Nafees - Rappin' Doesn't Pay the Rent Yet

Nafees (20) is a seasoned performer. With Koncrete Beats providing some deep subs and tight fills, he sets himself out as a mainstream act with brains. His lyrical content shines: mercifully low on bling-bling bullshit, Nafees makes no attempt to disguise his Elgin roots. There are echoes of Eminem in his flow - drawn out vowels that ride a beat lazily, verging on song and a tendency to dwell on himself a little too much. There are many highlights: the collar-popping of Chrome Rims/Flat Tyres, the soul-sampling Sunshine, and the dub reggae speed-rap of Acclaimed Verses (Jamrock Mix). Also featured, local artists like Jae P and L-Marie: more proof that hip-hop business is booming in Scotland. Nafees is confident, intelligent, and can only refine his craft. Whether it will ever pay the rent? Depends how much longer Scottish hip-hop continues to be slept on by A&Rs in London. [Omar Kudos]