RCGNTN: make local your focal

Think old school hip hop and most of us would immediately think of groups like NWA, Run DMC and Digital Underground (wait, most people won’t think of Digital Underground!). The unmistakable sound of hip hop of old with its heavy dose of scratching, mad bass lines and almost zero usage of this particular software called the auto-tune – or better known today as the “magic ingredient” in making an awesome track – sets it apart from how hip hop sounds like from any other era.

Step forth local boys Head Turnerz. They decided to pay homage to the old school and came up with a track called (wait for it, you’d never guess the title of the track) The Old Skool Style.

Anyways, the beginning of the track was pretty decent. It reminded me of The Beastie Boys and I must admit that I was pleasantly surprised. Then the boys started dropping verses and the beats became a tad monotonous and too electronic-ish.

Mad props to the boys for doing this but somehow I felt it was poorly executed and they did not really explore the sounds that defined the old school. The only prominent thing was their line: “we bring the old skool style”. I do see some potential here though.

Overall, I’d say it was not a very good track and if I was mashing on the streets while listening to some music and this track came on, I’d totally stop, take out my iPhone and listen to Exists instead.

Oh, please get back to the studio and record some dope stuff and make me listen to you guys instead of Exists!

Rating: 3.5 / 10

Click here to download the track.

One.

Straight off the first chord and snare hit, you know you’re in for a song that we’ve all retreated to a couple of times in our lives. That song that you cuddle and hold on to for support when Cupid gave you the short end of the stick. That song that you picture yourself singing in the pouring rain. Outside your Ex’s window. (Or it may be just that I’m that much of a sissy.)

Closure’s formulaic song structure serves the song pretty well, what with the intricate guitars and mood-setting drums. Zahir’s smooth vocals float gently on the guitar and drum combo, complementing perfectly. The band leads you up to the bridge, readying you for the chorus, and sure as hell doesn’t disappoint.

A pretty catchy song, the band has subtle hints of Mayday Parade. This is very evident during the bridge, when you can hear Zahir’s emotions breaking through amidst the cacophony. A good effort by the band and all in all, a pretty good song. One to emote along to.

Check out their myspace page here.

Rating: 7/10

‘Closure’ by Tacit Aria has made it into our RCGNIZED PLAYLIST! Check it out at the right!

This track was sent to us by Khairul Amir/KHRL. It also features local rapper HEL.

“My Addiction” was originally done by  Ryan Leslie and our good man KHRL liked it so much, he jacked it!
A decent effort by the duo but I honestly feel it could have been and should have been better.
The delivery lacks punch and conviction and it comes across as a tad lazy.

I also think Fabolous’ verse wasn’t necessary. KHRL should’ve gotten another rapper to drop a verse instead.
Frankly speaking, beat-jacking is a very  complex art. So jack with caution!

A laudable albeit weak attempt.

Rating:  5 / 10

One.