Baltimore based, Cata9tales is an alternative hip hop group composed of Berkley Priest and Kreator. On October 1st this duo will release a self-produced, 12-track album called, "Hello Maybe Everything". Self-producing a full-length album is not uncommon anymore but that doesn't make it any easier. It takes some serious hard work for indie artists to develop a following on their own. Yet, Cata9tales have already appeared on Vans Warped Tour and they are winners of the 2013 Coast2Coast MIxtapes Hip Hop Showcase. When I remind myself they self-produce their own records I can't help but fist pump in the air and say, "Respect."
Lucky for you, waiting until the October 1st release is not mandatory since we have a lovely preview, here. Funky hip hop with some serious throwback vibes is how I would define this album. Berkley Priest spits rhymes so quick, at times his tracks remind me of old Bone Thugs-N-Harmony songs. Listen to "Hello Maybe Everything" and try to tell me you don't hear that influence. One of my most favorite trends from hip hop artists is the collaboration between rapper and female vocalist. Where is Faith Evans and Dido when you need them?!? Not to worry, "Tiger in a Tropical Storm" gives you what you need...
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'Tiger in a Tropical Storm' by Cat9tales
It's not just the beats and sound of the record that create the throwback vibe but also the lyrics. Priest is as fast as Twista when he raps but if you slow it down you will hear some crazy awesome references. "When Doves Lie" manages to pay homage to Prince, Notorious B.I.G., Tracy Chapman, Star Wars and Maury Povich. Like, whoa. But even though Cata9tales utilize strong throwback influence they have definitely developed their own unique sound.
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