"Feature Presentation" by It's Only Us (Rap Artist from New York City, New York(NY))

RadioIndy is pleased to present It's Only Us with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Feature Presentation"

"Feature Presentation" is an excellent and original New York hip-hop album from brothers Kweku "Gift" and Nana "King Black" Saunderson, who perform under the modest alias It's Only Us. The Saunderson brothers both have strong musical backgrounds, and they lend this knowledge to the musical variety on this album, skillfully fusing a hip-hop foundation with r&b, jazz, techno, reggae, and pop. Both members of It's Only Us deliver great, original, and well-timed hip-hop flows with intelligent and humorous socially-conscious lyrics. The songs feature hot head-bobbing beats, catchy hooks, and great musical diversity throughout. "Feature Presentation" was produced by Amen-Ra Records, and it sounds professional and ready to hit the shelves of record stores everywhere. "Shorty (feat. Saundra Jordan)" has a catchy hook, a great beat, a jazzy trumpet line in the background throughout, and nice lyrical delivery. "Livin' in a Circus" shows It's Only Us' sense of humor with circus music in the background, witty metaphorical lyrics, and a great fun delivery. "Feature Presentation" may very well be the breakthrough album that brings It's Only Us into the mainstream, as their excellent hip-hop flows and original, musically diverse arrangements certainly put them in the category of "Dope". Fans of great New York hip-hop, don't let the name confuse you – It's Only Us is entirely worthy of your time.-Chris & the RadioIndy.com Review Team
Check out It's Only Us's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Welcome 2 Kansas" by Krayz E' (Hip-Hop Artist from Kansas(KS))

RadioIndy is pleased to present Krayz E' with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Welcome 2 Kansas"

"Welcome 2 Kansas" by Krayz E' is a unique hip-hop album put together by an innovative artist. The sound is a mix of new and old and bumps from beginning to end. There is a definite carefree mentality present in the concept, but don't be fooled, Krazy means business. He laces his smooth delivery around well produced and well layered arrangements with ease. This is a seriously crafted album with a positive feel. The beats will vibrate your insides, the bass lines groove, and the album sounds fantastic - with 17 tracks to boot. Highlights are "Kansas," reeling you in right off the bat with a huge beat and giving you your first taste of what to expect through the rest of the journey. "Hatin' On Me" features a bubbly, groovy bass line, lamenting lyrics and a nice vocal performance. "Do What I Do" is simpler in nature, but hits you with a classic throwback beat, that might bring back a few memories. If you enjoy classic hip hop with modern innovations and an upbeat sensibility, you'll like this one.-William
Check out Krayz E''s music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Cocky (Da Original 1)" by T Stuckey (Rap Artist from Michigan(MI))

RadioIndy is pleased to present T Stuckey with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Cocky (Da Original 1)"

"Cocky (Da Original 1)" is a three-track hip-hop/party EP from Detroit's own T Stuckey. This youngster comes at you with a ton of muscle. His vocals are full of energy and jump out of the speakers at you. The production behind these tracks is equally impressive, and they are club ready and flat out thump. The arrangements are diverse, well-layered and full. The choice in overall sound also compliments T Stuckey's style very well. Leading off is "I'm Cocky," a light but powerful introduction to the T Stuckey's style featuring a fantastic hook and tons of attitude. "The Playground Legend" is youthfully inspirational, incorporates the great sound into a fun and innocent story, and feautres a great flow from T Stuckey. "Do Ya Thing" wraps things up nicely with a fantastic display of production excellence. If you like well-produced hip-hop albums and want to hear this kid give the big boys a run for their money, pick this EP up. -William
Check out T Stuckey's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Fade to Black - Blood Child" by Clev $ Linx (Hip-Hop Artist from British Columbia, Canada)

RadioIndy is pleased to present Clev $ Linx with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Fade to Black - Blood Child"

"Fade to Black - Blood Child" is a hip-hop jazz album with a heavy Afro soul element composed and remixed by Clev $ Linx. This duo is a powerful force – Lincoln T. Sax, also known as RebeLinx, is a well-touted musician who provides excellent saxophone work, as well as deep and soulful vocals, on the album; Chris Guy, or Clev, provides the excellent and eclectic production edge. Together, Clev $ Linx have crafted a definite winner, with a great blending of genres through collaboration with a variety of hip-hop artists. The sound oozes cool, and the album is creative and highly intelligent, just weird enough, and just hot enough. Highlights include the opener, "Blood Child," which immediately sets the mood by giving you a great glance at the full sound, as well as your first taste of Linx's weathered vocal style. "Fade to Black" presents the uncompromised production style of the group with a killer arrangement and great sounds. "Fat Soul" features a funked-out groove, a nasty beat, and a great, smooth vocal performance. If you enjoy innovative and intelligent hip-hop and soul artists, add this one to your collection. -William
Check out Clev $ Linx's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

“Viva Mayday” by Viva Mayday (Rap Artist from New York City, New York(NY))

RadioIndy is pleased to present Viva Mayday with a GrIndie Award for their CD "Viva Mayday"

 

"Viva Mayday" is the politically charged self-titled debut from reggae rock outfit Viva Mayday. A typical rock three piece – guitar, bass and drums – Viva Mayday rely heavily upon the upstroke to create their classic reggae sound. They also incorporate punk and classic rock elements into their music, showing their musical talent and diversity. The lead singer's vocals are uniformly in the style of traditional reggae and fused with a variety of musical styles, Viva Mayday show likeliness to Bob Marley, Dispatch, The Clash and Sublime at different points on the album. All the while, their lyrics are reminiscent of Rage Against the Machine. Viva Mayday's songs are jam-packed with socially aware, politically charged lyrics that exploit the bands disgruntledness, for the most part, with American foreign policy. "Viva Mayday" is also well-produced, sure to keep both the music and lyrics polished and audible. "Fidel" opens with an incredible Hendrix-style guitar solo as they sing about "the war machine" and "propane democracy." "Missionaries" reflects the "give peace a chance" mentality of the entire album with a Marley-esque vocal, suggesting that even the people that mean perfectly well are struggling to survive abroad. "1963 Motorcade" is a song about the assassination of JFK and conspiracy theories against the government. "Viva Mayday" is certainly opinionated and controversial. If you enjoy what Rage Against the Machine offers lyrically and punk-infused reggae rock, you should give this album a listen.

-Chris & the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Viva Mayday's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Villiantine's Day" by Chaos Da Verbal Villain (Rap Artist from Pennsylvania(PA))

RadioIndy is pleased to present Chaos Da Verbal Villian with a GrIndie Award for their CD "Villiantine's Day"

 

"Villiantine's Day" is an East Coast experimental hip-hop album from Chaos Da Verbal Villain that features innovative production and rhymes that push the envelope. Chaos brings extreme intensity and a powerful delivery to the table. His lyrics are controversial and well-constructed, and his creative choices present a new innovation with each new song. The arrangements support the constant battle with sanity that the album presents with odd beats, zany synths and a nice thick coat of darkness that perfectly compliment the album's concept. "Villaintine's Day" is professionally produced and sounds fantastic. Highlights include "Verbal Vybin," with strong lyrics, a nice hook, and an interesting beat. "Mental Madness" features an incredible beat, cool claps, and a hauntingly zany vibe. "For The Love featuring Ajent Smif" has a cool cat jazz vibe, a slick bass line, and a strong guest vocal. Chaos Da Verbal Villain certainly lives up to his name with "Villaintine's Day," as he comes off as a well-versed, veteran and innovative emcee. If you enjoy underground hip-hop that challenges your state of mind, get a little chaotic with Chaos.

-William and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Chaos Da Verbal Villain's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Son of Malcolm" by C-Born Nacirfa (Rap Artist from Texas(TX))

RadioIndy is pleased to present C-Born Nacirfa with a GrIndie Award for their CD "Son of Malcolm"

 

"Son of Malcolm" is a spiritual hip-hop album with reggae undertones from C-Born Nacirfa. This album is driven by the concept and the lyrical content. C-Born speaks a strong word and commands your attention through his poetic lyrics and precise delivery simultaneously reminiscent of Wyclef Jean and Common. The sound is comprised of the relationship between rough sounds and delicate sounds, which befits an album preaching change through action. As a whole, the sound maintains a certain rawness, and the arrangements are full, interesting, and well-balanced. "Son of Malcolm" is well-produced and the recordings are all radio ready. Highlights include "Revolution," a cream-of-the-crop track that incorporates all that is C-Born, with dueling vocals, a simple beat, and some nice melodies. "The Ritual" features a cool string sample, a thick beat, and some great production in the vocal area. "Smokin" features an Asian vibe, some cool piano overlays, and another strong lyrical message. Overall, "Son of Malcolm" is an impressive album with a positive message and great vocal performances and arrangements. If you enjoy revolutionary Afro-hip-hop with strong, poetic writing, give C-Born Nacirfa a listen.

-William and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out C-Born Nacirfa's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Pound-4-Pound" by BiGGs (Rap Artist from Florida(FL))

RadioIndy is pleased to present BiGGs with a GrIndie Award for their CD "Pound-4-Pound"

 

"Pound-4-Pound" is a three-track southern gangsta single featuring the original, instrumental, and a capella versions of BiGGs' "Look Good." BiGGs' has the vocal ability to intimidate as well as to bring the ladies to their knees. He has a great singing voice as well as a great flow reminiscent of the Notorious B.I.G. and Lil Wayne. The backing music sequence supports this intimidation/coercion dichotomy, as you get a thick, bumping beat with subtle and varied accents and quirky yet atmospheric synths. The second track, the instrumental version of "Look Good," gives you a whole different perspective on the track and allows you to focus on the dramatic hints. The a capella version stands on its own as well; you definitely feel the rhythm without hearing it, and it paints a complete picture of BiGGs' talents as an emcee. This single is recorded excellently, so the track sounds great as a whole and broken down. "Pound-4-Pound" certainly leaves you wanting to hear more of what BiGGs has to offer the music world in both arrangement and vocals. If you enjoy the Miami style of hip-hop, you'll enjoy this CD.

-William and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out BiGGs 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Education of Life" by Smooth4Lyfe (Hip-Hop Artist from Maryland(MD))

RadioIndy is pleased to present Smooth4Lyfe with a GrIndie Award for their CD "Education of Life"

 

"Education of Life" by Smooth4Lyfe is an upbeat hip-hop album based on positivity and catchy hooks. This album is a breath of fresh air and takes you back to the days of Tribe Called Quest and DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince. The lyrics are very clever, the flow is great, and the vocal performances are fantastic. Behind the words, you get great production; so the songs are polished and radio ready. The arrangements are top-notch, with great variance in the beats and accompaniment that really brings the sound to life, pulling you out of your La-Z-Boy and getting you bumpin' and grinnin'. Highlights include "Drop That," with a classic beat, fresh lyrics, and a nice hook. The title track, "Education of Life," features conversational breaks, introduces a bit of a dark side to Smooth4Lyfe, and has a great hypnotic quality. "Summertime Baby" lives up to its title and delivers a classic rolling-with-the-top-down flow. With "Education of Life," Smooth4Lyfe has created an upbeat hip-hop sound with great hooks and an overall good time. If you enjoy positive rap with a touch of real life experience, give "Education of Life" a listen.

-William and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Smooth4Lyfe's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Shame The Devil, Tell The Truth" by Sir Bell Siqq (Hip-Hop Artist from Kansas(KS))

RadioIndy is pleased to present Sir Bell Siqq with a GrIndie Award for their CD "Shame The Devil, Tell The Truth"

 

"Shame The Devil, Tell The Truth" is a hardcore gangsta rap album featuring powerful beats and high energy, cleverly delivered vocals from Sir Bell Siqq. This album does not mess around, as Sir Bell Siqq brings you his long resume of street credibility in the form of music. The content is a true window into the gangsta lifestyle. What really stands out is Sir Bell Siqq's talent as an emcee and his impressive ability to twist words around his tongue and deliver a barrage of image-invoking verses. The arrangements behind him are appropriately subtle and succeed in creating a sound consistent with a harsh environment. "Shame The Devil, Tell The Truth" has a great recording quality, so every rhyme is clear and understood. Highlights include "Gun In The Hideaway" with its extremely controversial lyrics and wicked gunfire samples in the intro. "Who Am I" features a great hook and some nice vocal layering. "The Truth" is an anthem for the lifestyle at hand. If you enjoy hardcore, true-to-life rap with claps and big beats, check out Sir Bell Siqq.

-William and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Sir Bell Siqq's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"What's Done Is Done" by Komplex Kai (Rap Artist from Washington(WA))

RadioIndy is pleased to present Komplex Kai with a GrIndie Award for their CD "What's Done Is Done"

 

"What's Done Is Done" is an impressive underground hip-hop album from Komplex Kai. Kai's true-to-life lyrics and Intellect as a writer fuels the material and gives the album a raw intensity and a dark vibe that come right at you. The sound is comprised of aggressive elements – thick, organic beats, heavy distortion, haunting synths, and an overall sense of drive. The arrangements are very creative with lots of layers and a dedication to the concept. Kai is a high energy emcee and puts it all on the table for your listening pleasure with a unique vocal somewhere in between DMX and 2Pac. Highlights include "Why I'm Here (featuring Rytual)," which hits hard with a big beat, a raunchy guitar sound, exceptional lyrics, and a tantalizing chorus. "Bump! Ha Raw (featuring Treaty)" opens with wicked string squeals and evolves into an explosive number with tricky vocal performances. The title track, "What's Done Is Done," wraps things up nicely with a strong message and interesting nuances in the arrangement. With "What's Done Is Done," Komplex Kai has created an impressive record with aggressive beats and driven lyrics. If you enjoy hard-edged hip-hop with a message, give Komplex Kai a try. (WARNING!: EXPLICIT LYRICS)

-William and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Komplex Kai's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

“The Candle Always Burns (feat. Imarri)” by LT (Rap Artist from Georgia(GA))

RadioIndy is pleased to present LT with a GrIndie Award for their CD "The Candle Always Burns (feat. Imarri)"

 

"The Candle Always Burns (feat. Imarri)" by LT is a very creative, uplifting hip-hop album. Reflecting many of the vintage aspects of hip-hop music, these primarily beat-driven tunes contain articulate, flowing rhymes and well-sung choruses. The title –track demonstrates LT's creative approach to hip-hop, with its groovy percussion, positive poetic lyrics, and beautifully arranged female accompanying vocals. Moreover, "U Can Change (Feat. Imarri)" includes more musical hooks and leads, flaunting a very contagious bass groove and witty background sounds. Furthermore, stripped-down acapella versions of both of these tunes are included in this four-song EP. Fans of innovative hip-hop with thoughtful lyrics will enjoy this collection.

-Xavier P.
Check out LT's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Tales of Pariah" by Delario (Hip-Hop Artist from Norway)

RadioIndy is pleased to present Delario with a GrIndie Award for their CD "Tales of Pariah"

 

"Tales of Pariah" is an outstanding hip-hop electronica album brought to you by Norwegian artist Delario. The range of subject matter on this album is wide, as Delario raps about everything from the quirky and humorous to the dark and mysterious. The arrangements are innovative and creative harnessing a very modern sound with a few classic tricks mixed in. The beat throughout the CD will have your body moving. As an Emcee, Delario hits it. His delivery flows and his voice is commanding. The songs are all well produced and ready to hit the club. Highlights include "My Shrine" with its nice layering of a solid vocal performance and rolling, thumping beat. "Devil's Blessings" brings intensity and a serious subject matter to the table. There is some nice ambience in this one too. "Friday Night" funks it up with a killer bass line and fun lyrics. If you enjoy finding excellent up-and-coming hip-hop artists, or enjoy big-name artists such as Eminem, you'll enjoy this excellent CD. (WARNING - EXPLICIT LYRICS)

-William and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Delario's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Jupiter Exotic" by Paul Sea (Hip-Hop Artist from British Columbia, Canada)

RadioIndy is pleased to present Paul Sea with a GrIndie Award for their CD "Jupiter Exotic"

 

"Jupiter Exotic" by Paul Sea is an innovative space funk chill album with a little hip-hop and a lot of other styles mixed together. The overall sound is unique to say the least. The foundation, for the most part, consists of alien voice sounding synths with heavy industrial and trance type sounds. Throw a few classic hip-hop beats, claps and flows into the mix and you've arrived at the creative sound of this CD. The production value is also very good. Certainly radio ready. Highlights are "Drug of Choice" with a guest appearance by Thirstin Howl the 3rd and some Rick James vocal samples: This one is a club thumper. "All My Love" is dark and mysterious with a bubbly bass line and creepy vocal effects. "Love You" features Roger Troutman's strong vocal performance and an "out there" arrangement. If you enjoy innovative music that fuses styles, you'll enjoy this CD. [Explicit]

-William and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Paul Sea's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Suburban Nightmare Special Edition" by Khevlar (Hip-Hop Artist from Washington(WA))

RadioIndy is pleased to present Khevlar with a GrIndie Award for their Cd "Suburban Nightmare Special Edition"

 

"Suburban Nightmare Special Edition" by Khevlar is clever Hip-Hip with a little humor and a little street sense. What makes this album is the delivery. Khevlar's style and wit are the forefront. With that said, the production is very good as well. The beats are tight, with a mix of old and new school synths and samples. There is also no shortage of guest artists on this album and you get a lot of material with 19 tracks. Finally, the lyrics on these tracks are clever, and the choruses are strong and memorable. Highlights are "Make It Right" with it's big beat and fluid vocal delivery. Props to the guests on this one too. "Breakh Yo Backh" is just dirty enough and has some cool fills. The title track "Suburban Nightmare" is intense with a cool arrangement and eerie string samples. If you enjoy Eminem, you'll enjoy this CD. (EXPLICIT AND ADULT CONTENT)

-William and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Khevlar's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Necessary Ingredients" by Jitu The Jugganot (Hip-Hop Artist from Illinois(IL))

RadioIndy is pleased to present Jitu The Jugganot with a GrIndie Award for their CD "Necessary Ingredients"

 

"Necessary Ingredients" by Jitu The Jugganot is a hip-hop album based around reality and street-smarts. The lyrics are original, well thought out, and exceptionally fluid. The beats are big, with old school synths and classic grooves. What makes this album stand out is the content and its message. It certainly speaks the unrefined truth and holds true to its concept, while displaying a refreshing degree of creativity. Plus, with 17 tracks, you certainly get a bang for your buck. Among our favorites is "Our Story," which flaunts an intense, rolling vocal performance and a banging beat. "Delivery" has a fat bass line and a quirky old-movie-detective vibe. "Chosen One" features female vocals and preaches the word of the man himself. Moreover, this CD is brought to a nice close with solid production. If you like Public Enemy, you'll like this one. (WARNING: EXPLICIT LYRICS)

-William and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Jitu Tha Jugganot's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Hard" by Rubix Q (Hip-Hop Artist from California(CA))

RadioIndy is pleased to present Rubix Q with a GrIndie Award for their CD "Hard"

 

"Hard" by Rubix Q is funk gangsta rap with a lighter side. It is full of fresh sounds with an "Old School" influence. Lots of classic synths, but done in a way that makes it feel new. There is definitely a heavy R&B influence present throughout the album that creates a nice flowing undertone. Rubix's delivery is slick, with a rough undertone and yet soulful at times. Highlights are "On Fire" with a solid beat, a little wackiness in the vocals and a funktastic bass line."I Wanna Hold You" is a spacey love song that will help turn up the heat in any room. "JB Soul" takes you back in time as Rubix gives you a little James Brown-esque vocals. If you like party music and G-funk, you'll enjoy this one. [WARNING - EXPLICIT MATERIAL]

-William and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team

 

Check out RubixQ's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Think About It" by Smooth4Lyfe (Rap Artist from Maryland(MD))

RadioIndy is pleased to present Smooth4Lyfe with a GrIndie Award for their CD "Think About It"

 

"Think About It" by Smooth4Lyfe is an inspirational hip-hop album. The sound complements the motivational concept with cinematic and smooth jazz elements. Smooth has a nice flow to his delivery and a distinct determination is his tone. The arrangements are solid, mixing vintage hip-hop elements with organic elements. The album also features radio skits that are pretty fun. Highlights are "Back On Up," a Club ready jam with heavy electronica influence and a thick beat. The title track "Think About It" certainly "Smooths" it up with Jazz elements and an nice steady "Boom and Clap." "Poetry NIght" is a mesmerizing, yet theatrical track with a light flair. If you enjoy finding excellent up-and-coming rap artists, check out this CD.

-William and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team

 

Check out Smooth4Lyfe's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Point Blank Range EP" by Kaliban (Hip-Hop Artist from Los Angeles, California(CA))

RadioIndy is pleased to present Kaliban with a GrIndie Award for their CD "Point Blank Range EP"

 

"Point Blank Range EP" by Kaliban is the real deal as far as true hip-hop goes. This South-Central raised emcee brings game to the table. The lyrics are fresh with a tight flow. There is no restraint whatsoever in Kaliban's delivery....pure confidence. The sounds behind the voice are club worthy and will make the room sticky quick. There is no shortage of huge beats and claps. The nuances in between will keep you thriving for more. The production quality of this album is top-notch and radio ready. Sounds like gold. Highlights are "Bend Over," soon to be a club anthem and sexy as hell. "World of Fantasy" features a cool sped up tape effect in in between thick beats. "Point Blank Range" is revengeful and intense, with a heavy vocal performance. If you like 2-Pac and Kanye West, you'll enjoy this entertaining CD. (WARNING EXPLICIT LYRICS!)

-William and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team

Check out Kaliban's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

“Just (Because)” by Jam G (Rap Artist from San Francisco, California(CA))

RadioIndy is pleased to present Jam G with a GrIndie Award for their CD "Just (Because)"

 

"Just (Because)" by Jam G is a vibrant CD saturated with musical surprises and talented guest artists. The excellent production quality and a superb mix of live instruments and creative digital beats give it a clean sound. The beats themselves are not merely loops but a smooth and creative compilation of various instruments, musical styles, and unexpected twists and turns. Both fans of rap and of R&B will be pleased with what they hear on "Just (Because)" as tracks like "See You at the Lake" are laced with strong rap flows by a variety of Bay Area artists. On the other hand, R&B fanatics will love tracks like "Let's Party Tonight" and "Caution," both completely R&B and wired to make you move. "Be 4 U Go" slows it down a bit for those who like their R&B with a little bit of soul. A compilation of everything urban, "Just (Because)" has something for everyone to move to.

-Joel and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team

Check out JAM'G (JR. Tall)'s music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

“Eugenics Movement: Culling Hip Hop” by Mr. Williams (Rap Artist from Ohio(OH))

RadioIndy is pleased to present Mr. Williams with a GrIndie Award for their CD "Eugenics Movement: Culling Hip Hop"

 

"Eugenics Movement: Culling Hip Hop" by Mr. Williams is a very expressive example of lyrical hip-hop and poetry fused together. Combining Andre 3000's aptitude for situational hip-hop with Saul Williams' solid mastership of poetic-rap this CD moves to break barriers and stereotypes and transcends the formula of today's hip-hop. Even the beats, which could be compared to the jazzy synthesized creations of soul groups in the early 90s, are quick to tell the listener that this is not your usual brand of hip-hop. One of the most stand-out tracks is the jazzy "If I wanted To (Remix)" which makes a bold stand for nonconformity. Another of our favorites is the poignant "Please Don't" as both its lyrical and vocal content express emotional pain. Fans of conscious hip-hop and gritty spoken word will quickly become fans of "Eugenics Movement: Culling Hip Hop".

-joel

Check out Mr. Williams (1/3 of The Formula)'s music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Mary Jane” by Pain (Hip-Hop Artist from Daytona, Florida(FL))

RadioIndy is pleased to present Pain with a GrIndie Award for their CD "Mary Jane"

 

"Mary Jane" by Pain is a single track CD with strong lyrical prowess and charismatic flow. The beat, flow, and lyrical presence, which are all richly southern, are very well complimented by the guest singer whose soulful voice is a highlight of the track. Part of what makes "Mary Jane" such a catchy song is the abundance of cleverly used similes and metaphors within it, such as the consistent reference to "Mary Jane" as a girlfriend. Clearly, the lyrics are professional grade. The southern style, lyrical charisma, and energetic flow of this song make it something to move to and enjoy.

-Joel and the RadioIndy.com Team

 

 

Check out PAIN's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Capiche?" by Xraydusa (Hip-Hop Artist from San Francisco, California(CA))

RadioIndy is pleased to present Xraydusa with a GrIndie Award for their CD "Capiche?"

 

"Capiche?" by Xraydusa plays upon the strings of the subconscious conjuring up the abstract, the groovy, and the downright trippy elements of the listener's inner workings. It is a methodically mad but effective instrumental arrangement of half hip-hop, half 70's funk beats, random noises, live instruments, DJ scratching, and an occasional mix of something that smacks of tribal influence. A highlight of the CD is the high level of creativity and the ability to bring together the diverse sound effects and styles of music ot yield a very interesting and enjoyable CD. The production and instrumentation quality are superb. The song, "the amberrr" is a song favorite with its anthem-like, dizzying dance grooves, signaturely weaving in and out of beat breaks armed with a wailing alarm and guitar in the highs and percussion in the lows. The smooth saxophone sound of "Spaghetti Straps" is completely jazzy and chill and a great note on which to end the CD. It's relatively straightforward and traditional when compared to the other tracks on the CD that we checked out, but the more subtle production on this track provides its charm. The reverse playback vocal effect along with the tight drum and bass groove add fine funk to the song. All in all, "Capiche?" is a funky, flamboyant delight for fans of multiple genres--from psychedelic to funk to hip-hop.

-Joel and the RadioIndy Reviewer Team
Check out Xraydusa's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

“Stresswork” by 3Bubble (Rap Artist from Houston, Texas(TX))

RadioIndy is pleased to present 3Bubble with a GrIndie award for their CD "Stresswork"!

 

"Stresswork" by 3Bubble is a gripping hip-hop collection. As a lyricist, 3 Bubble shines as quite skilled and full of rhythm and rhyme. Kicking off with the boomin' "My City," 3Bubble immediately introduces fans to his extreme rapping style and his intense Texas-pride. "Neva Fake" is a powerful anthem establishing 3Bubble's street credibility while incorporating well-fitting rock elements. Track after track, "Stresswork" delivers real, uncut lyrics backed by riveting beats, mesmerizing instrumental leads, and top-quality production. (Explicit)

-Xavier P. and RadioIndy.com
Check out 3Bubble's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Grind Hard Vol. 1: Why Would I Leave?" by Trigga Da Don (Hip-Hop/Rap Artist from Georgia(GA))

RadioIndy is pleased to present Trigga Da Don with a GrIndie award for their CD "Grind Hard Vol. 1: Why Would I Leave?"

 

"Grind Hard Vol. 1: Why Would I Leave?" by Trigga Da Don is a polished and enjoyable hip-hop/rap CD. On the CD, Trigga brings out a Southern rap style in songs that relate to street life, poverty, political views, and other social issues. After listening to the fast, clear, and well-syncopated lyrics on this CD, you'll know why Trigga earned his name. The songwriting, production and recording quality on this CD are all solid. In fact, Trigga complements his thoughtful lyrics, with a strong backing beat and interesting sound effects, like the church bells and race car on Bout Da Action. Furthermore, the choruses are melodic and memorable, including the vocals in the chorus of In My Room. One word of caution, with its healthy dose of profanity, this is a CD for mature audiences. Fans of hip/hop-rap and artists such as 2Pac, will enjoy this CD.

-RadioIndy.com Staff
Check out Trigga Da Don's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

Radioindy Grindie Awards - Rap

Here we will showcase our pick of the top Rap / HipHop artists we can find anywhere! Radioindy awards these bands with our version of a Grammy (TM) Award - the GrIndie Music Award