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#rewindreview: Nas ‘Magic 2’ 2023

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  The fifth installment in the Nas & Hit-Boy saga was either overkill for some or a gift. ‘Magic 2’ comes off a stellar run of the ‘King’s Disease’ trilogy but even more a sequel to one of the most surprising and satisfying albums from Nas in years, ‘Magic.’ The question is was there a need for a ‘Magic 2’? The first installment played like an homage to ‘Illmatic’ with just nine tracks, one feature and a simple but effective focus of just beats and rhymes. ‘Magic 2’ plays like an apology for all those who could not accept or understand the nature of ‘Magic.’ From the opening track ‘Abracadabra,’ the Nas fan in me felt nervous that he was regressing back to playing to current and industry standards. ‘Office Hours’ brings back hope and although I initially was skeptical seeing 50 Cent featured on the track listing, I actually enjoyed his verse while many, who are fans of 50 Cent felt disappointed. The verse felt weird as it was very short and kind of reminded me of Saafir’s guest appearance on Casual’s ‘Fear Itself’ album. Almost as if the rapper could give more effort but chooses not, like he’s mere presence on the record is enough so maybe this was the 50 Cent fans’ issue. The majority of the album rides the line of keeping the traditional HOP music fans, and people who want to hear Nas over what the average beats rappers of the last 12 years have produced satisfied. Of course this to me is where the album is unnecessary and leans into the criticism of Nasir Jones over the years. When Nas sticks his landings it is GREAT but when trying to bridge gaps it just sounds like turkey without seasonings. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Motion’ & ‘Black Magic’ 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 (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @

#rewindreview: Double A.B. & Git Beats ‘Lungs Of Mahalia’ 2024

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  If looking for a HOP album that provides lyrics, concepts and production, look to Double A.B. & Git Beats ‘Lungs Of Mahalia.’ Often times certain M.C.’s can get comfortable in just showing how well they can rap which does not exclude Double A.B., but where he makes this release more than that are the concepts. ‘Lungs Of Mahalia’ will provide just enough street bravado to satisfy those that don’t want too much “left of center” music in their Hip-Hop. It also gives a couple joints to the ladies on the stand out ‘Sashimi’ and ‘Pimps Palace.’ Double A.B. expresses his love for the “greenery” on ‘Recliner’ while taking the time to wax poetic over his view of politics on ‘Justice.’ This is a well rounded album if closely listening and Git Beats provides some production that doesn’t keep the album stagnant while not succumbing to sounding current. That same production is complementary to Double A.B. as it fits his style and doesn’t overtake the listener’s attention to the rhymes. The album is not long and boasts some guest features that fit perfectly such as Prince Po, Eto, A-Plus, Homeboy Sandman, Young Zee and The Musalini on the aforementioned ‘Pimps Palace.’ ‘Lungs Of Mahalia’ is yet another cog in the wheel of the incredible year of 2024 HOP music. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Sashimi,’ ‘On My Way’ & ‘Recliner’ 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 (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @

#rewindreview: Rockwelz ‘LL2J’ 2023

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  On this release from Bronx, New York rapper Rockwelz, the listener will be transported to that same location with a soundtrack mirroring early 2000’s HOP music. Produced entirely by Nam Nitty with features from John Jigg$, The Bad Seed, M.O.U.F., J Waiters and The Musalini, make ‘LLJ2’ as “New York” as it gets in a modern day that seems to erase what the sound from the great Metropolis established. Rockwelz creates tracks that are not as street to where one can’t groove but don’t expect any “cookie cutter” tracks either. ‘LLJ2’ sounds like a love letter for those who love the Dipset and G-Unit era while giving a nod to L.L. Cool J’s style of hardcore lyricism with songs for the ladies. The latter part Rockwelz and Nam Nitty provide on a few tracks that go from not having enough time for the ladies on ‘Tick Tock’ to appreciating the special ones on ‘Around The Way Girl’ and the ones you can’t trust on ‘G.T.M.O.’ ‘LLJ2’ doesn’t establish itself as something that will be talked about years from now, but if one is looking for a break from standard “drill beats with doubled bass” and would like to return to a sound soon forgotten, press play. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Heavy’ & ‘Tick Tock’ 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 (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @

Can Glorilla’s new album; “Glorious” draw Hip Hop Album Of The Year honors in 2025?

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#MyCreatives what it dew…. Once again, Hip Hop Music in 2024 has really taken it this far with the jammed packed filled of multi-talented music with a mixture of current, and veteran artists really bringing the pain with quality, and well produced music for listeners. Now, we have one of the more known Hip Hop stars entering the mix with; Glorilla. Already with historical first week sale numbers, and popularity like no other. One or many will start coming to terms that “Glorious” could be stamped for high honors and awards in 2025. Make no mistake about it, Glorilla’s unique style, and tone makes her music not only relatable, but even a non-fan will have no choice to “bop” to her music. Her personality is a compliment to her already talented, as well as determination approach of being one the best in the industry and it shows heavily. Glorilla has some heavy competition in Hip Hop Music for her album to be crowned “Best Female Hip Hop Album Of The Year”. From Rapsody’s “Please Don’t Cry”, Nicki Minaj’s “Pink Friday 2″, Doechii‘s Alligator Bites Never Heal, Doja Cat‘s Scarlet 2 (Claude), Latto‘s Sugar Honey Iced Tea, Megan Thee Stallion‘s Megan, Sexyy Red‘s In Sexyy We Trust, Tierra Wack; “World Wide Wack”, that come to mind for me when it comes into 2025 possible selections for honors and awards. Now we know, and have come to terms that the Recording Academy sees things differently. For me, as a media figure, contributor, and fan of the culture this year has been one of the most fun-filled, and enjoyable displays of music within the culture. The parity is displayed heavily, as well as the contrast between the current younger generation talent, and the veteran artists is not a large gap by any means. The production quality amongst the albums are highly impressive and notable, as well as going into Grammy & American Music Awards season has never been this intense in a while. Don’t take my word for it, or feel I’m against Glorilla (I have no win in that race, or feel she is not talented). YES, I feel her latest album is a quality, and very diverse album. Definitely amongst the middle of the album where she goes deep with a few tracks, as well as the features with Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music, Kierra Sheard, Chandler Moore, Muni Long, FRIDAYY, and T-Pain along with getting a Megan Thee Stallion feature shows that she wanted this project to be different than what she has already presented with her music. My Favorite Tracks: Procedure Featuring Latto TGIF Stop Playing Rain Down On Me feat Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music, Kierra Sheard, and Chandler Moore Glo’s Prayer How I Look Featuring Megan Thee Stallion Let Her Cook (Grew on Me, but is still a “Вор”) I LUV Her Featuring T-Pain (Interesting) Queen Of Memphis Featuring Fridayy (A Solid track to close out) I will say, if she’s able to be victorious with “Glorious” in 2025 and receive multiple honors and awards, then for sure she will be cemented on the path of Greatness, and in a quick succession rate like no other. As per usual, #MyCreatives….. ON TO THE NEXT!!!!! Follow Me on Social Media: Instagram: 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] Shop The Merch: https://reemomeerakbrand.myshopify.com

#rewindreview: Talib Kweli & Madlib ‘Liberation 2’ 2023

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  The second full project offering from Talib Kweli and the elusive Madlib is a long awaited release considering the cult success of ‘Liberation.’ Kweli has been utilizing Madlib on albums dating back to 2007’s ‘Eardrum’ and a year prior to ‘Liberation 2,’ Madlib was the sole producer on the even more highly anticipated sophomore album from Black Star. ‘Liberation 2’ picks up right after that and continues a pattern of Talib Kweli records that seem to be annual releases from the M.C. Kweli will always delve into a subconscious and social awareness but there are a few new moments of awareness that address his online activity and instigators. Also this time around, Kweli’s progeny make an appearance, with his daughter Diani on ‘Air Quotes’ and son Amani on ‘After These Messages.’ Madlib provides his signature sound of dusty grooves with obscure audio clips as connecting interludes with songs. Even more satisfaction for HOP listeners is the pseudo-return of the Lootpack with Wildchild featured on ‘One For Biz.’ ‘Liberation 2’ is a solid record but does not seem to hold the same strength as the initial ‘Liberation’ album. Madlib’s album making seems to be best for rappers who are bit more simplistic in their rhymes. Madlib’s production is like free jazz and with Kweli’s more straightforward rhyming it often doesn’t seem to fit as well on this release. The first ‘Liberation’ felt more like a spur of the moment creation which is why it worked so well but this album might be a bit too calculated and ironically is why it doesn’t work as well as the first. ‘Liberation 2’ still is effective in providing another argument that age in Hip-Hop is not an “Achilles Heal” as neither Kweli or Madlib sound like they lost a step. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘After These Messages,’ ‘Best Year Ever,’ ‘Air Quotes,’ ‘Nat Turner,’ ‘Richies Part Two,’ ‘One For Biz’ & ‘The Right To Love Us’ 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 (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @

#rewindreview: Configa & Tommy Evans ‘Jolicoeur’ 2024

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  Configa and Tommy Evans are two acts from the United Kingdom who came together for an uplifting of frequencies on ‘Jolicoeur.’ This thirty minute album is tailor made for the summertime as Configa provides production that makes listeners dance while Tommy Evans uses his voice as an instrument with a free flowing style to it. If one is a fan of the Native Tongues then ‘Jolicoeur’ will satisfy the auditory canal as the release’s title is also paying homage to De La Soul’s fallen member Dave a.k.a. Plug 2. This album is “vibes and stuff” so do not expect to hear complex rhyme styles or deep lyrical thought. Tommy Evans makes more of a case for his own life experiences and the joy from that with a fun delivery that almost speaks to the inner child in the listener. There are a few features with mainly vocal artist like Doella, Matthew Allman, VVN and others while expect to hear rhymes from Kyza and Speech from Arrested Development. Run ‘Jolicoeur’ for a spin or two and decide if Configa & Tommy Evans are in their own “Buhloone Mindstate.” What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Summertime’ & ‘The Water’ 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 (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @

Ricky Bats: “How Real Is That?!!!!” Music Review

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What makes Ricky Bats continue? The Bronx is heavily known within the Hip Hop Culture, and Music for having hard working and impactful figures that captivated many with their skillset, creativity, and energy. Most def’n had the opportunity to chop’it up with one of the best in the independent circuit with Bronx Native; Ricky Bats. He has a new album coming soon, and currently just dropped the single and music video; “How Real Is That?!!!” Ricky Bats, beloved definitely appreciate you giving us your time, off the rip with that funny yet, serious line; “N_____s be Suckin’ their teeth, you got a slow leak, what you got a flat?!!!!…” do you feel Hip Hop Music has lost its way with having “Fun” in the bars, or it’s the sign of the times it’s returning with the way the lyrics have been written by artists as of late? RB: Hip Hop was based off of having fun. Once it started getting into the gangsta style of music, it turned more into the street music, and with the modern day rap music, I hear less witty lines in it. With you directing, and editing your own music video, do you feel artists should go more that route, or is it one of those “If Need be” type decisions? RB: I think as an artist you need to know everything in this music industry in order to understand it better. It’s just more than studio and recording your records. There’s understanding the business. I’m still learning the business aspect to it. I got into directing and shooting my own videos, because I feel like no one could express my vision more than me. And plus my life is so random. That a video guy or director is not gonna be around at all times with me and capture certain moments. So whoever’s with me at the time, I’ll give them the camera and they can record and get thos random moments. How was it working with Hip Hop Legend; Fredro Starr on the track, what was the over/under with the beat selection? RB: It’s always a dope experience working with Dro. Shit he’s a legend! If we’re not recording in the studio together, he will send me a batch of beats, and I go through them. “How Real Is That?!!!!” on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7pBiUWoLkQQqCs1I7BO05d?si=7M3osTpSTZ6p7NBTr3EMXw For your upcoming album; “100 Bats” what should we expect, and any chance you lets us know of the surprising features? RB: I have no major features on this album. Other than Fredro Starr (Producer), I have two artists that are on this project l’ve worked with, Brigavelli she’s a dope R&B singer. She’s on four records on the album, and I have this young artist i’ve been working with as well, R Hoody. Now being the vet in Hip Hop, as well as a potent figure in the Independent Circuit, what else do you feel is needed for you to still maintain your stance in the culture? RB: Just growing!!! Not staying stagnant at the same level. Take a chance and being creative with music, marketing and promoting. Staying consistent. ‘Cause once you stay consistent, you could notice the difference with everyone else that isn’t consistent. Do you feel streaming numbers can hinder an artist’s talent, and with that could be the one of the factors why some music that’s out today seems “Mediocre”? RB: I don’t think streaming numbers can hinder talent. Talent is talent and numbers’ are numbers…  Again, it comes down to marketing and promoting. Streaming is not paying artist what we they deserve. It’s a different day and age with this music industry. Gotta invest your money into your project to maximize the potential growth. Streaming is one aspect of the industry. Talent is another. What’s your take on the current state of Hip Hop Music vs the Hip Hop Culture? RB: Nowadays, Hip Hop Music is what the radio stations are making it to be, the same style  songs, and not enough talent being pushed to the public. I really don’t like what’s going on now, and it seems to be an agenda pushed behind it. Also, the underground market is “flaming up” on a good note. I like that role for authentic Hip Hop Music to be displayed within the CULTURE. Last, what’s the most impactful thing you want your fans to take away from your music career? RB: Everything is not glitz & glamour. There’s a lot of work and grind that needs to be put in behind the senes. Consistency is the key and you have to put the work in regardless if there’s support or not. Now #MYCreatives, I’ve listen to the track about 4 times, and it’s definitely a #ReemoApproved track, as well as honestly can’t wait to hear his upcoming album; “100 Bats”. On that note #MyCreatives, ON TO THE NEXT!!!! Follow Me on Social Media: Instagram: 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_ Subcribe 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] Shop The Merch: https://reemomeerakbrand.myshopify.com

Can “Rated R” be the next Superstars from Jersey?

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Rated R is on the scene!!!! #MYCreatives what it dew, I’m back at it again with another #ReemoApproved Artists Spotlight, and of course had to reach out to Jersey’s own rising duo of Kiara and Jade which make; RATED R. Now if you follow “The Social Dw33b of Hip Hop” as of late since 2022 been covering artists from the Garden State, and shockingly been put under the “Burner” after the light was sparked by Fetty Wap, and many legends prior. Can the light and time within the industry shine bright for Rated R to take? I chopped it up with them to see do they have what it takes to make an impact in the culture!!!! Being a woman duo, how can you separate from the possible stigma being placed as a “City Girls” type of group? Rated R: I mean, the only thing they can compare when it comes to the City Girls is kind of the look. Other than that, we both do our own things and don’t step on each other’s toes. I bring the sweet she brings the heat. Right now I can’t think of any successful duos out who do opposite things and mix as well as we do.   Now, New Jersey has a heavy influence of talent involved in the music and entertainment industry. Do you feel the pressure of carrying on the legacy of your state, or its truly focusing on what Rated R has to offer? Rated R: If you want to make a diamond, you can’t do it without pressure. We’ve been saying for the longest that Jersey has a lot to offer. We don’t feel burdened by it we embrace it as we embody Jersey pride. We’re here to show the world what Rated R is all about. We from Big Jersey, The Grind Hard state. Women in the culture are heavily taken over and in a large number, what does that do for the group, as well as what would you want to let future young women coming into the game to understand? Rated R: Our motto is EMPOWERMENT. We want to inspire young women to embrace their authenticity in the way they see it. You just gotta worry about what it looks like to you. You can be who you are and be a fly boss. It’s crucial for the industry to shine a light on women because we have powerful stories to tell. IT’S WOMEN right now leading the conversation from music to presidential seats. We’re rarely in the conversations let’s continue to keep us apart of it.   On your music journey, how important is having a team to support you? Rated R: Having a team on your journey in this music industry can either make you or break you, but having the support of a great team can only make you better. A lot of people be trying to take advantage, and ownership of things that are not theirs. Gratefully our team is genuine and supportive of what we want to do. I think it’s necessary, especially for artist who are serious about the careers.   We’re in the 3rd Quarter of 2024, how will you close out 2024, and what’s in store for us in 2025 from Rated R? Rated R: We will definitely be outside for the rest of 2024, continuing to pop out. In 2025 expect music, exciting events, and plenty of engagement from us! We are excited for what we have planned for 2025.   How important is music production for you when making the music, and how selective are you when choosing the right producer to work with? Rated R: Music production is crucial in creating our music. If the sound and mix aren’t right, it just doesn’t feel right. We can’t move on to visuals or performances without truly feeling the mix. I don’t know how many times we listened to “Bad Guy” just to make sure it was exactly what we wanted to deliver to our fans. It honestly starts when selecting a producer, it’s all about the sound and vibe they bring to the table. Who influenced you the most when starting your music career? Kiara: Ella Mai has been a huge influence for me. I admired how she stayed true to herself throughout her career, focusing on the authenticity of her words and music. That’s the path I aspire to follow. Jada: When I started making my own music, Nicki Minaj was a huge influence. I was a super fan and loved the feminine energy she brought to the industry.   What’s the one thing you want to let your growing fan base know? Kiara: Remember that nothing in life comes easy. If you want something, you have to put in the hard work and hustle for it because no one else will do it for you. Jada: No dream is too big. If you believe it, you can certainly achieve it! All in all, I must say the duo is poise to make sure JERSEY is definitely on the map, as well as the industry will not forget their name….. “RATED R!!!!” On that note #MyCreatives, ON TO THE NEXT!!!! Follow Me on Social Media: Instagram: 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_ Subcribe 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] Shop The Merch: https://reemomeerakbrand.myshopify.com

#rewindreview: K-Rec, Checkmate & Moka Only ‘Inference And Hearsay’ EP 2024

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  This is a Canadian takeover with Vancouver British Columbia’s Moka Only and Checkmate free flowing over a diverse amount of beats from K-Rec. ‘Inference And Hearsay’ is a fifteen minute EP of showing HOP music ages like fine wine. Moka Only still sounds as fresh as when one first heard him throughout his storied career. K-Rec provides some standout moments with this release like the infectious title track and a sort of “180” moment of the sounds you expect to here from the D.J./producer with ‘Way2Lit.’ I initially thought Checkmate was a newer act, yet I began to realize his name was associated with Canadian Hip-Hop but could not quite put my finger as to where. Then low and behold the track that most Americans became introduced to Canadian rap artist was ‘Northern Touch,’ a posse cut of acts from Canada that got some lengthy rotation on B.E.T.’s ‘Rap City.’ Checkmate was on that track and now this EP comes full circle (no pun). With the length of this release, one will not waste their time, but the initial two tracks are a personal favorite while the last three are a bit darker in tone. K-Rec gives the tracks added flavor with cuts and scratches making ‘Inference And Hearsay’ in “fact” a solid addition to an incredible year of HOP music from it’s veterans. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Love Keep pt.2’ & ‘Inference And Hearsay’ 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 (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @

Lola Brooke feat. Jeremih; “No One Else” Music Review

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Ohhhhhhhhhhh, #MYCreatives the HOT STREAK CONTINUES for your Neighborhood #RugerSprayyyyyer and Social Dw33b of Hip Hop!!!! This time, I’m doing the latest review of Lola Brooke and Jeremih’s latest HOT TRACK!!!! Lola Brooke and Jeremih just dropped their new track called; “No One Else” and it’s the smooth blend of street and R&B vibes we didn’t know we needed. Lola, known for her gritty Brooklyn flow, does what she does best here — talk her talk, unapologetically. She’s got that confidence in her verses, spitting something soulful, and her “get the mood” right bars that show she’s not waiting on anyone to make her feel good. It’s all her, all day!!!! Jeremih, on the other hand, slides in with those signature silky vocals that we’ve come to love from him. His hook brings that sexy, late-night vibe, making the track perfect for a mix of chilling and vibing. The contrast between Lola’s hard-hitting, as well as soulful delivery and Jeremih’s smoothness is a win, creating this dope balance that keeps you coming back to the track. I had the opportunity to sit down with the Brooklyn Native, to really find out the scoop on the music video: Overall, “No One Else” is that joint you’ll have on repeat, whether you’re cruising through the city or just kicking back. Lola Brooke’s aggressive energy paired with Jeremih’s laid-back charm? Yeah, that’s a combo that works. Juuuuuuu’alreadyyyyy Know #MyCreatives, ON TO THE NEXT!!!!! Follow Me on Social Media: Instagram: 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_ Subcribe 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] Shop The Merch: https://reemomeerakbrand.myshopify.com

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