Rebel Radio - review

Rebel Radio is a compilation of about an hour's worth of fresh, underground rap from the Buffalo, NY area. It's the product of a talented, ambitious hip-hop collective/label named DeepThinka Records. Given that hip-hop was the first form of music I ever really dug, from 1991 right up till the genre got hijacked by corporate hustlers in the second half of the 90s. It's been a while since I've checked some new rap, so I was eager to get my hands on this compilation which has been generating somewhat of a buzz in certain circles. It's presented by the Ketchup Samurai, giving it a radio-show type ambience which is lovely, since you can't really hear much good rap on the radio these days. That's sad, man.

But don't start singing the blues just yet.. There are a bunch of hot tracks on this compilation, all by different members of the Deep Thinka camp. Thankfully, the same ol' ish is kept to a minimum and the emphasis remains on original beats and rhymes of the illest caliber. The strongest track lyrically for me is 3rd Son's 'Deus Ex Machina' which is Latin for 'God From Machine.' The term deus ex machina is used for cases where an author uses some improbable (and often clumsy) plot device to work his or her way out of a difficult situation. When the cavalry comes charging over the hill or when the impoverished hero is relieved by an unexpected inheritance, it's often called a deus ex machina. So it comes as no doubt when the lyrics all deal with the shadyness of politricks and the lies and blood shed in the name of 'justice'. It's basically the same idea as a 'Hollywood ending', and we all know how the government-influenced media likes to play up wars like a movie, showing us a happy ending like... whatever.

Catastrophic Mind contributes a mid-90s style smooth, Pete Rockish beat complete with jazzy horns, while Zidda's 'Universal Law' blesses the speakers with a beautifully honest spirituality that shines bright. This is hot! Rime Royal comes correct with confidence and braggadocio to rock a headnod beat lovely. Cup Fulla Nasty's 'Bums' is a cheeky but catchy track that extols the love of partying and escapism that our generation will become known for. Siege comes out gun ablaze with the CD's highlight, 'The Binge'... I'm not even going to talk about this one, just listen to it and shake your head in disbelief. An epic beat.

All the tracks on this compilation are wildly different from each other, but what they share is a realness, an integrity and true love for the beauty that hip-hop can epitomise when shown due respect. Fresh and crisp like new shoes. Deep Thinka aren't afraid to speak the truth and for that, not only should they be admired, but they will inevitably exercise much influence on today's youth. The best thing about the whole project is that it's totally free.. just go to their website and enter your address and they'll send you the CD! Can't ask for much more. These are obviously a bunch of up-and coming cats but good money says we'll be hearing a lot more of them in the very near future.

O, 10 Apr 2005

-DOWNLOAD REBEL RADIO, AND THE LATEST, REBEL RADIO II NOW !!!