Time flies with no prejudice these days. It feels like it was two years ago (at best) when the Texas trio The Village dropped ‘Summers In The South.’ A release that should be elevated to the highest degree in the lexicon of HOP music out of the “Lone Star State.” Sean Lexima, Shaad Rogers and Keelon Donnel had reached a tipping point with ‘Summers In The South,’ as they managed to not only capture a regional feeling, but put listeners within their individual experiences.

This album is only thirty minutes long but the texture of the music makes it seem longer. From the opening track ‘Children Of The Sun’ to the closing ‘Coming Down,’ and everything in between, listeners get The Village evolved but not straying from what fans are familiar with. Sean Lexima has a maturity that does not feel “preachy” while still giving jewels for life. Shaad Rogers gives an energy that can draw in a youthful audience who are “outside,” but urge responsibility and caution while enjoying life. Keelon Donnel gives both M.C.’s a canvas of music that is slightly different from what they are used to while challenging himself to expand in his music making.

‘Summers In The South’ will feel more “southern” than previous records from The Village. Often what happens with groups like The Village is they are grouped into a certain category because of the region they come from. The challenge is not being ostracized by the Texas audience but also not compromising their sound, mission statement, and content simply to fit in. This is where ‘Summers In The South’ shines brightly as The Village manage this dichotomy to a science. ‘Window Seat,’ ‘Southern Comfort’ and ‘O.U.T.S.I.D.E.’ turn into “two for one” songs as “It’s Keelon” gives Sean Lexima and Shaad Rogers changing music to express on. This coupled with the interludes that drive this “summer experience” throughout the record creates the atmosphere for the listener to be totally emersed in.

The Village continue their “Astro-Hop” movement with ‘Summers In The South.’ I was honored to be asked to take part in this release which is apart of a Texas time capsule that will be discovered and cherished years down the line. The Village created a benchmark for themselves which can only go upwards from this release. The pressure is on but “dem Texas boy’s” will be steadfast for the next challenge. what did you think of the album?

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