Home / Hip Hop / Diamond District – “In The Ruff” and “Before Taxes” (Audio)

Diamond District – “In The Ruff” and “Before Taxes” (Audio)

By on April 22, 2009


I’m always on the watch for hot rap beats accompanied by rappers with a sick flow, but in recent years have shied away from rap due to its current mundane and manufactured formula not worthy of my attention. However, in the past two years, I’ve seen a resurgence of artists who are changing the face of rap and bringing me back to love again. Diamond District are making my love grow a bit stronger.

Oddisee, the founder of Diamond District is no stranger to the game, having worked with Talib Kweli, Muhsinah, Jazzy Jeff, Buckshot, Saigon, to name a few; his production skills are serious. Group members, who are also solo artists, include X.O. and yU and together they create that lost rap sound we crave. And they do it effortlessly in In The Ruff and the latest solo release by yU with Before Taxes. All three members are from DC, the murder capital of America yet home of America’s most powerful and wealthiest. This reality is the source of their material where they portray their life experiences, struggles, and observations while offering solace for people in America. Diamond District has brought back the dirty east coast grime our fathers in rap would be proud of.

For an exclusive download of Before Taxes, go to Fresh Selects.

“I Mean Business” from In The Ruff

“Break Down” feat. Bilal Salaam from Before Taxes

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Roseann V. Warren

Founder + Editorial Director at Muphoric Sounds
Roseann V. Warren is a Brooklyn, NY based freelance writer and developmental book editor, who proudly calls herself a member of the Prince army, and believes Hersey's chocolate is a hate crime. Follow her @webdiva3000
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