This is a gem insofar as it's a promotional release from 1999 that isn't listed on discogs. For that matter, I can't find any information about the group or their producer Dereck "Grizzly Bear" Hicks anywhere online. The liner notes tell us the following (my comments in italics):
Illmatic producer (slightly misleading qualifier) Dereck E. Hicks aka Grizzly Bear has unleashed multi-talented hip-hop sensation Safari 215. Socko, Savage, Smooch, and Suede, each a veteran performer with numerous talent awards to their credit.The title track ain't too bad.
The members were picked for their strength as solo performers. Under Mr. Hicks' direction they were molded into an harmonious rap act without sacrificing their individual strengths. All are accomplished lyricists as each track shows. (Here's where it jumps the shark...) Have you ever thought up in your head the perfect cypher? Rakim, B.I.G., Jay-Z, KRS, 2Pac and Kane when he was still raw? These cats make it happen. Offering a unique view of urban living all hale (their misspelling, not mine) from Illadelphia, hence Safari215.
Producer Grizzly Bear, affectionately known as "Bear," began his love affair with music at a tender age. (hayooooo, pause). By his teenage years he was a show writer. Many experiences honed his skills through the years. In 1991 he coordinated and promoted talent shows at Philly's famed Uptown Theater.
Evaluater (again, not my sp.) and developer of talent par excellence his involvement with Safari215 has stardom stamped all over it. A true "track master" his R&B structure combined with bouncy hip-hop tracks has wide appeal.
No comments:
Post a Comment