Bart Oatmeal and ICECOLDBISHOP have joined forces to release their latest single, “Politickin’,” produced by the innovative Local Astronauts. This track blends sharp lyrics, captivating beats, and thought-provoking themes, showcasing the unique talents of both artists. Bart Oatmeal’s lyrical prowess and ability to weave intricate narratives shine through, while ICECOLDBISHOP’s raw and unfiltered style adds depth and intensity. The production by Local Astronauts creates an immersive soundscape that perfectly complements the lyrical content, making “Politickin’” a standout collaboration.
In the realm of underground hip hop, a persistent stigma once haunted the community: the notion that artists inevitably grow old and lose relevance. Yet, today’s industry paints a different picture, with top-tier artists thriving well beyond their thirties. Despite media narratives, age no longer defines success in this genre. Enter Planet Asia, a shining example of an artist consistently reinventing himself with each project.
Hailing from Fresno, California, the legendary MCPlanet Asia continues to cement his legacy with his latest offering, “No Retirement.” This collaborative album spans 13 tracks, entirely produced by the esteemed LA super-producer group, Local Astronauts. “No Retirement” serves as a testament to how iconic MCs maintain relevance in contemporary hip-hop.
The album opens with poignant words from the late Nipsey Hussle, emphasizing the significance of independence, setting the tone for Asia’s lyrical prowess. Tracks like “Incognito” and “Deadly Dialogue” showcase his unwavering command of the mic, delivering hard-hitting verses that resonate with listeners.
Standout moments include “Cigar Lounge” featuring Washeyi Choir, “Cognac,” and “Easy On The Pedal” featuring Jay Worthy, where Planet Asia seamlessly navigates smoother, sample-heavy beats, showcasing his evolution in sound. Additionally, tracks like “Watch Out” and “Already Know” demonstrate his ability to captivate audiences with electrifying performances.
“No Retirement” is a meticulously crafted body of work that transcends generational boundaries, appealing to both traditional hip hop purists and enthusiasts of the genre’s contemporary wave earning a rating of 9/10. It serves as a reminder of the resilience of hip hop over its 50-year history, with artists like Planet Asia leading the charge into a promising future.
Los Angeles MCT.F joined forces with Local Astronauts and Dough Networkz Presents to release not only a dope 10 track EP with “Skanless Summer,” but what also could be considered more of a Hip Hop audio movie describing a day in LA during Summer. It is no secret that T.F is a movie buff, and off rip we get a nod to the legendary Halloween antagonist with the album’s first track “Michael Myers.”
T.F then flips the channel to some pro wrestling, giving a nod to the first WWF North American Heavyweight Champ “Ted DiBiase” with a bass-heavy, soulfully looped banger named after the aforementioned wrestling legend. With a properly placed song-outro skit containing an audio clip of the Million Dollar Man himself, we get into “Blowin’ Racks” featuring Ice Cold Bishop.
The next track we get further into the project’s narrative. “Spray” featuring Space Monsta narrates a chase with the police, with a track-end interlude of a breaking news report. The next track is a nod to the classic film “Menace II Society” with “A Wax and O Dog,” where TF, Bale and Trizz talk more skanless talk over a menacing piano laced beat.
Tracks like “My Section” featuring Bale, “Big Game James” with Jay Worthy, “Lords In A Spaceship” featuring fellow Lord Mobb member G4 Jag and “Miami Nights” provide a diverse soundscape for the second half of the project before we return to another news segment reporting on mayhem in the streets, thus leading us to our final title track, “Skanless Summer.” It’s clear that summer came early this year, and with a Lord Mobb project up next, T.F is just getting started. Stream Dough Networkz Presents: T.F & Local Astronauts “Skanless Summer” below!
