K-Otix presents: The Are - Hustler’s Theme (2002)

And while we’re at it, here’s The Are’s producer album Hustler’s Theme. While the other two thirds of K-otix were working on their Black Album, Russel Gonzalez crafted these beats with the precision and detail he’s famous for. The album features guest verses by the K-otix’ homies Headkrack, J. Sands of Lone Catalysts, Truth Enola, Count Bass D., D-Ology and of course by Damien and Micah. The album is an homage to the soundtracks of 70s blaxploitation flicks, but the Are is far from simply copying 70s funk grooves. Instead, he creates his own, subtly instrumented soundscape that shines the brightest when on its own. (Standout track The Dinner.) An overlooked gem.

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