MP3

A track from the forthcoming Killer Mike, EL-P collaboration, R.A.P. Music, which will be out via Williams Street Records May 15th.

Though rapping about drugs, violence, and strippers has become an undeniable rap cliche, Mike’s lyrics and veteran status serve as a reminder of how gritty this stuff used to be.

Of course, none of this magic could happen if it weren’t for EL-P’s production. The heavy, hard-nosed beat sounds ready to punch a hole in any stereo system looking to blast it. The relentless hi-hats in the beat make the instrumental sound a little like a trap beat, but the cartoony synths kinda lighten the mood.

I know it’s a bit of a stretch, but it actually reminds me of how badass Ice Cube’s early stuff used to sound. ANgry, angry, angry. I like it!