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In the past couple years we have seen a great run for hip hop. We have witnessed newcomers striving for mogul status, 90s rap icons returning to release albums and RapCity finding its way back on its throne in prime time – all signs that hip hop is alive and well! With that being said, this is what I have been listening to…

Best comparable to Jurassic 5, Gorilla Warfare Tactics is a hip hop trio coming on the scene out of NYC. With a gangsta name like Gorilla Warfare Tactics I was surprised that they have a chill and upbeat vibe. Lyrical and smooth with a killer old school sample their track, Temptations, has been in my daily rotation for the past month! They are expected to drop a seven track EP and I am greatly anticipating its arrival.

Ghostface Killah released his album, Apollo Kids, in December 2010. Though some critics have said that he did not exceed expectations, nobody can argue that he did not meet them. Staying true to his art, Ghostface incorporates undertones of soul, funk and Motown with sober street-life narratives. Somber, gritty and fueled with soul, Purified Thoughts features Wu Tang’s heavy hitters, GZA and Killa Priest and it is a must listen to.

From the hometown of Philly, Chiddy Bang is a duo comprised of vocalist, Chiddy and DJ/producer, Xaphoon Jones. Their style is hip hop to the backdrop of remixed indie rock and electro beats. They have used samples from Passion Pit, MGMT, Kayne and Sufjan Stevens; collaborations which might seem a bit awkward at first, but so catchy that you just can’t help but let it grow on you! Rebel is fun with a sort of a college party je ne sais quoi.

- Elana

Tags: Chiddy Bang, Ghostface Killah, Gorilla Warfare Tactics, Much Staff Picks, RapCity

Posted on Thursday, March 3rd, 2011 at 5:57 pm by Guest Blogger and is filed under Blog, MuchRadar, Music & Videos, RapCity.

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