There has always been something about the sun and blue skies that just begs for something funky to be pumping through the speakers. If that’s something you like to have on a day like today and don’t mind some raps rocked over those funky loops you should peep Libretto’s latest musical offerings.

If you are scratching your head at the name, look no further than Portland, LIfesavas, Misfit Massive. I saw this guy rock in Eugene when I was still in high school. I copped his debut album from him right then and there and his name is one I’ve waited to hear more from ever since. He popped up on the last Sava’s project and then recently upon connecting with Matt Nelkin of Liquid Beat Records/Radio I learned that Libretto was still active and working on new jams. I’m happy to be bumping them today.

First the concept: Nelkin hooks up some classic loops from his crates and Libretto goes off on ‘em. Pretty simple and straight forward. Last month was the jump off with Gangsta Jazz. My crate digging mind isn’t telling me what these samples are but you won’t be able to refuse their groove. The loops are never sloppy and seem to integrate large parts of the song, at times even having me wonder if they didn’t just have Bretto rock over an untouched old instrumental tune.

While Libretto is serious about the “gangsta” in his name and perhaps that is a life he’s been a part of in the past, do not think his style of gangsta will equal what you might expect from Freddie Gibbs. Libretto’s voice is deep and heavy, he raps slow and precise, his flow never changing really. It’s straightforward and honest and he likes to speak on real life topics you could encounter with no surprise. His gangsta is that of a more informed and grown individual, providing reflections and some insight into the term and how it’s brought to life.

Together these EPs will keep you nodding your head and grooving over the BBQ while you sip a brew. They did well with the theme’s as the second EP, Gangsta Boogie, certainly pulls on a different style of record to sample and loop. It closes with “Uprock” and it begs for just that, get up out your seat and dance like your soul has been possessed. The beat is sparse and Libretto spits fierce, picking up his tempo unlike the other 5 tracks found across the two EPs. If you are relaxing this weekend let these sounds help lift the vibe.

-Will Johnsen

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