Zebra Traffic has become the Cold Chillin’ of UK hip-hop labels, with a back
catalogue bereft of poor or even mediocre releases - with Cappo’s Spaz The
World LP being the latest in an ever-expanding list of blistering releases.
Cappo gave fellow Nottingham inhabitants The P Brothers the responsibility
of producing all thirteen tracks on the LP - so you all know what he got,
don’t you? DRUMS.
The production is heavy, heavy, heavy, and anyone familiar with the work of
The P Brothers will know exactly what I’m talking about. Booming drums that
take you back to hip-hop’s golden age adorn every track, and Cappo’s rapping
is just as impressive.
The album’s Intro really sets the tone for the LP, with Cappo rhyming
freestyle over a heavy scratched up P Brothers beat, encapsulating the sort
of raw energy which hip-hop on the other side of the Atlantic has been sadly
lacking in recent years.
Cirques des Clowns is a real banger, and the very talented Scor-Zay-Zee
showcases his skills and humour on the incredible Speak. ‘They say it’s all
about who’s the best in this sport, I was writing raps when Ian Botham was
on A Question of Sport. I’m like Bin Laden - a menace to the world, I make
my family fortunes and marry Les Dennis’ girl.’
Gloves Off is the other real standout track and has yet another Nottingham
connection, as Mr 45 guests on the mic - and by this time you’re half
expecting Brian Clough to drop a couple of verses. Maybe next time.
Spaz The World is released on the 18th of August. Mark it in your diaries.
www.zebratraffic.co.uk
Reviewed by Fraser Syme
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