Prime Time - Duck Tape'n

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.

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Fiend - Won't Be Denied

Fiend - Won't Be Denied

Fiend is a rapper and producer who represents out of the 17th Ward in New Orleans, LA. He is well known for his raspy tone and rough delivery. After losing his brother to the streets at a very early age, Fiend resorted to rap and poetry to help ease the pain. Eventually his talents came across the keen eye of Charles Temple and he was quickly signed to the then newly founded, Big Boy Records. Won't Be Denied is his debut album and it was released in 1995 on the same label. The production is done by the magnificent Leroy "Precise" Edwards and he entices the listener with a good selection of funky rhythms. The tracks are laced together with multiple instruments and although this is one of Precise's early pieces, it still happens to carry his signature style of melody. Fiend is known throughout the southern region as an accomplished lyricist and at one point of time was regarded as one of the best kept secrets of the Dirty South. His rhymes are delivered with high intensity and are filled with dynamic word play. His hefty southern drawl and his distinct harsh voice is the powerful root for all the ballads. They are delivered with utter precision and are also fired at a rapid rate. Fiend's days with Big Boy Records were short lived though and he would later be enlisted as a valuable soldier in the ever growing empire known as, No Limit. Not only did this move help propel his career but also gave him a worldwide following. Although he went on to bigger and better avenues such as his stint with the Ruff Ryders or his current membership in the group called Jet Life, this eager and sincerely humble beginning will never be forgotten due to the legacy it left behind.

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Tim Smooth - Straight Up Drivin' Em

Tim Smooth - Straight Up Drivin' Em

Tim Smooth is rapper from the Kennedy Heights area in New Orleans, LA. He is also credited for being one of the pioneers of the southern rap movement that emerged from Louisiana. Tim is known for his vocal delivery and laid back persona, both of which happen to be undeniably smooth, appropriately fitting his rap alias. Straight Up Drivin' Em is his sophomore effort and it was released in 1994 on Rap-A-Lot Records. Production duties are assigned to the masterful Leroy "Precise" Edwards and Mark "Too Cool" Marine. Together they unleash an onslaught of melodic rhythms that tend to keep ear drums as hostages. Tracks upon tracks are laced with such beautiful precision that not only makes them original but also very captivating, musically. Tim's vocal artistry can be ranked with some of the greatest of all time. His soothing dialect, combined with vile word play, accompanied by a spell binding delivery turns each lyric into a destructive force. His natural ability to catch a beat in mid stride is truly a feat one must hear to witness his power over the microphone. Guest spots are courtesy of MC Thick, Bust, and Playache'. Overall the record is held in high regards and is one that can withstand the harshest of storms. It is a genuine work of art and a masterpiece that embodies the city of New Orleans perfectly. Tragedy struck on July 26th, 2011 when Tim Smooth passed away at the young age of only 39. He was battling cancer to the mouth and tongue. Although Tim is in a happier place now, he will always be remembered here as a legend and as a man who gave it his all every time he grabbed the mic. Rest in peace to the Knight from Kennedy Heights.

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Murder Inc. - Playin' For Keeps

Murder Inc. - Playin' For Keeps

Murder Inc. is a group from New Orleans, LA. The group consists of Crazy, Legend Man, MC L and the female emcee known as Alamo. Playin' For Keeps is their debut album and it was released in 1995 on Hard Head Records. Production is provided by Precise, Cazel, Jazz, Legend Man, Roland and Goldfingers. The beats carry a darker southern sound and all the melodies jam equally. Each member in the group has their own unique lyrical flow. Some adapt to a faster pace while other are more focused on word play. This album is considered by many to be one of the best albums to represent New Orleans, Louisiana. Murder Inc. went on to release one more album as a group and then split up. Members Crazy, Legend Man, and M.C. L all have solo records as well.

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