Hip-Hop Single Reviews (Originally Printed In IDJ / Dubfire Cover / August 2008)

Hip-Hop Single Reviews By Ryan Proctor

Hustle Simmons ft. Buff1 – “Over And Out” ( Break Bread Projects )

The humorously named Hustle Simmons is actually a duo comprised of New Jersey underground MC Dave Ghetto and Philadelphia-based producer Tha S Ence. Lifted from their self-titled album, this cut finds the pair seeking to bring back that real rap without falling into the trap of sounding stuck in the past. Assisted by Detroit’s Buff1 on mic duties, Ghetto delivers his usual high standard of well-crafted rhymes over S Ence’s persistent, snappy drums and chopped string samples. 4 / 5

Mick Luter – “How We Raised” ( Stay Humble Entertainment )

Having already achieved notoriety in his hometown of Chicago, Windy City lyricist Luter is now looking to catch the attention of rap fans outside of his Midwest stomping grounds. ML displays a nimble flow and thoughtful subject matter on the soulful ‘How We Raised’, weaving tales of inner-city angst with both depth and maturity. Definitely a name to lookout for. 4 / 5

Phashara – “Young World” ( Beatmonstas Entertainment )

With a nod to Slick Rick’s old-school classic ‘Hey Young World’, Chicago’s Phashara attempts to reach the minds of rap’s more impressionable listeners on this mellow, piano-laced head-nodder. Warning of the possible consequences of gangs, drugs and violence, Phashara draws on his own experiences to show his target audience they do have alternatives in life. Edutainment at its best. 4 / 5

Shabaam Sahdeeq ft. Torae & Supastition – “Keep Comin” ( Marvial Entertainment )

Having made his name in the underground rap renaissance of the mid-to-late 90s, New York’s Shabaam returns with this solid offering from his new album ‘Relentless’. Featuring guest spots from fellow NYC resident Torae and North Carolina’s Supastition, ‘Keep Comin’ is a witty sonic rebuttal to backstabbers everywhere, based around sliding synths and a unique female hook that you’ll be humming for days. 3 / 5

Pugs Atomz – “All Right” ( Gravel )

There must be something in the Chi-town water this month, as here’s yet another slice of attention-worthy music straight from the 312 area code. With producer Grant Parks supplying a smooth laidback funk track reminiscent of vintage DJ Quik, Atomz takes full advantage of the party vibes, getting his drink on, chasing the ladies and generally enjoying life. One for those hot and hazy summer evenings. 3 / 5

Saint ft. Verses – “Do You Remember?” ( Domination Recordings )

Whilst both Long Island’s Saint and guest MC Verses do a competent enough job here of proving their true-school credentials by lyrically attacking the current state of hip-hop, it’s the production on this cut which elevates it above the average mark. Swinging jazz samples collide with dense drums and slick scratches to create a lively, feel-good vibe. Check out Saint’s album ‘About Time’ for more of the same. 4 / 5

Baby J ft. Asher D & Nathan – “Lies” ( Abtract Urban )

Another genre-hopping banger from Baby J’s forthcoming ‘Baby Food’ album. Blending hip-hop, grime and R&B influences into three-minutes of smoothed-out listening pleasure, Baby J once again brings a unique sound to the table, complimented by Nathan’s classy crooning and former So Solid member Asher D’s woman-related woes. A great tune with serious crossover potential. 4 / 5

Young Chris – “Never Die” ( Roc-A-Fella)

Having floated around on the mix-CD circuit for awhile now, it appears this captivating cut from one-half of Philadelphia’s Young Gunz duo is now seeing an official release. Built around a beautifully melancholic soul sample, ‘Never Die’ finds Young Chris turning the tragedies of street life into compelling music, complete with moments of stirring self-reflection. Heart-wrenching stuff. 4 / 5

GTA ft. Jada Pearl – “The Way” ( Phoenix Down )

Oxford-based duo Chima and Ineffable are all about positive vibes on this upbeat, motivational cut from their forthcoming album of the same name. Forget keeping it real, this pair are “keeping it proper” as they attempt to civilise the uncivilised over rousing, horn-blasting production, accompanied by a passionate hook from female vocalist Jada Pearl. 3 / 5