10. Odd Future- Radical
Thoughts: Many like Earl and Tyler's solo freebies, but, in my opinion, neither carried enough umph to be put on an end of the year list. Odd Future has incredible potential, they have hypnotized the internet for the better half of 2010, and have a bushel of addicting singles, but they still lack experience and it shows in their compilations. I'm on the edge of my seat with what Earl and Tyler have to offer in the future, but I'd be lying if I said their music completely blows me away so far (the hype, reaction, and ethos is a different story).
Radical, a haphazard mix tape that features every single Odd Future member, is the best 2010 representation of the biggest internet buzzed act next to Lil B and it's why I chose it over Earl's self titled give away.
Thoughts: Kon's introduction to the world has an impeccable sound. The versatile production from DJ Dyllema, Marcus Sebastion, The Individualz, and Kon himself will exercise your neck as Kon anchors the ship with his crystal clear cadence. The luminous feel of the EP gives a whole other meaning to its title, but is more than likely due to the simple touch of an MC/Producer that also holds a degree in music engineering and has produced/engineered for Ras Kass, O.C., Blahzay, and more.
Besides the EP's altostratus sound, Kon makes quite a first impression. Reminiscent of a fellow New York MC in Sene, his pen is heartfelt, thoughtful, and poetic; his flow is simplistic, precise, and digestible; and his ear for production near flawless.
As Kon prepares us for his debut full length LP, My Glorious Imperfection, we are left with a good feeling about his supposed weaknesses to come. In one debut EP/Demo, Kon has already proven worthy to pilot hip hop fans above the clouds for years to come. Buckle up.
5. Black EL & Ryan Durkin- Color Commentary
Thoughts: The Dick Vitale of Hip Hop shows his everlasting energy and excitement for music on his sophomore release, even more so than on his debut, A Major Minority, an almost impossible feat.
Black has definitely upped his game and has transformed from a diaper dandy into a PTPer with Ryan Durkin at his side.
Word is that this connection will continue, and if that's the case, so will the success. Black EL's voice is refreshing.
Thoughts: This is a freebie that I missed during my internet hiatus, but the first thing I downloaded once I returned and it never left the rotation. I don't know what it is about Dom, but he has that 'something' that crawls inside your head, infects, and lasts. His style is simple, nonchalant, and blunted, but is extremely infectious and replayable. All of his freebies have been dope, so if you aren't familiar yet-- get to it.
Thoughts: I've been supporting Outasight's movement (Rhymehouse, etc.) before he finally caught fire on the bigger blogs and the Yonkers, NY bred artist has only gotten better. This 2010 freebie gives fans a glimpse on his growth and a sneak peak into what I think his major label debut will sound like. Out of all the new artists that have popped up in the blogosphere in the past few years, Outa remains one of the most innovative and original MCs out there. I still believe he has the most potential to "blow up"-- it's only a matter of time. Never say never.
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