RASCO Vinyl & CDs

Review: Rasco's The Unassisted was a pivotal release in 1997, helping to put independent rap on the map with its raw energy and standout production. Taken from his Time Waits for No Man LP, this 12" single, produced by Fanatic with cuts from D-Styles and Peanut Butter Wolf, quickly became an underground classic. Rasco's sharp delivery and gritty lyricism, paired with that unmistakable 90s sound, solidified his place in the scene. Over the years, Rasco has collaborated with hip-hop heavyweights like Phife Dawg, Evidence, Jake One and Roc Raida, releasing albums with Stones Throw and gaining international recognition.

Review: The so-far superb Boom Bap Classics label kicks on with a sixth fantastic slab of old school gold. This time once more they offer up underground 90s rap gems in the form of a brilliant neck-snapper from West Coast lyrical don Rasco. His 'Unassisted' is a widely respected cut that finds favour with heads and backpackers and turntablists alike thanks to its hard bars and chord-laced bumping beats. On the flip, 'Take It Back Home' features fellow Californian vocalist Planet Asia who continues in the same vibe and keeps you moving.

Review: Three years in and Guachinche are proving themselves to be an essential outpost for UK hardcore and rave styles in Spain. Making their interests abundantly clear, their latest 12" is a VA affair simply titled The Rave. You know exactly what to expect from this release then, and DJ Rasco and Bubble Couple more than deliver on the rolling breakbeat and euphoric piano of 'Old Groove'. Suga7 mixes things up a little with some trancey elements folded into a deft, moody workout, while Mutantbreakz brings all the emotions to 'Keep It Up'. Raverman completes the set with a sound which is closer to the US big beat style of the late 90s, complete with some cyberpunk acid lines and a thread of mysticism in the breakdown. If you want big, bold rave styles, this record has got them in abundance.