A new EP from Queens, New York emcee Truth. A former member of the Gods’Ila trio, he began making solo records for himself the year after the group’s full-length debut album, Believe in Gods’Ila, but later released “From Ashes” and “Kingdom Come.” Three years later, he dropped his sophomore effort “Fighting for Survival” and “For All Intents and Purposes.” The latter was also produced entirely by Da Beatminerz and Nostalgia ThEraPy, with DJ Evil Dee and Mr. Walt producing the sequel.
“Painful Truth” opens with a ravine-like bap instrumental that suggests trying to fuck him in a fight and see what happens, until “Want It Back” dustily dismisses “mumble rap” as he talks about wanting New York to return to its roots, and I feel like we’re past that stage. “Redrum Seen” brings a murderous vibe from its rhythm to its relentless writing, while “Cause for Concern” featuring Psycho Les and Tragedy Khadafi comes together for a lyrical attack.
The song “Done Did It” kicks off the second half of Nostalgia TheEraPy 2, with Truth bouncing around on some speakers, mixing in a kick drum and a snare, talking about how easy it is to do this rap, while “Check It Out” unleashes a few razor-sharp 16s against an aggressive backdrop with more authority than MTA. Royal Flush’s “Get to It” completes the EP, with both men on soul samples refusing to slow down until they get what they deserve.
Truth & Da Beatminerz’ third potent East Coast craze bap is hungrier than ever, continuing the former Gods’illa member’s status as a solo artist that began nearly 4 years ago with For All Intents & Purposes, joining the original Nostalgia ThEraPy EP which celebrates its second anniversary in just a few months. From DJ Evil Dee and Mr. Walt’s production to the poignant lyricism, everything about the latter has been elevated on its follow-up.
Score: 8/10
