DigiWaxx

#ReemoApproved 2023 Review Recap: AllStar JR Brings Organized Crime 2 DELUXE to NYC!!!

Posted on December 30, 2023 by Reemo Meerak

You had to be there, to understand the moment. AllStar JR “Organized Crime 2 Deluxe” Release was a Two-night event on that tilt of a wave. Also, the preview to his documentary was spot on of whom the artist is and has become after his trials and tribulations in LIFE. All in all, an artist that’s well deserving of his name, and his continuing success within the Hip Hop Culture. I had an interview with the Detroit native via THE C.U.T.S. PODCAST on Night 1, and we had a well detailed conversation about his career, growth as an artist, as well as why he only cares for his craft, and music he creates: Organized Crime 2 was released in 1Q of January 2023, and now he’s released a Deluxe Version of the album that dropped in 2Q (April 2023, and OUT NOW!!!). You can catch the Recap of the event on my YouTube Channel, as well as on my Instagram. Very dope to meet an artist like him for a first time in back to back days. On To The Next #MyCreatives #ReemoApproved Follow Me On Social Media: www.instagram.com/reemomeerak_ www.twitter.com/reemomeerak_ WEBSITE: ⁠ReemoMeerak.com⁠ Merch Store: https://reemomeerakbrand.myshopify.com/ For a feature, want me to do coverage, and a write-up on your event: [email protected]

#Reemoapproved 2023 Review Recap: New York Music Month Conference 2023

Posted on December 30, 2023 by Reemo Meerak

Despite recently joining the Digiwaxx brand in 4Q 2023. I will admit this year was unique, and ascending for the #ReemoMeerakBrand, as well as for the contributions in media with interviews and events attended. All in all, want to show the readers, and viewers what took place, as well as captivating stories I’ve reviewed: New York Music Month Conference 2023 (June 2023) Great Conference Panel event. Lots of well known, and potent figures and executives in the music industry expressing their expertise and knowledge of the business. Giving the creatives a litany of information to assist with their music career, and have their brand flourish. Also, the catering (Courtesy of NYU) was on point and well needed during the lengthy panel discussions. The main theme or rather push of discussion amongst the panels were the changes in DIVERSITY of the music industry, as well as the changes of roles with women and people of LGBTQIA+. Technology, especially of the METAverse and A.I. were of heavy talks, as well as the ever changing trends of social media. Even, social media influencer/music artist; Chinese Kitty explained about how one of her major tracks went viral, and broke down the steps of how things occurred. The Branding Panel with Jesse Kirshbaum, Jennifer Frommer, Mike Ladman, & Travis Montage was huge because they broke down of what huge name brands are looking for, how they are using multiple brands to collab for a figure, and of the landscape in which branding has become. Jennifer Frommer, spoke a good amount of the panel with stories of Lil’ Nas X campaigns with YSL Beauty, Taco Bell, and of her process of putting quality campaigns together. The highlight of the conference, which was the end of it with; 50 Years Of Hip Hop Culture, Creation and Commerce PANEL. Torrae Carr was the Moderator with panelist; Kim Osorio (BET), Datwon Thomas (Vibe), Ebro Darden (Apple Music/Hot97) were having a great discussion about the Hip Hop Culture and where it has gone. Also, all three panelists agreed that hip hop is in a good space, but there’s more room to tweak things and make it greater. 50 Years Of Culture, Creation and Commerce PANEL Torres Carr – Songwriter/Recording Artist, Internal Affairs Datwon Thomas: Editor-In Chief (VIBE) Ebro Darden: Global Editorial, Head of Hip Hop and R&B Apple Music Kim Osorio; Executive Producer – BET, VH1 Speakers: Jem Aswad – EXECUTIVE Editor of Variety Ian Holder – Senior Vice President of Sony Music Publishing Richard James Burgess, President & CEO Of AZIM (American Association of Independent Music) Mitch Glazer – Chairman, and CEO of Recording Industry Association of America Jen Lyon – Artistic Director/ Owner of MeanRed Productions Chinese Kitty – Hip Hop Artist Doug E. Fresh – Legendary Hip Hop Artist / Activist Adrian Perry – Partner, Co-Chair, Entertainment & Media Group – Covington & Burling LLP Lynn Gonzalez – Entertainment Lawyer Erika Stallings – Senior Counsel; Epic Games/Bandcamp Judy Tint – Attorney/ Clinical Associate Professor of Music Business, NYU Nari Matsuura – Partner, And Co-Leader Music Economics, and Valuation Services Practice, Citrin Cooperman Andreea Gleason – Chief Executive Officer of TuneCORE Chrissy Nkemere – Former Co-Chair of D&I, Current Chair of Education at Women In Music Jillian Hervey – Lion Babe ; Music Artist Jesse Kirshbaum – Nue Agency Jennifer Frommer – Head Of Brand Partnerships of Columbia Records Mike Ladman – Head Of Music; Droga5 Travis Montage – Co-Founder and CEO; Group Black / Crater Drew De Leon – Owner of Digilouge Dhruv Chopra – Founder/CEO of Elsewhere David Castillo – Owner/Head Buyer of Saint Vitus Ali McCloud – Vice President, Live Music Partnerships – DICE Nick Bodor – Co-Owner, Baker Falls, Cake Shop, Bruar Falls, The Library Bar All in all, despite the duration of the event can agree it was a #ReemoApproved. I was able to network with new faces, obtained some vital information regarding of the business conducted in the music industry, and the food with drinks kept me engaged. Only thing that bothered me was not enough music artists attended the event. I feel the more artists the better the value of the industry can increase. Hopefully, NYMMC makes that a push for next year. On to the NEXT #MyCreatives Follow Me On Social Media: www.instagram.com/reemomeerak_ www.twitter.com/reemomeerak_ WEBSITE: ⁠ReemoMeerak.com⁠ Merch Store: https://reemomeerakbrand.myshopify.com/ For a feature, want me to do coverage, and a write-up on your event: [email protected]

#rewindreview: Nems ‘Rise Of The Silverback’ 2023

Posted on December 26, 2023 by QUANTUM LEAP RADIO

The hustle that Nems has been on spans about twenty years from features with D12, to the battle rap scene but where the New York rapper hit his stride was his online videos. The videos find Nems going up to random people on the street and joking on who they look like while ending the joke with “don’t ever disrespect me.” It looks like the most New York attitude one could receive in that city but Nems has a way of making the joke work. Never to be lost in the fake world of social media, Nems is actually a very down to Earth person who still believes that rapping is the mission. ‘Rise Of The Silverback’ is just the release to not only remind people he isn’t just an online personality but that he will (by his own words) slap the sh!t out you, proverbially on record of course… This is a HOP album that truly takes listeners back to a time of the sound of New York rap while still not sounding like it comes from the 1980’s or 1990’s. Scram Jones produces the album and provided Nems with a diverse number of beats to ensure the music isn’t monotonous. There are a couple of moments that get “nervous” for one not wanting to hear current music in their HOP listening like on ‘Demon’ and ‘Blickey, but the good thing about ‘Rise Of The Silverback’ is it keeps focus for a solid thirty-five minute runtime. Nems clearly comes from the school of “hardcore hip-hop” and one might notice his aesthetic is similar to an early Fat Joe. He reminds me more of the Non-Phixion section of the HOP where ‘non-blacks” create music that represent their environment but still have an identity that doesn’t stray into making a caricature of Hip-Hop culture. “Hide your kids ya’ll..,” because Nems curses on this album like it’s the year 1993 which creates a subtle nostalgia to the record that also comes with features from Sheek Louch, Fat Joe, Gunplay, Ghostface Killah, Tish Hyman and Peedi Crack. With only thirteen tracks you would think these featured talents overshadow Nems but instead the “Fuc& Your Life” rapper’s presence is never forgotten. In time Nems will evolve his content more and that is present on the track ‘Keep On’ where we find the most introspective rhymes from Nems running down his hustle to get from “A to B.” ‘Rise Of The Silverback’ might not be for everyone but it does break a stereotype that battle rappers can’t create a solid rap record. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Don’t Ever Disrespect Me,’ ‘Drip,’ ‘Blicky,’ & ‘Keep On’ Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 3-5a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD2 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen/ & TuneIn app (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @fanlink.to/QuantumLeapRadio

Chappyweezy – Chosen One

Posted on December 20, 2023January 8, 2024 by essince

Chappyweezy, the Canadian Filipino rap artist hailing from Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada, has emerged as a dynamic force in the hip-hop scene. His musical journey began with exposure to various genres, but it was the discovery of hip-hop that ignited his true passion. Influenced by artists such as Young Thug, Lil Durk, and No Cap, Chappyweezy started crafting his own rhymes, captivating audiences at local talent shows and open mics. Having cultivated a dedicated following in his hometown, Chappyweezy expanded his reach by releasing music online, earning acclaim for his distinctive fusion of trap beats and melodic hooks. His lyrical prowess, coupled with introspective and heartfelt themes, set him apart in the crowded music landscape. Noteworthy releases include several singles and an EP, showcasing Chappyweezy’s versatility as both a rapper and a songwriter. The essence of Chappyweezy’s music delves into profound themes of identity, mental health, and relationships, drawing inspiration from his personal experiences as a first-generation Filipino-Canadian. Beyond entertainment, he aspires to leverage his platform to inspire and empower listeners, particularly those who may feel marginalized or misunderstood. With infectious energy and undeniable talent, Chappyweezy is rapidly establishing himself not only in the Canadian hip-hop scene but also in reaching audiences beyond borders. His latest album, “Chosen One,” serves as a testament to his dedication and artistry, promising an immersive experience that reflects the artist’s growth and commitment to making a lasting impact in the world of music. Click here to steam the album: https://linktr.ee/Chappyweezy or listen below.

Holiday Toy Drive event hits big in Union Square!!!!!

Posted on December 20, 2023December 20, 2023 by Reemo Meerak

Dazed’s mission to give back and to the community was on deck with this Event!!! We are in the Holiday Season, and as the “GREAT” Correspondent that I am (Ahhhhhemmm,lol). I attended the Dazed Cannabis x Black Santa Company Holiday Toy Drive event in Union Square. The store is decked out with Dazed Merch (Which I definitely am a fan of the Varsity Jacket and the Hoody), Holiday Ornaments , the TOYS piling up in the middle, and of course the “WEEEEEEEEEEDDDDD-uh”,lol (Stephen A. Smith voice). All jokes aside, the Cannabis was flowing in abundance as shoppers were buying, as well as donating Toys for the cause. The Black Santa Company mascot, was definitely an entertaining piece to the event as shoppers were delighted by his humorous presence and dance moves on the sales floor. Also, the patrons were at ease with the refreshments of Villion Cognac, and Bumbu Rum Co. The Dazed x Black Santa Company Toy Drive aimed to make a difference for the local community in need this holiday season with a toy donation to one of The Black Santa Company charitable partners the Think Watts Foundation. The Music was definitely jumping off the charts with DJ Sarcastic on the ones and twos. Notable guests in attendance included: Nancy Rodriguez (Netflix Love is Blind, Season 3) Bandit The Rapper (Sony Recording Artist) Hiii Siddity (Artist Girll Codee) Panama da Prince (Music Artist) Adeola Crown(Luxury Influencer) Paytra (Music Artist) Black Rose (Comedian/Actress/Influencer) I had the opportunity of interviewing the co-owner of Dazed Cannabis; Keshawn Warner: Overall was a #ReemoApproved event, and many should be on a lookout for their future events. Follow Me On Social Media: www.instagram.com/reemomeerak_ www.twitter.com/reemomeerak_ WEBSITE: ⁠ReemoMeerak.com⁠ Merch Store: https://reemomeerakbrand.myshopify.com/ For a feature, want me to do coverage, and a write-up on your event: [email protected]

#rewindreview: Boogiemonsters ‘Riders Of The Storm: The Underwater Album’ 1994

Posted on December 19, 2023December 20, 2023 by QUANTUM LEAP RADIO

When we were buying physical recordings of albums there would often be those purchases that were not perfect but they might be one of your favorite albums to listen to. This was ‘Riders Of The Storm’ for me. In the summer of 1994 I discovered The Boogiemonsters during one of the many moments I tried to position the antenna on my T.V. to pick up the fabled Video Juke Box. This was a platform that required viewers to dial in a request for music videos. Although I never made any request it provided me with exposure to many new acts at the time. ‘Recognized Thresholds Of Negative Stress’ was not only a mouth full of a title for a song but also had a very annoying or captivating hook. In 1994 the whole song was different and these voices were fresh with ideas and energy. The album would present more of the same but over the years I have come to the realization that there was a common theme behind the songs. Recently there was an article asking was this a “Christian Rap album?” Something that never dawned on me as I was always taken by the music but did catch the meaning behind songs like ‘Mark Of The Beast’ and the almost gospel like vibe of the title track. As HOP music went back then, there was going to be positive and inspiring lyrics with certain groups so I always took their mentioning of certain religious references as just a part of their music. Boogiemonsters had a good thing going with this record because rarely did it ever get boring but maybe the pace would slow down on ‘Muzic Appreciation…’ and ‘Salt Water Taffy…’ but would pick right up with a track like ‘Honeydips In Gotham;’ which was relatable to young men searching for the opposite sex during those days. The song that has to be the most talked about, and at the time odd but impactful is ‘Old Man Jacob’s Well.’ This was a song about child abduction and although I was fourteen at the time it creeped me out and reminded me of the days when television movies like ‘Adam’ warned children to stay away from strangers. The unique thing about the song was it comes from the perspective of the abductor and how his motivation was not malice but as natural as a predator in the wild. The Jimi Hendrix-esque guitar rifts in the music drove the track home and really leaves an imprint on the listener but this also why ‘Riders Of The Storm’ is such a cultural hit for those that know. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Recognized Thresholds Of Negative Stress,’ ‘Honeydips In Gotham’ & ‘Strange’ Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 3-5a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD2 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen/ & TuneIn app (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @fanlink.to/QuantumLeapRadio

#rewindreview: Chill Rob G. ‘Ride The Rhythm’ 1990

Posted on December 12, 2023 by QUANTUM LEAP RADIO

The name Chill Rob G. should be a familiar name if one has been a hip-hop head for years pre-internet. One of his biggest moments was the song ‘The Power’ which was one of the biggest pop hits in 1990 only it was from a group called SNAP but it was Chill Rob G.’s song…. and well you’ll have to due some studying on that. Throughout the years I have always heard tracks on this album but it wasn’t until last month that I finally got around to hearing ‘Ride The Rhythm’ in full. With the untimely death of Mark The 45 King, I was reminded to finally hear this album produced entirely by the now deceased legend. ‘Ride The Rhythm’ was released on Wild Pitch records which was kind of like an early Rawkus records in that the releases were never about “fluff” and true to an emerging HOP sound and demographic at the time. Chill Rob G. had the quintessential voice and style of HOP for this era which included battle rhymes, story-telling and conscious raps to open the ideas and minds of young listeners. ‘Court Is Now In Session’ is the track I most knew him for which takes personal accountability, the legal system and police brutality to task. ‘Bad Dreams’ finds the “future shock” rapper going through one’s P.T.S.D. scenarios of urban living while sleeping. Although Chill Rob G. can keep it very serious over these up-tempo beats by Mark The 45 King he provides plenty of moments of showing his reason for being a top prospect on the mic for that era. The title track of this album is probably my favorite and is one of the few tracks I’ve heard over the years. ‘Ride The Rhythm’ is infectious and ‘Hard Times’ by Baby Huey is sampled perfectly by Mark The 45 King, providing a blueprint to how the sample would be utilized by other artist later on. ‘Ride The Rhythm’ as an album is not perfect but does have it’s place in the pantheon of the HOP’s second generation and influence on where the music would go. Rest in beats to the architect of this albums music D.J. Mark The 45 King. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Dope Rhymes,’ ‘Court Is Now In Session,’ ‘The Power’ & ‘Let Me Show You’ Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 3-5a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD2 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen/ & TuneIn app (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @fanlink.to/QuantumLeapRadio

Battle Rap Weekend: Chrome 23 ‘Cancel Christmas’

Posted on December 8, 2023December 8, 2023 by Ontoneyo

If you are new to battle rap or wanting an introduction, this weekend is the right time to dive in as Remy Ma’s Chrome 23 hosts “Cancel Christmas” on Friday Dec 8th. So why should you watch? Battle rap isn’t a cliché event on 106th and Park anymore, or held in a clothing shop in Harlem. Battle Rap has jumped into a higher echelon as companies have put serious money into the culture. Like Caffeine the streaming platform that help catapult battle rap to a bigger payday, and Remy Ma from Terror Squad putting on her own league. The art has also elevated, battlers are now delivering verses with college level dictation and technique. Schemes, double and triple entrendres, ingenious word play, personals and disrespect have culminated in some of the best displays of execution battle rap has ever seen. Chrome 23 grew quickly after launching, initially starting off as an all female league, to hosting Eazy DBC vs Hitman Holla, then the now viral Geechi Gotti vs Eazy EDC. And now the card… Chrome 23 presents Cancel Christmas – Remy and her team are back quickly with strong card just in time for the end of the year. With only 4 battles on the card, I feel like it will spotlight each of the battles more, and allow people to stay tuned throughout. Here are the matchups and the trailer. Shiest Raw vs Taz – This all female battle showcases two artists, who have made it through the underbelly of the battle rap community, and they are both from Philly. Shiest Raw had a lot of momentum coming into 2023, off a battle with Jaz, but ran into some medical problem that set her back momentarily. So this will be the comeback for Shiest. While Taz has been cutting her teeth in the Gutta City – Trenches cards, performing with an aggressive hunger that is evident. This is a great opening battle with two artists ready to prove they can take the next step. QB vs E Hart – Another all female battle, which is sure to be a hard battle. QB just battled Charlie Clips on the roof top and many say she won 3-0. QB is has a balanced approach using clever wordplay, while being methodical and consistent. E Hart has a pen that can cut very sharp and delves into personal schemes. QB has not choked or stumbled in any of her recent events, and has been sharp with her delivery. Charlie Clips vs C3 – So the story of this battle is what Charlie Clips will show up? Will it be the unprepared freestyling Clips or one with three rounds. Charlie is one of the greatest battle rappers, but his year has been on a;most a dozen cards and perhaps it is taking a toll on him. However this is a Harlem vs Queens battle, with C3 fresh off her battle with First Lady Flamez on the last Chrome Card. If C3 comes with 3 solid rounds and Charlie plays with her, it will be another Loss for Clips. Jaz vs Bigg K – Jaz has had a big year, with debatable battles with Rum Nitty and New Jersey Twork. She has also battled many of the people on this card, and doesn’t have a clear L in recent memory. Jaz takes you by surprise as she has a strong yet smooth delivery and can really shake the room too. She is very well rounded and has shown she is comfortable in her own skin, which makes it hard for opponents to land those big lines or expose her. Bigg K rose slowly through the Rare Breed Entertainment ranks and along the way picked up debatable wins against Award, Yung Ill, Murda Mook, T-Rex, Reed Dollaz and the legendary annihilation of Adi Boom. Bigg K, has a very direct style but manages to weave in entendres and schemes that are multi-layered. Jaz has homefield advantage in New York, but Bigg K cannot be under-estimated as he has only gotten better over the last couple years. The battle is PPV and can be viewed here… read back for a recap next week.

#rewindreview: Polyrhythm Addicts ‘Rhyme Related’ EP 1999

Posted on December 5, 2023December 5, 2023 by QUANTUM LEAP RADIO

The day I purchased this release in the summer of 1999 I also purchased Lootpack’s ‘Soundpieces: Da Antidote’ so needless to say my ears were beyond satisfied. Polyrhythm Addicts was a collaboration similar to Black Star, where individual M.C.’s teamed up to create a supergroup. Apani B. Fly Emcee, Mr. Complex & Shabaam Sahdeeq made for the core rappers while beats were all provided by D.J. Spinna. For me none of these names could do no wrong going into this EP. ALL OF THEM had shaped my HOP perspective by 1999 with independent 12″ singles, features and songs that never left me unsatisfied. The collaboration of all four was icing on a cake that audiences unfortunately would never get to taste again. Polyrhythm Addicts was yet another example of how dynamics in groups from the yesteryears of HOP music were critical to why those were the best of times. Shabaam Sahdeeq was the marksmen shooter with his lyrics, while Apani provided the voice and delivery that was so perfect for the texture of this release and Mr. Complex’s abstract style of rhyming makes the group “not your ordinary.” Add on D.J. Spinna who by the late 1990’s was in a zone unmatched with his production. From beginning to end ‘Rhyme Related’ never let’s up. ‘Take Me Home’ which has one of the few features on this album with Pharoahe Monch reminds me of the summer season this EP came out in. The previously released ‘Not Your Ordinary’ fits perfectly after that with D.J. Spinna’s signature sound. Songs like ‘Should Have Known Better’ and ‘Nervous Breakdown’ capture the synergy of the M.C.’s like an updated Funky Four Plus One. It is ‘Big Phat Boom’ that hits the soul though. With dreamy production from D.J. Spinna and a vocal sample from Q-Tip proclaiming the name of the group “Polyrhythm Addicts…,” Apani solidified her rankings with me as an M.C. on this track. If ever there is a question as to why she is one of my favorite women rappers, her lead off on ‘Big Phat Boom’ is a small sample to why. I could go on about this EP but it’s downfall is that it was only an “EP” not an album. The impact this release could have made as an album with a few more songs is a ‘What If…’ moment for me and although a full album from the group released eight years later, it was missing a key element in Apani B. Fly. This is still one of my favorite listens and much like a rare diamond, I try to appreciate ‘Rhyme Related’ as such. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Not Your Ordinary’ & ‘Motion 2000’ Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 3-5a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD2 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen/ & TuneIn app (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @fanlink.to/QuantumLeapRadio

Album Review: Blockbusta – Is Busta Rhyme’s Latest Effort a Classic?

Posted on December 5, 2023December 5, 2023 by Ontoneyo

When Busta Rhymes dropped Extinction Level Event 2 in 2020, he hadn’t dropped an album in 11 years. He doesn’t make fans wait long as he drops Blockbusta just three years later. The Long Island legend really mastered the ceremony with this release, as he delivers a thoughtfully laid out project with all the best aspects of his style. This project really embodies that title, as Busta brings us perhaps his most cohesive project if not the most refined version of him. One of the most debated topics in hip-hop, particularly about rappers is, do they have a classic album? Busta is one of those golden-age artists this is debated about. Now his last project E.L.E.2 certainly satisfied the hip-hop enthusiasts with boom-bap heavy tracks and vintage feel but, it left some area to be gained with mainstream stay. This latest release feels like it could be the answer to all those questions and possibly his most solid project ever. The show starts fast, no long skit or drawn out intro Busta gets straight to it 15 seconds into “The Statement,” and it feels like he hears the chatter too. Rapping double-time like he’s late to a meeting, Busta reminds those hating who he is. The track is a great intro and sets the bar for the project. “Remind ‘Em” featuring Quavo keeps the pace high, and fits well as a second track. Of course Busta switches cadences and has some signature ad-lib breakdowns, while the track feels big and regal, definitely a bop for the ride. You know Busta always is going to hold down New York, as BIA stops through on “Beach Ball,” but the project really turns up with Young Thug’s appearance on “OK.” Cool and Dre heavy synth-trappy production slides hard with the two MCs on the forth track. The vibes continue on with the unique voice of LA’s Blxst over a western feeling guitar-riff on “Could It Be You.” The stripped production of the track highlights the best of the calculated rhymes of Busta as he spits, “Give you the semi, question if you gonna keep it tucked?/When I’m in my struggle/ I question if you gonna keep me up.” The track feels like a Tarintino flick with Young Bleu playing the twist, adding a smooth flavor to the second verse. Still no skits. No skips. “Luxury Life” is a playful song and memorable hook as Busta Does his best Four Tops delivery of an interpolation of “Ain’t No Woman.” It serves two useful purposes, reaching a younger audience with the assistance of Coi Leray, and satisfies the Hip-hop purest monster with the production at this point of the album, a win-win. T-pain and DaBaby assist on “Big Everything” relying on a resampled version of UGK’s “So Throwed.” If you can get past the first 30 seconds of DaBaby or enjoy him, this song really slaps, especially in the low bass category. This is where the project really turns up, Burna Boy really brings the vibes up with “Roboshotta” as Busta embodies one of the best versions of himself in his rudeboy flow. “Tings” really gives DJs a afro-beat infused club joint that works so well. “The Return of Mansa Musa” showcases Busta on a golden throne of percussion, Swizz Beats cooks up with MJ interpolation that falls into a rhythmic genre blending treat. Still No Skips. JNR CHOI stops by to assist “Stand Up” with the unique use of Coolio’s “Gangsta’s Paradise” chopped into a Soca-esch dance blend, which is pleasantly received. The most experimental song so far. Busta is like a gracious host showing us his house, as he welcomes Shenseea and Chris Brown next for a smooth ride on “Open Wide.” Then goes into braggadocios classic Busta with “Hold Up.” The beat is playful and memorable. “Hive”‘s melodic piano hypnotizes as Busta drops back into rudeboy mode with Giggs, switching the energy and “Homage” featuring Kodak Black brings us back to the streets amping up the energy. Still no skips! Morray soothes and croones with the auto-tune assisted “Legend,” while Slide goes into a Mystikal sample before a piano driven instrumental send off. A strange but cool juxtaposition of tracks. “Legacy” delivers so well as a segway into a smoother vibe and the guest deliver memorable spots, as Busta drops into his cool low baritone voice. The final track features Big Tigger, bringing everyone back to “The Basement,” as he interviews Busta Bus about the state of the game, but does at time come off as campy during his parts. The choir backed track, is a nostalgic flashback at the legacy of the MC and his answer to all the questions about his place in hip-hop. It’s hard to place the classic label on things as they drop, but purely on first listen, there are no skips on this project. Hip-hop purists might have a more critical view of this project, as the project sounds very commercially strong, but again, you want boom bap Busta, go listen to E.L.E.2. Rating 9/10 Favorite Song: Roboshotta – This thing just go. Least Liked Song – Big Everything – DaBaby just kind of sounds like he does … on everything.

Month: December 2023