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Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Skittz - Rhymestrong

Rhymestrong... yes indeed!!!
Yes indeed!!! 

Indy has REALLY been bringing the heat this year with so many dope releases and Skittz' long awaited LP, "Rhymestrong" is another addition to Naptown's slew of ill hip hop for 2011.  Skittz has been holding it down in Indy for a long minute through several projects including The Mudkids and his recent work with The Proforms.  "Rhymestrong" is almost a who's who of Naptown's finest beatmakers and emcees and serves as a preemptive strike to The Proforms "Atavism" LP that's set to be released later this month. 

Big Skittz' flow is that of an aged battle rhymer.  He's paid his dues and doesn't need to prove he's worthy of the crown... because cats know.  Schooled in the "Golden Age/Era" of emcees Skittz brings a level of lyricism that's been missing in a lot of hip hop for a number of years.  In an age when emcees are relying heavily on their perception of what swagger is, Skittz simply spits with ease in one bar what many can't do in 16, a track or a whole LP.

Much of the production is schooled in the same fashion as his flow.  317 statesmen, Elp Mass & Joe Harvey, contribute to a large portion of the production on the project building a solid foundation of breaks, samples and 90s boom bap grooves. Tracks like "Ohhhkay," "Let's Go" & "All I Can See" are reminiscent of the days when Rakim, Lord Finesse, Masta Ace and Black Moon blessed our tape decks.  

In the spirit of Wu/Bootcamp, a majority of the guests on this LP serve as an appetizer for The Proforms' upcoming album as all members drop two pennies on several tracks.  (production, rhymes & cuts)  If Skittz' LP is any hint at what "Atavism" will be like, you will want to stay tuned

"Rhymestrong" is a solid release from a solid emcee.  Don't sleep.

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