The New York City rap underground's purple patch continues with Bronx-based quartet Bitches Is Crazy releasing their slinky Influence album last week. Comprised of 17 tracks and offered up via High Water Music on the gratis download tip, the project should propel Yesus 199, Izzy Oz, Ill Spills, and Pete — first name, no gimmicks! — beyond what they've dubbed the “Northside” enclave of their home borough and out into greater publicized plains.
As the Influence listening session unfolds, a tangible early-Slum Village vibe begins to define the production, with woozy loops and wobbly synths gelling together courtesy of beat-work by VESA and Chuck Le Garcon. World's Fair production collaborator Black Noi$e also contributes the static-sodden “What's Up (They Know).” Over this backdrop the MCs spew out lyrics that nod to the psych-tinged styles of Beast Coast groups Flatbush Zombies and The Underachievers. As a handy primer on the crew, skip straight to “D.O.P.M.” to gain a glimpse into the warped world of Bitches Is Crazy.
