I write it, then I record it
Then I seize the microphone so I can perform it
And as long as you're right here willing to support it
Make some noise if you're ready to enjoy it
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Those are the opening words of SeezMics, the MC in Educated Consumers, and Write/Hear (self-released) is an album sought after by those who still care about lyricism, and the twists and turns that can happen when one puts pen to paper. SeezMics immediately states that he's not in this to play the fool, and even goes so far as to say that he left that at the altar. Not that humor isn't around the corner, but this is not about joking around nor is this "see how big your keg is" rap, it's nice rhymes executed in a manner that represents the music (produced by the musical half of the group, t.E.C.K.@) in a way that other duos should seriously look into.
It's nice to hear someone who not only knows how to write, but knows how to write. Sometimes a rapper will have one quality over the other but SeezMics does both. On the surface it sounds like these guys have been listening to a lot of Dilated Peoples, Gang Starr, Latryx and Big Daddy Kane, and if so, you're obviously listening and listening well. SeezMics comes off as a regular guy whose words are merely a day in the life of a guy who simply chooses to express himself with the help of selective samples and deep beats. While you will hear a bit of bragging and boasting, much of his words are more conversational than confrontational What I also like is how these songs may about being around friends and crew, but there's an outlook that goes beyond that, one of growth that goes past the high school and college fantasies, and it's very nice to hear that and yet still sound fresh and new. It's grown up hip-hop, yet still holding to the values of youth. Impressive. iCon The Mic King, K-Cromozone, and Manchild also sit in in a couple of tracks too.
For those who like knowing that a producer made an effort to make the beats and put everything together, t.E.C.K.! is your man. There's not only knowledge dropped in the lyrics, but also in the music, and if you're not careful you might miss some important essentials. Crispy and dirty when needed (which is most of the time), crisp and pure in others, and whether it's old school tradition or new school club bangers, he is capable of doing them all, but the neverending crate of classic traditions is what makes him standout, even from other like-minded producers who know how to find the right breaks, basslines, and melodies. If you are an educated consumer, then perhaps this review will provoke you to make a wise purchase. I would recommend this.
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