Low-Life | UK Hip Hop Story | Souljah Clique - BaggaMics 2 CD [PhatLabs / SCP]

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1990-1995

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Souljah Clique - BaggaMics 2 CD [PhatLabs / SCP]

This is a crew that I have been meaning to cover for quite a while now, but unfortunately have just not found the time until now. The Souljah Clique coming out of Bristol have been bubbling under for a few years now, but also have a pedigree, being comprised of vet Kelz and beatsmith Trz. This crew are definitely on the rise and after last years original BaggaMics CD and the Unsigned Heroes LP the guys are back with another massive slice of underground UK Hip Hop. This mix CD carries on where the last one left off and weighing in at 35 tracks long is a mighty tomb.

Highlights of the CD of course could be said to include the CD creator Kelz' own performances on Short Stories, Karma and We Go To War For and of course Trz's production keeps the mix bumping throughout with Its Huage and The Difference being particularly heavy. Chemo also gets a few beats into the mix with Mics For Life by Suicide Farm and a few of the skits.

As you would expect, there are some great guest spots and exclusive offerings with the seriously underrated CLG getting a fair few spots including the opening Stop That track. Everyone's favourite Scorzayzee has his Picasso track included, which whilst being a top tune is perhaps a touch old for what seems to be a quite up to date release.

Wolftown acts are fully represented with the Villains' Late teaming up with Vicious Circle's 10 Shott for From Bris To Wolftown and fellow Bristol based MCs Oshin and Sir Plus getting some shine. Paragon's Queen Like No Other appears a little under worked, whereas Manage who always comes correct does the bizzo with his message to Rise Up.

The whole shebang comes to a halt with the massive collaboration of K.Ners, Klashnekoff and One Mic for their remix of Hectic. The general vibe of the CD is underground, independent and rugged, dark and atmospheric with a premium put on lyrical dexterity, exclusives and at the same time manages to fit in some catchy moments and some relaxing spells as well. There is a variety of vibes as the mix ebs and flows, but does seem a bit long as every second of useable airtime is rinsed from the CD.

All in Trz and Chazzie Jay of Psycho Ward have done a top job of compiling and mixing this behemoth and I expect more good things to come from this crew. What is especially refreshing is to see a non London-centric release which can actually stand on its own feet. Rounded off with dope illustrations and cover artwork from Oliver Freeman this is a thoroughly pro offering.

http://www.thesouljahclique.co.uk
http://www.clgonline.co.uk
http://www.parkstreetpr.com
http://www.oliverfreeman.com - artwork