I.B.G. - We Ballin

I.B.G. - We Ballin

I.B.G., which stands for Innocent But Guilty, is a group that represents from Franklin, LA. It consists of Eddie Bo, Rocky and B-Dub. The group debuted with We Ballin in 1999 on Red Boy Records and quickly gained some notoriety for their effort. The album in its entirety is produced by the in-house producer, Choklate Chip. The beats are quite crafty and are assembled with a wide range of instruments. Some are assisted through the process of sampling, such as the notable title track "We Ballin," which heavily samples the song "Jamming" by Bob Marley & The Wailers. The track ends up being a wonderful take on the original reggae song that is completed with a southern fried twist. All three members are more than capable on the microphone. Their rhymes tend to be somewhat fast paced and are delivered precisely. Also the word play used is quite commendable. Guest appearances are made by DJ Dolby D, Papa Reu, Red Boy and the 4-5 Click. Even though this project was a respectable release by the trio and is very sought after by their fans, there are times when it becomes a little bland. The one area this album is lacking in is originality but since this record can be classified under "baller" or "bling" rap from the late nineties, it hardly matters. That being said it still should not discourage the listener because this was truly a valiant effort by the group and that is why they are still remembered as home town heroes by the small city of Franklin, Louisiana.

Deadly Verses

We Ballin' ft. Papa Rue & Red Boy

Profound, Ltd. - Possession With Intent To Distribute

Profound, Ltd. - Possession With Intent To Distribute
Profound, Ltd. are a duo from Houston, TX. It consists of Groove and Banoe. Possession With Intent To Distribute is their debut album and it was released in 2000 on Red Boy Records. Production on the record is done by DJ Dolby D, Damon Spencer, Game-Be-No and Ulta E. The beats fuse elements of that classic southern funk with new wave melodies. That approach is firmly effective so the rhythms end up being thoroughly captivating. The tracks also happen to include decent amounts of chopping and scratching which are all courtesy of DJ Dolby D. The lyrics carry a sturdy vibe all throughout. Both members yield distinct styles and have the ability to spit. Groove delivers his fair share with a deeper tone and dialect while Banoe conveys with word play and content schemes. Their rhymes substantially vary just as well as their subject matter. The album starts off a bit on the club savvy side but quickly takes a turn towards a much more serious direction. Guest appearances are made by Pimp C of UGK, Lil' Keke of the Screwed Up Click, Legal Substanz, Low Down, A-Wall, Dolby D, Showtyme, I.B.G. and Red Boy. Overall the album contains good quality material and it is unblemished inside and out. It is one of the many gems that get released nationally but go unnoticed entirely. The duo had plans for a follow up album but that idea was later dropped mainly due to the mediocre attention and the lack of notoriety the group received.

Deadly Verses
Remember ft. I.B.G., Legal Substanz, & Dolby D