The word "mixtape is an anachronism. Today's themed compilation offerings are more of a digital download in a zipped bundle containing artwork and individual tracks; or a stream of tracks on Audio Mack, Bandcamp or Soundcloud.
This is not E.L's first effort at "dropping a mixtape". Even this iteration is a part two. His team was ingenious enough to actually print up CD with a sleeve, just to keep the "mixtape" feel.
When you truly think about it, this innovative genius of an artist has given away an excellent body of work for free! Not even a suggested donation was solicited by his label BBnZ. Don't take this gift lightly. Do E.L a favor by spreading the word about this body of work. Support him when he embarks on a showcase or concert in a city near you. Now, let's take a listen to "The B.A.R. 2 mixtape via his official Soundcloud page.
E.l is the star of this "mix stream". He's got this!. His versatility defines him as a true artists. Azonto? Hiplife? Yeah, forget what you heard. He straight up commands Rap/hip Hop effortlessly. He bodies the beat with contemporary lyrics, cadence and delivery.
Who joins hip on this mastery? Well there's his immediate crew members like C-Real, Lil Shaker and Gemini. But others like Ko-Jo Cue, DJ Juls, Reggie Rockstone, Dex Kwasi, Jayso, Joey B, Pappy Kojo, Recognize Ali, KiddBlack and Blackaway join in on the organized fray. DJ Juls, Kluvie, Slimbo and others as well as E.L craft the beats. The message is clear: Accra, Ghana's a viable, bankable rap scene that can hold on any terrestrial radio, TV station in any continent on the Earth.
The kicker track is called "Unity". diiiii! Talk about a "posse cut". This is the ultimate coming from Ghana. No special message, no benefits cause. Just straight braggadocio rap. Just how we used to like it. UNITY features Dex Kwasi, Lil Shaker, Medal, D-Black, Mornin Tee, Gemini, X.O Senavoe, Ko-Jo Cue, Lyrical Wanzam, Stargo, Akatus, Chimney Crane, Cabum, Looney, Slimbo, C-Real, Bebelino, Kay Swag, Dee Money, Pappy Kojo & Joey B. Too many choices to say who's the best. It's not a competition it's unity.
My standout tracks?
"The Ten Rap Commandments"
"Inside Out"
"16 Bars"
"Best Shape"
"Unity"
"King Without A Crown"
Spread the word!