International beat maker Slim One has released an LP called “Iconic.” This 10 track project is pure, authentic Hip Hop all around with Termanology serving as the executive producer. The roster is official, filled with a custom blend of veterans and current emcees who are dedicated to holding down the forefront. We get to hear knockout features from Termanology, Nems, Flee Lord, Mad Squablz, Superstah Snuk, Chris Rivers, Wais P, Avenue, Ea$y Money, Krumbsnatcha, H Blanco, Ruste Juxx, Runt Dawg, Cane, Artisin, Syllables, M-Dot, Ren Thomas, Reks, and Tek of Smif N Wessun. Slim orchestrated some stellar production to accompany the raw lyricism delivered by these verbal arsonists.
I decided to do a rundown of my top 5 favorite tracks. After a brief intro, we go into “Lay You Down” which is actually my #1 banger from the album. It should be illegal to have Flee Lord, Term and Nems all in one track, because the way each of them bodies their verses is just ridiculous:
“I get money, pay taxes when I have to. Try to come between me and that money, when I see you I’ma clap you” – Nems
On “Not the Same” Mad Squablz and Superstah Snuk go in beast mode about solidifying the culture, breaking barriers, and always being true to yourself. With the “A” game these two brought on the track, they’ve proven to do what others can’t, having earned their rights to carry on the torches of infinite Hip Hop.
On “Just Do It”, Term and Chris Rivers encourage folks to live their dreams and go for it by all means necessary, whether it’s with or without help. They really dived in on this one over an impressive drum cadence. There’s a video out that you can find on YouTube.
“No Mercy for Pigs” is my second top favorite, right behind Lay You Down. I loved the aggressive flows of M-Dot, Ren Thomas and Superstah Snuk over the hard-hitting militant soundscape. These 3 battle machines sound ready to go to war and eliminate all things toxic to our existence.
Lastly, “Decisions” was the closer that features Term, Reks and Tek. If you’ve ever been down the end of the road and torn between decisions, then you can relate to this. When you’re put in between a rock and a hard place, it’s mandatory to stay on your toes and choose wisely about the path you decide to take.
Slim really shined and lived up to the expectations as a producer. There’s versatility in terms of the featured guests as well as the musical backdrops that revolved around each track. It’s evident that everyone involved knew to go hard or go home. If you like what you hear you’ll be pleased to hear that vinyl copies are in the works and will be available through Tuff Kong Records. Lastly, I look forward to the video drop of Lay You Down, which is around the corner. -Hipnotik1
