"It's been years since the official death of the Black nationalist emcee movement; and hip-hop hasn't had too many voices checking the thug mentality or the folks "slangin' that rock." All we've seen are emcees who advocate freedom through the dollar bill. But Nonchalant, hailing from Washington D.C., has opted to put a message back in the rhymes with the release of her debut single, "5 O'Clock." Nonchalant flips the layed-back G-Funk drawl, usually associated with lyrical "set tripping," and uses it to relay a message to the hustlers. Over compelling, gospel-esque production, she poses the question: "5 O'Clock in the morning, where you gonna be?" They reply, "Outside on the corner!" For these individuals, she drives home the point of origin for crime and violence. "I got the urge to let you in on a little secret / 'cause you'll keep dying if I keep it / On the killin' that you feelin' from within / For the culprit check the color of your skin." Peep the audio video to the track below...
"Surprisingly, after a four year hiatus, the words "strong, black nation" pop up in a rhyme again. After getting a response from two dope-slangin' MCs, who defend their desire for the finer things in life, Nonchalant rebuts with solutions of collectivism over the rugged individualism that hustling ultimately represents. The lyrics are accompanied by a crisp bass and kick, layered with keyboards, a looming church bell, and an entire chorus. In an age where no one, including record companies, wants to hear or support a sermon, Nonchalant defiantly pays no attention." Full 12" review below...
