Category archives: Mixtape Reviews

Critical Album Breakdown:- Dola Billz – The Rapstar EP [ Review ]

May 16, 2013 By Run Run Sure 3 3

C.A.B:- The Rapstar EP [ Extended Play ]

Artiste: - Dola Billz

Record Label:- 166 Family records

Guest Appearances: - Dapo Tuburna, Hakym The Dream, Aina More, Beenie, Dresans And Ceefigz

Production Credits:- Shanefineese Music, Benniez Music, Dr Jazz, Eminick, Triple O Productions And Bayoz Muzik

Release Date:- March 29 2013

Critical Breakdown

UK Based Rapper Dola Billz is also the founder of 166 Family, an independent record company which he has run since 2008.This platform enabled him to release nominal singles like Puyanga that featured close affiliate Tillaman, Jeun Lo and Sing 4 Me.He released his first Project The takeover Mixtape in 2011,however Doubling as a CEO And Artiste is never easy, and the Hustle took a toll on Dola who had to put his career on temporary hold to move to Nigeria last year for promotion and also to push Artistes on his label, most notably Big Tizzy ( who has been making some noise lately ).Having made a few moves, he decided to put out another body of work to keep his fans up to date, and also galvanize the musical terrain for a Dola Billz/166 Family takeover, hence the Rapstar EP.

The Mixtape begins with I Need A Dollar , a song that samples a song of the same name originally performed by Aloe Blac, Dola rides over the beat talking about how his drive for money motivates his Hustle, with a slick mixture of pidgin and Yoruba Language, The song is a good opener for the and serves as an appetizer of what’s to come. Next is the Bennie Produced and Featured Sitting On Top , on this one Dola Once again describes his stance as a Hustler, and lives up to his name with tales of Flossing, Stacking Money and Buying Expensive stuff. The Hook was well fitted by Bennie to add more flavour to Dola Billz Flossing Tales. Previously released single Touch It Features Hakym The Dream , and is laced with a Euro-Pop influenced instrumental that samples Vocals from Busta Rhymes song of the same name, It’s a good song for the clubs, and is sure to get spins if well promoted. Dola Continues the Project with another uptempo club track Slow Whine that features Dapo Tuburna on the Hook, this one was performed entirely in Yoruba By Billz, and he utilized the beat well, and also showcased his Yoruba Rap style. It’s another good single that a lot of his fans would appreciate. At this point, I am convinced that Dola Billz is all about Money, Flossing, Brags, Boasts and Swag as was showcased on the next track Rack City; I felt the beat has been overflogged and is also outdated; the song has no replay value to me. The next track Mimo Features Dresans , the instrumental is influenced by a sound I call “The Ajegunle Bounce” I like this one ,It’s a song that could be grooved to in the club, And the hook by Dre is quite catchy.

Dola Billz & Crew – StackamillionTV The Come Up Freestyle Sessions – Afrobeat Edition

Dola Billz and 166 Family Freestyle

Wantaramera is a song that I would describe as “Being all over the place”. It sounds like a Neo-Fuji song on the Hook, no Rapping is done on this and its short, however the instrumental is danceable, Once again I wouldn’t replay this song but during a house party I could sneak it into the Mix. Eni Le Fit is my best track on the tape, and the Most Hip-Hop song on it. The song was produced by Bayos Muzik, and samples Late Yoruba Rapper Da Grin, on this one Dola Raps his head off, but once more centers the song on being better than other Rappers and bragging, It’s also a tad too short, I felt it should have been longer as my best track on the Tape. Bad Pass is a poor remake of Naeto C’s hit track Tony Montana ( bad pass ) , even a verse from one of my Favourite Female Rappers Aina More who was a guest on it didn’t do enough to make me like the song, It sounds rushed, should Dola have used the original instrumental, as well as mixed it better the song would have been more palatable to me.Ayaya Freestyle comes next, I like this one, It’s a song where he basically displays his skills on the mic for 60 seconds. Take it no more is another solid single that comes next, Finally Dola Tackles a different topic, Love. It’s a well crafted Radio single, I also like the hook by Ceefigz, it’s a good track that would definitely get airplay, and it also has international appeal. No Gocking is also another good single on the Tape; the instrumental is influenced by Funky House Music, Dola rhymes effortlessly in Yoruba on it, making it into a good single for the clubs. The curtains fall on Rolling with the Rapper; this one is another single with an uptempo dancehall instrumental that ends the Tape on a good note.

Dola Billz is a good Artiste, and has proven that he can make Hit Tracks, The EP Also makes for a good listen, but I can tell you its not his best work, I also like his art of sampling , but sometimes remaking instrumentals could be tricky as it may not go down well with fans of the original Track, and may draw unwarranted comparisons as was the case on some tracks on this EP, but all in all he has his style, that is evident on this Tape for everyone to see, He can Rap, but there are a lot more topics a Rapper can address as opposed to just Bragging on and on, Is the Tape good ? Yes,will I be listening to the Tape in 2 years, No, ( That’s An old school Rap Head Talking, If You Like Club Rap, You Would Definitely Be Playing It In 3 Years ) That sums of the Review. He has more to offer, but also more work to do.

Production:- 7/10

Collective Lyrics:- 5.8/10

Composition:- 6/10

Favourite Verse:-

Best Production:- Eni Le Fit produced By Bayoz Music

Best Instrumental:- Slow Whine Produced By Dr Jazz

Shock Value:- None

Final Score:- 6.2/10

DOWNLOAD MIXTAPE HERE

Critical Album Breakdown:- Harrysong – The Love EP [ Review ]

May 13, 2013 By Run Run Sure 1 5

C.A.B:- The Love EP [ Extended Play ]

Artiste: - Harrysong

Record Label:- Independent

Guest Appearances: - Timaya, Olamide, Puffy T and Jesse Jagz,

Production Credits:- Puffy T, Chimbalin, Del B

Release Date:- March 27 2013

Since I first heard DJ Puti Fire by Harrysong, I immediately recognized his Vocal Strength. The Artiste who was formerly signed( I’m not sure of his label status actually ) to Questionmark records went on to drop Monster singles like Jonzing World, Omalicha featuring Ego, and more. He then released his debut Album Testify in 2011 which did quite well in the Market. He went back to Business last year releasing singles like Taiye Kehinde, Hustle and Ogogoro , which set the tempo for him to release his biggest single out at the Moment I’m In Love, as well as a remix featuring Olamide, Harry then set out to release an EP In collaboration with Amehdaily.com, he released The 5 Track Love EP.

First off He decided to open the EP With a cover Banky W’s Monster hit Good Good Loving, on this one he showcases his Vocal abilities over the Spellz produced instrumental, This one sounded like he was just playing about in the studio, recycling some of his lyrics and those of other Artistes, I feel this was just to test his Vocals and he did just that. Wicked love is a single that features additional vocals by producer Puffy T who also produced the track., It’s a techno influenced pop song where he laments about girls hat just want to take your money and not love you back, I really like this, Its different and that’s really important in an industry where most pop songs sound alike. Next comes the Jesse Jagz Featured She’s Another Hit, this one is a slower tempo Rand B song where Harry croons she’s another hit and she looks so good, anybody wey dey see her just dey hail, pour me koliwater eh” , he goes on to describe a girl who is so hot everyone wants her, the instrumental is quite good, and the Runaway Choc Boy Jesse Jagz complimented the song with a good verse, Its definitely song that many of Harry and Jesses Female Fans would appreciate. The Street Pop Banger Featuring Timaya Ogogoro comes next, This is like my best song on the Mixtape and a song that I’m sure is tearing up Lagos right now ( if it was well pushed O ) Who Said That they’re looking for me is the Chant on this one, and Timaya benevolently brings his unique Flavour to the song, it’s a well crafted Pop song that is going to send any African Dancefloor into a frenzy. The main attraction on this EP Is the Del B Produced I’m In Love, whose three versions (Demo, original and remix with Olamide ) were included , I feel this is His biggest song yet, and definitely a song that will move him to another level ( you can tell as covers of the song have started coming out ) , It’s a song for weddings, Wedding anniversaries, Engagement ceremonies and any other event that involves love between the opposite sex, Its smooth and what struck me was the difference between the Demo Version and the finished one, You can tell he’s a true Artiste dedicated to his craft, and is truly talented, the Remix with Olamide further increases the commercialism of the song, and also makes it crossover to the Yoruba Music listening populace.

This EP Is Exactly what it was designed to be, an Extended play project with singles about Love, Harry did just that, and establishes himself as a serious Artiste who is going to be around for quite a while, and I also want to give credit to the production which is very much on point and not generic.My only problem with Harry could be his Lyrics are sometimes Drab and repetitive but apart from that, I cant seem to find any faults with the Project.I also want to point out that Harry is also a very good stage performer, I confirmed that when I saw him perform at the 2012 Notting Hill Carnival in London, I Knew he would go places, He’s different, He’s unique, and He’s in LOVE.

Production:- 9/10

Collective Lyrics:- 7.8/10

Composition:- 9/10

Favourite Verse:- Jesse Jagz On Shes Another Hit

Best Production:- Ogogoro Produced By Chimbalin

Best Instrumental:- Im In Love Produced By Del B

Shock Value:- None, I already Knew What Harry Can Do

Final Score:- 8.6/10

DOWNLOAD FULL EP HERE

Critical Album Breakdown:- GQ – The Hunger Tape [ Mixtape Review ]

May 8, 2013 By Run Run Sure 0 8

C.A.B:- The Hunger Tape

Artiste: - GQ

Record Label:- REAL Music Incorporated

Guest Appearances: - Da Suspekt, Psalmurai EX-O Cash In, DQ, and A9

Production Credits:- XYZ, Da Suspekt and Interpolated Beats

Release Date:- March 22 2013

Critical Album Breakdown

When I say it doesn’t get more underground than GQ, I mean that in every sense of the Word.GQ Is an Underground Hip-Hop Veteran that hasn’t gotten his dues, having put out 5 Mixtapes (This being the 5^th) He put out the Hip-Hop Monthly series first , before He put out his Asa Inspired Project Asa: Unofficial Remixes which brought him to my attention. He then put out Therapy Music in 2010, and a collaborative project with XYZ Of Str8buttah titled XQZ Last year (They would all be available on our Free Mixtapes Page soon). Reiterating his position as an underground, unappreciated and underrated Rapper, he released his Fifth offering The Hunger Tape this year.

GQ – Park Well Internet Video

Previously released Single Park Well was performed over the Instrumental of Hammer Dance by Slaughterhouse, and it’s a befitting opening for this Tape, and he sounds Hungry on the song , We all know a Hungry man is angry so it was no surprise he spat lines like Im screaming at the top of My lungs, Gidi Go ! / Mess Around and get taken down Gidigbo / Ma Duti E , Pour Sand In your Mouth / You go bite the Dust, omo I No fit Shout / You don’t like the way I do thing, Go Down South / I Hear things are blowing up, you wanna go that Route ? , clearly showing his countenance on this project. Next comes Speaking in Tongue, over the instrumental of Drunk by Myself by Nas. This one Has GQ Rapping about being trapped in a Mental Prison, I Like this track because it describes a situation where trust doesn’t exist and is ruled by fear, quite a brilliant way to describe being neglected in an industry where Talented and unorthodox Artistes ( like Him ) get marginalized because they don’t want to conform. There are good sides and bad sides to being famous, GQ Addresses the bad experiences on the next Track Fame, where he speaks on the changes Popularity brings to an Artiste’s life, using himself as a citation, he raps You know that moment in your life, when you feel you aint shit / Nobody, nobody cares about the Pain in your speech? / Welcome to my world, they think its low self Esteem / But I know I’m done, I’ve been cooking in Steam / Insisting on Winning, Comes really easy for me / but what I’m scared of is that I’m losing my humanity / so focused on the change, I’m not noticing the change / I’m thinking my skin is thicker, but really I’m growing scales, thereby exposing his innermost demons to his fans. He turns the sound on the Mixtape from mellow to Rambunctious on Tales from Otigba, An ode to street Hustlers all over the world, performed in a Mix of Yoruba and English language. This track sort of reminds me of Run by Psalmurai, and GQ Runs over the beat Rapidly rhyming about the various ordeals illegal street hustlers face every day on the streets, and finishes the song off by defining the term “Otigba” as anywhere you hustle, Definitely one of my Favourite cuts on the Tape, When Psalmurai and XYZ Released Profound, I thought it was too short, Maybe GQ Felt the same , as he jumped on the beat on the next track Dey Like. He raps over his friends instrumental for 110 seconds Bragging about his skills, Groupie Love and other perks that come with being a Rapper, before threatening Anyone who may wanna test him and then bowing out gracefully on another high moment on the Tape. So What is laced with a soulful Hook, well delivered by Producer/Singer Ex-O Cash In,that gave GQ An avenue to speak on relationships and the kind of girl he likes, whilst stating that Flaws don’t matter, as long as you’re the one for him It’s a good song that I feel deserves a Video as it sounds like a Proper Radio Record ( if only it wasn’t performed over the instrumental of Young , Wild And Free By Wiz Khalifa and Snoop Dogg ) . Plenti Tinz features Psalmurai and Da Suspect, it comes next , they sure had plenty things to address on this, talking about Corrupt Politicians, Crooked Cops, Fake Underground Rappers, Tribal Divisions, and also the partial media. I Like this Track , it’s a Proper Hip-Hop song that’s going to have lovers of Angry conscious Rap pressing rewind. I Like the next Track Park Well Remix for Many Reasons, first it’s a Kalifate reunion of Sorts, as A9Mus aka A9 appeared on it, also because my Favourite Underground Yoruba Rapper DQ Dropped a solid verse on it , and finally because EX-O Cash In who has abandoned Rapping for a while dropped another Hot Sixteen on this one to show his Rap side to his newer Fans, it’s a proper Remix where all the Rappers gave a good account of themselves, showing that the Nigerian underground Hip-Hop scene is still thriving and packed with Mad lyricists. On the aforementioned Plenti Tinz GQ Rapped “My Mother Just Died, And I’m Not Done Grieving”, that line is emphasized on the next track One More Night, a sombre song where he talks about the vacuum the death of his Mom left in his life, how much he misses her, and the good moments he shared with her, as someone that’s lost a Parent myself, I related to this song properly. Occupy your Mind closes the Mixtape , and is another moment of sober reflection, laced with another befitting hook by an unaccredited Female Artiste, on this one He challenges his listeners to stimulate their Minds and occupy it, lest you risk making it the devils workshop, its another mellow track produced by XYZ, And ends the Mixtape on a strong note.

Check out this 2011 Interview with GQ To Know Him better

GQ Is an MC In his lane, and a socio-political commentator, I Like his style because he doesn’t try to sound like anybody, or un-Nigerian ( not like it’s a crime ).He sounds like the around the way guy on the streets of Lagos, and his rap style is easy to absorb. These are things that make GQ An MC I always would listen to. His subject matters are everyday Issues, and he knows how to tackle them on wax, This Mixtape makes for an entertaining listen for Rap heads, and though GQ Is Hungry and Angry, he still found time to dish out and serve surplus food for thought on this Tape.

Production:- 8/10

Collective Lyrics:- 8/10

Composition:- 8/10

Favourite Verse:- Speaking in Tongues Verse 1

Best Production:- They Like Produced by XYZ

Best Instrumental:- Occupy Your Mind Produced By XYZ

Shock Value:- Realising GQ Has 5 Mixtapes out

Final Score:- 8/10

DOWNLOAD MIXTAPE HERE

Critical Album Review:- Lyrikal – Rapping My Fucking Ass Off [ Mixtape Review ]

May 3, 2013 By Run Run Sure 2 16

C.A.B:- Rapping My Fucking Ass Off

Artiste: - Lyrikal

Record Label:- Xcel Records

Guest Appearances: - Kokormikor and Eva Alordiah

Production Credits:- Spontaneous Beatz, Rapsom, M.H.P, Veteran, Fair Face, And Big Heat

Release Date:- March 13 2013

Critical Album Breakdown

If you don’t know Lyrikal, and you’re a Student of Nigerian hip-Hop, you need to go back and dig the Crates,Its as simple as that, Lyrikal was a pioneering member of Port Harcourt city’s answer to Wu-Tang clan, Tuck Tyght , a collective comprising of MC’s like Lyrikal, Double K, Mack Gee, Andre Blaze, Damage, Veteran, and a whole lot of affiliates. They opened up the floodgates of the City to Hip-Hop. He and his compadres put the city on the Hip-Hop Map with their self titled compilation Album they dropped sometime in 2004-2005, shortly after the crew Disbanded ( just like every Nigerian Rap Group ) and everyone went his separate ways, the most prominent of the lot being Andre Blaze who is now a Media Personality in Lagos, but the rest of the crew are still rhyme slingers, Lyrikal included, after a brief hiatus, he emerges as a solo act in 2013 on Xcel Records with the 17 track Rapping my fucking ass off Mixtape.

With no Intro, Lyrikal gets straight to Business on the first Track Undiluted, which was performed over the instrumental of Till It’s Over by Drake, he went in on this one spitting Pardon my intrusion, my fusion of knowledge and rhythm / I feel like I’m exactly what the Rap game been Missing / follow my vocals, not my deeds, my brutal intentions / you’re condescending, I’m faceless, I’m really not sending”, bars like these created the atmosphere for the rest of the mixtape, he continues his braggadocio on the next track Better than the rest , a record that samples Girl you know its true by Milli Vanilli, and sounds every inch like a Radio single, despite his confidence , he addresses his doubts and fears in the game rapping I hear my times coming, I Don’t know what to believe / I wanna blow forever, I never wanna leave / My sharp guy Instincts is telling me invest / cuz you got mad skills and you better than the rest, and finally ends the song with the consolation that he’s the best MC In the land.Next Lyrikal steps into the dark side on the apylt titled Warning, produced by Rapsom and samples Lacrimosa by Mozart, the record is dark and eerie,not to mention Lyrikal blacked out on this one, spitting sporadic rap bars that would get the most core of Rap heads bobbing their heads in ecstacy.the next song Edikwansa brings the mixtape sound all the way home, as it samples the Theme song of the 80’s hit Television series New masquerade, originally performed by Dan Orji and the peacock Band, Producer Rapsom flips the sample in a unique way, Lyrikal once more does what he does , this time with a mixture of memories , anger and venom, he pays homage to the Roots of Hip-Hop culture, Time to acknowledge / the legends, the Vets now pay homage / the things that we learnt from Music and not college / Ebonics, G-Funk Era, Dres Chronic, and gives a little bit of Advice to upcoming Rappers I keep telling Youngn’s , here’s what you do to be great / you need to study History, You need to learn from Mistakes / write your own lyrics, don’t be afraid to be you / even if your shits wack, you know you can improve / There’s too many tryna blow, they don’t know what it takes / One hit Wonders, Instead of all time greats”, an advice I Feel a whole lot of Nigerian Rappers need to absorb

By now I’m lost in the Hip-Hop journey , and I’m enjoying the listening experience that brings me to the next track Places To Go where he goes off over the MHP Produced instrumental,on this he is keen not to be distracted by the Pitfalls in the game, says hes gonna do him regardless and keep chasing his goal. Only two guests are on this Tape, and the first one Kokormikor surfaces on the next cut E Don Tey, another avenue for Lyrikal to address his inner thoughts, Fears, as well as talk to God, its three introspective verses where he talks about how he started in the game, the demons that haunt him, his dead friends and other deep thoughts, the Hook was well suited by kokor, it’s definitely a song that would send your mind down the thoughtful lane. He recovers from his thoughtfulness and runs over a DJ Premier instrumental next on Life is what you make it ,for 93 seconds he gets his braggadocio on and also took shots at an unnamed “Number One Rapper” while he was at it. Sometimes we cry, sometimes we celebrate, and it’s all about the latter on Good Times, the next track which has Lyrikal reminiscing on the when things go smooth, and friends sit around to chat,drink and have fun, it’s laced with a soulful instrumental produced by Fair Face and lives up to its billing. A Skit comes next, On Each other, An excerpt from 2004 American Movie Something The Lord Made , which ends with the Phrase “All poor people ever have is each other” He continues the theme on the last song on Filthy Fucking Rich, this one didn’t go down well with me, especially the Hook which sounded dull and dated, however Lyrikal continued his Boasts and Brags on this one, which in my opinion is the most forgettable song on the Tape. Show Skillz would have been a better song had he gotten someone else to sing the Hook, It didn’t blend well with this Track, where he plays the role of a Teacher schooling a new generation and once more castigating phony and fake Rappers. The Oath suddenly rescues the lack-lustre Choruses on the last 2 tracks, it’s my best track on the Tape, and basically an open letter to his ex Band Mates Tuck Tyght members and his Fans as well, and he addressed a lot of issues that made the crew fall apart, he didn’t end without telling them he still has love for them all, It’s a heartfelt song and the Boom-Bap instrumental does very well to add the utmost spice to the song. Merciless features Eva Alordiah and comes next over a thumping bass-line, both MC’s basically run riot over the beat, Rapping their asses out ( no pun ) and Eva spat with so much Venom and trailed closely behind Lyrikal on this one. Ticking me off provides Lyrikal another avenue to vent, and he does just that spitting You leave me no choice, I gotta be Candid / Got me F’ed up now to you I gotta hand it / Never saw it coming, this isn’t how I planned it / My crew disbanded, for a moment there I was stranded” once more hinting that the breakup of Tuck Tyght really affected him, it’s another stellar cut on the Tape laced by a Boom-Bap instrumental produced by MHP.I Thought the Next Skit Heaven is a Tad bit too long, and d didn’t fit into the Mixtape , before the main track Heaven comes in , A Love song where He outlines the kind of woman he likes, and also some choice love lines and stories about/for the girl of his dreams, It was laced with a soulful instrumental also produced by MHP. His greatest moment of sober reflection ends the Mixtape on The last track Survive where he once more raps about his struggles, his crew ( again ) and his journey From Port-Harcourt to Lagos, family problems that he had to resolve, and eventually ends on a high note talking about his new label situation with Xcel records, its another sullen track that ends on a sombre note, and also has Lyrikal on his most reflective on the Project. The horns also hit hard on this one, really consolidating the tracks Ambiance.

It’s good to have Lyrikal back and active in the Rap game, and this Mixtape is a good way to come back. Lyrikal can Rap, and it’s no secret, however, I feel he needs that single, just a single that is going to change his fortunes, Collaborations with major Hip-Hop Artistes and producers wouldn’t hurt him either and I’m sure that now he resides in Lagos those will not be challenges he cannot overcome. A Few hooks on some songs falter as I pointed out in the review, but that didnt stop this Mixtape from being one of the best I’ve heard this year, neither did it stop him from passing his point across.. It’s a breath of Fresh air in the current Rap scene, and i recommend that real Rap heads and students of the culture should download this. The question right now is can Lyrikal keep it up as regards consistency and Mark Making in the Game? time will tell.

Production:- 9/10

Collective Lyrics:- 9/10

Composition:- 9/10

Favourite Verse:- The Oath ( The Full song )

Best Production:- The Warning [ Produced By Rapsom ]

Best Instrumental:- Edikwansa [ Produced By Rapsom ]

Shock Value:- The Beats Blew My Mind, especially The Tracks produced by Rapsom and MHP, They are quality Hip-Hop Producers, and this Mixtape made me recognize them Officially.

Final Score:- 9/10

DOWNLOAD R.M.F.A.O MIXTAPE HERE

Critical Album Breakdown:- Chuckie – Price 2 Pay [ Mixtape Review ]

April 29, 2013 By Run Run Sure 0 23

C.A.B:- Price 2 Pay

Artiste: - Chuckie

Record Label:- Independent

Guest Appearances: - Alaye, Tha Creamie, Green, Vernom-C, Trick, And Tuburna

Production Credits:- Quebeat And Traisey

Release Date:- March 10 2013

Critical Breakdown

I Never heard of Chuckie till he made his debut on Nigeriansounds with two songs Chew Gum Girls And On the Low Key Remix Featuring Alaye, I Immediately took notice of his Voice, and was particularly impressed by the Latter song. Chuckie thereafter, appeared singing the hooks on a few songs by some upcoming Artistes, Songs like She Dance Well By Huzzle, Pop Bottles By Brave And Go Down By J’Brym are examples of those,they all helped in making sure his Vocal quality/Hook Singing Capabilities were confirmed to me, The next question on my mind was, can he maintain consistency and break into the big league. That is a question that time would reveal, but for the meantime we have an opportunity to understand the Man, His Music, Sound and Direction a little with the Release of his Price to Pay Mixtape.

The Mixtape begins with an Intro that has Chuckie crooning over sombre piano keys about how he started from humble beginnings ,he also implied that he had paid his price , now its time to get paid, ,From Junction to Junction they know me / I be hustling around with my homies / e no easy yeahhhh / And that’s the price that I pay / My Nigga no be today / my sweat don join with my cry / A young man must survive.he sings away , showing his vocal qualities and giving his fans an insight into his life at the same time.He continues his Vocal conquest on Tonight, an upbeat Electro/House/Techno song , despite using one of the most utilized lines in Nigerian Pop Music ( Wanting/Long Thing/ Strong Thing ) on the Hook, It’s another club banger that you would definitely move to in the club after a drink or two,next he jumps on Chris Browns Don’t Judge Me Instrumental on Till You Gone , A song where he begs his girl not to go, It’s a well written and delivered song that a lot of girls would appreciate, his vocal control on the song is also commendable.Kid Inks Lowkey Poppin Instrumental Gets the Mixtape treatment on the next Track Lasgidi Hustle dedicated to Lagos Hustlers, Chuckie keeps to the Hook, and allows upcoming Rapper Vernom-C, Green And Tha Creamie to shine, all the Rappers gave accounts of their lives as young men trying to get paid in Lagos, It’s a Good song for lovers of Rap, and an avenue for Chuck to tell his fans what he does on the streets of Lagos ( Chase Money ).I Think the Skit that comes next is Unnecessary, A Recording of his Voicemail messages, that did nothing but disrupt my listening experience. I Don’t exactly know the kinds of Women Chuckie refers to as Chew Gum Girls, but the song comes next, and is another catchy Pop song, Though he states he loves chewing Gum girls, I Just couldn’t get my head around it ( after listening t it countless times ) , The Mixtape steps up a notch on Favourite Lady featuring Trick and Tuburna, I Really like this one, the two Rappers gave a good account of themselves, and Chuckie totally killed this one, I Think it’s a good single if well pushed, would definitely move him up to another level, Its good to know Chuckie is also a Producer, and he Co-Produced the next song On A Lowkey remix with Alaye, I Feel this is the Biggest song on the Mixtape, It’s a Catchy song, that initially got my ears from Chuckie, Even though Alaye isn’t an A-List Rapper, he totally made added more Flavour to this song with his Cockney flow. Whatever you do people would still talk, that’s the message Chuckie was trying to pass across on Fi Won le ( let them talk ) the only song that wasn’t produced by Quebeat on this Mixtape, I Love this one, Its another song I Feel would get some good spins on the Radio if pushed well. A Lot of Men are still searching for that special Woman, and Chuckie happens to fall under that category, or so he says on What You Gat “Where are youuu / Im searching for Youuu he sings over another up-tempo pop beat, It’s also another song I like, It makes for a good listen, and you can also dance to it. Chuckie rounds up the Mixtape on The Outro with a Vote of Thanks, and also a sober reflection moment where he says he works hard, and hes always in the studio looking for his next hit, while he shouts out everyone who has supported him so far in his career, and ends everything on a Grateful note.

Chuckie can sing, and has hitmaking capabilities, those are the two things I derived from listening to this Mixtape, If you like Nigerian Pop Music, Download his Mixtape, and you would like at least a song on it.Hes someone that I have firmly on my Radar,because he has shown he can make songs, and most importantly he can sing hooks and kill them, which means he has a bright future. The production on this Mixtape is very much on point, and apart from the interpolated beats on the Tape, he may have well sold it as an Album.I know I’ve not heard the best from Chuckie yet, and as long as he has paid his Price, I Guess he cant be stopped.

Production:- 8/10

Collective Lyrics:- 7.9/10

Composition:- 8.5/10

Favourite Verse:- Alaye On Lowkey Remix

Best Production:- Fi Won Le By Traisey

Best Instrumental:- Favourite Lady

Shock Value:- None

Final Score:- 8.1/10

DOWNLOAD MIXTAPE HERE

Critical Album Breakdown:- Granula And Smallzie – The Tall And Small Story [ Mixtape Review ]

April 21, 2013 By Run Run Sure 0 17

C.A.B:- The Tall And Short Story

Artiste: - Granula And Smallzie

Record Label:- THINK Media/ Mad Science Entertainment

Guest Appearances: - G’Bryte, CR, Big Faz, C.R.E.A.M and Brock Invictus

Production Credits:- E-Twinz , Daccoustic [ Credited ]

Release Date:- March 4 2013

Granula and Smallzie are two upcoming Rappers who champion a very undiluted Hip-Hop sound which they intend to put on the Nigerian National Hip-Hop Map, Smallzie a member of Hip-Hop collective XXX Gang, Lost his Brother ( Brock Invictus who was Arguably the first Nigerian Rapper to make “Horrorcore” Hip-Hop with Down’s Syndrome Music ).The loss of his brother motivated him to foster the Rap Collective XXX Gang, and hone his sound which is a combination of Hardcore Rap, Gangster Rap elements and edge cutting/Jaw Dropping lyrics. Granula who was also a close friend to Brock Invictus also used his death as a catalyst to assemble Mad Science entertainment, a collective made up of Hip-Hop Artistes, Singers, Producers, Songwriters and Graphic Artistes as well as other creative entities, and together they released the Tall and Small Story on THINK Media/Mad Science Entertainment.

The curtains on the Mixtape go up on Welcome which is just an eerie guitar riff with nothing else, and continues to Fallin Down the first song, Bass line is heavy, the synths are live, and I like the sample as well, Both MC’s go on to establish their authority on the track, though I couldn’t make out a lot of Smallzies lyrics, I understood the idea behind it. Lookatusnow comes next, the hook is quite laudable, the theme is about being at the bottom and rising to the top, and the joint is more laid back than its predecessor. Smallzie sets this one off rapping I dey fuck raw, men I no dey use Glove/ so I Chyk a chick I don’t even care about / Treat her good and leave my babies in her mouth. Granula adds his own quota to the song as well but his bars are more reflective, he spits since I lost Brock / been on the Tick tock / Humility dey ground just like flip flops ,it’s a good song, one of my Favourites on the Project. Granula takes his time to deliver his vote of thanks on the next Skit over a Fela Kuti instrumental Backdrop, and the Music continues on Water Therapy , Granulas Solo Song On Which G’Bryte did an excellent job on the hook, and Granz went on to create another Favourite of mine on the Mixtape, he Rapped about talking to God through a Doobie ( Marijuana ), attaining Peace of Mind, His mothers advice to him and a whole lot of reflective issues,the way he put this song together is quite good, He ends by declaring “My words would last longer / after my body is handed to the coroner”. Big Faz’s Skit comes next, it’s a close to three minute brief narrative on how far Nigerian Hip-Hop has come, and the resilience of Nigerian Hip-Hop music. The Classic (In My Opinion) E-Twinz Produced Down’s Syndrome Music by the late Brock Invictus comes next I Feel every Nigerian Rap head should listen to the song, because it’s a different kind of Hip-Hop music, the Melancholic instrumental at the end gives me chills now that he’s dead, too bad he couldn’t be alive to give us a bigger insight into his Mental and Musical Archives. A song dedicated to the aforementioned Brock The Last to Say comes next, and this one had C.R.E.A.M And G’bryte on it, It’s a heartfelt tribute their Friend who is no more, another dark song on the Tape that had all MC’s delivering heartfelt bars. Smallzies skit sounds muddled up and could have been better as I could barely hear or understand what he was saying on the skit. Smallzie follows his incoherent skit with a solo track Big Dick Freestyle which follows in the pattern of his skit, His rhymes were all over the place,and Once more I could barely make out what he was saying on some parts of the song, all in all, except the instrumental, the song is forgettable Good Badd makes up for the past to mis-steps on the Tape, a tale of good girls gone bad, and the battle between the ying and yang of life which girls ( and humans in general ) face daily, Granula went in on the first verse whilst Smallzie trailed behind him, This is another good song that could send your mind down the deep thought lane. G.Bryte puts up yet another stellar performance on the hook of Ballin’ the next track which features C.R.E.A.M And is an Ode to the good life, and a warning to the haters to steer clear, another smooth song that has all the MC’s handling their businesses to the letter, “Family comes first priorities”. The Mixtape takes on a more ( Nigerian ) radio friendly song on Fine Lady, I Like this song well, it’s a smooth pop song that has C.R Displaying his Vocal prowess while showering adulation on the Girl of his dreams . It’s a song that I can hear on the Radio and visualize a video for, I Daresay a considerable number of girls would affirm my sentiments on listening to it. Next track Omo Dada Literally means Fine Lady In Yoruba Language, So I could say two songs have the same name on this Mixtape, It is another female friendly song, at this point ,I’m thinking G’Bryte can’t do wrong, as he rides through the song with ease and gives C.R.E.AM The avenue to breakdown different sexual encounters he has had with different pretty ladies, another good song for the Players. The most ingenious idea on the mixtape was to end it with a G’Bryte solo song Love Get category , A Well written and performed song with a very Poignant message. This is another song I feel should be on the Radio and can propel G’Bryte to greater heights. The Message is basically Love is what you make it. Very Beautiful Number.

The Mixtape is good, And pretty decent for a debut Project, however there is room for improvement In The Mixing and Mastering department, especially on the Part of Smallzie who has to work on his audibility, Lyrics and structures of his verses in order to reach out to a wider and more appreciative Hip-Hop audience. The listening experience is great, and they show a lot of promise as an outfit that can make an impact in the game. I have to give it up to G’Bryte and CR ( Especially G’Bryte who is my top performer on the Tape ) Who both stood out on the Tape, I Feel like THINK Entertainment has two solid Artistes in those two, and though the Tall and Short Story is over, The Journey has just begun.

Production:- 7.5/10

Collective Lyrics:- 6/10

Composition:- 7/10

Favourite Verse:- Water Therapy Verse 1

Best Production:- Good Badd

Best Instrumental:- Love Get Category

Shock Value:- G’Brytes Skills Shocked Me, hes a Bonafide Star

Final Score:- 6.8/10

DOWNLOAD MIXTAPE HERE

Critical Album Review:- Phylosophy – Bread And Wine [ EP Review ]

April 15, 2013 By Run Run Sure 0 19

C.A.B:- Bread And Wine [ Extended Play ]

Artiste: - Phylosophy

Record Label:- Outstand Konnect

Guest Appearances: - Fly MC, Jimmy Fly, Onimisi Da Wordsmith, Jo Whiz, Gauge Behave, Jay O, Stasky, and Alfy,

Production Credits:- Sizzle Pro [ Entirely ]

Release Date:- March 3 2013

Abuja Raised, US Based Rapper Phylosophy has been in the game since early 2000’s, Having been a member of Local Duo Mic-Checkers, with then unknown Rapper Magnito, the two of them put out the self titled Album in 2002 that made rounds in the underground Hip-Hop circuit in the Federal Capital Territory, before the crew disbanded, and Magnito went on to chase his career with a More diluted Hip-Hop sound, Phylosophy stuck to what he knows, his brand of Hardcore Street Tales and Gangster Rap came to the forefront of his art, and he has since then set up his own company Outstand Konnect that houses artistes like his younger brother Fly Emcee, Jay O, Jimmy Fly And Producer Sizzle Pro. He put out a Mixtape in 2010, and since then been working on his EP And another yet to be titled Mixtape. This is the EP Which he Christened Bread and Wine, A 7-Tracker released independently Last Month.

Triumphant sounding horns were fitted by Sizzle on the first track Hold It Down which is strictly a Family affair as his Brother Fly Emcee rides along with him over a thumping bass, they declare that “They Do Rap for a Reason” and went on to drop solid sixteen’s that set the ambiance of the Project up. Phyl switches his gear on the next track Keep hustling as he starts it off with “I watch the Signs all around me / Waterfalls Tsunamis / Egypt Gadaffi / The People getting angry / Leaders getting grimy / and shit is getting shiesty / and who is to blame ? I See nobody” and goes on to tackle more societal issues, Jimmy Fly and Onimisi Da Wordsmith both dropped good verses that followed the song theme as they collectively decried Boko Haram, Da Grins Death, Murder, Corrupt Politicians, This song has all the makings of a Radio single, as the hook is quite easy to sing along to and the Message was poignant, No matter what happens around you, keep pushing. A Straight semi-Violent Gangster Track Wetin U Go Do comes next, featuring JoWhiz and Gauge Behave, all three Emcees on this one simply broke down what they are going to do to enemies/haters/foes whilst retorting on the hook “Wetin You go do when I come for you” , A Track that is a staple for lovers of the almost nonexistent sub genre of Nigerian Gangster Rap. I’m Good is more like Outstand Konnect Anthem, as it features every member of the crew, the theme on this is basically letting you know that nobody balls more than Abuja Boys, A Song where they proudly hold it down for Abuja, while Jimmy Fly sums up the track by declaring “AInt No Party like a Lagos Party / but aint no Balling Like The ABJ Balling” .the EP Goes on to Fi Mi le which is basically a Players anthem that has all the MC’s on the song recounting different rendezvous which they have had at different times with different women, The Hook was well Rendered By Jay O though I Felt Staski should have gone harder as he was left in the shadows by Phyl and Fly on this one.Take It On is the second to last track on the EP That has a sort of Crunk Bounce, another lovely hook , All MC’s came hard except the last Rapper Alfy whom I Feel should have been left off the song and the final Mix of the song which I feel wasn’t well done.Phyl goes dolo on the last Track Make You Mine where he confesses his love to his Flame and his intentions of starting a family with her, This is one of the best Tracks on the EP, A Well Produced Love song that was spiced with a solid Hook by Jay O and lines from Phylosophy that are sure to put a smile on the face of a good Majority of women.

Its always a good thing when Rappers that are not based in Lagos drop a project and represent their city with so much pride, you’re going to get a lot of that when you listen to this EP, All the Hooks were top Notch, though there are some Production Glitches and a few cheesy lyrics, The EP Is a Good listen for lovers of Hip-Hop, Abuja City Residents and Gangster Rap ( Track 3 ).Phylosophy is bringing something different to the Rap Game and the revolution would be televised via Abuja City right after the Communion.

Production:- 7.5/10

Collective Lyrics:- 7.9/10

Composition:- 8/10

Favourite Verse:- Keep hustling Verse 1

Best Production:- Im Good

Best Instrumental:- Fi Mi Le

Shock Value:- None

Final Score:- 7.8/10

DOWNLOAD EP HERE

Critical Album Breakdown:- MI Fliss – Sex, Love Relationships And Blowjobs [ EP Review ]

April 9, 2013 By Run Run Sure 0 19

C.A.B:- Love, Sex, Relationships And Blowjobs [ Extended Play ]

Artiste: - MI Fliss

Record Label:- Runz Entertainment And Lady Spinsters

Guest Appearances: - Jonah Tha Monarch

Production Credits:- Jonah Tha Monarch, DJ The Dead, Sarz, And MI Fliss

Release Date:- 28 February 2013

Critical Album Breakdown

Depending on how comprehensive your knowledge of Nigerian Hip-Hop Music is, MI Fliss is a Pioneer of Sorts, A True Hip-Hop Entity who cuts no corners or conforms to the norm when putting together his Records. A Former member of the Crew Nuff Noiz with MC like Psalmurai in the Mid 2000’s, They came the attention of the Hip-Hop Listening populace when they had a short beef with The Thorobredz ( Ill Bliss, Amaka, Elajoe, B Elect and MGB ) that ended Amicably, Fliss went solo, and then appeared on the Underground Str8buttah Smash Bring It , Years later he dropped Probably one of the First Instrumentals I heard from Sarz On Underwear ( Bra and Pant) , A Song that Pushed Censorship Boundaries in Nigerian Hip-Hop, and was eventually banned by the NBC, That didn’t deter Fliss, as he went on to appear on the Smash I No Send You By Tha Suspect ,that song garnered him enough momentum to drop his five track EP Sex, Love, Relationships and Blowjobs on his independent outfit Runz Entertainment, but before that he dropped the collaboirative beat tape with XYZ Of Str8buttah Nice One.

The Title of the EP Can already tell you the plot, an EP Influenced and Inspired by his dealings with the opposite sex, that starts off with Wanna Kno Ya Name that features Hip-Hop Producer now singer Jonah D Monarch with a well delivered hook that set the tone for Fliss to spit some bars from the bottom of his heart to the girl in question Ill Buy You a Lifestyle , Pricey things no lie / I Aint no comedian, but if you no gree, I Go Die he spits over a smooth production which really complimented the track. He continues his love tales on Ode to the love of my life ( A.D.A.O.B.I ) , a track he produced, and laced with a hard hitting kick and an ambience reminiscent of A J.Dilla production. Fliss ran through the song and expressed his love to his Heartthrob with the best adjectives he could gather, I really like this song, He utilised his Unorthodox delivery to the fullest on this one, and as someone that likes his style, I wasn’t complaining. The Production on the next track Fly Mami was all over the place, and probably didn’t suit the track in my opinion, and lines like Baby girl you fly like an Aeronautic Engineer, further made the song a throw away for me.It’s not a track that has repeat value quality in my opinion. The Aforementioned underwear ( Bra and Pant ) produced by Sarz is a sultry R 18 Track where Fliss Explains in some detail how he gets down with a girl behind closed doors, with graphic lines like Lets take it slow, baby work that show / watch you unbutton your blouse in slow Mo / No hurry, No Rush / Just Hush / Unhook the Bra With One Touch / Shaking that 38D Cup / Dance for me, That G String Wont Fuck Me Up” you won’t need to wonder why the song was eventually banned by the NBC, However I like this song, Its always been a track I Like, Fliss was a True Artiste on this one, and did exactly what his Artistic Licence afforded him, I Cant recall another Sex-Rap song right now in my head as explicit as this in Nigeria, Plus Encouraging girls to wave their G Strings in the air at the end of the song has always had me wondering how it would look like should all the girls at his show comply to that Proclamation.

The Mixtape Ends with a Radio edit of Track 2 Which is his current single at the moment. I Enjoyed the new tracks on this except Fly Mami, and they make good additions to my Nigerian Hip-Hop library, If you’re really into Hip-Hop, Fliss is someone to follow and keep tabs on, I Feel he needs to put out more material and collaborate more with Hip-Hop Acts in order to keep his name in the game, because I can tell quitting is not in the plan for Fliss, But for now, Its all about Sex, Love, relationships and Oral Sex.

Production:- 7/10

Collective Lyrics:- 7/10

Composition:- 7/10

Favourite Verse:- Underwear ( Bra and Pant Verse 1 )

Best Production:- Ode To the Love Of My Life ( A.D.A.O.B.I )

Best Instrumental:- Ode To the Love Of My Life ( A.D.A.O.B.I )

Shock Value:- Listen To Track 4 lol

Final Score:- 7 /10

DOWNLOAD AND STREAM MIXTAPE HERE

Critical Album Breakdown:- Cyrus Tha Virus – The Infiltration [ Mixtape Review ]

April 4, 2013 By Run Run Sure 0 24

C.A.B:- Infiltration

Artiste: - Cyrus Tha Virus

Record Label:- Arrow Gang

Guest Appearances: - Modenine, M.I Abaga, Boogey, Kanebi, Monemsis, Tony Ross, Terry Tha Rapman, D Truce, Pherowshuz, Big T, AQ, Godwon, M Trill, Lord Vino, Butafly, Barzini, Zoey Blaq, Feedback, N6, Ms Chief, J Berg, Blaq Bonez, Da Suspect, Kraft, Big Faz, Five Mics, Osagz, Bigg Splash, Zara Gretti, Tracey, Femcee Cyclone, Seyyidat, and Olly

Production Credits: - Rayconex, Tony Ross, Kraft, Kid Konnect and the Sugar King

Release Date: - 10 February 2013

Critical Album Breakdown

Benin City Veteran Cyrus Tha Virus dropped his 3^rd project , The 24 Track Infiltration, After The Infection ( 2008 ) , And Rebellion ( 2010 ) he put ever abundant energy together to create a Project which was worked on by 40 Artistes ( Including himself and the producers ) and released independently on his Arrow Gang Records Imprint

The Project which is divided into two sections Hard and Soft begins with words from two Hip-Hop Authorities Modenine and MI who both shout Cyrus out, and talk about him, Modenine Called the Mixtape a Classic, While M.I Called Cyrus A True Legend, thereby setting the stage for Cyrus to launch the Musical Experience. Squad Up is the first song, which has a Military backdrop, laced with wolf howls (they reoccur at different intervals throughout the Mixtape) and a Jay Z Adlib, Cyrus is in his full element chanting Squad Up! On the hook Whilst running you through reasons why he still goes strong in the Rap Game, the mixing is below par a bit on this one, but doesn’t hinder the message from being passed across By Cyrus.The Sugarking produced Boom Bap Termination features Kanebi. An intense track where Cyrus switches his Style and spits with enough energy that could supply electricity to the entire Lagos State, while Kanebi makes a good impression of himself as a Lyricist that can hold his own. Next Is Plethora, a thumping Boom Bap Hip-Hop track where Cyrus styles effortlessly over his own Vocal Samples on the Hook, Guest rapper Monemsis also goes in on this one, reminding people that forgot how good he is that he is still very much around. Hasta La Vista Flow features Boogey who started the track off and ripped through with his outlandish style, elaborate lyrics and picturesque bars that would leave any chronic Rap head gasping for more, while Cyrus came in with his Gruff tone, he didn’t spare fellow Rapper Sauce Kid spitting I’ve seen a Jungle, I Don’t give A Fuck If You Sinzu (Seen Zoo).Shakara On Point furthers Cyrus Anger at the Rap game, riding with Tony Ross ( who actually impressed me with his verse ) Cyrus goes at Fake Rappers “Fuck All You Rap Heads In Particular / Superstar, You dey buy Followers” and Fake Friends “When Money No dey, No Friends / A yo, Na Their Way O,/ Bone Them, Do your thing just dey go” , it’s another good song that would be appreciated by quite a number of Rap Heads. Terry Tha Rapman, Ill Bliss And Pherowshuz all deliver Vocal drops for the Mixtape , reiterating what was said by M.I And Modenine on the intro before the Mixtape continues with Igbo a colloquial parlance for Marijuana which starts off with a sample of Bolanle By junior and Pretty before the track itself is performed over the instrumental of Holla By Busta Rhymes. This song is notable in many ways, first Cyrus rapped totally in Pidgin English, and his verse was actually a hilarious narrative about a guy that ate food laced with weed, before D-Truce comes in to compliment the song brilliantly. I never heard of a Rapper in Nigeria talking about eating Marijuana on a Record before, I found this interesting and innovative on Cyrus and D-Truce Part. Tha Suspect provides some comic Relief on another skit with Kraft and Big Faz, the listening experience continues on the Sombre reflective It Wasn’t Given To Me on which he runs through his struggles in the Game, spitting 10 years ago I watched Modenine Blow / 10 years after I watched MI Blow / E come be like say everybody here Rap pass me / left right and centre na so Fans just dey Harass me / Make I Yarn Hip-Hop World Awards / I Put My Heart into it like Oh My Word / I Still wonder how Wande Coal Won That Plaque / Let’s just say for me God had other plans. He went on to spit “While most of Y’all got high on Juice and Gin / I Never Ran To Lagos, I Built Benin / And I hear all these small boys wey dey run their Mouth / and That guy From Warri claiming King of the South / No let me catch you for corner / Obtain your G Shocks and Skinny Jeans …you can hear his passion and pain on this one, he remains the calmest you may ever catch him on a Rap record , while dishing out a piece of his Mind to everyone whom he feels he has to address. Just like its predecessor, One Mile is also emotional and heartfelt, performed over the instrumental of I Tried By Bone Thugs And Akon, he spits feverishly 18, when my best friend got killed / I was there when the Coloured Men got him / I Was There when the 5 Slugs Pierced Him / And I Had to Wrap his Dead Body up in a Bed Sheet / Muthafuckas wanna Ask me Why I’m So Mad / When I Suffered Setbacks, Oh they So Glad / he’s A Funny Dude, They don’t know that I’m So Sad / Never had a Father Figure, Was My Own Dad. This is one of my Favourite songs on this Project, because his feeling resonates with every bar he spits.Osagz, Five Mics, Bigg Splash and M Trill all come together on the Last piece of the hard part of the Mixtape ,the Skit corresponded with all the aforementioned Skits on the project. The Soft part of the Mixtape begins with a Skit by 5 Female Entertainers, OAPS and Media Personalities who lauded Cyrus as an Artiste, and hyped the mixtape a bit before Yosi Lele comes on ,The Traditional Etighi influenced track that has Cyrus singing for the love of his life, a good Track that some ladies would like, I particularly like the Ethnic Vibe this one has. Ur Way continues the traditional feel of the Mixtape, another track tailored for the ladies, on this one Cyrus glorifies the female anatomy and lists everything that keeps him coming back to the love of his life. R.I.O.T Is also tailored for the Clubs , though I didn’t really like the Generic “Go Down” chants which 80% of Nigerian Pop Artistes have used before, I like this track as a Pop track that can get Radio spins and rock a club when in the Mix. Key To My heart sounds every inch like a Stalker anthem ( lol ) but is suited to be a girls Favourite, continuing the Soft Ambience of this section of the Mixtape.So Yoyo ( Skerere ) is also pop influenced, Once more we have the generic lines like “Sodi E” and “Komole” as well as “Give it to me” , then again, nobody produces Club songs for Lyrical Satisfaction, and this one adds to the list of Cyrus Virus songs that can get a Party Popping. Dat Shobolo should have been left out of the Mixtape in my opinion, I Didn’t enjoy this one, it didn’t sound co-ordinated to me, it was all over the place. At this point, the “Tony Tony Ross” Adlibs may be a bit too much for some, Attitude Girl is an up-tempo track, also glorifying the Female Body, created to Rock the clubs. This one comes next and sounds original, and well composed, I like it and would definitely rock to it after a few bottles of 33 Lager Beer. I Also don’t vibe with the last track Gbedu High which felt like a Mixtape filler, I Feel the song would have been better if it wasn’t performed over the instrumental of Sweet dreams by Beyonce, A Song which I don’t like that much as well.

The pinnacles of this Mixtape for me are Swat and Bloodhounds 1, Swat and Bloodhounds 2 and Swat and Bloodhounds 3, arguably the longest Posse Track series in the history of Nigerian Hip-Hop Music (Tha Suspects I No Send You Is A Strong Contender). All three songs saw a total of 16 Rappers (excluding Cyrus) and I Hear there is Swat and Bloodhounds 4 Coming, It’s a good sign for the Underground Nigerian Hip-Hop, that upcoming Rappers can get together with veterans in the community and make tracks.I have to say Godwon had my best Delivery, Attitude and style as well as One liners and Punch lines amongst all 17 of them, notwithstanding everyone held their own on both SAB1,2 and 3.

40 people got together to make this Mixtape a reality,I Think Cyrus has the Record for most featured Guests on a Mixtape by One Artiste ( Not Producers Or Deejays ) in Nigeria with Infiltration, I Feel like Cyrus Tha Virus is the kind of MC that either you like him or you don’t, no sitting on the fence, and As far as I am concerned, this is Cyrus best project till date ( We know That because he’s the Only Artiste whom ALL his projects have been reviewed on this site ) . It has something 9 at least One ) for everyone that enjoys Urban Nigerian Music, Core rap Heads, Average Rap Heads, Party Poppers and the likes. It falters a little bit in the Production department (Mastering and Mixing Mostly), sometimes lyrically and some songs I felt should have been left out made he cut, however that doesn’t deter the Mixtapes Artistry, theme and point to be conveyed successfully, though It might not be a Classic like Modenine said on the Intro, it’s not far off, the infiltration of the Nigerian Rap Game has officially begun

Production:- 7.5 /10

Collective Lyrics:- 7.6/10

Composition:- 8/10

Favourite Verse:- Godwon On Swat and Bloodhounds

Best Production:- Hasta Lavista Flow

Best Instrumental:- Shakara On Point

Shock Value:- all of a Sudden 40 Artistes don’t sound so much again

Final Score:- 7.7 /10

DOWNLOAD AND STREAM MIXTAPE HERE

Critical Album Breakdown:- Lord Vino – 234 The Mixtape [ Mixtape Review ]

March 31, 2013 By Run Run Sure 1 29

C.A.B:- 234 The Mixtape

Artiste: - Lord Vino

Record Label:- Sway Entertainment

Guest Appearances: - Boogey, Selzin, Erigga New Money, Mo Fame, Hoodbilli, Johnny Fresh, D-O, Retji, AT, Kel, Splash Josh, Damilola, Fizzy K , And Cyrus Tha Virus

Production Credits: - Uncle Vee, Kid Konnect, and Reeray

Release Date:- 22 February 2013

Critical Album Breakdown

Ever since Warri originated, Plateau State Raised and US Based Rapper Lord Vino debuted on this website in April 2012 with two songs Pepper Dem and Occupy Hip-Hop, he hasn’t looked back since. He went on to drop different singles and Freestyles which have boosted his Status in the Nigerian Underground Hip-Hop Circuit as an Upcoming rapper to keep within your sights and to further cement that position, he dropped the 18 Track Mixtape 234 The Mixtape on the Independent record label Sway Entertainment

Major Distribution Instrumental by 50 Cent gets the first Mixtape treatment by Lord V, Renamed 234 Intro, intended for V To introduce himself properly as an MC to the Hip-Hop listening populace, he did just that stating clearly “I’m Repping for the 234” before going cocky on the outro singsonging “I just came into the Game and I spit like A Veteran / with a Long list of MC’s that I’m better than” .Previously released single “Conscience” is next, fitted with thumping drums and a wild baseline that put V in the mood to tackle life issues like corruption, Piracy, and mostly celebrated Mediocrity in Nigerian Hip-Hop, whilst letting you know he’s doing what he does because his inner voice is very much alive, It’s a track that I appreciate and I know a lot of core rap heads will too. Next V Toes the darker route on “Holy Demon”, likening his flow to the Devil on the Hook and calling himself a Oxymoronic Holy Demon, V rips through the beat feverishly with guest Rapper Selzin further darkening the track with a Mos Def-esque flow and giving me another core Lyrical moment on the Project. Another Uncle Vee production give V an Avenue to dish out some not so kind words to Studio Gangsters, and Wanna-be Rappers on Listen Up. He links up with the Hottest Colloquial English rapper in Nigeria; Erigga on the Rat Killer themed Otapiapia a street track where both MC’s refer to Lame Rappers as Rodents and go on to spit Hard Bars that consolidate the train of thought on this very track. Transformer comes next, it starts off with a Verse by Johnny Fresh who went in with an extensive verse, but I could relate with Lord Vino More, with J.Fresh Rapping about Guns, I couldn’t help but refer him to track 4 on this Mixtape.V Brings his sound a little bit closer to Nigerian Dancefloors with Give Dem , A Fast Paced Club joint, urging the boys move to the girls on the dance floor, Vino displays his versatility switching cadences between Hausa, Pidgin, And Proper English Languages, as well as performing a bridge with a spike of Autotune. Though Hoodbilli was a little off key on the Hook, it doesn’t affect the whole body of the track at all.The last track sounds like it was influenced by UK Grime Music, so does this track Badman V Style where V Basically has fun on the beat and Styles off the top of his head, something he is reputedly good at, Being a huge Grime Fan Myself, on hearing this,I am happy that the culture has began infiltrating the Nigerian urban Music scene. He switches to his Lover-boy mode on Damilola, the next track that features Fizzy K, V on,he isn’t scared to profess his love for the female in question with bars like “I aint tryna die but I Kill for you / Cuz I wanna be here to keep it real for you / You know, Push a Record get a deal for you / Then I Hop up in the Kitchen make a Meal for Two / Maybe do the dishes in the sink for you / I’m A Rapper but I’m about to sing for you. Before ending up indicating his intent to get married to her, This track gives me a nostalgic 90’s Rand B Track Feel, Like a Mase and Total Collaboration, an insinuation many people with the Knowledge of Urban American Music at the time would agree with.I Can’t help but think that the “Damilola” on the last track is the one featured on the next track Beautiful Day alongside Hoodbilli and Splash Josh, A Moment of Clarity song that Had all three MC’s going reflective chronicling their problems in the Rap game, and challenges faced in life; the well executed hook by Damilola added to the feel of the track, that noted optimism is important in life to get by. V Doesn’t get more laid back and Braggadocios on this Mixtape than on the next track Untouchable, Shey una wan hear Rap? / Vino kpelu Tupac / Omo no be feature, I Sample Am for this track. He spits, letting you know who’s beat it originally is, and what he did with it ( Unlike many Nigerian Rappers that cant differentiate a Sample from a Feature ).The song ended with a Shoutout to some of his supporters, Including Nigeriansounds.com ( We appreciate it ).coming against V is self annihilation, that’s the message he sends across on Suicide ( U Wan Die ) a song that has Selzin making another noteworthy appearance on the Mixtape, It’s another good song on the Mixtape that has previously been released. The Head Nodding G-Checking Comes next, on which Vino recruits the Energy of Benin City Vet Cyrus tha Virus, together they launched a fiery lyrical attack on the instrumental, and I can tell you the end product wasn’t a pretty sight. We all Need Money, and Lord v assembled a cast of Rappers that share that same sentiment on The Paper, the Posse track with the most Rappers on the Mixtape, Two Femcees and two MC’s who made that point very clear, though all of them put up a memorable appearance, it was Kel who caught my attention on this one with her verse, as she went in with so much venom that reminded me of her early days, and got me yearning for more of that Version of the Kel that Majority of the Nigerian Hip-Hop listening Populace fell in love with when they heard You Go Wound O.Run Tinz is another upbeat track where V chronicles his typical Friday Night out, explaining how he controls the club scene and spins girls when he decides to wild out for the night; the song is once more another avenue to show that Lord V can make Radio singles tailored for the Nigerian Urban Music consuming populace. As the Mixtape draws to a close, V Sends a reminder that he is not to be tested in any way shape or form, alongside Mo Fame who rode shotgun to make sure that it was a well received memento on Dan Iska. The last Track on the Mixtape ends the listening experience on Occupy Hip-Hop II, V Takes his time to clarify exactly what he intends to do to/in the Rap Game, Sanitize it and whilst doing that contribute his own realness to the Game, as well as maintaining high Lyrical and creative standards. I feel like this would have been the Intro, however any fan of Vino needs to listen to this song to know what his Manifesto is.

The Highest point on this Mixtape for me is Mathematics. The Well Calculated ( pun intended ) track that features Boogey over Mos Defs Instrumental of the same Name. I’m not going to explain this Track, Why ? I’ve listened to it for 3 weeks, and as at yesterday, I was still deciphering some phrases on it, but I can tell you one thing about this song, Any true Rap head will be fascinated by this first of its kind ( In Nigeria ) lyrical calculus that Vino and Boogey got together to create.

Lord V Listed American Rapper Jadakiss amongst others as one of his Favourite Rappers whom he draws inspiration from, after listening to this Mixtape, I could see exactly what impact Kiss had on Vino as evident with his Laidback Flow, simple style, One Liners and distinct voice ( though not as Raspy as Kiss ), you can Tell Vino is a well versed Rapper that knows his onions and doesn’t force the rhymes out, I like this Mixtape for the mere fact that after listening to it, you would definitely know what country the Rapper that created it hails from ( Even If he is based in the US He sounds more Nigerian than Many Rappers that never left Africa Before ) , Though there were one or two Missteps in production ( as evident on The Paper ) that didn’t stop Vino from making sure that the substance behind the Mixtape wasn’t lost, He’s not a Rapper that tries too hard, The bars come easy and he delivers them even easier. The Mixtape is well composed and balanced, and was tailored to cater to different tastes of Rap Music in the long run V proved that it’s not about the Numbers, It’s about Hip-Hop.

Production:- 8/10

Collective Lyrics:- 7.9 /10

Composition:- 8.5/10

Favourite Verse:- Mathematics [ The Whole Track ]

Best Production:- Conscience

Best Instrumental:- Run Tinz

Shock Value:- Its not easy for a Rapper to drop a Mixtape less than a Year after he dropped his first single,V Did It.

Final Score:- 8.1 /10

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