Showing posts with label 1998. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 1998. Show all posts

Monday, March 27, 2017

Wet Boys - Puttin Out The Fire Vol. 1

Wet Boys was a group that represented the murky bayous of New Orleans, LA.  The group was founded in the mid nineties by the pioneer, Sporty T. The main cause for the group with their opposite moniker was to continue the war on wax between Sporty T and the Hot Boy$ of Cash Money Records. The Wet Boys consisted of T-Bone, Sporty T and the Black John Gotti. Puttin Out The Fire is their debut album and it was released in 1998 on Sporty Records. The production is of superb quality and is entirely handled by T-Bone. His strong intent can be heard from the very first track. From the raw bass lines to the woozy hooks to the scintillating synths, all hit in the right place at the right time. The beats are composed with a sense of purpose and attention is given to the smallest detail. T-Bone may not be as flashy or even as gifted as the rest of his contemporaries but what he lacks in experience, he makes up in presentation. Lyrically the album is also pretty strong. The subject matter may be redundant due to all the tracks being directed as a shot towards the Hot Boy$ or Cash Money Records but there is never a dull moment in the rhymes. Sporty's flow is certainly in the upper echelon when compared to his counterparts. His change of pace, his firm vocabulary and even his occasional humorous tone are a sight to behold. Combine this with his veteran status in the Rap game and one has a commanding figure in the studio and a brute upon the microphone. Guest appearances are made by Ice Mike, Greg and Lyric. The album closes out with a commendable total of eighteen substantial tracks that certainly give some insight on the beef between the two parties. The record as a whole is a respectable one because of the quality production and the lyrical content. It is also an extraordinary piece when considering the history between the two camps. Sadly, Sporty T was murdered in 2008 which ended the feud once and for all. Rest in peace to one of New Orleans' finest.

Deadly Verses
Rope Round Ya Neck

Thursday, August 18, 2016

Prime Time - Duck Tape'n

Michael Williams, better known as Prime Time, is a rapper from the savage swamps of New Orleans, LA. He first appeared on the scene with the notorious Bounce group known as, Partners-N-Crime. He was heavily featured on their earlier albums and was almost considered as an unofficial third member of the famed group. It was through their tutelage and guidance, that Prime Time was able to come out of their shadows and establish himself as a southern artist. Duck Tape'n is his debut solo album and it was released in 1998 on South Coast Music Group. Production is handled by the magnificent, Leroy "Precise" Edwards and he tries to bring his signature style to the table. The beats are mostly derived for the genre of Bounce with the exception of a few songs. Some of them are sample driven while the rest are about as original as can be. Although Precise's past resume is an excellent one and his work truly speaks for itself, he really just does not bring the same level of craftsmanship on this release. There are some tracks that are very good and then there are some that are dull and bland. The same can be said when it comes to the lyrical content. Prime Time crosses the fine line between average and great. He flirts with a bit of word play but tends to rely more on common rhyme schemes. His tone along with his pace are perfect for Bounce music and he takes full advantage of what is offered to him. The subject matter ventures into different categories but for the most part stays with typical Bounce subjects such as project rapping, roll calling, call & response, etc. Guest appearances are made by Partners-N-Crime, L.O.G., Tre-8, Drama Squad, Ms. Tee, Bayou Boy, G-Hunter, Ché and Mary Jane. Overall this was a decent album by the N.O. native and it help spawn a few local hits in The Boot. Although the record does often revert back to its' Bounce roots, it certainly does have a lot more to offer than just that. The album contains various elements as a whole and it's not just restricted to the genre of Bounce. In the end, that is what truly separates it from the rest and makes it that much more entertaining to listen to. Also to note, is the presence of Partners-N-Crime on the front cover with Kangol Slim on the left and Misdemeanor on the right. This was Prime Time's way of paying homage and showing love for the two people who always had a helping hand in his success as an artist.

Deadly Verses
Where My Souljas At

Tuesday, November 10, 2015

DJ DMD - Twenty-Two: P.A. World Wide

Dorie Dorsey, better known as DJ DMD, is a renowned rapper, producer and DJ who hails from the notorious streets of Port Arthur, TX. He is also the founder of Inner Soul Records as well as the collective known as the Inner Soul Clique. DMD initially started off in the early nineties with a group called The Original Point Blank. It was after this venture, when he realized the passion and talent he had for the industry. This eventually led him to form his own label which brought other small time artists in Port Arthur together and ultimately formed the Inner Soul Clique. Twenty-Two is his second album and it was released in 1998 on Inner Soul Records. As always, DMD is the sole producer and he does a superb job on the beats. They are all funk laden and are derived through multiple musical instruments. Some of them are sample assisted while others are as original as can be. The rhythms carry a very precise feel and their craftsmanship oozes quality. They are definitely southern in style and are also very smooth on the playing end. Lyrically the album is also quite impressive. DMD can hold his own on the microphone. His tone is somewhat relaxed and his delivery is distinct. His rhymes carry a good amount of wordplay and are a perfect fit for his beats. Also, the members of the Inner Soul Clique are very good lyricists as well. Each one bringing a unique and thought provoking style to the table which in return boosts the core content of the entire record. Guest appearances are made by Pimp C of UGK, Lil' Keke and Fat Pat of the Screwed Up Click. All in all, this was a wonderful follow up to his debut "Eleven." Not only did it help spawn one of the greatest rap songs in Southern Rap history in "25 Lighters," it also let the whole world know about the small city of Port Arthur in South Texas.

Deadly Verses
Landmines ft. Laboo & QB



Deadly Video


Album Notes
* Rest in peace to Pimp C and Fat Pat.
* DJ DMD would retire from the rap game in the year 2002.
* He later returned in the year 2012 as a Christian Rap artist.
* The Rock group, ZZ Top also did a rendition of 25 Lighters.

Saturday, September 26, 2015

Nuwine - Basshead

Maurice Williams, better known as Nuwine, is a rapper who hails from the infamous neighborhood of 5th Ward in Houston, TX. After living as a troubled youth and even coming very close to the brink of death, he decided it was time to change for the better. He turned to religion for answers and started anew as a Christian Rap artist. Armed with just a microphone and a drum machine which he purchased at a local pawn shop, he began experimenting on ways to reach and teach his peers. It wasn't long before he was picked up by Knolly "Rubadub" Williams, who immediately signed him to his newly founded, Grapetree Records. Nuwine debuted in 1997 with the album, "Da Bloody 5th," which still to this day, is regarded as one of his best works. His venture with Grapetree Records was short lived though, he would soon leave them over royalty issues and form his own label known as Wine-O Records. Basshead is an album full of instrumentals that Nuwine put together in 1998 on the aforementioned label. The production in it's entirety is done by Nuwine, himself. The beats are all electronically derived and are without the use of any real instruments. Their style along with their pace varies and a good range of selection is provided for the listener. While some are a little odd and seem to lack basic foundation, there are some that are really commendable. This record was basically put together for up and coming artists that face dilemmas when it comes to recording material. It was also considered as a gift for his loyal fans who just need some solid rhythms to bob their head to. All in all this project is just for experimental purposes and is not intended for any type of commercial use. While it strays away from the religious concepts that Nuwine is most known for, it does in fact gives him a broader audience. He was at a point in his career where every release seemed crucial for his fan base and not only was this a unique move, it was also a very bold step that he took for his immediate future. He did something special for his fans and that is what placed him above the rest of his fellow Christian Rap artists.

Deadly Tracks
13 - Untitled


Album Notes
Wine-O Records went defunct in the year 2003.
* Nuwine would then change his alias to Wine-O.
* The new alias would also mark the end of his Christian Rap career.
* He then tried establishing himself in the Rap & Hip Hop industry.

Thursday, September 24, 2015

Herschelwood Hardheadz - A Million Dollar$ Later

Herschelwood Hardheadz is a collective that represents from the notorious streets of Herschelwood in Houston, TX. The group was formed in the year 1993 by Lil' Keke and it consists of Archie Lee, Duke and Knocky. As a group they made various appearances on multiple Screw Tapes and even had some stints on Lil' Keke's solo albums. After creating a mild buzz in the southside of town and also developing a true fan base, the group finally decided it was time for an official release. A Million Dollar$ Later is their debut album and it was released in 1998 on Jam Down Records. The record is superbly produced by the likes of Sean "Solo" Jemison, Double D of Platinum Souls and Dantly "Prowler" Wyatt. The beats are an eclectic blend of rhythms that are so smooth, that head bobbing is the only option left for the listener. They can easily be summed up as that classic H-Town funk which also incorporates some elements of the Swang & Bang sound. The producers really out did themselves on this one and in return, gave the artists a very solid foundation to work upon. Lyrically the album is also well rounded. As always, Lil' Keke does not disappoint on the microphone and neither do his fellow group members. They take turns unleashing their various styles, both musically and methodically. While their rhymes may vary in pace, their jubilant word play and their flashy personas remain constant. Guest appearances are made by Fat Pat, B-Legit, Mobb Figgaz and Phaz. All in all this is a wonderful debut effort by the group and one that was definitely worth the wait. The group's success was short lived though, Lil' Keke left the group after this initial release and continued his solo route while the Herschelwood Hardheadz advanced as a trio. In the end, this record sits as a polished gem that not only shines but can also be a priceless commodity in one's collection.

Deadly Verses
CD's & LP's ft. Fat Pat



Thursday, March 12, 2015

GT & Steve Nice - Our House

GT & Steve Nice - Our House
GT and Steve Nice are not only rappers but also producers and DJ's from Houston, TX. GT is originally from the neighborhood of Flatbush in Brooklyn, NY but part of his family would later relocate to Houston in the early eighties and has resided there ever since. GT, which is abbreviation for "Gifted/Talented," first started off with K-Rino and Preppy J when they formed one of Houston's first hip-hop acts known as Real Chill. The group only managed to release one single and soon disbanded, while member K-Rino pursued a solo career. DJ Steve Nice on the other hand is a native of Dallas, TX but has also held residence in Houston as well. The two met as students at Texas Southern University and eventually started Key Players Entertainment in the mid nineties. Our House is their debut album and it was released in 1998 on Key Players Entertainment. Production is mostly done by the legendary Mike B but he is assisted by the likes of Crazy C, Doc Doom, Def Jam Blaster, Skool Of Thought and of course GT & Steve Nice themselves. The beats are undeniably smooth and they carry a very laid back vibe. The use of samples as well as other DJ techniques are quite prominent and are also used very effectively. Although some tracks are a bit simple and plain, most of the record is very well rounded and can be a real treat for the ear drums. Lyrically is where the album truly excels. Eclectic styles are displayed with the mix of strong word play and complex rhyme patterns. GT is definitely the more dominant member while Steve Nice tends to be a bit passive on the microphone. Both of them feed off each other with ease and lay down an impressive lyrical foundation. Features are courtesy of Kaylee of Ace Deuce, Skool Of Thought, D of Trinity Garden Cartel, Mista Madd, Petu, T. Gray and Marcus of S.O.U.L. A plentiful total of twenty tracks which includes the four hilarious skits are presented with precision for the listener. The core content is very unique and is projected with a broad variety of subject matter. All in all its an extraordinary work of art that genuinely oozes style and charm. One that exceeds further than its reputation and appearance while also maintaining a flawless composure.

Deadly Verses

Saturday, January 24, 2015

Young Bleed - My Balls And My Word

Glenn Clifton Jr., better known as Young Bleed is a rapper from the wicked streets of Baton Rouge, LA. He is also a dominant member in the group known as the Concentration Camp. His main influence and the root for all his rhymes is his loving mother. She would read a lot of classical poetry to him at a very young age. Bleed started writing around the age of nine and started recording rhymes by the time he hit his teenage years. He would sell his home made tapes to friends and family before joining forces with fellow Baton Rouge rapper, C-Loc and then ultimately forming the invincible Concentration Camp. My Balls And My Word is his debut solo album and it was released in 1998. Although this release was originally intended for C-Loc Records, it was put out through No Limit Records and Priority Records. The reasoning behind all of this is very simple. In the year 1997, Young Bleed met Thug Drama a local producer, who would eventually introduce him to Master P. Now at that time, Bleed was already signed to C-Loc Records while Master P was pretty much running the state of Louisiana as well as the entire southern region with his empire and army of rappers known as the No Limit Soldiers. So to get maximum exposure for the album throughout the southern United States C-Loc and Young Bleed decided that it would be best to distribute the album through No Limit Records. Also with Master P having the publishing deal with Priority Records, Bleed could quite possibly get world wide attention for his work. It was a win win situation for the rapper as well as all the people involved with C-Loc Management. Production behind this project is done by the expert team of producers known simply as Beats By The Pound, which consists of KLC, Carlos Stephens, O'Dell, Craig B and Mo B. Dick. They are assisted by the extremely talented and always masterful, Nathan "Happy" Perez along with Pimp C of UGK who is also credited for one of the tracks. The beats exceed all expectations as one would suspect with such extreme talent listed above. The melodies are comprised with multiple instruments and their southern vibe is beautifully present. They are crafted with such clarity and precision that each cut gives off an orchestrated feel. All the tracks are laced with superb melodies and such intricate rhythms that the listener has no choice but to oblige. Lyrically the album goes into a whole different realm. Young Bleed is an absolute brute on the microphone and he demolishes the tracks laid out by the producers. No two rhymes are the same and no two lines are the same. His unorthodox flow pattern is a direct result of the poetic mentoring by his mother and his choice of word play is so unique that it may take listeners a few replays just to understand his message. Its no wonder that he received all the backing from Master P since really no other artist from C-Loc's camp has had the honor or the privilege to work with him to such an extent. Guest appearances are made by Mystikal, Master P, Fiend, C-Loc and the Concentration Camp (Max Minelli, J-Von, Lee Tyme & Lucky Knuckles). Although the album only manage to achieve the gold plaque, it is always held in high regards due to its uncanny nature. It may have been that no one expected such a release from No Limit or it could have been that the work was truly ahead of its time. Whatever the reason maybe, it is quite clear to see the talent at hand and a genuine masterpiece at large. At a time when only a few southern artists were known for their lyrics, Young Bleed came and set the standard pretty high and accomplished this feat with ease. All it takes is one listen of this debut album and it can make anyone into a true believer that the South does have quality emcees; one just has to know where to look.

Deadly Verses

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

Fire On The Bayou - Respect My Mind

Fire On The Bayou is a record label that was based on the infamous Valence street in New Orleans, LA. The label was started by brothers Derick and Kendrick Dauphin along with their childhood friends Cy Williams and Vernon "Cazel" Barabino. Respect My Mind is a compilation album that was released in 1998 by the same label. The production is split right down the middle between the masterful David "D-Funk" Faulk and Vernon "Cazel" Barabino. The beats carry that harsh yet classic "Nola" sound. The melodies and rhythms are all strictly southern and are provided humbly with variety. Since this is a compilation, a bunch of rappers were also invited for this rhyme festival. With an impressive lineup of Mystikal, Crazy and Legend Man of Murder Inc., Skull Duggery, Rated X, Big Ramp, Calico, Neferius Mike, Illusion, G-Man, Sharp Shooter, Ken Real, V.L. Trell, The Swamp Click and backup vocals being provided by George Clinton and Peaches, it is truly very hard to disappoint. Lyrics are quite commendable and although there are over fifteen tracks, they are still pretty diverse. Different combinations are provided for the listener to keep things fresh and new. Unfortunately Fire On The Bayou Records was a fly by night label that faded away as quickly as it began. Respect My Mind was plagued with distribution problems as well as financial issues for those who participated. In the end, the album became out of print and with the royalties quickly disappearing, the team of rappers and producers listed above were left with a very foul and sour taste.

Deadly Verses
Feel This ft. Big Ramp, Ken Real & Sharp Shooter

Friday, October 3, 2014

Sons Of Egypt - The Phenomenal

Sons Of Egypt is a group from Houston, TX. It consists of two brothers whom are under the aliases as M.C. Crown and DJ King Kut. The two siblings are of Egyptian descent and they give numerous references to their country of origin throughout their songs. The Phenomenal is their debut album and it was released in 1998 on Bluenile Records. Production is solely handled by DJ King Kut who basically provides all the excellent beats. They are fused with some dope samples and contain a ton of mixing and scratching. The sound and melody is so unique and invigorating that it seems somewhat difficult to categorize. The project really comes to life when the beats are paired with the lyrics. Although the rhymes are not all that awe-inspiring, they are very distinct and are meshed beautifully with the beats. M.C. Crown takes care of most of the rapping while King Kut chips in on some tracks. Additional Vocals are presented by Mona Zaki, Ray Waldon, Kareem Gamal and Haitham Salem. Overall this record is a work of art that oozes style and its unorthodox nature is displayed quite efficiently. Instead of recording material with a mundane mindset and trying the same old tired methods, this group sets out towards a different horizon. They prove that this achievement can be attainable without having to sellout to record companies or major labels. In the end, the album remains as a hidden gem, waiting to be discovered from the caverns of the underground. 

Saturday, September 13, 2014

Mr. Hard - Strap 4 Life

Mr. Hard is a malicious rapper from the streets of Dallas, TX. He is known for his vile tone and rough delivery. Strap 4 Life is his sophomore album and it was released in 1998 on Strapped 4 Life Records. The wicked production is done by Ice Kold and Mr. Hard himself. The tracks have a distinct dark theme to them and that tone is presented throughout. The use of multiple instruments keep the beats fresh along with a minor dose of sampling that is quite commendable. Mr. Hard is certainly an audible lyricist. His tone is very raspy and his rough delivery is filled with explicit word play. The rhymes are equally roguish and they end up matching the beats perfectly. Features are made by Kottonmouth, B-Dawg, Misery, Big Solo-S, G-Related and Uptight of Da Buddha Klan. A good amount of core content is displayed over sixteen quality cuts. Although there is a large cloud of mystery hovering over the artist and the album, the tangible is still quite impressive. In the end, this record remains as a true relic and as a musical testament to the never ending abyss of the underground.

Deadly Verses

Thursday, April 10, 2014

R.W.O. - Been So Long

R.W.O. - Been So Long
R.W.O. which stands for Real With Ours, is a group that represents from Houston, TX. It consists of five members who are under the aliases Shortiega, Tucci, Cash, Mr. Clean, and Sno the female emcee. Been So Long is actually an EP which was released in 1998 on Everything Is Everything Records (E.I.E). It's sole purpose was to garner hype for their upcoming full length album "Wantin' Out." The production crew is led by some big names with the likes of Brian "Big Bass" Gardner, MC Eiht, Kirv, Willie Zimmerman, Prodege, and Jiles. They successfully give the EP that distinct laid back Texas funk. The producers really push themselves to make sure the the record is technically sound. Each track carries a genuine vibe which will more than likely result in a head bobbing motion. The group members waste no time in displaying their vocal arsenal. All five of them carry enough lyrical dexterity which keeps the listener gainfully entertained. Two guest appearances really shine on the record and they belong to Bun B of UGK and MC Eiht respectively. This piece contains a total of six groovy tracks including one instrumental. Overall the entire EP is constructed with utmost attention to detail. The artist and the producers are both musically on the same page. This in turn puts out a product that the entire team can be proud of and gives the listener ample subject matter all the while still keeping them hungry for more.

Deadly Verses

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Philmac - P-Funk

Philmac is a boldly talented rapper and producer originally from Birmingham, AL. He has also held residence in Atlanta, GA. P-Funk is his debut album and it was released in 1998 on Phunky Entertainment. All the groovy production is provided by Philmac himself and he uses his signature style on each track. He basically hand played each instrument and earned the title as the one man band. The beats are an ensemble of funky guitar licks, ingenious keyboarding and menacing drums. That alone gives the record an exclusively canny southern feel. The lyrics don't fall short either. His tone is gratifyingly laid back but the delivery happens to be actively fast paced. The rhymes are thoroughly complex while also being genuinely lyrical. The album contains an amiable collection of fourteen tracks and all of them are equally marvelous. The subject matter is also boasted through a wide range of topics. Overall the record is a fine representation of the southern genre and it is fully compelling. It is also a polished work of art that is achieved with sheer hard work and dedication. It was later re-released in the year, 2008. Philmac is currently in the process of working on his sophomore album which is appropriately titled as "The Prince."

Deadly Verses
Illegal

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Cl' Che' - Clasyfyd Lady

Cl' Che' is a female rapper and singer from Houston, TX. She is known through out the south for her avid singing ability as well as her excellent rapping skills. She is also among the few ladies out of Houston to gain national recognition. Clasyfyd Lady is her debut album and it was released in 1998 on After Life Music & Entertainment. Production is handled by the likes of Double D, Chicken Hawk and Rakesh "Roc" Jacob. They provide solid beats using multiple instruments and choice samples. Cl' Che' manages to flow over them with ease. Her obliging voice is mixed through twenty tracks of singing and rhyming. She certainly does possess an admirable amount of lyrical flair. Featuring artists are Hawk of the Screwed Up Click, Lil' Scrappy, Peaches, S.O.U.L., Co-Co, Vizual, Prophecies, Rhonda Laws and Thomas J. Boyce. The core content is a blend of smooth course Hip-Hop fused with elements of the Gangsta Rap genre. Overall the record was a wonderful effort that helped jump start her career while also giving the diva a taste of mainstream stardom.

Deadly Verses

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Fiend - There's One In Every Family

Fiend - There's One In Every Family
Fiend is a rapper from New Orleans, LA. He was a member of Master P's legendary empire known as No Limit and the New York based rap group known as the Ruff Ryders. This is his second album and it was released in 1998 on No Limit Records. Production is done by Master P and Beats By The Pound which includes the likes of KLC, Mo B. Dick, Craig B, O'Dell and Carlos Stephens. The beats are an impressive array of street ballads and gangsta tunes. They are laced with multiple instruments and contain that infamous No Limit sound. Lyrics are on point as well. Fiend is known for his adrenaline fueled delivery and aggressive tone. He displays his skills on the mic with ease and also manages to spit very rapidly. Featuring artists on the album are UGK, Snoop Dogg, Master P, Mac, Soulja Slim, C-Murder, Mystikal, Mia-X, Silkk The Shocker, Magic, Big Ed, Full Blooded, The Gambino Family, The Sons Of Funk, Steady Mobbin', Prime Suspect, Kane and Abel. Overall the record contains many outstanding cuts from start to finish. The album was an instant hit and it garnered much success. It was later certified the platinum plaque in the year 2002.

Deadly Verses
What Cha Mean ft. Soulja Slim, Mac, Kane & Abel


Saturday, March 21, 2009

Witchdoctor - ...A S.W.A.T Healin' Ritual

Witchdoctor - ...A S.W.A.T Healin' Ritual
Witchdoctor is a rapper/poet from Atlanta, GA. He is also known as EJ The Witchdoctor. He's a first generation member of the collective known as the Dungeon Family. He is also the owner and operator of the independent record label, Dezonly1 Records. This is his debut album and it was released in 1998 on Interscope Records. The entire album is produced by the legendary team known as Organized Noize. The beats are a refine exhibit of crisp southern fried funk. They contain tons of gritty drums and heavy bass lines along with some thick guitar licks. Witchdoctor is known through out the southern region as a very talented vocalist. He spends most of his time sharpening and perfecting his skills as an emcee. He proves his lyrical genius on this album and certainly spits well roundly. The core content ranges from street life to spirituality as well as some racial and political matters. Guest appearances are made by Outkast, Goodie Mob, Cool Breeze, Big Rube, Phoenix, Heroine, Mr. DJ and Mook B. Overall the record is a prime example of genuine material delivered with energy and clarity. Witchdoctor went on to release six solo albums and even a book of poetry entitled, "The Diary Of The American Witchdoctor." Also the letters S.W.A.T. stand for Southwest Atlanta.

Deadly Verses
Hurtin'

Friday, March 6, 2009

Lil' Sin - Who Got Yo Back

Lil' Sin is a rapper from San Antonio, TX. He has been around since the mid 90's and he happens to be a very solid artist. He has collaborated with many legends from Texas and is well respected for his work. He debuted in 1996 with the record, "Frustrated By Death." This is his second album and it was released in 1998 on BLVD Records. Production on the album is handled by Pimp C of UGK, John Bido, Mike B., Suga Bear, Ant Banks, Finesse 1 and Ricé. The beats are top quality and are a display of true Texas funk. Smooth tracks are laced with genuine hooks and dope samples. Lil' Sin spits hard and his flow is on point. The rhymes contain decent amounts of word play and the content is straight gangsta. Featuring on the album is UGK, Mr. Joshay, King 13, Lil' Acid and Denise. Overall the record jams from start to finish and it helped establish him as an artist. Lil' Sin also goes by a new alias, Young Namar.

Deadly Verses
Who Got Yo Back

Monday, January 5, 2009

Tha Murda Weapon - Thank You

Tha Murda Weapon - Thank You
Tha Murda Weapon, also known as T.M.W., is a group from Dallas, TX. The members are Jay Mac and Shorty Da Man. They debuted with the album "A Rare Breed" in 1994. Thank You is their second album and it was released in 1998 on Shorty Records. Production was fabulously done by Shorty Da Man. The beats are simply synthetic and are oozing with melodies. The lyrics are very poetic and are filled with constant word play. Featuring on this record is Big Al of Nemesis. This is a true follow up for the first album and almost all seventeen tracks standout here. This album deeply contains raw content and that is the exact reason why it is so slept on. Overall a very dope record that maintains its' fine production and blends it with powerful yet heartfelt lyrics.

Deadly Verses
Gospel Of A Dying Breed

Sunday, December 28, 2008

Southside Playaz - You Gottus Fuxxed Up

Southside Playaz - You Gottus Fuxxed Up
Southside Playaz is a group from Houston, TX. The original group consisted of Fat Pat, Mike D, and Mr. 3-2. Since Fat Pat passed away in 1998, he was replaced with Clay-Doe. This is their debut album and it was released in 1998 on Laftex Records. Production is done with quality by Big Swift, Eric Hollis and Slack. The beats are smooth and are laced with that Texas funk. Lyrics are dope as well. All three members check the mic often. Their different styles fuse and blend together very nicely. Guest appearances are by K.B. Da Kidnappa & Lil' Flea of Street Military, C-Loc, Papa Reu, 6-4, Ronnie Spencer, Big Steve and the Screwed Up Click which includes the likes of Lil' Keke, Fat Pat, Hawk, Big Moe, Al-D, Dat Boy Grace, Big Pokey, T-Pop, Botany Boys, Lil' O and E.S.G. This record remains as a highlight of the Screwed Up Click and one that can not be forgotten. Southside Playaz went on to release their next album, "Street Game" in 2000.

Monday, December 8, 2008

The Infamous X-Mann - The Man Behind The Madness

The Infamous X-Mann - The Man Behind The Madness
The Infamous X-Mann is a rapper from the northside of Houston, TX. He first started in 1995, when he joined the Trinity Garden Cartel. Back then he was known as X Da Hitman. He is also the founder of X-Werks Entertainment. X-Mann went on to release two albums with the group, TGC. This is his debut solo album and it was released in 1998 on X-Werks Entertainment. Production was done by Andre Foster and KG of the O.G.C. The beats are straight up Texas funk and contain nothing but solid bass lines and twangy synths. X was always known for his hard lyrics and street style. He certainly lives up to that reputation on this one. Featuring on the album is KG, K.I.D. of DSMC, Mr. Marl, Corey Davis and Ms. Lashea Crawford. This is another solid album from the former member of The Cartel. The raw force delivery and the variety of material makes this record very overwhelming from start to finish.

Deadly Verses

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

FWC - Organized Crime

FWC which stands for Fifth Ward Circle, is a duo that represents from the hard hitting streets of 5th Ward in Houston, TX. The two rappers are Young Gotti and Frank Nitti. Now Frank Nitti was also known as Mr. Slimm in the early nineties and was also a member in the group known as the 5th Ward Juvenilez. Organized Crime is their debut album and it was released in 1998 on Underground Records. A label that had a publishing deal through the infamous, Rap-A-Lot Records. Production on this album was done by the legendary Mike Dean, Mr. Lee, Grizz and Domo. The producers and the rappers both drop some heat on this one. Classic tunes are backed up by solid lyrics. Featuring guests are Lil' Keke, 5th Ward Boyz, Philly Phil and Nickelboy. This was a great effort from the group and is also their only album, which makes it even more valuable. Also the hand sign on the album cover symbolizes the 5th Ward Circle and residents of the "Bloody Nickel" still use it to this day.

Deadly Verses