For those who read last nights blog, you will have seen me mention Mentalist and K-Nite13, introduced to me by Shan.. I was promised big things from this EP and I've not been disapointed. Before I start, people who spend time at hiphop shows will be familiar with the hustlers standing outside shotting their CD's in all weathers.. I've picked up some terrible albums in the past from those kinds of people - one rotation wonders to frisbee to coaster status within a day. Despite this, I always hold a slight hope that I will eventually be handed something with proper substance, last night, it seems, was the night.
First impressions of this EP, from what I was told, is alot of the material isn't exactly current stuff, so that's something I had to consider when listening - another thing I factored in was the radio play. Tracks from this EP have featured on legitimate shows, from the likes of Rodney P & Skits. Let me first mention the beats, and the beatmaker K-Nite13 - producer of 6 years. Combining a mixture of hardware and software there is some absolute gems beat wise on here, and the candid yet choppy sampling technique made me think of 'Donuts', ON A LEVEL. Just listen to the brief intro or 'Heads High' for example and you'll get a good idea. Maybe, one thing I could say on the negative side is the drums fall slightly short of the sampling.
Mentalist reminds me somewhat of Skinnyman, in sound of voice, if nothing else. There is two clear contrasting styles he flips, which can be plainly seen from 'Young Girl' & 'Loved One' to 'Go In' ft/ Loudmouth (which reminded me of 'Beat The Clock' by Ghostface). I think my tracklist is buggered, there's one track on here, my ultimate favourite.. the beat is ridiculous, the sample goes "Who Am I" and it doesn't appear to be listed, either which way it's insane. Back-tracking slightly - the way 'Death Day' comes in made me jump back a little bit, since it's all a bit quiet and then Mentalist kicks in, it serves as a great introduction. K-Nite does his best work on the next (hidden) track, with the "Who Am I" sample, this track is real.. and the bars are consistently there - I've listened to this the most, the beat is slightly unbelievable!!
'Go In' is straight sickness. No chorus' to detract from the raw verses on this, how it has to be done some time. 'Young Girl' ft Elrae is heavy, the beat is mad for a start, though I wasn't TOO BIG on these drums, but all the vocal work and the rhythms are immense. Basically, you have to hear this for yourself.. I understand it may seem like I'm talking it up and the reality can never match up with these expectations, right? If you're on the UK moves, and if you're reading this blog. you really should be, and with a penchant for decent hiphop THIS EP IS YOU. Either way, whatever your musical preference, I think anyone can appreciate musical professionalism and lyrical content - and these two embody that. Get involved with this stuff.
If you missed it the first time round, check the myspace links - add these guys, hear their tracks and pass it on to everyone you know... two genuinely talented fellows require your support, so get on it TODAY.
Mentalist Myspace: click here
K-Nite13 Myspace: click here
Download the Menalist 'Death Day' EP - FOR FREE - CLICK HERE
Much love, check back soon.
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