#rewindreview: Animal Gang ‘Sen City’ EP 2022

  What is Animal Gang? A collective of M.C.’s with a mission to out rap your favorite or best M.C. at the drop of a dime. If you are a fan of crews like Stronghold or Slaughterhouse, Animal Gang is there to carry on the tradition. Mic Handz, Jamil Honesty, Unreal, Cayoz Da Beast, O*Zee, Don Streat, Dready Krueger and Senica Da Misfit (may he rest in peace), are the Animal Gang with D.J. Grasshoppa. ‘Sen City’ EP is a release from 2022 but a bit rare in it’s existence as one might not find it on any streaming apps, so allow us to give you a slight breakdown of what one would hear. In this twenty-five minute EP, Animal Gang makes it feel longer as from tracks one through six it’s a lot of punchlines and metaphors to process. Don’t expect much in conceptual songs but more the auditory experience of hardcore raps and beats. Production is provided by D.J. Grasshoppa, Neckbrace Productions, Cool FD and Hobgoblin who provide some dark frequencies under the boisterous raps of Animal Gang. This won’t be a project for everyone as the M.C.’s don’t provide much in substance or really distinguishing themselves but for those who just like to hear “bars,” ‘Sen City’ will scratch that itch. What did you think of the album? Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 1-3a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD11 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @https://linktr.ee/QLEAPRADIO

From Streets to Beats: Exploring Authenticity in Today’s Hip Hop Culture

Are the Casual Hip Hop fans just overreacting for “Likes & Follows”? Hip Hop Culture is buzzing over what’s “real” and what’s “fake” in music today. 🎤 From the streets to the beats, authenticity is key, but the recent Jadakiss controversy resurfaced in 2025 has some fans questioning their idol. Are rappers staying true to their roots, or are they just acting the part? With urban culture debates heating up and everyone—from Fans, social media “addicts” to podcast listeners—joining in, it’s a perfect time to explore this hot topic. Whether you’re into the latest hits or old-school vibes, you won’t wanna miss this conversation! Authenticity in Hip Hop Culture Authenticity in hip hop has been debated since the genre began. Recently, fans and critics are questioning today’s artists. Are they sharing real stories or just playing roles? Let’s break it down. Real Versus Fake Rappers The “real versus fake” debate is a big deal in hip hop. Authenticity often means staying true to your roots and sharing real experiences. Fans love artists who “keep it real” with unfiltered truths. But sometimes, the line between real and performance blurs. Hip hop, like any art, allows creative expression that might not reflect the artist’s life. Does this hurt their authenticity, or make the story richer? Audiences play a big part. They crave gritty realism, pressuring artists to fit stereotypes. So, is being “real” about personal truth or meeting culture’s unreal expectations? Music Authenticity in Question Fans want honesty, valuing artists who reveal their true selves. However, commercial success often ties to image, pushing some to wear a facade. Critics say a focus on marketability over authenticity disconnects artists and audiences. This tension shows in songs where fame and personal integrity clash. For listeners, spotting authenticity takes critical thinking. Is an artist genuine, or just crafting a persona for success? Urban Culture Debates Urban culture debates put authenticity front and center. Hip hop’s urban roots shape its stories. Is an artist’s background real, or just an image? Questions surface when artists’ lifestyles don’t match their lyrics. Social Media Critics wonder if they exploit urban culture for profit, watering down its essence. Some supporters say hip hop needs to evolve, as to the “Casual” Fans are highly alarmed by this (which is highly laughable). As it shouldn’t go “Global”, it just shows what type of society we are in, and especially the tomfoolery that seemingly happens within the nuance of the Hip Hop Culture. The latest brewing upon Jadakiss “Background” The Jadakiss controversy is back at it, sparking fresh talk on authenticity in hip hop. Should there be a case study upon on the importance of such within a culture that’s of Entertainment?   What Sparked the Debate? Questions over Jadakiss focused on his lyrics. Social Media critics claimed his music, though powerful, didn’t mirror his life but an amplified persona. From two years ago (2023), a recent video resurfaced on a guest appearance his father, son; Really Jaewon, and himself made on The Joe Budden Podcast where allegedly his father expresses about Jada’s home raising, as well as schooling. This led some fans online and social media the audacity to rethink authenticity of Jadakiss’ skillset. Is Jadakiss a storyteller or wearing a false mask? The issue highlights the tough task of telling artistic expression from genuine narrative in hip hop. It shows the complex link between an artist’s image and their art’s truth. (For me, outright ridiculous to say the least…..but, I digress) Reactions from the Hip Hop Community Reactions to the Jadakiss controversy were mixed. Many fans defended him, loving his lyrical prowess and storytelling. Some saw it as part of a bigger problem, where the quest for commercial success overshadows true artistry. Community talks stressed balancing artistic freedom with staying true to one’s roots. This reflects hip hop’s ongoing struggle with performance versus authenticity, or for that matter the sensitivity of social media. The Jadakiss controversy impacts from social media. It’s reignited the authenticity debate in a changing genre. Some view it as overreacting nonsense, and others a chance for artists to redefine authenticity, allowing creative freedom while keeping storytelling genuine. For some, it’s a reminder that authenticity is crucial to the genre’s integrity. As hip hop grows, genuine connections between artists and audiences are vital. (Honestly, just needs to Grow-Up!!!) Navigating Today’s Hip Hop Landscape Today’s hip hop scene needs balancing commercial ambitions with real expression. As the genre shifts, artists and fans must decide what staying true to hip hop means. Also, these unrealistic expectations for Artists and Rappers are being far too blurred for selective premise dismissing the skillset one obtains. Balancing Fame, Authenticity, and Legal Challenges Navigating the complexities of fame and authenticity is no easy feat. Success often demands a polished image, but fans yearn for raw, unfiltered truth. On top of these pressures, artists now face the additional challenge of their lyrics being scrutinized in legal settings. Stay grounded: Anchoring success in community ties ensures that creative work remains genuine and relatable. Embrace personal stories: Authentic narratives resonate deeply with audiences who crave realness. Adapt creatively: Innovate with new sounds while honoring one’s roots to remain true to the genre. Consider lyrical impact: Artists do recognize that lyrics can shape perceptions and even influence legal judgments. Also, they can not control of what evokes a fan nowadays The true challenge lies in balancing external pressures and maintaining artistic integrity, all while being mindful that lyrical expressions could be used in courtrooms. The Role of Fans in Shaping Culture Fans are key to hip hop culture. Their call for authenticity shapes the genre, influencing which artists shine. Support genuine artistry: Fans can back artists with real stories, breaking ground for honesty. Engage critically: By questioning music’s authenticity, some casual fans show what their knowledge is, and for others are purists to the core. Celebrate diversity: Embracing varied experiences lets hip hop grow, blending diverse stories with its core values. Level of Fan Accountability: Yes, they

#rewindreview: Mountain Brothers ‘Self: Volume 1’ 1998

  When I first recognized Mountain Brothers was my second year in college with a track called ‘Galaxies: Next Level.’ I saw the video on Canada’s Much Music television station that was airing here in the states in 1999 (Ohh how I miss that station). When listening to this track I realized I had already heard this group on a couple college radio tapes I had. ‘5 Elements’ was actually my introduction to them but I just never put a name to the voices and then ‘Paperchase’ which was a Summer 1999 FAVORITE of mine was on a tape I had during that time. ‘Self Volume 1’ is actually one of the first albums I purchased over the internet during my stint in college at Mississippi Valley State University. I mention my location specifically because there was irony of being at MVSU and discovering more music than I ever would have realized being in that location. Of course it was more due to my access to the internet but memories are still created from those days. Mountain Brothers were out of Philadelphia P.A. but what made them stand out at the time was these were Asian rappers which was not too common. Chops, Peril-L and Styles Infinite made “the triad golden crew” that rapped and produced this hour long collection of songs that give the listening public a clear view of who the Mountain Brothers are. The trio make it known they can rap but also have conceptual tracks like ‘Day Job,’ ‘Things To Do’ and ‘Oh-Oh-Oh.’ The latter track being a parody of the Miami Bass music that was popular at the time but also it left a stain on this album as instead of it being an interlude of levity, it was a 5 minute song to close out the album. The issue with ‘Self: Volume 1’ is the good moments are extremely good while other moments don’t live up to those very high points on the album. With the record being in my collection all of these years the music grows on you and the lower moments have become more acceptable but this album really could have made a mark if there were more ‘Paperchase’ and ‘Galaxies..’ on it. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Paperchase’ & ‘Galaxies: The Next Level’ Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 1-3a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD11 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @https://linktr.ee/QLEAPRADIO

From Wu-Tang to “Southside”: Guest Appearance by Mathematics with C.U.T.S. Podcast

Reemo has another Hip Hop LEGEND on deck? Hey #MyCreatives, are you ready for an adventure? Hip-hop fans and podcast lovers, listen up! When Wu-Tang’s legendary DJ/Producer, Mathematics, joins the chat, magic indeed happens! So, don’t miss Episode 154 of the C.U.T.S. Podcast. Tune in on Thursday, April 17th at 6 pm on Spotify and YouTube. Wu-Tang Legend speaks on New Album!!! C.U.T.S. loves hip-hop stories, especially those from legends like Mathematics. Indeed, his segment is pure magic! Mathematics isn’t just a name; he’s a Wu-Tang architect. Therefore, his appearance on the C.U.T.S. Podcast is groundbreaking. It dives into his new album, “Black Samson: The Bastard Swordsman.” Get ready for exclusive stories from the master himself. You’ll gain insights into his musical journey. “Black Samson: The Bastard Swordsman” is set to become a new hip-hop milestone. Glimpse into “Black Samson: The Bastard Swordsman” Mathematics on C.U.T.S. offers more than just a recap. Instead, it’s a sneak peek into his next big project. You’ll explore his creative process, blending old and new hip-hop. With each beat, anticipation builds, bringing fans closer. Tune into C.U.T.S. (Link). You’ll hear sessions where beats unite listeners. Moreover, Mathematics shares behind-the-scenes Wu-Tang stories, packed with hip-hop wisdom. Keen to dive deeper into hip-hop? This episode is your golden ticket. It provides creative insights for beatmakers and fans alike. Inspire with Learning Moments The podcast is a treasure for aspiring audio creators—a masterclass taught by Mathematics! Sampling Secrets: Learn about creative and respectful sampling. Breaking Boundaries: Discover advanced techniques that reveal a producer’s mind. Powerful Influence: Understand how music shapes and is shaped by culture. Looking for real talk and tips? Mathematics shares insights on blending classic vibes with new beats, making this episode both educational and inspiring. Wu-Tang Clan: Inside Stories Wu-Tang tales delve into team dynamics and more. Roots and Realness: Wu-Tang’s journey includes pivotal hustle moments. Teamwork: Their unified spirit crafts a unique sound. Cultural Icons: Discover Wu-Tang’s impact and Mathematics’ views on their chemistry. These stories highlight resilience, creativity, and unity. Cultural Fire and Beats Feel Mathematics’ passion for culture and beats. The podcast showcases his deep connection to music. Unmatched Passion: Discover the drivers of his production success. Bridging with Sound: Explore music as a cultural link. Future Visions: Learn about his plans for hip-hop evolution, pushing innovation while honoring roots. This episode celebrates hip-hop culture and is loaded with engaging stories. Dive into Mathematics’ world through this exclusive podcast episode. As per usual, ON TO THE NEXT #MyCreatives Follow Me on Social Media: IG: https://www.instagram.com/reemomeerak_ X(Twitter): https://twitter.com/reemomeerak_ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@reemomeerak_ LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kareemreemomeeraktyson Subscribe to The Podcast; Reemo Meerak: The C.U.T.S. https://www.youtube.com/@TheCUTS_ Subscribe To My Vlog Channel – Reemo Meerak: ReemTV: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzeBLMMZerckVQ9LJa93oZw For Interviews, Cover your event, write a review, or Features: [email protected] OR [email protected]

#rewindreview: Encore ‘Self Preservation’ 2000

  This is a deep cut right here. For those who were listening to the independent movement of the late 1990’s and purchased the fruit of those labors in the early 2000’s, you know that the West Coast was cornering a market. With acts like Dilated Peoples, Lootpack, Jurassic 5, People Under The Stairs and so on, it was getting to a point that if you were looking for “truskool” HOP music at the turn of the millennium, look West. Encore was able to sneak in under this umbrella with a couple of previous 12″ inch singles that were collaborations with Peanut Butter Wolf and Evidence, prior to this album which created an anticipation for it’s release. ‘Self Preservation’ is the debut album from Encore that was produced by Architect and one track by Joey Chavez. What Architect and Encore provided was an album that compliments the two’s addition to the core of HOP music. Encore has a tone and execution of rhymes similar to Rakim while the simple but hardcore production of Architect drives the album home for listeners who appreciate the stylings of D.J. Premier. Features included some names that were buzzing at the time of this release like Dave Dub, Kedar, The Bishop and a couple that had made a name for themselves by then like Pep Love of the Hieroglyphics Crew and Grand The Vis of Homeliss Derelicts. I remember first buying this album on the same day that I purchased Common’s ‘Like Water For Chocolate,’ so unfortunately my focus at the time, simply stated was… elsewhere. Over the years the album has remained solid and although it never had the impact of the albums from names mentioned earlier, it added to an era of consistent and trustworthy HOP music releases that were made to get your ACTUAL money’s worth. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘For You,’ ‘Sporadic,’ & ‘Love & Hate (the mellow drama)’ Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 1-3a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD11 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @https://linktr.ee/QLEAPRADIO

#rewindreview: L.M.N.O. & Kev Brown ‘Selective Hearing 2’ 2010

  Two underground HOP music staples got together to bring a not so subtle collection of songs honoring the great James Brown. L.M.N.O. of the Visionaries and Kev Brown of the Low Budget crew present ‘Selective Hearing 2,’ where the two select to chop up some of the best James Brown quotes and samples for a head nodding adventure. This is thirty-five minutes of pure HOP music that does not leave listener’s feeling overwhelmed from rapping as L.M.N.O. and Kev Brown compliment the vibe and beats on this project like jazz musicians. They are not alone on the mic and incorporate the talents of Mr. Brady, Hassan Mackey, Declaime, Kaimbr, Trek Life, Kenn Starr and Charlie 2na. All voices fitting extremely well among Kev Brown’s beats and the precise scratches by D.J. LD. ‘Selective Hearing 2’ reminds those who appreciate HOP music of why we took to it during those mid to late 1980’s and 1990’s, which was the DNA of James Brown and the soul he provided for black music. “It’s spring again,” so pull this album out for a repeat or dig in for the first time while touching some grass today! What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Ya Know’ Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 1-3a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD11 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @https://linktr.ee/QLEAPRADIO

#ReemoApproved Review: Li-Ning x Staples Collab Event

Staples x Li-Ning Ping Pong Event: SoHo Came to Play If you were in SoHo other night and didn’t pull up to the Staples x Li-Ning Ping Pong Event, I hate to say it—you missed a GOODIE!!!! Picture this: DJ setting the vibe, and a room full of sneakerheads, creatives, and people who just know a good event when they see one….with Ping Pong and Staple version of “Beer Pong” going simultaneously. Jeff Staple and Li-Ning didn’t just drop a collab—they threw an experience. And somehow, they made ping pong feel like the coolest sport on the planet.   The games? Competitive, yet FUN!!!!. What started as fun volleys turned into real matchups—crowds hyping up players, sneakers squeaking, people fully locked in. I saw footwork like this was the finals at MSG. Who knew ping pong had this level of intensity? (Psst….especially with Prizes involved). But let’s be real—the sneakers were the reason we were all there. The Staples x Li-Ning collab is clean. Futuristic but wearable, performance-ready but still fly enough to rock anywhere.  Jeff Staple always understands the balance between function and culture, and this drop proves it again. By the end of the night, it wasn’t just about the game. It was about the mix of streetwear, sport, and community—exactly what makes events like this special. If you weren’t there, just know: next time, don’t sleep.   As per usual #MyCreatives, ON TO THE NEXT!!!! Follow Me on Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reemomeerak_/ X(Twitter): Tweets by reemomeerak_ Tik Tok: @reemomeerak_ LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kareemreemomeeraktyson Subscribe to The Podcast; Reemo Meerak: The C.U.T.S. https://www.youtube.com/@TheCUTS_ Subscribe To My Vlog Channel; Reemo Meerak: ReemTV: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzeBLMMZerckVQ9LJa93oZw For Interviews, Cover your event, write a review, or Features: [email protected]

#rewindreview: Kendrick Lamar ‘Section 80’ 2011

  At the end of the 2000’s and beginning of the 2010’s, my filter for new acts in HOP music was fully active. Not many if any new acts was I giving a chance. This was mainly due to the overkill of acts that were springing up from the internet. It all felt too easy and a lot of it did not feel genuine but more like folks wanting to have “rap” on their resume when someone asks those individuals about themselves. Hip-Hop music at that time was like SXSW once it became corporate and everyone was just handing out CD’s on 6th street but didn’t even know how to perform on stage. Like a lot of those individuals I either turned them down or took an album and never listened. In 2011 a group I managed, H.I.S.D. was on the same ‘Beats, Arts + Lyrics’ show as Kendrick Lamar who headlined that show. Because of the co-sign of EQuality from H.I.S.D. (The HUE) I finally gave “K. Dot” a chance but needless to say this was only year before he would skyrocket as a HOP music force, and many at that event left by the time his set started. ‘Section 80’ was the album he was performing at the time and I stayed for a bit but was unfamiliar with the music so I couldn’t relate. Flash forward about a year later and I sat with ‘Section 80’ to see if I could understand the accolades he was receiving. From the first listen I was impressed with the production, although at the time the first half of the album I felt was not necessarily geared toward my ears but more toward the target generation he was in. Essentially the album felt like a better sounding effort of those CD’s that would be handed out at SXSW. Where this album has grown with me over the years is the projects after it giving me a better understanding of how ahead of his time and mature Kendrick Lamar was when ‘Section 80’ released. If ‘A.D.H.D’ is a summary of the youth and ignorance of his generation, ‘HiiiPower,’ ‘Kush & Corinthians’ are that medicine on this album that speaks to my generation. Kendrick Lamar was “bridging the gap” through teaching, giving his own life perspective and rapping at a high level. Day one fans often herald this as his best offering and I would never challenge their perspective because like Nas’ ‘Illmatic,’ sometimes you simply had “to be there” to understand. ‘Section 80’ is another example as to why I often compare “Kendrick’s” run to Outkast, as from their debut albums, the next and so on and so forth would sound so much different from the last. This will often cause discourse among listeners initially but when the dust settles and we all listen back, the greatness of the art is rarely ever challenged when looking at the landscape the art was created in. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘HiiiPower,’ ‘Tammy’s Song,’ ‘A.D.H.D.,’ & ‘Rigamortis’ Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 1-3a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD11 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @https://linktr.ee/QLEAPRADIO

#rewindreview: All Natural ‘Second Nature’ 2001

  One would not know it by the album cover but All Natural’s sophomore album ‘Second Nature’ is one of the rawest and realest HOP albums to come from the early 2000’s era. The Chicago duo consisting of Capital D. and Tone B. Nimble made sure that their second offering lived or at least tried to honor, what fans expected of them since their debut album in 1998. From the out set of the album ‘The Stick Up,’ listeners understand that the calming nature of the album cover is as mild as this journey will be. Capital D. upholds that “truskool” style of rhyme he has with a voice Rakim listeners would relate to. More importantly “Cap D.” uses his voice to not only show his talent but a beacon for providing truth to rhyme. ‘Uncle Sam’ featuring Slug is a point of view take on America and given current events can easily be applied to 2025. Same can be said for ‘Future Is Now’ as Capital D. prophesizes the importance of not waiting until the worst has happened to activate and mobilize. Other tracks like ‘Mr. Sexy’ go back to the days where the “line was drawn in the sand” between mainstream and underground while ‘Queens Get The Money’ adapts that popular Mobb Deep quote to talk about the women who deserve the spoils of men. Production is all in house, which is the Family Tree who on this album was G(R)iot, Memo, His-Panik, All Natural themselves and J. Rawls who produced one of the most banging tracks on this album, ‘The Renaissance’ featuring Lone Catalysts. New listeners will not hear this album and think that it was a monumental benchmark in HOP music but for me it is one of my favorite albums to listen to, due to how simple the approach is. My issue with the album over the years has been how it was mixed. Certain songs like ‘Ill Advisory,’ ‘Queens Get The Money’ and ‘The Renaissance’ sound great but the majority of the tracks have always sounded like there was an “amateur” engineer on the mix. Again this is balanced by how fresh and raw the songs are on ‘Second Nature.’ What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Stellar,’ ‘Elements Of Style’ & ‘Queens Get The Money’ Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 1-3a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD2 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @https://linktr.ee/QLEAPRADIO

Legacy Defined: Smif-N-Wessun’s Infinity Blends Soul, Grit, and Elite Lyricism

On Infinity Smif-N-Wessun cement their legacy as Hip-Hop Hall of Famers, proving they’re still performing at the highest level. Delivering profound bars over 9th Wonder and the Soul Council’s production, this collaboration is a masterclass crafted for purists. The opening track, “Infinity,” samples a KRS-One line: “We will be here forever,” encapsulating their history and enduring presence in the game. “Moses Promise” features Steele and Tek trading verses, spitting wisdom over a soulful beat. Meanwhile, “Namaste” finds them reflecting on the pursuit of love and a brighter future. The bouncy “Medina,” backed by a children’s chorus, sees Pharoahe Monch delivering a razor-sharp verse, detailing warfare tactics with precision. “Black Eminence,” featuring the late Prodigy of Mobb Deep, pairs earnest verses with an R&B-inspired groove. “Chuuch,” featuring Jalisa, is a conscious and thought-provoking anthem, offering reflection and inspiration for overcoming unjust conditions. The 9th Wonder-produced “Enjoy Ya Life” combines energetic drums and a spirited chant, creating a sonically uplifting vibe. “Shine,” featuring Ralph Tresvant, showcases the duo trading bars over Tresvant’s harmonic melodies. The Jodeci-inspired “Just Stay,” featuring Conway the Machine, finds the trio delivering raw, heartfelt lyrics over a smooth, soulful backdrop. Another standout, “Heard About Me,” features the late Sean Price and Maverick Sabre, adding depth and intensity to the album. Infinity is a stellar contribution to the hip-hop ethos, with elite production from 9th Wonder and the Soul Council, paired with sharp, insightful lyrics from Steele, Tek, and their guests. The album is cohesive, blending soulful grit with contemporary relevance, taking listeners back to the essence of hip-hop while remaining fresh and forward-thinking.

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