speak to the listener, even if the listener is not aware of it. Production is solid on the EP to demonstrating that progression from the darker aspect to the light and really bringing it to life in a way you feel deeply.
Overall, Surplus To Requirements is an impressive debut from the Obselites, demonstrating the impressive stable of artists that Northentic Records has and the pure quality of the music they produce. I don’t do favourites on anything I review but, I can easily see Off The Meter being on track that will be on heavy rotation with many online radio shows.
This is one you really need to jump on now, so head over and grab it…
I have to say that I felt this new EP from former
Journeyman, Gee Swift, really deserved a review. Mainly because I’ve not seen
much exposure on it since it dropped a few weeks ago.
The Moody Waves EP is well worth checking out not just
because it is by Gee Swift of The Journeymen and the co-founder of AE
Productions but, also because it is produced by The Aroma, aka Rola and DJ
Rumage, and features cuts from AE’s head honcho Mr Fantastic.
Released through AE Productions, Gee Swift has decided to
put this straight on-line with no physical release. You find it on Bandcamp for
a pay what you like fee and with the pedigree the Moody Waves EP has to offer,
why would you not wanna grab it for a few quid?
If your still not sold on the idea, join me know and see
what I have to say about it and hopefully I will convince you to check this one
out…
Things kick off with the EP’s title track Moody Waves.
Drums, keys, and cuts are the basis for the sound with the drums creating that
boom bap Hip Hop sound while the keys have the effect of making you feel like
you are in a boat ebbing on the sea, while the cuts almost feel like the breeze
as you roll on the waves. Gee Swift is bang on as he says, “Take time with the
words so its well composed”. You get this real sense that he is speaking on
what he sees on the road in front of him But, also what makes him tick. Life is
just like floating on the sea, through calm and stormy seas we endure what
comes and as we do, there are waves of moods that come with what flows into our
awareness. This is not just well composed but, intelligent too.
There are more drums, keys and cuts providing the backdrop
for Come On Man, the drums, once more, carry you, just as the waves do
but, the keys and cuts combine to make you feel like a storm is brewing around
you. Here we find Gee Swift speaking on life and how he approaches his craft. It’s
all about putting in the work, the effort and always giving you all in
everything that you do But, ultimately you need to leave your best till last,
never slipping and to leave on a high, because that way you know that you have
achieved exactly what you came here to do.
The waters seem to calm with the coming of the High Seas,
where etheric vocals, pounding drums and bass notes create a reflective vibe
that also seems to have a essence of knowing and understanding. This fits
perfectly with Gee Swift’s vocals which has this air that speaks of change and
the temporary nature of things. We push to be all that we can be, to bring
light to the dark. We walk the earth leaving a path behind us, one that nature
will eventually reclaim, take back what was once hers, it’s just the natural order
of things.
We move into the final track with a solid head nod beat that
is backed by some electronic notes. We also find Gee Swift moving away from the
rough seas to the far reaches of space on a Space Odyssey. As the track progresses,
we wonder if we are on a trip into space or into the deeper reaches on the
mind? Esoteric subjects about here with the sort of vibe that will maybe take
us beyond space, beyond time and beyond the mind. This is one that will take
you wherever you need to go as you merge with Gee Swifts words on an
extradimensional trip.
Have to say that this a cracking EP that sets a new
benchmark from the Bristol emcee. Deep intelligent wordplay shows that he has
lost none of his edge from those Journeymen days. What he does here is to show
all the upcoming emcee’s out there that you need to have the skills and
presence of mind to focus on longevity. So, many artists blow in and out,
barely making a statement or have one important thing to say but, then don’t
back it up. Gee Swift simply says it how it is, do what you do and do it well,
then keep doing it well until you are ready to leave and then leave in an
explosive way, making a bold statement.
The interesting thing is that Gee Swift is also prepared to
touch on those esoteric or even exoteric subjects that few will. But more and
more artists are willing to go that extra mile and speaking on what drives them
and what they see in the world beyond the music and beyond the physical
reality. It’s a bold move to do this but, one that gives a deeper edge to the
music.
At the end of the day this is Hip Hop from one of the UK’s
top Hip Hop Hub’s, Bristol, brought to you by those who love what they do and want
to bring you a high-quality sound with slick, intelligent wordplay to get you
thinking as much as enjoying. For me, this is what the underground Hip Hop
sound is all about, top music from top artists who do it for the love and not
for the money, although a little support for their hard work never hurts…
Specifik’s new album has been in production for a while and
its been more than three years since we all went to the Ill Circus back early
in 2019. Now since that time a lot has happened, we’ve had pandemics, lock
downs, war and so much more. But, what happens when, in the midst of all that
chaos, you experience moments of seeing the same group of numbers over and over
again? Simple you take those numbers, in Specifik’s case 333, and you make that
the focus of your new album, and with Specifik being, first and foremost, a
producer you get a whole host of top draw features to properly bring some
clarity to The Triple 3 Effect.
So, when you are consistently waking at 3:33am, getting 333
in your change at the supermarket, having 333 as you gas bill, or your bank
account balance or miles travelled? What does it all mean? Could it be trying
to tell you something, be a lucky number, your angel number? Perhaps it
symbolises mind, body and spirit or was it ascended masters letting him know he
was in great hands and being assisted in what he was working on, or is it a
combination of all those things? Who knows for sure but, seeing these numbers
will mean different things to different people and what is for sure is that
these numbers became the catalyst and the driving force behind Specifik’s
creative expression, leading him and those he worked with to bring you The
Triple 3 Effect…
So, the only thing left now is for me to take you deep into
the album and tell you exactly where it takes me…
The album begins with What is the Triple 3 Effect (Intro),
where we get a little insight into what the Triple 3 Effect could be all about.
Specifik provides a background ambience of piano, bass, cymbals, and a few
sounds which creates a calm vibe to allow all our attention to be focused on
the words. It also gives us this deep sense of anticipation of what is to come.
We are not waiting long, just seconds before horns, drums and sonic sounds
guide us into Ting, which features Uncle Kelz and Sir Beans OBE, the
keys and bass come to the forefront bringing a ragga edge to the sound. Uncle
Kelz delivers an intelligent performance as he speaks on keeping yourself and
what you do moving forward, regardless of what life is throwing at you, the
obstacles put in your way, whatever you see going on around you, the most
important thing is focus on you and your hopes and dreams. If that were not
enough, we get treated to a solid display of Sir Beans OBE on the cuts, proving
why he is one of Bristol’s finest. Drums, bass, keys, and guitar are brought
together by Specifik and merge together into this stunning upbeat, feel good
vibe. Step up the legendary figure of Craig G who perfectly encapsulates what
the Summertime is all about, he spins his words into pictures in our
minds, lifting us up from wherever we are and carrying us from the USA to the
UK, perfectly capturing the moods, people, and experiences along the way. When
you add in some mellow cuts from Specifik, this one is the vibe to live you
summer by and when the clouds and rain roll in, this one will allow the sun to
shine once more. Just as you are getting lost in your thoughts of summertime
and the Juice Crew, Specifik throws the perfect curve ball and lands Eight
Bars To Flex on you. A homage to the scratch DJ, its’ introduced by
legendary UK emcee Mercury and features DJ Krash Slaughta, Specifik, Sy Matic, DJ
Jabbathakut and DJ Woody, before a mid-session break from Del SoulCondor
(R.I.P). After which we are treated to appearances from SIR Beans OBE, DJ
Tones, DJ Jazz T and DJ Destruction. There is not much you can say about this
verbally or with words, all the speaking is done with the hands and in less
that four minutes they rip the cut, leaving the speakers, your ears, and the
needles smoking. This is the perfect demonstration of what the scratch DJ does,
all served up from, what is arguably, the cream of the crop when it comes to
the UK Scratch DJ…
Next up is a short Public Service Announcement, a
little pallet cleanser, if you will, with a funky little break to keep you
moving. This is just to remind you about the quality of the production you are
hearing and originality of the words you will hear.
With the words of that short skit still playing on our mind
Specifik introduces a multi-layered sound on us that, at first seems
simplistic, But, as it progresses becomes almost sonic in nature and gets our
minds buzzing. King Kashmere joins Specifik and proceeds to speak on The
Pits, all those things that stress us out. This one will resonate with all
of us on some level, we’ve all had those moments in our jobs etc, I know I
have, when we have simply had enough and just want to express our frustration
and just leave. The best thing you can do is to get the emotions out in the
open as bottling things up just leads to negative outcomes. As we move on, the
next step from looking at the negative side of things is to focus more on the
positive side. Piano and Specifik’s deft cuts of a classic Eric B and Rakim sample leads us into Spread Love Repeat then, as the head nod beat drops in, and
Junior Disprol enters the scene, we immediately wonder if this will have that
positive edge? As we nod along to the beat it quickly becomes apparent that
what Junior Disprol is doing here is opening us up to the stark reality of life
before pointing us in the direction of the focus that will bring the positive
vibes our way. Sometimes you just have to open your eyes to the darkness so you
can recognise the light. With out focus firmly on the light things become clear
and with the clarity comes a vision and not just any vision, with bass, horns,
cuts, a dash of other sounds thrown in and the kinda funky beat that has your
whole body out the chair and groovin’, we see the Visionary Heavyweight. Iron
Bridge (aka Verbs and Jibbarish) join Specifik to show you exactly what it is
to be the very definition of a Visionary
Heavyweight, you need to have
knowledge and forethought, be able display both written and verbal wordplay and
it all needs to be presented in a way that quite honestly just ‘Moves The
Crowd’, and with Iron Bridge alongside Specifik, this one ticks all the right
boxes…
Time for a quick
musical interlude with Meta War, a heavy funked upbeat with tambourine and
bongos and sonic sounds that cleanses your pallet after some intense verbal
wordplay that has had you mind entwined. However, Specifik keeps the energy
going, keeping your body and mind wired for the next onslaught…
We know that The
Triple 3 Effect grew out of the experiences of Specifik during the Covid
pandemic and the lockdowns. Our introduction to Crumblin’ Bricks takes us
back to those dark times with sampled TV broadcasts to a nerve tweaking sound.
The beat, when it hits, is pounding drums with tambourine sounds, piano notes,
and more stories from the pandemic, highlighting the effect on mental health
and more. Chrome steps up alongside Specifik to open-up, in his unique style,
and detail what it was for us to live through those times, where we all felt
controlled and separated from those we loved, listening to stories of, and
constantly exposed to climbing death rates. The effects of those times had huge
impacts on us all in so many ways, to numerous to mention and some too painful.
During those early days of the pandemic, something else that exploded was the Culture War and here Specifik invites Figure Of Speech to the mic to speak on all
aspects of this situation. From the history we’ve been taught to the history we
should have been taught to the fact that the poor fought the poor and no
thought to knock number 10’s door and challenge the elite and powerful, those
who make the decisions that affect us, tell us what we should learn so if fits
their narrative and keep the darker side hidden. Being woke to what was
happening, became a thing to be ridiculed, when waking to the truth is in fact
a powerful thing but, those in power don’t want us to understand the truth,
because that brings power to the people and the people will rise up to be heard
and so they ramp up the fear to take the focus away and take back the power.
This is all set to Specifik’s big ragga sound system vibe of bass, bongos,
drums, keys, and sonic sounds that gives the perfect platform for the message
and gives it an almost anthem like sound. With all that knowledge and the
strength of those emotive subjects Specifik brings us a lighter note, one that
is rooted in Hip Hop and the streets as he takes a look at graffiti culture
alongside El Da Sensei (Artifacts), Cosm and Phill Most Chill on Hurt The Transit. Firstly, Specifik makes feel like we’re transported to the dark tunnels
of the New York subway system, then he drops this heavy beat with plenty of
bass and rapid-fire cuts. Each emcee drops stories of being out there getting
your name up using markers or spray cans. Hitting tags, throw-ups and burners,
it’s all about those window-down whole cars or top to bottoms. Getting into
fights with other crews means going over their work or getting your work gone
over in retaliation. The thrill of bombing and the adrenaline rush is hard to
beat where putting your freedom and your life on the line is what you do in
writing you name in graffiti on the wall. This the perfect musical expression
of what it is write…
Our last little skit
is Get Wild, and once again in this short musical
interlude, Specifik pounds our ears with a heavy, wild, and funky drum break
which will undoubtedly have you bouncing as he gives you another little look at
his production quality, what else can you say, right…
Now well and truly
into the final quarter of the album Specifik drops heavy beat with keys, a
sonic sound, and a good dose of razor-sharp cuts. Under Control see’s
Specifik’s partner in rhyme, Whirlwind D, and Doozer on vocal duties over that
dark edged beat. This one is all about how the masses are under the control of
the ruling elitists. How they exercise this control is all laid bare here with
intelligent and knowledgeable wordplay directing us to think more about what is
going on around us. You can only be open to the truth if you choose to question
what you see and hear around you and then educate yourself. Now your mind is
open to almost anything, Specifik and the NuJericans (Joey Dynomite & Sol
Zalez) ask you to 4give My
Actions. The drums and percussion
are almost softened by the guitar heavy sound but, together the sound mixes and
merges into a sound that invades every corner of your mind with an almost ragga
edge to it but, ending the track with horns that almost switches the vibe to a
soundtrack sound. The NuJericans put their cards on the table in terms of their
music and life, it’s all about doing what you need to do to always be moving
forwards. Sometimes you might need to do things you are not entirely at peace
with the keep that forward momentum and that means needing to seek forgiveness
at times. It might not be the best way to be but, it is the nature of the
society we live in, at times. The album ends with MC Oliver Twist joining
Specifik on This IS Not A Test. Specifik creates a heavy pounding beat with
some acoustic guitar notes. There is this dystopian air to things here and it
fits exactly with MC Oliver Twist who calmly and slickly dictates a narrative
of a bleak future. This is a place where the Bomberman rhymes without beats and
Specifik creates music from the most basic foundation, fuelling artists to push
forward and take a stand, taking music back to the starved masses and giving
back that energy, that enjoyment and the expression music gives. No matter what
happens in the future, there will always be music…
Let me sum this up
first of all by saying ‘WOW, Just WOW’, This album is simply that good. I mean,
could it really be that The
Triple 3 Effect was overseen by
some higher power? In a world where more and more people are awakening to new
paradigms and science becoming more open to things such as parallel universes
and life beyond death, could it be that something esoteric or could it be that
Specifik was simply guided by his own higher self to create an album that
touched on higher levels of consciousness, fuelled by the energy of what is
happening around him? Will we ever truly know?
What we do know is
that overall, The Triple 3 Effect is a truly outstanding album where Specifik
is demonstrating what can be achieved when you are at the top of your game. His
production and scratch DJ techniques are top notch, in fact there is almost
something next level about his production here. He creates sounds that are real
Hip Hop at their roots but, the subtle influences from other genres flows in
and out, giving you a complete experience, if you can call it that. His choice
of guest artists is inspired, with each fitting perfectly into their place and
adding the icing to the cake. This has the pedigree and the possibility to be
the pinnacle of releases from the UK this year, if not Hip Hop in general. The
Triple 3 Effect oozes passion and emotive music making with every beat and
every bar that you hear, and I’d go so far as to say that this is solid gold
right here. It truly left me with chills and buzzing like I had just heard
something that touched my soul.
I have no words left
now so all I can say is this, if you have not heard The Triple 3 Effect yet,
you need to get it, listen, and feel it because that’s the only way you get
100% of what this album is about.
The Triple 3 Effect is out now on B-Line Recordings. It is
mastered by Rola at Khameleon 107 Bristol, features art and design from Digital
Dyer and is dedicated to Del Soulcondor (who’s memory lives on in the music).
On that note,
I’ll See Ya,
Steve.
LINKS
Get The Triple 3 Effect from Specific on Bandcamp:
Today see’s the release of the new album from Nottingham emcee/Producer Frisco Boogie. Titled Sunflowers in September is the follow-up to Mask's of the Morning Sun, Rainbow’s in the Rubble and C.I.R.C.U.S. both of which I have reviewed on the blog.
So, lets get straight into it as I take you through the album from top to bottom…
Intro Sunflowers kicks things off and you immediately get a sense that there is a reflective aspect to not just the track but, to the album as well. Frisco’s vocals are almost softened into the background as the drums and piano really take the forefront. With that air of reflection also comes the feeling that far from being about endings there is a lot here that focuses on new beginnings. With those thoughts hanging in the air, we get into the first of singles from the album, Delight, with its laid-back drums, flute, bells, and guitar notes. This mellow head nod vibe takes you into Frisco Boogie’s love of Hip Hop and the fact that he still enjoys making the music and standing on stage, proving it’s not how old you are, it’s the pure Delight that it brings you that makes you what you are and what you deliver. Next, we get straight into the second single, Strollin’, where we get this real upbeat mix of drums, guitar, keys and finger snaps, which brings this funky fresh feel-good sound. Frisco Boogie really seems to be speaking on living in the now and looking on the bright side of things and facing everyday with a positive outlook to bring that sunshine into your life and feeling like you’re walking on the clouds.
Keys, cymbals and drums create a jazzy vibe for Mean, as you begin to unconsciously nod your head, Frisco Boogie takes a different stance in looking at the people who try to knock you back. There is no anger or frustration here just telling it how it is and a desire to see karma catching up with them, one day. Drums and piano are the main elements of A Beautiful Place, with some calm cuts slipped in to add a bit more depth. Here Frisco Looks at the graff element of Hip Hop and the Black Book, that place where you can put all your dreams down on paper creating masterpiece’s, with their intricate blend of colours and designs, it can be a new world beyond which you can truly lose yourself in. Words of Wizdom (ft DJ Glibstylez) is short skit that has piano with a grime vibe to it, over this is a sampled vocal that is telling you to focus on the now and not to look back. To much looking back at where you have been, is likely to make you fail, you need to focus on where you are now, what’s right in front of you as you move forward…
Horns, piano, and drums combine to create a nice jazzy vibe for WST (World Still Turns). The jazzy nature of this has a thoughtful nature to it as Frisco Boogie speaks on all those decisions we face in life and the fact that the world turns no matter what, you don’t need to spend too much time reflecting on what might have been or beating yourself up, take the next step forward because the next step could well be the one that makes you realise all your hopes and dreams. Drums, guitar, and piano combine to produce a laid-back vibe that has real feeling to it. Frisco Boogie is thinking Arr Yeah (ft Kam), as he muses over that special lady in his life and how she makes him feel and what it means to be together. Next is the final single from the album, Lemonade, with drums, piano, cymbals and some soulful vocals bring a big sound that has that feel good vibe. That feel vibe echoes in Frisco Boogie’s vocals as he speaks on the sunny days and all those things that make you feel good and bring a smile to you face. These are the things we all need to drink a big glass of right now.
Whenever U Need Me! is the penultimate track and gives us some heavy drums, guitar, piano notes, and strings. Those heavy drum sounds don’t overpower this emotive sound and vocals. Frisco Boogie takes us by the hand, leading us through a touching story of relationship struggles and how, sometimes, you just have to take a step back and let someone know your there, no matter how hard it might be for you. Frisco Boogie rounds the album off with its title track Sunflowers In September. Again, we have some heavy drum sounds which are almost softened by strings and keys, retaining this air of thoughtfulness. The message behind this one is that life might seem hard, and you might think there is no light at the end of the tunnel but, it’s never too late to change your life, wherever you are one life’s journey, no matter your age, you can still make it, you can still bloom, just like those Sunflowers in September…
Sunflowers In September has this deeply emotive vibe to it where Frisco Boogie takes his time speak on a lot of personal subject’s that you will find touching and that you can easily relate to But, more than that, he tackles everything here with an uplifting vibe that says ‘no matter where you are or situations you find yourself in, you can bounce back, there is a silver lining and there is a light at the end of that tunnel, and he does that by speaking from personal experience.
Musically you will find this album to be more laid back and calm than previous offerings but, with the depth of emotions laid bare by his lyrical content, you will see how everything here works so well and in harmony. There are times when he is telling a story that he knows will touch you, then there are moments when he sounds like your best friend talking to you and further, he even sounds like a guardian angel figure who is encouraging you not to quit and to trust in yourself.
Sunflowers In September is one of those albums that you can easily put on and chill to and that will open you up to just enjoying the experience or even have you looking a bit more deeply at yourself and asking questions about your own life.
Overall, it is a quality and solid album that has its roots in Hip Hop whist drawing influences from other genres to enhance the feeling of the music where needed. It is definitely one that you need to experience for yourself.
Sunflowers In September, produced and written by Frisco Boogie is out today, the 29th July, so be sure to check it out on all good streaming services etc.
Warpath is the latest EP release from Bristolian Krazy.
Brought to you on the Word Life imprint it features production from partner
Kali Mist and a whole bunch, if not an army, of guest artists. Although being
called an EP, at 9 tracks, this is what some are putting out as an album.
Let’s not hang around here and simply put ourselves on
Krazy’s Warpath…
The EP kicks off with it’s title track, Warpath,
where heavy drums are accompanied by guitars and horns giving a very raw, heavy,
posse cut vibe. Krazy is joined by Impact Merv, Form 1, Deaf Frets, Daysa and
Guire on a track that is, essentially, about spitting bars. It’s all about
letting off lyrical fury in the most rough, rugged and raw style, seven emcee’s
with a brutal verbal display. The assault on your senses continues with
pounding drums, orchestral sounds and organ notes. King Aggi (who brings that
ragga edge to the track) joins Krazy to explain how it’s all about being better
than the competition and being in A Different Lane From Them. It’s like
being in the fast lane of the motorway, you want to be better and faster than
the rest. It’s the same in music and in life, you always want to be better, and
it can be a rough and dirty business but, sometimes you gotta do it to move on.
The extreme assault on the senses abates a little here as guitars and drums
combine for a rough but less heavy edge. Whiske XMP, Krazy and Eurgh (Don’t
Flop) speak on real life experiences and how, when taking riska in life, there
will always be Twists of Fate that take your life path off in tangents
but, you have to take risks and reach your goals, even though life can be hard.
The risks and twists might be great but, the rewards can be greater.
There is a more laid-back feel to Tryna Eat, even
with its pounding drums, the strings seem to soften the edge to this one. Here
Krazy and Yung UK appear to be speaking on doing what you have to do to
survive, almost with a ‘by all means’ mindset. The world is a harsh place right
now and harsh decisions have to be made at times. Papercut then brings
in the boom bap, head nod vibe with Drums, keys, and strings. Krazy, Eurgh
(Don’t Flop) and Pablo Milkybarr drop bars on how, sometimes, you just must
tell the truth. It might might cause hurt and the truth can sting, slicing deep
into the heart of anyone and here have examples at how the truth can hurt, and
hurt those closest to us at times. Your head keeps nodding as drums, keys, and
a whistle merge to bring a vibe that reminds you of the spaghetti westerns. You
Win Some, You Lose Some finds Noodlez, Krazy and Kali Mist step up to talk
about how it’s all about walking forward in life, no matter what. You might
feel you can’t go on but, the good times will eventually outweigh the bad, it’s
your inner strength that is your true power.
The heavy drums and horns of Don’t Come Around, has a
slightly dark edge to it, something that is reflected in the lyrics of Krazy
and Whiske XMP. This one seems to be focuased on those who live on the harsh
side of life and who no problems with violence. They do exsist in this world
and make the streets a dangerous place. These are the ones we don’t want to
come around. There is an almost soundtrack sound to What’s Your Life Like, with
drums, keys, and orchestral sounds. It provides the perfect backdrop for Krazy,
Shakezpeare, Origin and Griz Bear to expose the hard realities of inner-city
life. It’s not always sunny, it’s sometime brutal and violent but, it is what
you have to live through.The final
track of the EP finds Kali Mist dropping a more funky vibe to proceedings with
some drums, keys, and guitars. Krazy, Dogzilla and Matrix combine on Lord Save
My Soul to bring you, what appears to be, the final thoughts of gangster, all
those bad things they have done, suddenly seen for what they are, there is a realisation
that redemption may be the last step on life’s journey…
Warpath almost seems to be like the episodes of some audible
mini-series that is exploring the life of an inner-city gangster. That harsh
reality of the inner-city life is mixed with braggadocio, reflection and an
ultimate realisation. There is stark look at life through this person’s eyes,
perhaps as they finally review their life choices on approaching life’s final
decision. It is an unapologetic and brutal commentary as this view that is
brought to life through lyrics and music. It is view that many don’t or chose
not to see as they go about their daily lives. It brings to mind the recent TV
series Outlaws, which was set in Bristol. However, there is no comedy here…
Warpath see’s Kali Mist and Krazy reuniting to bring a
hard-hitting hardcore Hip Hop vibe. Kali Mist provides some heavy and hard
musical vibes that easily take you deep into the gritty inner city Bristol
life. Krazy then uses his energetic vocal delivery to help paint these vivid
brutal scenes with a wordplay which is as subtle as a rusty razor. The vast
array of guest artists brought on board here each bring their own style to the
mix, each perfectly complimenting stark nature of the project.
Warpath might be a hardcore Hip Hop experience and one that
makes you feel the very brutal core of inner-city life but, it draws on very
real experiences which help bring the reality from the streets to your ears,
allowing you to visualise those experiences in a very real and vivid scene.
This is the reality of life, and these stories need to be told.
Warpath by Krazy is available now to stream everywhere…
The new single from Blaktrix, Shoey, is part of the Village
Live Records, Live and Direct single series. It is produced by A.H. Fly, who
has produced for the likes of Lee Scott and Universal Soldiers, and features
Birmingham emcee SonnyJim, who has been making a name for himself with his
signature style and has also collaborated with artists from the UK, USA, and
Australia, including Verbz, Jehst, Confucius MC, Buckwild and many more.
The production on Shoey, from A.H. Fly, uses horns and drums
to create this sound which feels kinda sparse in its overall vibe but, still
has you unconsciously nodding your head from the start. This sparse kinda feel
to track really allows the listener to focus well on the vocals, whilst still
carrying the vocals so well.
The vocal delivery, from Blaktrix and SonnyJim, really makes
you feel that there is not real rush to what they are bringing and that the
whole point here is the impact of what you are hearing. It’s all about telling
you how it is, with no nonsense delivery, allowing everything you hear to sink into
your conscious awareness. The two different verbal styles deliver some solid
intelligent and heavyweight wordplay and there is a distinct feel that what you
are hearing is a conversation between two friends. It’s almost like you are in
the same room and listening to their conversation which seems to be not just
about the various aspect’s life and even a little light battling, there is also
a deep aspect that draws you in and almost has you thinking this is a
conversation you are directly involved in, It’s clever stuff. The simplest
conversations between two people can easily be the most insightful and powerful
things to listen to and that’s exactly what this track made me feel as I
listened. In fact, going on from that, this track has an air about it which
gives the impression that the single has been striped back to the bare bones of
what musical expression is, and yet there is still something that says, ‘look
at the powerful nature of what can be achieved, even when it’s laid bare’.
While Shoey might not be one that you hear being bumped out
at the clubs, it is most certainly one that the internet radio shows will be
dropping on heavy rotation over the coming months.
I have to say that this one has to be essential listening.
That mix of a top producer and two emcee’s, clearly at the top of their game,
creates a sound that is almost simplistic but, at the same time, hard-hitting
and showing the caliber of UK Hip Hop talent.
Don’t sleep on this one.
I’m out,
Steve.
LINKS
Live and Direct Single Series on Village Live Records Website:
Between 2014 and 2018 I lived in a small village in Devon,
called Hartland, and about thirty minutes’ drive from there was one of North
Devon’s major towns, Barnstaple. Now Barnstaple just happens to be where
Citizen Nuggz resides so, how I never heard of him while I was living down that
way is nutz but, there ya go, so it was not until Pandamonium dropped a remix
of the track Country Lanes and Hedgerows that I first heard of Citizen Nuggz
and Weztax…
Anyway, I digress.
Off The Beaten Track is the debut release for Citizen Nuggz,
it was written over the course of four to five years and is fully produced by
producer/musician Weztax. What you are treated to is not just ten or twelve
tracks but, seventeen tracks of proper Hip Hop goodness, straight out the West
Country of the UK.
Citizen Nuggz (Patrick Carey) is the brother of B WUN of Da
Regiment. He grew up on the streets of North Devon town Combe Martin before
moving to Barnstaple (BTOWN) when he was aged 11. He had some heavy musical influences
from his Uncle Craig, who fed him tapes by the likes of Onyx, KRS 1, Rakim, The
Pharcyde and many more, and his own parents who liked Motown, Barry White, Earth
Wind and Fire, Marvin Gaye and such like. He has played a host of instruments
from a young age including drums from age 8. From his late teens he began to
write lyrics on a serious basis and after playing in a number of bands would
eventually leave those to pursue being an emcee. The crews, he is in, are
associated with Exeter label One Lion Sound and he has also been associated with
Plymouth’s Cult Music and has spent the best part of a decade arranging Hip Hop
events, touring the UK and overseas.
All that considered, the expectation is pretty high for what
is about to be delivered by Citizen Nuggz and Weztax. So, without further ado,
let’s get into Off The Beaten Track…
The album hits heavy straight out the gates with the OTBT
Intro a pulse pounding mix of drums. Pipe organ notes and cuts. This really
sets up the tone of the album perfectly in introducing you to Citizen Nuggz,
Weztax production and the album. With
that vibe ringing in your ears the album kicks off proper with Verbal
Savegery. The bass, drums, and organ notes, bring a slightly dark edge to
the whole tone of the track, which is a blank canvas for Nuggz to display his
mind-bending wordplay skills as he takes words and sentences, twisting them
together creating an entertaining display of just what he is capable of doing
as an emcee. Next up we find Weztax stepping out from behind the scenes to
feature on Ain’t The Same, a proper boom bap sound full of drums, synths,
and strings that will immediately get your head nodding. Nuggz and Weztax set out
how they are in this for the love of the music, Hip Hop and not for money or
the fame. Here it’s all about the passion for the music and how it’s important
to be authentic in what you do and that is all about speaking on where you’re
from and in your own accent, that’s how you bring intelligence and authenticity
to what you do.
Outer Body hits with a solid Hip Hop sound that mixes
organ notes, bass, drums, and cuts along with an added flute sound that seems
to tease your awareness. Midway through the track that flute drops out in favour
of an electric guitar vibe, which tweaks your nerves. The focus here is on
writing lyrics and what that process makes you feel and what it can do to you. With
your awareness and nerves now in a heightened state Fictional Thoughts
hits with a slamming mix of drums, bass, and piano notes, in fact that piano is
so nerve tingling that you can’t lose yourself in this one as the piano keeps
you firmly focused on the track. Slard joins Citizen Nuggz here for a track the
seems to be taking aim at all those who can’t be original in their music. Those
who chose to write fictional fantasy stories instead of drawing on their own
authentic experiences. The vibe now switches to a more laid-back stance with
some heavy drums and strings creating the mood, which has an almost up and down
feel to it. In fact, that up and down feel fits perfectly on the track as
Citizen Nuggz is joined by Cracker Jon and Moraless for a track that looks at
the work you need to put in if you are going to succeed alongside the ups and
downs of life. There are so many who chose to waste their time, not taking
their craft seriously. It’s also key to remember not to take life too seriously
and having some Laughing Fits can really help mellow the mood of the
often stressful challenges life puts before us.
Praise The Grades is a big tune and drops with this
heavy sound of Organ notes, bass, drums and cuts which has this banging funk
vibe. Nuggz and B WUN drop some slick verses all about the different grades of
that sticky green and simply kicking back and chilling with a good smoke, no
matter which one you pack in. Now one thing you can’t escape from in North
Devon is the Country Lanes and Hedgerows and here Weztax creates a big
sound of drums, horns and strings that seems to fit so well with the North
Devon area, which is exactly what this one is all about. North Devon is not the
place you expect to find Hip Hop alive and well but, it is most definitely
there. In place full of country lanes, hedgerows, and grockles (That’s
holidaymakers to everyone else), anything is possible and here one thing is for
sure Hip Hop is alive and kicking. That North Devon ambiance spills over into MetaphoricMetamorposis where keys and drums mix with the sounds of nature to bring
you that breezy summers day vibe. If you mix that nature aspect with the ups
and downs of life and our own desire for change and how a view might change
around the corner of the next country lane, then you might just get a handle on
what Citizen Nuggz, Moxey and Toddy are putting across with this one, it’s very
clever…
The piano intro to Set Ablaze, gives you a sense of
calm, albeit a false sense as it fades into the background as some proper head
nod drums bust forth. Nuggz and Chatta drop some slick verses with intelligent
wordplay that focuses on writing rhymes and keeping everything hot to set the
tracks on fire and certainly accomplish that here but, if that were not enough,
the track ends with some fiery red-hot cuts that fan the flame further. Heavy
horns, a heavy beat, and some hefty rapid-fire cuts and Nuggz with some rapid-fire
lyrics. This short tracks hits heavy with every element pounding away in its
own way. Everything in life, those Odds and Evens, it’s all a game of
chance, every decision you make and every road you take, that’s what this one
is all about right? Well, I’m taking a chance on that one too…
Flute, drums, bass, and rewinds merge to bring a slightly
darker aspect to the beat for Insomnia (Skit). Nuggz switches the flow
down a touch as he muses about his troubles, what is causing it? Could it be insomnia,
or could it be an addiction to the music and writing rhymes? The skit ends with
a sampled interview with a specialist speaking on insomnia and Sleep Apnoea. As
I thought about this it brought me to my own experiences with insomnia and
sleep apnoea and Weztax production here almost feels like a musical expression
of the brain fog associated with poor sleep. Footsteps lead us to a laid-back
sound of drums, piano, and sax, which combine to create that laid-back but
almost haunting vibe. Nuggz relaxed flow details the Chapters of Larry,
which also features Jack Llewelyn. The story follows Larry, someone who appears
to have lost everything and all hop with life. Bad choices and an addiction to
heroin have turned him into a shadow of his former self, a sad dishevelled figure
searching bins. Jack’s soulful lyrics really add depth to the story and leave
us wondering if we should pity this person and offer help or just leave them to
their fate?
A more upbeat vibe that is created by strings, bass, drums,
and cuts is the backdrop for Airheads which see’s Nuggz team up with
Slard and Witness MC to look at all those people who have so much to say,
talking load but, really not saying anything. Those who constantly big
themselves up or spend too much time whinging but, in truth have nothing of
real value to say. So, the message here is if you’re gonna say something then
at least speak from the heart, that’s where truth comes from. It’s time to mix
things up a little as Jman joins Nuggz over a beat that features organ notes,
maracas and drums bringing the kinda sound you just wanna groove to. Nuggz and
Jman mix up Hip Hop and a dash of ragga vibes to bring you Calm. You get
a real sense from the words that there is so much in life that causes anger and
stress that we all just need to be more calm, but where does that calm come
from? Perhaps the music, something that allows us to truly take a step away
from all the anger and stress and puts us in touch with a good level of Calm.
The penultimate track here is Three Little Pigs with its bouncy beat of
organ notes and drums but, it also has a mind-bending edge to it too. Here Nuggz
treats us to a modern take on the classic nursery rhyme, rooting it in out
current society with the struggles of everyday life, the desires of the have’s
and the have nots. It’s a dark place where money and those who have it, rule,
while everyone else suffers…
The album ends with something special, OTBT Posse Cut
(or should that be a clan cut?) with an epic run time that almost hits twelve
and a half minutes. There are 16 emcees and sixteen beat changes across those
twelve plus minutes which features Citizen Nuggz, Lazy Eyes, Moraless, B WUN,
Chatta, Ino’vative, Chie, Fire@Will, Mr Grey, Moxey, Riffree, Mr Inglorious,
Witness MC, Toddy, Slard and Weztax. Each emcee showcases their skills here for
approximately 60 seconds at a time. This is a truly stunning slice of West
Country talent that is on show, and you would think that across such a time
frame that things would lose their appeal but, that’s so far from the truth,
all the beat changes are seamless, and the emcees have just enough time to drop
a dope verse. By the end of this you’ll be thinking you have just had an entire
festival worth of emcees packed into one track, mind-blowing stuff…
Overall, what you have here is a hairs breadth over 70
minutes of pure Hip Hop dopeness. Seventeen cuts of some of the best the West
Country has to offer. It’s a proper long player, as we used to say back in
antiquity. But, in times where more famous artists are putting out albums that
are around thirty minutes long, with tracks that are only 2 minutes long,
Citizen Nuggz and Weztax are making a bold statement here, in the words of the
legendary Rakim, “This is how I should be done” and “It ain’t where you’re
from. It’s where you’re at” because it’s not about being from the West Country
and doing Hip Hop that is just about where you’re from, this is about proper
real Hip Hop and that’s where it’s at. I have to say that I wholeheartedly
salute them for putting this hefty project out.
You can truly feel the heart and soul that went into this
and their love of the music. You can feel it in every beat of the production
from Weztax and in every bar of Citizen Nuggz lyrics, it just oozes Hip Hop
music for the love of Hip Hop music.
Nuggz lyrics are intelligent and performed with gusto from
someone who truly loves what he does. His wordplay and talent for switching
between flows and vibes show that he has honed his craft across years practice
behind the mic and on stages across the UK and further afield, in fact there
were times when his lyrics appeared so complicated and delivered with ease that
even this seasoned reviewer had to listen, listen, and listen again just to get
the insights. The future looks bright for Nuggz with a number of projects in
the works, Including Off The Beaten Track II, Road To Recovery (10 Tracks
written in hospital) produced by Charmandem and Citizens Advice produced by
Bristol’s Hozay, to name just few. You wanna keep watch for the name Citizen
Nuggz.
Weztax production is superb, switching from multi-layered
production to more simplistic sounds, none of which seem any less polished than
the last. He crafts sounds and moods perfectly that create the perfect backdrop
for Nuggz. Weztax is a solid and talented producer and musician, who also
provides all the cuts on the album, and deserves far more exposure than I have
seen to date.
The mix of featured artists is something that really adds
more weight to the project. From those you might know such as Jman (Babylon
Dead) and B WUN to others might not be so familiar with, it matters not as
everyone performs to the highest degree, displaying top notch lyrical skills that
shows the West Country of the UK has to be one of the driving forces of
underground UK Hip Hop right now. Have a listen and see if you agree?
There is no doubt in my mind that this album is gonna be
high up, perhaps even top ten, on the list of top underground UK Hip Hop
releases of 2022.
Off The Beaten Track is available now and there are physical
CD copies coming soon and some other merch available so, with all that said
there is only one thing left for me to say, Enjoy this one…
Huge thanks to Citizen Nuggz for dropping this my way and on
that note,
I’m proper outta here,
Steve
LINKS
Remember to check for Citizen Nuggz on social media too...
Glasgow Emcee Damaged Goodz is back with his self-titled LP
Damaged Goodz. This multi-producer album promises to mix-up all of his years of
experience into one solid album covering a wide range of themes, rhymes styles
and flows.
The album, which is released through Watercolour Music, also
boasts a a host of guest artists which have all been handpicked by Damaged
Goodz to fit with the overall vibe of the Album.
So, without further ado, join me as I take you through this
one top to bottom, front to back and side to side…
The hits straight out the gate by mixing up a heavy boom bap
beat and guitar with a chorus that has a heavy rock edge to it, that is
produced by DJ Zeeny (who also provides all cuts on the album). There is no easing you into this one slowly as Damaged
Goodz tackles the subject of Self-doubt on I’m Afraid of Being Nothing.
This is something so many of us can relate to. I mean, how many times have
faced a challenge and questioned if you can do it and not bothered to follow
through? Well, the important point here is to recognize that self-doubt and
then still do it, take that step, and challenge yourself because the rewards
are far more precious than you realise. Leading on from this Damaged Goodz
takes us through that challenge of pushing forward in the face of adversity
with Phat Rocky. Produced by LIVIN, the track has this almost dual
nature to it with a mix of drums, bells, and horns, where the verses have this
almost laid-back feel as opposed to the choruses which pound, just as you would
build up to that final push. Kim Wilson features here and here vocals add a
sense of encouragement that helps you keep pushing through all those times you
might falter or even fall but, you get back up every time showing you strength
of character. With an almost calm ease we move into Republic Enemy but,
that sense of ease is short lived as a pounding boom bap beat, produced by
S.T.S, hits and literally blows you away. There are some very slick cuts here
that slice up a classic Blade sample. What get here appears to be a little bit
of braggadocio from Damaged Goodz as he displays his solid wordplay and verbal
skills. When you have spent your life or a great deal of it, dedicated to
developing your craft, there is no reason why you can’t big yourself up every
now and again, just to let others know and enjoy your skills.
Class Clown Karma Club finds the production from
LIVIN mixing up a pounding beat with synth sounds that produces this head nod
vibe with a focus that really helps you bring the words to life. We find
Damaged Goodz speaking on struggling at school and that struggle leading to
becoming the class clown. That class clown wears a mask to help hide the fact
that learning, listening, and general focus was hard. This can have
ramifications in later life, hence the realisation of the karma aspect. Mary
Ann Kennedy features as the teacher trying to gain the attention of the clown. From
the karma of the class clown, we drift into a weird mind-bending outta space
vibe of sonic sounds and cuts, alongside a pounding beat from S.T.S. ALIEN-ALIEN-ALIEN
see’s Damaged Goodz looking at feelings of alienation. This is a place where
you mind struggles to cope with how others are treating you, because you are
different or alternatively, they treat you different because of a traumatic
event you have been through, and they don’t know what to say. These struggles
cause you to react, thinking untruths as you question why, why you? The times
we struggle through continue as the focus of Ghosts of the Past, where
have a grime vibe to the heavy beat from KONCHIS. This darker edge finds
Damaged Goodz joined by CCTV, MADHAT, Natalie Lynch, TICKLE and MOG for a look
at all those times we are faced with looking at the ghost from our past. These
moments can often be the most difficult times for us. They may be painful to
face but, they are also veryimportant
in defining who we are as we look to make our peace with these hurdles on the
path of life. The differing styles of the MC’s and the sung parts of the track
really reflect the different ways we all face these moments and how we,
individually cope with what they bring up for us, shaping us into those individuals…
Cold Crush the Gold Dust has this intro, young Katie
Whiteford, that gives you no idea whats about to drop, produced by Onra The
Bastardian (who recently produced the Gallus Alliance EP with DG), the beat hit
hard with pounding drums and some high pitched synth/organ notes, which gives
this a modern electro sounding vibe. You really get the feel with this one that
Damaged Goodz is giving a nod to all those who have been an inspiration to him,
making him the force he is today. Alongside that is the fact that it is only
right that we pay respect to those who inspired and came before us, paving the
way for all who follow. This one truly pays respect to that golden era of Hip
Hop music. BIG DIV now sets the stage with some pounding drums and piano that
brings this horror movie soundtrack vibe. With the stage set, we realise this
is The Open Mic, a place where Damaged Goodz feels right at home. Here
is a demonstration of what DG can do if you open the mic to him as he proceeds
to step up and drop it freestyle. This is hard hitting verbal wordplay, which
is unapologetic, gritty and hard-hitting. It might just be for the fun of it
but, don’t front, OK…
You guess from the title what Menage Et Tois of
Self-Sabotage is all about? The musical backdrop from KONCHIS is one of
Synths, electronic vibes and pounding bass drums. There is a distinct grime
edge to this that sounds something like you might hear if John Carpenter was to
produce grime. This is a powerful story of what can happen to those who do not
realise they have trauma issues. Damaged goodz is a man indulging in the
self-sabotaging behavior of an extramarital affair, Lauren Gilmour is his
mistress, taking the role of the one in control of the others behavior. Here
we see the lack of one man’s personal boundaries and behaviors caused by a
past trauma affecting who he has become. Dinosaur SR see’s S.T.S bring a
trip hop feel to proceedings with drums and orchestral notes, there is also a
mind-bending dark edge to things as Damaged Goodz tackles another deep subject.
Here he faces a tough decision at a fork on the path of life. He mulls over all
the pro’s and con’s of what to do, after everything he has achieved, all the pain
and all the good times. But the hardest decision can often be the most
rewarding or it can be darkest, it is only our inner strength that will
ultimately choose the right path.
From difficult decisions we wonder if we chose the wrong
path with Fuck My Life, DJ Zeeny brings a pounding mix of drums, horns, piano,
and xylophone notes which translates into a head nod punch the air kinda vibe.
Damaged Goodz teams up with long time collaborators Nity Gritz and Butterscotch
to hit hard but, not hard enough that they can’t add a little tongue-in-cheek
too. There is still a message here and one that focuses on the things that have
not gone right for you and you are beating yourself up about. These are still
defining moments for us, positive or not but, sometimes you just have to add a
little light-heartedness to take the edge of and these guys do exactly that.
The album ends on a positive note with Keep The Dream Alive, produced by
FARMA G, the piano, drums, horns and choral notes, bring a reflective air to
things. Damaged goodz speaks on about all those ups and downs in life and how
we often struggle to keep sight of what’s important. No matter what life throws
at you, it is important to keep that spark, that dream alive inside, because it
is that which gives us the strength and the resolve to carry on to the next
day, the next year and knowing that it you that can do it.
I have to say it, DAMN, what an album! Music is something
that really touches us at times and there were times that this one really
touched me deeply. I recognised a lot of things that I struggle with on a
personal basis, not only that but, you can really feel the passion that Damaged
Goodz has put into this one, it oozes from every bar and is matched by the
passion put in by the producers with every beat. Everything just seems on point
here from tone of what the producers have put in, to the way every guest artist
fits in on those tracks, to the passion, wordplay and flows from Damaged Goodz,
who is on top form here, in fact everyone is, if I’m fair.
I could probably sit here for hours and waffle on about what’s
good on this album, how it touched me, and which tracks and how they did but,
I’m just going to keep it short because I want you to experience it for
yourself…
Overall, Damaged Goodz is a rock-solid Hip Hip/underground
sound that not only takes you deep into the heart and soul of Damaged Goodz the
emcee but, it takes you deep into your own heart and soul. It carries you along
as it musically matches every emotion that you feel as you listen you the words
of Damaged Goodz, feeling your own experiences rise to the surface to be
recognised and accepted. As much as this is music, it is a timeless expression
of the true self and the journey you take in life.
Damaged Goodz by Damaged Goodz is released on 23rd
July 2022, and I honestly advise you to really listen to this one.
Salute and thanks to Damaged Goodz for sending me this one,
an instant classic in my book.
