In the vein of the Jaylib album, Alchemist joined forces with Madlib's brother Oh No under the group moniker Gangrene for a collaborative record.
The lead single “Chain Swinging” from a production stand point meets expectations, complemented with DJ Romes cuts – who hasn't made much appearances since the Lootpack record. The single sounds as though it falls under the Alchemist umbrella of sound with its mafioso string arrangement, but the kicker that makes “Chain Swinging” a reputable teaser for the full length is that both producers damage the mic with strong verses. Alchemist kicks it off with “speed on / get peed on / your album is *barf sounds* / I use it to break weed on / while I scheme on a sample to feed on.” Earlier in his career Oh No rapped on his records, so his proficiency on the mic is expected, but Alchemist killing his bars is a relief that he can handle both elements.
Even with Alchemist slaying “Chain Swinging,” the full length features a gang of mic shredders to provide relief for the duo. Features include Raekwon, Guilty Simpson, Evidence and Fashawn, among others.
Gangrene's Gutter Water drops October 12 on Decon.
