The last time that I featured the work of g-man (Decksterror
Prod.) was way back in 2021 with his production on Mattanza by COSM. Recently
he signed to Hidden Hobby Records, the new label created by Montener The
Menace, and his debut release on the label is Love and Honour Pt 1.
To help this release really showcase his production talents,
g-man has drafted in some top artists as well, including Hus Kingpin (USA),
COSM, C.o.N_Vers, Ill Sykes, King Kakarot and Ash The Author, alongside
Jabbathakut on cuts. Now, with a line-up like this you can bet that this six-track
album is gonna bang, so let’s get straight into it…
Proceedings kick off with Tom Clancy, a heavy head
nod sound with pulse pounding drums, organ notes and horns, to fire up your
adrenaline levels right out the gate. C.o.N_Vers provides the vocals here as he
uses the analogy of the infamous American writer to show that writing rhymes
and novels are not that far apart. The rhymes that rap artists use are often
intricate and use a variety of flows and styles, just as a writer will display
intricate plot twists and flows of pace to fit the story line. Just as the
soundbite at the end explains, it can often be easier to display you craft to
the listener or reader than it is to explain how you do it, something I can
associate with as a writer. Next up we have the album’s title track Love and
Honour, which features Hus Kingpin, COSM and C.o.N_Vers. The intro has motorcycles
sounds and elements from Kill Bill while g-man soundscape has a vibe of the
movie soundtrack with the heavy drums and guitars tacking the forefront on this
one. First impressions are that this one is a platform to display the vocal talents
of these three accomplished MC’s but, the more you listen, the more you realise
that each verse has this story to it that, like the plot of some Hollywood
movie, shows the things one might do for love and for honour. Ash The Author
and Jabbathakut join g-man on The Invisible Man; where the drums are
mixed with electronic elements and cuts to give you the kind of vibe that takes
you into a weird sci-fi universe where nothing is what it seems. Ash The Author
takes us on a journey as the invisible one, twisting the tale this way and
that; even having us question if he exists in reality or just as part of a
digital existence in the machine.
Halfway through the album and its time to Move Back
as King Kakarot steps up while g-man brings more pounding drums, backed by
electronic elements and heavy horns, the kung-fu movie sound bites have you
looking over your shoulder for what’s about to come. As you listen it becomes
clear it is only the wack rappers that need to be looking over their shoulders
as King Kakarot unloads his frustrations on those rappers who have no love for
the music and who care only the image it gives them, or those safe rappers who
never speak on the real-life subjects. Here its all about not being afraid to
be yourself and stand up for something, to speak from the heart and with heart.
Running For The Shade sees C.o.N_Vers join g-man for one more track. The
drums still pound, while strings and other elements give this a lighter, more
uplifting sound. There is also an uplifting message within the words here too;
you get the sense that what C.o.N_Vers is saying is that people are so used to
the darkness in society and the world around them, that when the good times and
the light finally breaks through, they are often still running to take shade
from it as they are afraid to be in the light but, you just have remember that
the light is something to welcome and not to fear. The final track of the album
is Dark Speed which features Ill Sykes on vocals with g-man crafting one
final beat that seams to be an audible reflection of the name Decksterror, with
heavy raw drums and strings bring the kind of sound that stretches your every
nerve to breaking point. Ill Sykes brings an equally raw rhyme style that pulls
no punches, moving from the darkness with speed he hits you with words from
every angle with an unrelenting salvo that leaves you wondering if you’ll ever
be the same…
Lets be real here for a moment, if you are going to sign to
a fledgling label (regardless of who set it up) then you what you first release
to be a statement, a shot across the bow of others, one that shows exactly what
you are all about and what to expect moving forward; and that is exactly what g-man
does here, he openly displays the quality of his production and how good a
stage it sets can set up for any emcee out there. Bringing in some of the UK’s
brightest talent and a rising talent from the US (all of whom are on fire here,
by the way) shows that he has the capability to work with anyone as his work
here shows the producer compliments the rapper and likewise.
First impressions here show that g-man has a sound that is
boom bap Hip Hop on a hardcore vibe but, on reflection, you realise that its
all about that boom bap Hip Hop sound and bringing a sound that has vibrant
energy, one that will really catch the attention of the listener and leave them
with a lasting impression, long after album is done. I have been lucky enough
to review g-man’s Decksterror production before and so I know this guy is
making huge waves out there but, if this is your first time listening to his
work then, I am sure you will agree with everything I say.
Overall, Love and Honour Pt 1 is a solid album that gives
you a heavy dose of pulse pounding, head nodding Hip Hop, that is likely to
receive some heavy rotation in the coming weeks. It displays the craft of one
of the UKs premier Hip Hop producers and shows that Hidden Hobby Records is
well on the way to becoming a force to be reckoned with on the underground Hip
Hop scene. Honestly, there just isn’t anything not to like about this one,
trust me.
My thanks to Montener The Menace for the chance to review
this one and it’s out today too.
On that note,
I’m out.
Steve.
LINKS
Get the album from Hidden Hobby Records Bandcamp Here:
Following on from Don’t Fight Your Demons (2020) and For The
FKN Love (2021), Arrested Development have once more teamed with UK Super-producer
Configa for their latest album Bullets In The Chamber (who also serves
as Co-Executive Producer for Configuration Records alongside Speech for
Vagabond Productions), which was released on January 12th this year.
As with the previous two albums, Bullets In The Chamber
also has an impressive line-up of guest artists and producers, alongside AD The
Band and Configa. Guest artists include Rass Kas, DoitAll Dupree (Lords of the
Underground), Canibus, Diana King, SkyZoo, MRK SK, Twan Mack, Chuck D,
Grandmaster Caz, O’Hene Savant, Sa Roc, Flavia Coelho and special appearances
from original AD members Montsho Eshe and Rasa Don. Additional production comes
from Will Montgomery, Sol Messiah, Mistact and Fenix.
Now, with all that said, if you are not already oozing with
anticipation, then it will help to know that this is a double album with the
original Bullets In The Chamber (17 Tracks) and Round Two (4 Tracks), all of
which culminates in a huge release firing twenty-one shots (20 joints and 1
remix) of Hip Hop musical dopeness, that is sure to have our minds buzzing as
much as our ears...
So, let’s not wait any longer but, press play and unleash
those Bullets In The Chamber…
Opening with Hello, produced by Configa and featuring 1 Love and Ras Kass, this one hits with an uplifting party vibe sound but, this is a party vibe with depth and attitude. The drums take the forefront here but, there is that multi-layered sound that Configa always brings. Speech, 1 Love and Rass Kas really set the tone for what’s to come, there is much here about celebrating the music and the contribution of AD to Hip Hop. While welcoming the fans to this third album with Configa there is also a hint that this might also be the last album from AD. Now that we are all fired up Configa keeps the energy going with an infectious sound of drums, horns, bass, and soulful background vocals, which has a rawness with a funky edge that keeps your head nodding. Classy sees Rasa Don provide a reggae infused chorus while Speech brings the spotlight to those peoples who struggle under a veil of oppression, both in America and around the world. The more you listen, the more the track takes on the feeling of an anthem for those peoples. Will Montgomery takes over production duties for Overachiever, where horns take the forefront alongside the drums and bass, bringing a deep funk vibe to the sound. Montsho Eshe features on the chorus bringing a soulful edge as Speech celebrates everything that Arrested Development is, a multi-talented group that spans decades within Hip Hop and music in general, achieving everything they set out to do and much more.
Crowd Surf finds Speech joined by DoItAll, 1 Love, Fareedah and Dee Wiz, while Configa comes with an energetic head-nod vibe of pumping drums, bass, horns, and cuts. This one will really have you bouncing around without a care in the world, wanting to surf the crowd as AD celebrates and brings the energy of the live shows into this track, and if you have ever been to an AD show or Hip Hop show, you’ll know the feeling. There is a deeper vibe to the sound Configa brings on Hour Glass, the sound is undoubtedly Hip Hop but, there is this unconscious heartfelt aura to it. Speech, alongside CanIbus, SkyZoo and Diana King on the chorus, bring some deep verses with emotion that reflect the real-world experiences that form the individual grains of sand that fall through the hour glass, combining to create our life experiences, our memories, and shaping who we are as individuals. Horns and Drums form the main elements of the production from Will Montgomery on Still Fired Up. Speech is joined by Montsho-Eshe on the chorus here as the track gets you moving while still speaking to you on many levels. This one reflects back to 1992 and AD’s first Album, 3 Years, 5 Months and 2 Days In The Life of… showing that AD is still here, still bringing focus to subjects that matter and still calling for a revolution, just like this is a part two to Raining Revolution from that original album; they are still calling for peace too.
And This I Know features MRK SX and Twan Mack alongside Speech while Sol Messiah handles production, bringing a more laid-back emotive vibe but, still with those pounding drums. The focus of this one touches on some troubling subjects such as gun violence, exploitation, white supremacy and more but, at the same time, with all of these dark issues we witness, there is also a lot of good things to see and be thankful for. This track is all about those things that you know for sure, just speaking real truths. Configa is back on production with For Free as he brings a pounding beat with organ and string elements that creates a sound that you nod to but, also makes you focus on the lyrics from Speech and April So Lyrical. The message here is that, as humans, we are the ones who created the issues we face, we have made ourselves separate from nature, and we are the ones who have created a society where money is rated above all else, making us pay for things that nature has provided for us already for free, we just have to live in harmony with it. With that thought of the society humans have created, We Want This (To Be Ruled) continues this thought process. Speech is joined by Kamonzi for a joint that looks at how we, as humans, are responsible for this way in which we live, we have created being ruled and controlled, humans created the social standings and inequality that we see around us, and there is only one way we can truly find freedom, which for us to all stand together and say that we no longer want this. Configa brings a pounding boom bap beat with drums, organ notes and bass at the forefront, creating a sound which gets you animated, bouncing, and throwing your fist in the air for freedom.
Ride finds Configa bringing an uplifting beat with drums and piano vibes with soulful background vocals, this creates a summertime sound that raises your mood a few notches. Speech reflects that uplifting sound with lyrics that speak on things that are important to him, from womens rights to Hip Hop and just having fun, this one encompasses those things and so much more while bringing warmth throughout your body. Next, we move to a track that can only be described as an anthem as Speech is joined by Chuck D (Public Enemy) and Grandmaster Caz (Cold Crush Brothers) for Hip Hop Saves Lives. Configa provides a slamming beat with strings that merges that boom bap sound with an emotive energy that lifts you up. Speech, Chuck, and Caz speak on how corporate and white supremacy has sought to take over the music, trying to take it away from its roots and use it to make money but, Hip Hop is more than those entities can ever understand, and this joint celebrates that, the pioneers of the culture, AD’s contribution and peace within Hip Hop. More than just an anthem, this track stands for true Hip Hop and those who still hold that foundation true. Arrogance has sparce drums and other percussion which gives this a more native sound which allows the lyrics to take the forefront. Speech, O’hene Savant and Montsho-Eshe drop a freestyle type joint that looks at the arrogance of people, the music industry and more. This is one will get your mind working in many ways as the lyrics are impressed on your awareness.
Ain’t Got Much To Say No More sees Configa drop a solid head-nod beat of drums, bass and keys that has a light-hearted sound. Speech takes a look at those internet critics who chose to talk loud from behind their keyboards, screens and avatars, while they don’t have much to say; well, nothing that carries any weight or has any real validity. They are the type of people who would never stand up and talk that stuff to your face either. Fire has been two or three years in production and was originally written during the U.S. Riots following what happened to George Floyd (R.I.P.). Here, Speech speaks on the dangers of ignoring inequality and injustice (in its many forms). When you chose to ignore or even perpetrate many injustices, you light the touchpaper that burns brightly until it ignites the fire in the hearts of the many who will then stand, united for justice and freedom. Configa brings a slamming beat of banging drums, guitars and horns that helps fuel the fire inside your body alongside the fire in the lyrics from Speech. That message continues with The Meek, produced by Fenix, the sound is a head-nodder and created from drums and guitar vibes. Speech looks at what is happening within the U.S. How wealth, injustice and inequality is the disease that is eroding the foundations of the country. The message here comes from the biblical scriptures of how the meek will inherit the earth but, here it is the meek that stand to inherit the country as America crumbles from a once great Nation, allowing greed to take over.
Turn The Speakers Up, produced by Configa, has an infectious sound of drums and keys that, once more, has an uplifting vibe. Speech and 1 Love look at all that is going on in the world today and invite us to turn the speakers up real loud, this will allow the music to be more in our awareness and bringing it’s healing qualities and message directly into our minds. Let music be the source of your information and not the media. God Bless You is produced by Sol Messiah and has an instant posse vibe about it as Speech is joined by Sa-Roc, April So Lyrical and 1 Love (with some extra keys from Michael Williams) but, it’s less of a posse vibe and more of a collective, standing together to bring one message. That message is like an olive branch being extended to all, despite there being a lot of sin, pain and suffering in the world. 1 Love, in particular speaks with passion and venom here on injustice and inequality he sees around him but, the real message here is that there is a way out of all this negativity and we have to remember that we are all blessed in one way, regardless of how you look at it, you are blessed be it by God, the universe, however, you see it in your own beliefs, you are loved and if everyone truly saw that, the world would be a different place.
At this point we have reached the end of Bullets In The
Chamber, as it was released, now we move to Round 2, an EP with 4 tracks (3
additional tracks and a remix) that completes the Bullets In The Chamber
double album. Round 2 was actually released first but, now when see the digital
and streaming releases, they are all together in one complete album…
Round 2 begins with Mine, featuring Brazilian artist Flavia Coelho, Configa us a head-nod beat with electronic vibes that has a real uplifting sound. The chorus is inspired by Tracy Chapman and the track itself is playful with many double-entendres that will make you smile and just have a good time enjoying the lyrics. Now you might not understand the verse from Flavia but, it still brings that fun vibe with it, which is the real message here; do what you got to do but, have fun doing it. Grateful is next and Configa has a funky vibe for us with banging drums, bass, cuts, and funk guitar vibes, I really challenge you not to groove to this. Speech and 1 Love take us through all the things that they are grateful for in life, from a true story about white privilege and the difference between white and black lives to your own journey and sharing it with your wife. There is much here you can feel and that can be associated with in your own life, you just have to realise what you are grateful for and have been grateful for but, also think of how that affects others too. It Couldn’t Be is the penultimate track but is also the last track of the album, with the final track being a remix. Production comes from Mistract and sees Piano, and strings take the forefront over the drumbeat, bringing a chilled reflective air to the track. Here we find Speech looking back over shows and particularly important events in life and how these things help us see past the darkness, seeing what is truly special in our lives. The album ends with the Arrogance (Jahah Remix) the message of the original is not lost here but, the sound has a solid drum beat which is heavy with double bass, creating another infectious sound that is the perfect way to take you out of the album.
After listening to the album top to bottom and fully taking it all in I can see how some have this on their best of the year lists already. Everything about this album is just incredible, it flows at a great pace keeping the listener engaged at every turn. The mix of vibes throughout the album is almost lost by the sheer enjoyment value but, don’t be fooled because alongside that enjoyment value, this is grown-up Hip Hop where the fun and good times does not loose sight of the important subjects that are a part of our everyday lives. Arrested Development does what they always do, using Hip Hop music to bring your awareness to both sides of the coin and you can’t listen to the album without coming away without a sense that there is still so much to do in this world if we are ever to get anywhere near peace and unity, and it has to start with changes at the most fundamental levels by leaving greed behind.
Let’s take a look at the album from a musical point of view. This is an album entwined in the roots of real Hip Hop music from a group who have achieved much within the music industry by speaking out on subjects that matter. Arrested Development still bring a great balance of real-world problems to bear while entertaining you all the way. Speech and 1 Love show the calibre of their rap skills here by mixing up the flows and styles to perfectly convey the emotive nature of the messages they deliver. Fareedah and April So Lyrical, bring the soulful backing vocals to just bring that much needed touching quality to the sound. The use of live instruments from the band really serves to enhance the sound that is brought predominantly by Configa along with Will Montgomery, Sol Messiah, Mistact and Fenix.
The production here is all top quality with the producers all bringing their own unique stamps to the sound. Configa, being the main producer on the album, once more brings such an amazing sound, proving that he is not just one of the best producers out of the UK but, one of the best Hip Hop producers out there right now. This takes nothing away from any of the other producers who all bring amazing sounds.
I have said so much about Bullets In The Chamber already but, I couldn’t wrap this up with out mentioning the amazing guest artists on this one. Bringing in the calibre of Chuck D, Grandmaster Caz, CanIbus, Rass Kas, Skyzoo, and others, alongside original members Montsho Eshe and Rasa Don, not only adds the icing to the cake but also takes it to the next level, what more do I need to say, these are some masterful choices.
Overall, Bullets In The Chamber is a Hip Hop album that keeps its roots in the foundations of the culture while having a conscious edge that speaks on so many levels. The enjoyment factor of the album is second to none and will leave you almost breathless but, at the same time wanting more. This is Arrested Development at their very best, standing up for those who need a voice and ultimately standing up for peace.
There is one last thing I would like to add here. In putting down my thoughts and feelings on this album, it was invaluable to have the short insights available from Speech himself, which he put into individual videos. These helped me in knowing that my insights were close to how he saw each track and it also gave me some much needed background for the review. I am also very grateful to Configa who helped me to get the album and its press pack, without which there would be no review.
My advice is simple, just listen to this one because it’s truly not easy to convey just how good it is, you need to hear it.
My humble thanks to Configa, Speech and the entire Arrested Development band for giving me the chance to once more do a deep dive and put down my feelings on this album and the two previous albums as well. It has been something special for me to be able to review these works of art, I have always been a fan of their music and have respected Speech and all that AD stands for, and I have always felt that their music touched you on a deep level and if this is to be their last album, then what a legacy they will leave, one that will continue to speak to the listener for as long as these words need to be said.
Time for me to be out,
One Love People,
Steve.
LINKS
The One link for all things Arrested Development and Speech:
Grown Up Free is the third in the Grown Up series of albums
from Legs MC. I featured the previous release in this series, Grown Up Too,
back in August of last year and you can read that review on the link below,
with will give you some background on Legs MC.
Once more on this new album Legs has brought in some top-notch
guest artists, including another appearance from his sons Zackary and Raphael,
alongside some additional production talent. Guests include Falle Nioke, Rhyme
Advocates and DJ TGK with additional production coming from Murmur Beats, Ted
Roxwell, JG Romez and Solar Sounds.
The best thing to do here is not to keep you hanging around
but, to dive right into the album…
Love and Attention opens the album with a pounding
beat to get your head nodding. Here Legs opens up on the negative side of
social media. While the socials have their advantages in helping artists get
promotion and so on, the drawback is that people spend so much time focused on
scrolling, tweeting, and so on it takes attention away from the things that are
most important. Heaven and Hell drops next with production from Murmur
Beats. The sound has that boom bap edge with a soulful vibe running through it.
The focus here is really trying to see the silver lining to all the clouds,
especially in a world where you are bombarded with a constant stream of
negative media reporting. It’s all about looking beyond the darkness, the pain
and the suffering and having a deep knowing that the light is there, you just
have to have the faith in it. With those thoughts of being stuck and not
knowing where to turn, your mind drifts to thoughts of freedom, which leads to Song
About Freedom; featuring Falle Nioke, solid boom bap drums and strings are
backed by soulful vocals to bring a deep and thoughtful vibe. The last few
years have seen so much focus on peoples seeking freedom from so much oppression,
racism and control, this track really has that sense of an anthem for call to
stand up for what you believe and to see freedom for all, everywhere.
Sadness and Joy features Rhyme Advocates sees drums.
Bass and woodwind sounds merge to bring a head nod beat, where that woodwind
sound creates a mind-bending twist. This one seems to look at two sides of the
same coin but, the important thing is to remember all those moments of joy,
especially in the moments where sadness grips us and we struggle, it’s
remembering the joy that gets us through and shows us that things will get
better. The little comedic opening to Wrong Horse, gives way to heavy
drums, bass, and guitar notes, bringing a slightly dark edge to the sound. On
the face of it, this might seem like a look at the so-called sport of horse
racing and perhaps it is just that but, maybe there is more to this here and
the wordplay has that equestrian edge to play with your mind as it’s all about
Legs being an artist and being in the game for the long haul and not just to
make a quick quid or two. It’s all about taking your time and honing your
craft, so you are still in it when most have fallen by the wayside. Next up is The
Grinch Skit, a little track that features Zakary and Raphael, the sons of
Legs, giving us a fun little skit all about the Grinch over a heavy beat with
keys. You can’t help but grin at this one as it brings some light relief to
proceedings. This leads nicely into My Sons, a thoughtful sound is
created by drums, bass, and keys, is the backdrop for Legs to drop a touching
track that is focused on his sons and seeing them grow up and being the best
father, you can be for them; always guiding them as they grow and take their
own journey through life. There is not much more you can say about this, except
that I found it really touching, as a father myself, it really echoes my own
thoughts and feelings.
Conduit is produced by Ted Roxwell who brings a heavy
beat alongside some keys that have you thinking of horror movie vibes. With
that eerie sound floating in your awareness, it brings an interesting vibe as
Legs speaks on the almost supernatural element of how his words seem to come
from deep inside, in a way that seems like they control him, almost writing
themselves like they possess him or are the conduit to another realm. JG Romez
produces Division and uses a piano heavy sound with a pounding beat as
the backdrop bringing a focus to the vocals. Legs opens up on the state of
society where facts are blurred by fake news in order to cause a constant state
of division between people, races, countries and more. Within this fractured
society we seek to pull apart and separate the truth from the fiction, so that
our children will know what’s real and what’s not. It is not an easy thing to
do with the constant steam of negative media attention but, we do what we can
to build a better future. Character Assassination is produced by Solar
Sounds and has a more chilled LoFi sound of drums and keys with a modern
ticking sound added in. This one is all about the cancel culture where anyone
can be made a target and have their whole life and careers turned upside down
by internet critics with little or no evidence, just hearsay.
Bragadon’t features DJ TGK on the cut, the drums are
sparce and almost fade into the background as bass, keys and horns take the
forefront. Legs takes the opportunity to speak on who he is and what he does as
an artist but, there is not braggadocio here as he displays his talents in a
way that just opens your eyes to the facts without making himself out to be
more than he is. The penultimate track is Fee Fi Fo Fum where drums and
guitars merge to bring a strangely enjoyable sound with a head nod vibe. This one
has some slick wordplay that displays the giant size of Lags verbal talent,
something that might not be immediately apparent but, first impressions can be
misleading. The final track of the album is King On The Mic and hits
with a heavy vibe of bass drums creating the perfect musical backdrop for Legs fully
open up about just how good he is as an emcee, dropping intelligent and slick
wordplay that rounds off the album in style getting your head nodding and the
corners of your mouth curling up as you enjoy every word.
Sometimes it is easy to sum up the overall feel of an album
and Grown Up Free one of those albums. Legs brings us another album that
displays a solid balance of storytelling and real world lived experience that
does not fail in its ability to be something that anyone can associate with as
you listen.
The production is all on point here, be it from the guest
producers or not. Creating a sound that is ultimately Hip Hop but, has those
little additional influences along the way that add to the depth and quality of
the sound. Not only that but, the production helps convey the words to you in
such a way as to maximise the impact.
Vocally and lyrically Legs shows his range of flows and
styles that work so well in delivering the depth of the message he conveys with
each track. The intelligence and quality of wordplay comes from a continuous
love of the music and a desire to consistently stay on top of his craft, honing
and tweaking his style as he progresses. The guest artists also perfectly fit
into proceedings once more, bringing that added depth, style and feeling along
the way.
There is also that depth of feeling here about family and
creating a path on which the next generation can walk, whilst still forging
their own journey. By including his own children on a track, it really brings
home that sense of family being so important and it touches a part of you very
deeply and in a way that you may not actually realise until you reflect.
So, overall Grown Up Free is the perfect addition to the
Grown Up series as it adds to and builds upon the foundations laid by the
previous albums. Using the sound and the lyrical power of Hip Hop music to
drive home both important subject matter and the need to enjoy yourself as
well.
My humble thanks to Legs MC for letting me bring this one to
you.
Grown Up Free is available now. Grab a copy and support the independent music of Legs MC...
It’s unusual, in this digital age, to find a debut release
that is not available on all the regular streaming platforms but, the debut
release from Can’t Be Copied is one of them. Real Art Real Experiences
is only available from cantbecopiedhiphop.com (link Below).
So, lets learn a bit more about Can’t Be Copied; CBC
is K.A.O.$. Da Rowdy MC, Mr Roka and Stanton Miles who are
dedicated to the foundations of Hip Hop. Both being parents they point out that
they will not need those Parental Advisory labels but, at the same time, they
also don’t promote any BS.
K.A.O.$ Da Rowdy MC from Charlotte North Carolina,
originally from Newark New Jersey, started writing at the age of 7 and had been
performing since he was 14. His name K.A.O.$ stands for Killing All Opponents
$wiftly and it was his childhood friends who named him KAOS when he was 13, the
name stuck, and he kept it due to the fact those who gave him the name are no
longer with us. He has been influenced by many different genres of music but,
with Hip Hop the influence came from 80’s and 90s, which helped him shape his
own expression of Hip Hop, while still staying dedicated to its true
foundation. A dedicated father, he writes about his own experiences and how he
views life, using personal and meaningful lyrics. He also produces and prides
himself on being versatile and different.
Mr Roka hails from County Durham in the UK and uses
his skills to make the kind of music that he wants to listen to. Most of his
inspiration has come from buying records during the 90’s and early 2000’s.
Since that time, he has remained an avid music fan, drawing inspiration from
everywhere. The labels that have been the biggest inspiration to his music are
the likes of Mo Wax, Grand Central, Ninja Tune, Wall of Sound and Def Jam, to
name a few. The biggest inspirations on his production style come from Mark
Rae, Pete Rock, DJ Premiere, Q-Tip, DJ Spinna, Lord Finesse, Diamond D, Todd
Terry, and The Bomb Squad.
Stanton Miles is from Newcastle UK and started out as
the DJ for the first UK Hip Hop group to rap in ‘geordie’ accent, the New
Avengers who hailed from North Tyneside. Back then he went under the name DJ
Murder One. Since 1991 he has held residencies in nightclubs and bars in the
area and has also put out a few radio shows along the way, including The
Scratch show he currently presents on Method Radio.
With all that said, it is obvious that there is some major
Hip Hop blood running through the veins of Can’t Be Copied, which leads you to
get some hefty anticipation over what you are about to hear. Real Art
Experiences is sixteen tracks deep, six of which are skits, and also features
the turntable skills of one DJ Stanton Miles on four of those. Now, before I
get into the album, here is what the guys have to say about what you are about
to hear “The album paints a picture of the life and influences of K.A.O.$.
Da Rowdy MC and Mr Roka. The album shows both sides hip hop, as it aims to
uplift as well as show values of the culture and where they came from. The
group believes Hip Hop has foundations and principles from its inception and
they want to show they believe them all”.
So, lets get into it…
Kicking off with Skit 1, bass and drums form the sparse
background sound for this intro as K.A.O.$ really sets the scene for what’s
about to come before Soulatified really kicks things off with keys, bass
and drums, bringing an infectious funk vibe that will have you moving from
first note. K.A.O.$ opens proceedings with a blistering display of intricate
and intelligent wordplay that flows through your awareness at such a pace you
need to take a deep breath. Luckily there is a brief pause with Skit 2
as drums and keys form funky little background for K.A.O.$ to grab some hater
spray before continuing with Hitting Hard, the first track to feature
Stanton Miles on the cuts, has a proper boom bap sound drums, bass and some
interesting little electronic sounds and samples; mix all that with the classic
samples and cuts and this one will have you bouncing. Here it’s all about
taking that Hip Hop energy to the live stage with a dope beat from Mr Roka for
K.A.O.$ and the crowd to react back and forth. Hard rhymes and hard beats, this
is Hip Hop and this is what it’s all about right…
The turntable trickery of Stanton Miles takes centre stage
on Skit 3 over a heavy beat from Mr Roka as Can’t Be Copied celebrate
the Hip Hop DJ. Stanton Miles keeps the turntables buzzing for Reup Pt 2 as
Mr Roka brings a pounding beat with some keys and electronic elements that have
you thinking of warm summer nights rollin’ deep but, keeping a low profile and
getting everything, you need but, keeping your wits about you, not attracting
attention, never regretting your actions, and doing what’s best. Power To
Change drops with more of a jazz influence with keys, drums, and heavy bass
aspect. The message on this is an uplifting one that looks at how you are the
one that has the power to change all those struggles and hurdles you face in
life. It’s all about changing your perspective on what is in front of you and
always finding the positive part, the learning that you can take from it. Do
that and you will never become bogged down by life’s negativity. Heavy bass,
drums, occasional horns and etheric strings form the backdrop to the Struggle,
all of which combines to bring deep vibe that touches you. This one really
continues the message from the previous track, it’s all about recognising that
we all go through some tough times, it’s a part of life but, our strength and
resolve carries us through these times towards light and the sunshine that is
always there, behind the clouds.
A short interlude
with Skit 4 finds us carried on a dope beat with hand claps while
K.A.O.$ points out that its best to be independent out there these days, not
relying on others but, to make those moves and do it yourself. Boom bap drums,
bass and horns are the main components to Mr Roka’s beat on Figure It Out.
With that funky beat getting you out your chair, K.A.O.$ speaks on never losing
sight of your dreams; it’s all about putting in the work on whatever is your
passion and making those dreams a reality. If you have the seed and a dream,
all you need to do is plant the seed, nurture that seed and learn how to help
it grow and one day all that hard work will pay off when the reality of your
achievement is finally realised. Skit 5 brings another element of the
Hip Hop culture to the forefront as K.A.O.$ takes on the role of a graffiti
writer. The heavy beat almost fades into the background, echoing that feel of
being out in the train yard attempting to get up before the cops spot you. The
graffiti theme continues with Vandals as K.A.O.$ relates some slick
tales of his exploits as a writer. Mr Roka provides a pounding beat that is
drum heavy with some keys that gives this one a solid Hip Hop vibe that not
only feels at home with the graffiti vibe but, also has a sound that would work
so well for the breakers too.
One last interlude with Skit 6 which has a proper
funky little beat from Mr Roka and see’s K.A.O.$ reminding MC’s to never get
too cocky and try to be something you’re not, and to always keep it real. The
Student takes it to the classroom as K.A.O.$ speaks on what it is to learn
from those who have gone before. If you are making Hip Hop music, then you have
to know the history of the music and know those who laid the foundations of
sound you now call your stage. Mr Roka brings a real heavy sound here with drums,
heavy bass, keys and more which really serves to cement the message this track
brings. The penultimate track is the last to feature the talents of Stanton
Miles, Say It Phunky has a proper funky Hip Hop vibe with drums, bass, horns,
and cuts bringing an injection of energy that has a real party vibe to it. While
your head nods from front to back and side to side, its all about keeping it
phunky in whatever you say. You can speak on any subject, serious or just for
fun but, whatever you say just keep it phunky, that way you can’t fail to rock
the party. All too soon we are into the final track of the album, Speak My
Mind, which has a more mellow feel with laid-back drums, keys, and horns,
bringing the kind of vibe you just wanna kick back to. Here K.A.O.$ draws on
more of those personal life experiences to paint an audible picture of what he
sees going on in the world around him. When you feel with your heart and speak
that from your mind, it will be you that speaks those words, and they will not
be coloured or influenced by others.
As Debuts go Real Art Real Experiences easily stands
tall and proud among recent releases. Can’t Be Copied seamlessly mesh the Real
Art (Hip Hop) with the Real Experiences (K.A.O.$.’s Life Experiences) which
brings a real feel of authenticity to the entire project; you can really feel
the desire to bring that authentic sound, a true view of what life is, and the
passion for what Hip Hop culture truly is. You feel that within these guys
beats those hearts that have a true desire to bring something different to the
scene, something that can be heard by any audience and that will speak to them
all. It’s almost like there is an unwritten rule here that says it is important
for the music of Can’t Be Copied to be heard by all, including the children,
because they are our future after all and the earlier, they can begin to digest
the truth and how to convey that truth to others, it can only be a good thing.
Without a doubt Real Art Real Experiences is a true Hip Hop
album. Mr Roka’s production is solid and consistent from beginning to end
creating the sound to fit the mood but always keeping an element of uplifting
vibes and energy. You can feel the influence of those producers and labels,
mentioned above, running throughout the album but, the sound has an element
that says, ‘this is my sound, no matter the influence’ and it is that uplifting
element that has does it and does bring a vibe that is still authentic while
retaining that link to the roots of real Hip Hop.
K.A.O.$. Da Rowdy MC makes his mark here by not just showing
his pedigree as an lyricist by mixing up flows and styles but, by bringing
complex and intelligent rhymes that seem to keep you hanging on his every word,
and not just that but, he does what few emcees do, by delivering every single
bar without a single curse word, and there are not many out there who chose to
do that these days but, it does open up the music of Can’t Be Copied to a whole
different audience and allows it to be played on the radio without the need for
editing (something that will make my upcoming community radio show easier).
The appearance of the UK’s Stanton Miles on the decks for
the group is also a true pleasure here as it puts the icing on the cake of a
true Hip Hop album. I know I have said this a number of times, and probably
will again but, having a scratch DJ on an album or track just adds to that
authentic Hip Hop sound. I mean, Hip Hop began with the DJ and the emcee, two
turntables and a microphone, these are the true roots of the culture’s musical
element and, perhaps, the roots of the culture itself, and Stanton Miles brings
that element to life here, displaying his credentials on the decks to great
effect. While I’m speaking of Stanton Miles, I’d like to take this opportunity
to thank him for bringing Can’t Be Copied to my attention, as without him this
one might have slipped under my radar, so my humble thanks to Stanton Miles.
Overall, Real Art Real Experiences is solid Hip Hop album
that draws on and gives thanks to the true Hip Hop culture, not just the music
but all the elements. You might not think that there is not so much mention of
Breaking but, it is there, and you can feel it in the music as well. It is an
album that is a true joy to listen to and one you won’t have to turn off when
the kids come in the room, or you can bump in the car safe in the knowledge you
won’t offend anyone (insert smiley face here).
Real Art Real Experiences is available now from CBC Hip Hop,
link below…
If you subscribe to the mailing list you will get The Student track free too, that's a bonus...
On That Note,
I’ll see ya next time,
Steve.
LINKS
Can't Be Copied Official Website (Get the Album here exclusively):
The Audio Narcotics EP is the hot new debut release from the
UK Hip Hop duo Hate Being Sober, originally released in December of 2023, it
recently found its way onto my radar and so I decided to give you all my take
on it.
Hate Being Sober was formed by the creative minds of
Brinkworth and Kenny Cadence. With a passion for storytelling and a love of
intricate wordplay, this duo brings a refreshing and thought-provoking
perspective to the world of Hip Hop. Their music is a fusion of raw emotion, clever
lyricism, and infectious flows that will resonate with the listener. Through
their sharp wit and powerful performances, Brinkworth and Kenny Cadence aim to
leave an indelible mark on the world of Hip Hop.
That little intro to the guys, taken from their official
bio, gives us just the right amount of insight and dangles an intriguing
musical carrot in front of our noses too, so why don’t you join me on a journey
through this seven track EP, featuring a wealth of production talent and appearances
from Abi Nyxx, Sha Stimuli and Breana Marin…
The kicks off with Gorilla Position which is produced
by AraabMuzik. Sparse drums and an almost eerie piano forms the basis of the musical
backdrop, while there is another sound that floats into your awareness during
the verses that has an essence of horns to it. All this together brings a deep
vibe that seems to reflect looking out on the harsh realities of life. Lyrically
we find Brinkworth and Kenny Cadence dropping some intelligent words and slick
flows around how it is to work at your craft, constantly re-evaluating and reinventing
your style until you find yourself in a commanding position and comfortable
with where you are at in that moment. Next up is Bonnie Parker which
features Abi Nyxx and is produced by Dream Life and DJ Pain 1. This one hits
with a grime style vibe; the beat pounds hard while there is mix of keys and
flute, alongside high-speed ticking, that creates a slightly eerie quality to
the sound. There seems to be a slightly darker and more raw edge to the lyrics
on this one. You get the sense that there is a venom to the delivery as each MC
lays down these short punchy bars that are aimed at detailing the hardships of
getting to the top of your rap game. There are times you feel like its not
worth it but, you keep pushing and surging forward because you have the faith
in yourself and when you have that, its only a matter of time before you reach
the top…
The Plug, produced by Young Bangas, drops with drums,
keys, and some sonic sounds mixed in. The keys bring another eerie vibe, the
kinda sound that has you feeling like someone is watching you as you listen. That
air that someone is watching is apparent in the words because when you are a
rapper, producer waking music, people are always watching you hanging on your
words and waiting see what comes next. So, you are always checking yourself,
your craft and wondering what more you could learn and pass on to the fans and
those who are close to you. This one definitely has that sense of being
individual and not like all the others and keeping going no matter what,
because there is always something to say. We now find our selves at the
mid-point of the album with Falling Down, produced by Justin Case and
Kenny Cadence, the music box melody and pounding drumbeat is mixed with that
ticking, which finds us back on that grime vibe. There is a more reflective air
to this one as the track focuses on the struggles an upcoming artist faces in a
world full of digital streaming and AI bots; its hard to get a decent foothold
in a way that gets you properly noticed. Physical media is making a comeback
and the days of selling CDs out of car boots, does not seem like a fruitless
endeavour anymore. Especially when you look at those who are still out there
doing, those who have built themselves up from nothing, and to reinforce that
point there are a number of shouts to some of the legends in the game here too.
Into the second half of the EP and Storm is next up,
produced by Dream Life and Love Pulse Music and featuring Sha Stimuli and
Breana Marin, Keys and drums are the foundation for this one and bring a more
soulful sound with a deep vibe. Sometimes it takes many words to describe the
heart of a track but, here the message is quite simple, it’s all about
believing in, and having faith in yourself and your ability, no matter what
storms life brings; just believe in who you are and your ability to succeed,
and you will get through anything. The penultimate track is Confession Tape
and is produced by Kenneth English who brings a chilled, almost LoFi sound
which brings a reflective vibe, once more. That reflective vibe takes on a far
deeper aspect as the vocals drop in; there is a deep focus here on the effect
that the struggles of an artist can have on your mental health. Tough subject
matter that is handles perfectly here in a way that brings the lived experience
of both Brinkworth and Kenny Cadence to the forefront, and it takes a lot to
open up in this way and put it out there in a way that shows both strength and
to be a beacon of light to others. The final track of the EP is Hopeless
which is produced by 8 Bars and a more uplifting vibe to the sound with drums
and keys. That uplifting musical sound is reflected in the vocals which are all
about knowing you worth in whatever you’re doing. There are plenty of people
out there who can never see who you truly are and just what you are putting
into something, they will always push you to do more based on what they think
is a suitable baseline but, only you know your true worth and you should always
remember that at the times things look their darkest.
First things first, there is a lot to like about Audio
Narcotics and Hate Being Sober, the guys have brought in some great producers
to bring some solid production to the EP, all of which works in tandem with the
lyrics and provides superb musical backdrops to all the tracks. There is a mix
of sounds here with most having that Hip Hop sound and couple just merging with
a more grime sounding vibe, which might not be to everyone’s takes but, it does
show the calibre of what HBS are capable of.
Now, speaking of HBS, you will remember from the excerpt of
their bio that I included at the start, that it described their music as a
fusion of raw emotion, clever lyricism, and infectious flows and having sharp
wit and powerful performances, well after listing to this there is no way I
can say any different. Regardless of the flow and focus of each track the guys
do what they do in a way that not only resonates with the listener but, also
keeps them engaged throughout. There is also this feeling that, although much
of what you hear seems to be focused on the music industry and rap particularly
but, it is easy to transpose what is said and put into your own life and what
you do day to day, the elements are that easily relatable.
You can feel the energy and the real-life experiences that
the guys infuse into their lyrics which, not only gives that relatability but
also brings authenticity, engaging the listener in a world that brings a
deep-rooted passion about the music and a desire to truly connect with the
listeners as well. There are some great features here too that really add to
the depth of the musical journey and guys chose well in bringing in just the
right balance of features here too.
So, if, like me, this is your introduction to Hate Being
Sober, then you will not be disappointed as this release is one that is solid
in every way and will leave you being fully impressed with what you just heard.
The EP really is intoxicating in its own way and might well leave you wanting
just a little bit more.
Audio Narcotics by Hate Being Sober is out now.
My huge thanks to Kenny Cadence for the chance to bring this
one to you.
