Showing posts with label Rap-A-Lot Records. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Rap-A-Lot Records. Show all posts

Saturday, November 26, 2016

The Day After Hell Broke Loose

The Day After Hell Broke Loose is a compilation album which is presented by Bigg Tyme and Rap-A-Lot Records. It was constructed upon the success of "The Day Hell Broke Loose" series by Swishahouse Records. This album was released in the early part of 2004 on Rap-A-Lot Records. Veteran producers Bigg Tyme and Mike Dean are credited for providing the tunes. Together, they do an excellent job by creating a palette of rhythms that strictly cater to the fans of the Swang & Bang genre. The beats are mostly contemporary and upbeat in nature. The creators made sure that the blend stays electric and musically sound at all times. Lyrics tend to vary since this is a joint venture between two of the most prolific record labels from the South and their respective artists. One can only expect greatness when the likes of Scarface, Bun B, Devin The Dude and Z-Ro are fused with Lil' Flip, Slim Thug, Mike Jones, Paul Wall, Chamillionaire, J-Dawg, Magno, Lil' Ron, Lil' Mario and Dolla. The album closes out with a total of fourteen tracks and aside from a couple of them, their subject matter mostly lingers around materialistic values and financial gains. All in all it's a decent compilation and one that was released at the height of the H-Town takeover phenomenon. The two camps capitalized on the alluring situation at hand and put forth a genuine effort. The record beautifully withstands the test of time and should deserve a spot in any Southern Rap collection. 

Deadly Verses
Z-Ro (Remix) ft. Z-Ro

Tuesday, September 1, 2015

Facemob - Silence

Facemob is a collective that as a whole represents from Houston, TX but members were recruited from different cities and states by Scarface of the Geto Boys. The group was originally comprised with five members, Devin The Dude, DMG, Smit-D, Chi-Ray and the female emcee known as 350. Devin did not participate in this release on account of him focusing on his solo career. Facemob's first appearance came in 1995 on the soundtrack of the movie called, "The Walking Dead." They would do a couple more soundtracks for different movies before launching their debut album in 1996 known as "The Other Side Of The Law." Silence is their second album and it was released after a six year hiatus in 2002 on Rap-A-Lot Records. The record is masterly produced by the likes of Tone Capone, Mr. Lee, Domo and Scarface himself. The beats are a perfect ensemble of dark, synth filled rhythms that are derived straight out of gangster territory. They are laid out with utter precision and originality is pursued with a passion. The producers from Rap-A-Lot Records were known for their extreme attention to detail when using multiple instruments and always putting together rock solid packages for their artists. So it is needless to say that they spared no expense on this release either. Lyrically the album also fares very well. The members take turns unleashing their onslaught on the microphone. Their fierce rhymes are a testament to their aggressive personalities and destructive behaviors. DMG seems to be the more dominant member but the rest are not too far behind. Guest appearances are made by Do Or Die, Yukmouth and G-Mone. Overall this was an exceptional release but it didn't garner any success. To be honest, this album was released as a last ditch effort by the folks behind Rap-A-Lot Records to save their label. It was part of the so called "Resurrection" phase that the label was going through, which was basically an attempt to put out some unreleased material by their artists and also move forward with the hard, street edged sound. The only problem was that the music in Houston as well as the entire southern region was changing and moving towards a more club savvy sound. People wanted more of the "Baller Bling Rap" or the "Swang & Bang" sound or even chart topping singles designed around a dance move and could really care less for anything that hardcore and street oriented. Had this album been released in the late nineties, it could have done wonders for Rap-A-Lot Records and the artists involved. In the end, this record was a day late and a dollar short. It was only a matter of time until the group members became disgruntled with the results and would soon break up in the following year. This album was marked as the final recording by Facemob and although it did not receive any recognition then, it is still worth a listen now.

Deadly Verses

Friday, August 14, 2015

Too Much Trouble - Bringing Hell On Earth

Too Much Trouble is a group that represents from the notorious streets of 5th Ward in Houston, TX. Billed as "The Baby Geto Boys," the group was quickly put together by James Smith to pretty much cash in on all the success and attention the original Geto Boys were receiving. Their style, demeanor and personalities were almost a mirror image of the Geto Boys. The group consists of Ghetto MC, also known as the Band Aid Bandit, Drunk D, who is also known as Nickel Nut, Bar-None and DJ Bad News Black. Bringing Hell On Earth is their debut album and it was released in 1992 on Rap-A-Lot Records. The production is provided by Big Boss, John Bido, Crazy C, DJ Bad News Black and Johnny C. Only excellence can be expected with the names mentioned above and that is exactly what is delivered. Although the beats are quite sample heavy and are all electronically derived, they are still a treat to listen to. Lyrically, the album has it's moments. The members are passable on the microphone and aren't the least bit shy either. Their aggressive rhymes are blunt and straight to the point. Word play is kept to a minimum but when it is used, it is very vile and rough. Features are courtesy of the Geto Boys, Big Mello and DJ Ready Red. Overall the record has its fair shares of ups and downs. There are times when the chemistry of the members and their provocative styles fit perfectly and then there are times where it all seems very dull and redundant. In the end, Too Much Trouble could not hold a candle to what the Geto Boys were accomplishing, neither lyrically nor musically. Which is why "The Baby Geto Boys" moniker was soon dropped all together and the group struggled to find their identity. It also didn't help their cause when some members lost focus while others got a little complacent after this initial release. Reduced to just two members later on, Drunk D and Ghetto MC dropped two more albums as Too Much Trouble and soon parted ways as well. On June 14, 2013, Ghetto MC passed away with kidney failure. Rest in peace to the unforgiving and always relentless, Band Aid Bandit.

Deadly Verses



Deadly Video

Sunday, December 28, 2014

Royal Flush - 976-DOPE

Royal Flush is a rap group from Houston, TX. It was founded in the late eighties by Ricardo Royal, who is originally from Atlantic City, New Jersey. After many attempts by his mother to fix a broken marriage as well as a broken home, she decided in 1981 that it was best for the family to move to Houston. Ricardo was enrolled into Aldine Senior High School and that is where the group Royal Flush was first assembled. The original lineup consisted of Ricardo Royal under the alias Gangsta Ric, Tricky T, Klass C, Cowboy and Sergio Magnifico. As a group they began showcasing their talents and battling rappers across local clubs, eventually catching the eyes and ears of the honorary James Smith of Rap-A-Lot Records. He quickly convinced the group to sign with him and together they recorded material for their debut album "Uh Oh!" Now, "Uh Oh!" was suppose to be a controversially ground breaking record which would be aimed at society, politics and even the justice system. Royal Flush were promised by J. Prince to freely express themselves on the microphone all the while keeping the contents very hardcore; which is exactly why the album was aptly titled "Uh Oh!" In the end, none of this happened and "Uh Oh!" was released in 1988 as a watered down, curse free rendition to anything but what the group had envisioned it to be. Apparently management decided that it would be best to release the album this way so that it can garner more air play. They even went as far as thinking that the audience would not accept such an album because they were not ready for something that hardcore and gangster. A disgruntled Ric Royal asked if him and his group could be released from their contract with Rap-A-Lot records and surprisingly, J. Prince agreed to let them go. Royal Flush would then sign with the rival label out of Dallas, TX known as Yo! Records. Now with Tricky T and Cowboy dropped from the lineup and replaced with King Albert, the group released their sophomore effort 976-DOPE in 1991 on Yo! Records. The bulk of the production is provided by the infamous DJ Snake who is no slouch on the drum machine. While Ricardo Royal, Kirk Yano and Rick Rooney also help out on some tracks. The beats can simply be identified by Snake's signature drum pattern along with his excellent choice of samples that go hand in hand. They tend to hit heavy and are also very catchy with their rhythms. Also the scratching and mixing is provided by Def Jam Blaster. The lyrics are also on point. Gangsta Ric is a very good song writer and rapper. He pretty much wrote both their albums single-handedly. His lyrics are dope street tales that tend to suck the listener into his figurative world. The rhymes are combined with sharp word play and are delivered with utter precision. The other members are not too far behind but its quite plain to see that Gangsta Ric is far more superior on the microphone. Guest appearances are made by Born 2wice and MiMi. All in all, 976-DOPE is everything Ricardo Royal hoped his debut would have been. His vision and style is presented over fourteen quality tracks and gives the listener a general idea of what him and his group were trying to accomplish the first time around. Some say he should have waited for his time to shine at Rap-A-Lot, while others say that he did the right thing by not only just leaving them but also serving them with a hefty helping of some good old fashioned, poetic justice.

Deadly Verses

Friday, May 2, 2014

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.

Deadly Verses

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Nickel Nut - No Snitchin'

Nickel Nut - No Snitchin'
Nickel Nut also known as Drunk D, is an underground rapper from the notorious neighborhood of 5th Ward in Houston, TX. He first started off as one of the five dominant members in the group, Too Much Trouble. As a group they released three successful albums with Rap-A-Lot Records. The group disbanded in 1997 over bad terms. Everything from financial issues to member incarcerations and even creative differences, played a major role in the groups' demise. After a five year hiatus, Nickel Nut resurfaced in 2002. No Snitchin' is his debut solo album and it was released in 2003 on Penthouse Records. The record is decently produced entirely by Grizz. The beats carry simple melodies which makes the tracks justly passable. Although some cuts do stand out, the lyrics tend to be far more superior though. Nickel Nut once again brings his intensified yet undeniably raw style to the table. His rhymes showcase countless accounts of ruthlessness and vileness. Main contents include raunchy sex escapades to dope fiend driven tales and surprisingly, even some heart felt ballads. Featuring on the album is Lo-Life and E-Rock of the 5th Ward Boyz, Ghetto MC of Too Much Trouble, Big Chill, Kannetic, Atom and Trey. Overall the record was a good attempt due to some minor flaws. Production does fall a good bit short but Nut keeps things afloat with his originality on the microphone. Sure the album wont take home any awards or plaques but it still deserves a honorable mention. Also, there are talks of a possible Too Much Trouble reunion and maybe even an all new album in the works.

Deadly Verses

Friday, April 17, 2009

Ganksta NIP - Psychotic Genius

Ganksta NIP is a rapper from the neighborhood of South Park in Houston, TX. He is considered among the first members of the notorious South Park Coalition. He's also the proud founder of the genre known simply as Horrorcore Rap or Psycho Rap. This is his third album and it was released in 1996 on Rap-A-Lot Records. Production on this gem is done by the legendary Mike Dean, N.O. Joe, Swift and Mike B. They provide nothing but dark synth filled beats that are made with maximal melodies. As always, Ganksta NIP comes hard with his flow. His rhymes show no regard towards human life and they are severely savage. Featuring artists are Point Blank and Foe Five. At the time of this album's release, the city of Houston was plagued with a lot of controversy. A young male had shot and killed a police officer. A cassette tape of Ganksta NIP's previous recordings was found inside the male's automobile. Both the media and society immediately blamed NIP and his music for the actions committed by the young man. All the negative press that Ganksta NIP received got him the exposure he was eagerly after. He quickly released Psychotic Genius and the album eventually ended up going platinum. It was also marked as the first album by NIP to collect such an award.

Saturday, February 14, 2009

3-2 - The Wicked Buddah Baby

3-2 or Mr. 3-2, is a rapper from the neighborhood of Hiram Clarke in Houston, TX. He was also known as Lord 3-2 in the early 90's. He was a member of the group called the Convicts, the Blac Monks and the Southside Playaz. This is his debut solo album and it was released in 1996 on Rap-A-Lot Records. The team behind the production are none other than the highly skilled and legendary producers known as Mike Dean, John Bido, N.O. Joe, Crazy C and Swift. They dropped some of the most funkiest and mellowest beats ever to grace a record. While 3-2 is known for his smooth vocal delivery and laid back flow. The combination of beats and lyrics set the album up perfectly. It holds the ability to ride and play itself out. Featuring on the record is UGK, Too $hort, Southside Playaz, Sonia Moore, 8-Ball and MJG. The album also contains an excellent remix of the Blac Monk track known as "Buddah Nature." Overall the record sustains great material along with an all-star appearance of guests and it is considered to be in the classic category.

Deadly Verses
Buddah Nature (Remix)

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Tela - Piece Of Mind

Tela - Piece Of Mind
Tela is a rapper from Memphis, TN. He is known for his smooth delivery and clever word play. This is his wonderful debut album and it was released in 1996 on Suave House Records. Production was managed by T-Mixx, Jazze Pha, Slice Tee and Insane Wayne. The beats are nothing short of spectacular. The tempo swings and mixing are all done to perfection. This helps give the record a solid foundation and also that distinct southern twang. Featuring on the album are label mates 8-Ball & MJG along with Mr. Mike, Crime Boss, Nola, Low Key and Baby Dre. Many will agree that this album is considered to be in the classic category. Tela would soon leave Suave House Records over financial disputes and would make himself a home at Rap-A-Lot Records.

Deadly Verses




Deadly Videos


Monday, November 3, 2008

Facemob - The Other Side Of The Law

Facemob - The Other Side Of The Law
Facemob is a group that was created by the legendary Scarface of the Geto Boys. It was formed around the talents of five different rappers from five different cities and states. He recruited Devin The Dude who although would later relocate and represent Houston but is originally from St. Petersburg, Florida. He then went to St. Paul, Minnesota and picked up DMG. After that he got 350, the female emcee from Cleveland, Ohio. Next stop was Chicago, Illinois where he met Chi-Ray. Finally they were back to Houston, Texas and got one last member who is also a childhood friend of Scarface known as Smit-D. The group was formed and now it was time to hit the recording studios. This is their debut album and was released in 1996 on Rap-A-Lot Records. Production was done by Scarface along with Mike Dean and N.O. Joe. They team up to provide the dope, funk laced beats. The lyrics are hard but at times they lack foundation. All five members have their own style and they flow according to that. At times their chemistry seems on point and then there are moments where it suffers. Featuring on the record is Scarface. The group went on to release one more album and then broke up. The break up was mostly because of lack of success for the group and members focusing on their solo careers. This record is also known for starting Scarface's career as a full fledged producer.

Deadly Verses




Deadly Video

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

Saturday, October 4, 2008

DMG - Rigormortiz

DMG stands for Detrimental Ganxta. He is originally a rapper from St. Paul, MN but later relocated to Houston, TX. He would then meet rapper Scarface and would eventually get him to listen to one of his demo tapes. Face was immediately impressed by DMG's unique style and harsh delivery. He then persuaded James Smith to quickly sign him to Rap-A-Lot Records. DMG was also in the group called Facemob. Rigormortiz is his debut album and was released in 1993 on Rap-A-Lot. Production on this classic was done by N.O. Joe, Mike Dean, Bido 1, Big Chief and Scarface. The beats got that hard and heavy bass mixed with woozy synths along with some funky samples. They really don't get any better than this. Lyrically, DMG sounds a little like Scarface but more high pitched. He cleverly executes rough street rhymes with a lot of word play. His rough delivery and aggressive tone go hand in hand. Featuring on the album is 2 Low, 3-2, 5th Ward Boyz, Coz, Big Mike, Scarface and Bushwick Bill of the Geto Boys. This album is praised as one of the best gangster rap albums of its time and has been long out of print.

Deadly Verses




Deadly Verses