SK The Greatest - GMGO Music Presents: SK The Greatest

SK The Greatest

GMGOmusic presents: SK The Greatest
GMGOmusic; 2013

3.9 out of 5

By Eva Cantillo

Tramaine Skeens aka SK The Greatest gives us a fresh take on modern hip-hop. Born in Boston and raised in the “deep south,” SK gives us a broad array of sounds that many can find affinity with. While listening to GMGO Music Presents: SK The Greatest I am reminded of producers like 9th Wonder, J-Dilla, and even the early days of Kanye West. Within his tracks, you can find influences of jazz, funk, soul, classical hip-hop beats and the infusion of new-age synths and effects, which makes this release not only authentic but also musically sophisticated.

The first track on the album is mellow in vibe and is perfect for rolling around the town doing the thangs you need to get done, but in style, ya dig. “OUNCES” starts off with a bluesy solo guitar chord before the super-mellow and chill beat kicks in bringing you into positive vibes. The beat of this song is very successful in regards to production because it keeps the song moving along yet the dips and high points make you want to bob your head repetitively.

The next song, “FLY AWAY” is a bit different and has a more experimental vibe. It kind of reminds me of Three 6 Mafia in the very early days; very electronic beats yet simple and somewhat eerie. “SOUL CHECK” is a very southern song and makes me think of Ludacris tracks and has that pimp aura to it. The main vocalist is accentuated by a beautiful female voice and together they are just dripping with style. I really love the flow by Bavu Blakes on this track, there is so much unique elegance and effortless harmonization to his spoken-word rap that it makes this song so fun to listen to; it’s definitely “feel-good” music.

SK The Greatest truly is blessed in the sense that he was able to produce such great hip-hop songs featuring such a large array of hip-hop artists. Anyone even slightly interested in the hip-hop genre will find musical solace in this collective album. The album is well-produced and high quality all around. SK The Greatest is putting in the work to live up to his name.

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