Temperatures are rising. The humidity is off the charts…and it’s about to get even hotter with Insomniac’s Weekly Top Ten list! Check out the countdown champs below while pumping up the volume…AND THE A.C.!!!
1) Whether using The Flan or his real name, DERIN FALANA is known for delivering great material. The Joey Castellani produced “Interstellar” showcases the emcee at peak form as he executes lyrical uppercuts that floor the listener with their timing & creativity. One listen to the song is all it takes before realizing Derin is destined for a level of greatness only true superstars can attain. He states that some people “been ignoring the movement. I hope they hear it now.” Not to worry, Derin. They hear you. LOUD AND CLEAR.
2) STARVIN B’s “Werewolf Keyboards” popped up on our radar at the very last second to slide into the #2 spot. The Mic Rippa & Dro Pesci featured track from the “7 Train Lungs” album took us back to the golden era of Hip Hop with its high-energy sonic landscape…and made us instant Starvin B fans in the process. Each emcee murders the track, reppin’ to the fullest for starving artists everywhere. This is pure Hip Hop music for the streets with sounds that will leave you feeling inspired!
3) NIKO IS & WES FIF delivered agile, masterful flows over a lush piece of KRIKOS produced perfection called “One Time” and transformed the entire Insomniac staff into giddy school kids jumping around during recess. The cut carries the ultimate summer vibe and a catchy melody that will become imprinted in your mind. NIKO, Wes & KRIKOS = Great music. It’s a winner…and despite the title, you’ll definitely want to play this track more than once.
https://soundcloud.com/nikoismusic/niko-is-x-wes-fif-one-time-prod-krikos
4) ERICK SERMON enlisted METHOD MAN & REDMAN for a blazing new joint from his forthcoming “ESP” album & showed the young’uns how it’s done. “Clutch” emphasizes the power of three Hip Hop vets STILL at the top of their game! If you’re a producer who’s desperately seeking true lyricists to ignite a track, Erick Sermon, Method Man & Redman are who you need in a clutch.
5) YOUNG CHRIS has done more to pay his “Dues” than half of the artists out here today. That’s why it was only fitting for him to name a track after that very topic. The Cardiak produced cut pulled us in and never let go. Real Hip Hop delivered by an artist who deserves all the praise he receives. We wouldn’t have it any other way.
6) A.K. released “Can I Kick It,” from his joint “Something To Prove” EP with Audible Doctor and showcased his spectacular flow and versatility. The cut itself is very brief at a little over 2 minutes but demonstrates that the impact of a track is much more important than the length of time. Blanketed in a powerful sonic soundscape courtesy of The Doctor himself, A.K. scores big with his exceptional lyrical prowess.
7) CAPONE N NOREAGA, TRAGEDY, and RAEKWON teamed up for “Foul 120,” from the “Lessons” album and blew away the competition! When you have CNN, an Intelligent Hoodlum and a Wu Warrior from Shaolin banding together the best is to be expected. Luckily they all brought their A game to the table and gave fans a big reason to celebrate.
8) CASE ARNOLD said he was “The Nicest,” and we believed him after hearing this Chiefus produced cut. The funk is evident! Check the flow. Nod your head to the beat. Something tells me Case won’t be workin’ that pizza shop job for long.
9) SCOOP DEVILLE & DEMRICK joined forces with PAUL WALL for “Kush Cloud,” from their forthcoming “Loud Pack: Extracts” collabo project and lit up some powerful sonic heat for the fans. The track elevated our minds and transported us to August 14th, where we saw Hip Hop fans purchasing multiple copies of the album. Light another one up for the team!
10) DJ ILLOGIK recruited MAFFEW RAGAZINO for some aggressive, inspired wordplay for “Grand Cascade” and sure enough, it proved to be a track we won’t soon forget! There aren’t many emcees around who can bring the raw energy Maffew provides, so appreciate the talent and always respect the skills!
Well, that’s it for this week. Catch ya next time and…DON”T SLEEP!
– Kevin Keith
