What do you get when you combine three unique rappers from the east side and funky fresh hip-hop beats? Villains.
The group, known as First String, has released a six-track album that features the best that Villainous Entertainment has to offer. In 1999, three aspiring teenagers, Damon Davis, Koby Rogers and Frazier Garner, founded Villainous Entertainment in East St. Louis. Their goal was to find the best rappers in the area and sign them to their record label. After years of recruiting and experimenting with local artists, releasing many collaborated albums and doing shows and battles anywhere they could, the powerhouse group, First String, came into existence consisting of the aforementioned three. After a few mix tape releases that showed their commitment and perseverance, they recently released "A.K.A. – Varsity Emcees."
This album opens with the in-your-face song "The Illest." This song contains of powerful lyrics that really are "straight from the 618." "Last Supper" is an angry, violent song that compliments its odd beat. Angst seems to be the motivation behind this and other First String songs.
The song "Never Sprung" has good beats and a catchy chorus line. The overlapping of vocals is reminiscent of the rappers of yesteryear. These boys are harder than Nelly, but still maintain a persona that makes their music more than just anger and violence.
Perhaps the one thing that saves this from being just another album that talks about hos, pimpin and thug life, is the song "Psalms." Its lyrics and eerie beat make this song very real.
With its catchy chorus and dark, spiritual verses, the MC known as Loosescrews has managed to capture a religious aspect that makes this song a breath of fresh air. It is an alternative to the typical rap songs we have been accustomed to over recent years.
The songs "Evacuate the Premises" and "Mercs Out" add an interesting combination of lyrics and beats for a new flavor that begs to be tasted.
This album contains some of the most unique beats I have ever heard. This group has some major potential if they can focus on the music and keep group members from leaving. "A.K.A. – Varsity Emcees" has everything from dark and angry lyrics to soft and mellow beats. If you are into local rappers with new and in-your-face beats, First String is your group.
