Saturday, June 20, 2009

Klondike Kat - The Lyrical Lion

Klondike Kat - The Lyrical Lion
Klondike Kat is a pioneer of underground rap from Houston, TX. He possesses a tremendous amount of lyrical talent and charisma. He is also an avid singer as well as a renowned producer. Over the years he has been lending his skills to the likes of the South Park Coalition and the legendary Killa Klan. The Lyrical Lion is his debut album and it was released in 1993 on Beatbox Records. Production is provided by Dope-E of The Terrorists, Keenan Lyles, J Reble and Klondike Kat. The beats are a synthetic blend of early 90's gangsta rap. They rely heavily on the 808 with minor keyboards. Although the rhythms might sound dated, the fact that they are magnificently composed and mixed cannot be denied. The lyrics are made up of the same caliber. Kat crushes the mic with an onslaught of vile rhymes. He brilliantly displays his lyrical flair, track after track. Not to mention his dope story telling ability and the deeply rooted choruses. Featuring on the album are members of the infamous S.P.C. That roster includes K-Rino, Point Blank, PSK-13, A.C. Chill, Dope-E, Aftamath, Kyu-Boi, Bullet, K.O., Triple X, Reload, Black Capone and Bubba Trouble. The album also contains the near ten minute clique anthem known as the "Murder Script." Overall the record is a bit shy with only seven tracks but all of them are equally superior. The South Park Coalition is responsible for being mentors to many present and up coming artists from Texas. Even though, one wont find them or Klondike Kat on the front page cover of a well established magazine, their devotion and love for the underground still remains persistent.

Deadly Verses
Murder Script

Monday, June 8, 2009

Black Mike - Haven't You Heard?

Black Mike - Haven't You Heard?
Black Mike is a rapper and producer from Houston, TX. He is also affiliated with the South Park Coalition. Mike has been in the business since the age of 16. He honed his skills and became a pure lyricist as well as a talented producer. This is debut album and it was released in 2004 on Johnny Palmer Entertainment. The production is done by Black Mike along with some help from Dope-E of The Terrorists. They provide a solid foundation using multiple instruments. The beats are dark to some extent but are mostly up tempo. Mike displays his raw vocals on just about every track. His attack on the mic is something vicious and it is one that should definitely be heard. Guest appearances are made by Z-Ro, B-1, III, Lil' Will and Scotty P. Overall the record was a valiant effort and it contains a lengthy collection of choice tracks. It is also a strict representation of the underground and it does not dissatisfy. Black Mike is currently working on his sophomore album called, "The Hand That Feeds You."