For fans of the Crate Divizion collective, Phyba and Giallo Point just dropped a new project called “Rene Mesrine.” Phyba takes us on a verbal journey through the highs and lows of the events roughly based on the life of the infamous Jacques Rene Mesrine. Giallo’s smooth production serves as the crime themed, getaway soundscape to compliment Phyba’s clever wordplay. The detailed and colorful cover artwork by Mr. Melville of Designoir also ties into the concept of this 15 track album. The guest appearances include Sonny Jim, Daniel Son, Rome Streetz, and Micall Parknsun.
Going into the breakdown of my personal standout tracks, the first joint, “Warning” was one of my top favorites. The emcee’s delivery and cadence rode the beat with ease. It was an amazing way to start off and Phyba got straight to showcasing his lyrical skill with lines like:
“I know I’ll kick the bucket one day so I chef exuberance and put it up for display” and “If there’s ever been a shred of doubt that you’re informants, we place a dead canary in your mouth and that’s a warning.”
The second track, “Scheme Unfolds” was another one that Phyba went in on:
“Cosmetically, impeccable finessing…(smooth)/Around my way you only prosper off of merit/And patience is a virtue, the pay-off is tremendous/Real recognize real, the vision’s esoteric.”
“Hare Krishna” had some dope scratches that gave it a nice 90’s Hip Hop feel. I was feeling the Nas sample, but there was also a high pitched sound that gave off an earlier west coast vibe.
On “Payback” Rome Streetz joins Phyba and drops a gutter verse over this dark, suspenseful beat.
Giallo crafted a sound I really enjoyed on “STFU,” the drum pattern gave it the right kick, and Phyba was having some fun with the adlibs.
While I’m more familiar with Phyba’s catalog when it comes to his production, I’d heard him on some features in the past. I also checked out his project “Magnolia” with Stu Bangas when it first came out, which I had in rotation. Giallo has produced some top tier projects with some of the best emcees out, along with third CDVZ member, Vic Grimes. This was a very impressive team effort between Phyba and Giallo, who are some of the leaders when it comes to incorporating heist driven, espionage concepts into their music. Tom Cruise should call up one of these two because it would be a perfect soundtrack to the next installment of Mission Impossible or the James Bond films.
There is a limited run of CD and vinyl copies available on Bandcamp. Aside from quality music, the art itself is a true gem to add to your collection.
