Artist: La the Darkman

Album: Living Notoriously Gangsta Grillz L.A.D

Label: Aphilliates Music Group

 DJ Drama and the Gangsta Grillz mixtape series are brand names that have endured the test of time. So when a new Gangsta Grillz tape comes out the people listen. With the newest installment in the series “La the Darkman and DJ Drama- Living Notoriously Gangsta Grillz L.A.D” Drama showcases Aphilliates member and label president La the Darkman (L.A.D).

If the name sounds familiar it should! La was a hip-hop heavyweight in the 90’s affiliated with the Wu-Tang Clan and often referred to as the 12th member of the WU. In 1998 he released “Heist of the Century” which went on to sell over 300,000 copies with no major label backing and is still heralded by many as an Indi classic.
   
He’s back like he never left. “Living Notoriously” kicks off with La spittin’ fire over the beat to “Thuggish Ruggish Bone.” It is this formula that continues throughout the project with La droppin’ lyrical gems over familiar beats. It works well, providing the listener with a familiar sounds cape to hear new rhymes while serving as a platform to showcase the MC’s ability to switch up flow styles and cadences.

La shines on a tape that is filled with appearances from strong MC’s like T.I. and Lil’ Wayne, often outshining the more recognizable guest. Such is the case on standout track “I Got Game”. Weezy comes out full speed ahead with a Carter 2 like delivery, but lyrically doesn’t compare to the more experienced L.A.D. Other notable collabo’s include Trey Songz, Gucci Mane, Flo-Rida, and frequent collaborator/label mate Willie the Kid, on the Trunk Shakin’ “Love for Money.” As a matter of fact it is with Willie that La seems to be most in the zone, as their contrasting styles compliment each other very well.

Living Notoriously proves not only that La can spit, but that Drama and the whole Aphilliates family still has what it takes to give the streets crack! From the lyrics, to the beat selection, and standout sequencing, this mixtape is more street album than it is a random collection of throw-away songs as many mixtapes usually are. Living Notoriously definitely makes it to the I-pod; listen to it, rewind it, and listen again. 

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