Northern Structure’s ‘Started off local’ that dropped earlier this August is pretty much a gem of a listen. Mixed by DJ Dr Cosmo, this beefy twenty eight track mix tape is bursting at the seams with both old and new material from the six man collective. These guys landed on the hip hop scene over three years ago, but this mix tape has well and truly put their mark on the map. Plus, the combination of styles and influences from the guys who are dotted all over the north, has shown that these artists know how to create the pure sounds of what they like to call ‘no frills hip hop’.
At first glance the sheer amount of material this mix tape holds is a bit of a shocker. But once you hit play, the diverse range of beats and featured artists gel so well that before you know it you are sucked in to the enriching sounds of the authentic scratches and dusty drum beats. The collection of posse cuts, freestyles and solo bars show all the skill Northern Structure has to offer. Opening with some heavy bangers like ‘School Yard’, and ’64 Bars of Chaos’, it kick starts the mix tape showing the superb tongue and cheek attitude these northern lads have.
Spider Jaroo, one of the key members of NRS makes a frequent appearance in this mix tape including the collectives latest release; ‘Wrong Man’ feat Oshea and Innuendo. The tracks hypnotic piano loop and rhymes catch your attention making you want to listen to it several times over to catch every bar.
This is some decent heavy bass listening that is filled with bits of humour, originality, and addictive beats. If you are looking for something to proper get in to and to distract you from post summer blues, then with out a doubt definitely get on this one.
Review By Abi Lewis.
