What do you get if you cross an award-winning producer, mainly for his contribution to the breaks scene, and a UK lyricist studying the Philosophy of Mental Disorder? The combination of Mark “Merka” Ford, and Jon Driver (a.k.a Eshamanjaro), bring “Mystic Man and Eshamanjaro”. The Fat! Records’ duo have created such a buzz with their lead single “Minds I”, that fans have finally heard news regarding their album release “In Heavy Weather”, that is set to breach the boarders of modern-day Hip-Hop.

With no musical constrains, or lyrical blocks, Eshamanjaro has the freedom to write whatever he feels necessary, which is evident in various songs throughout “In Heavy Weather”. With Mark Ford by his side, the duo strikes up an amazing partnership, similar to Laurel and Hardy of the comedy world. The only difference is Mystic Man and Eshamanjaro mean serious business, and are far from likely to impress their fans with some slapstick rhyming. The twelve-track album has already received rave reviews, and I’m sure a rating from Hip-HopKings.com won’t break that pattern.

“Cheshire Cat” opens the album. An energy-packed five minutes, with synths’ and piano-filled tones, which are very reminiscent of the Lupe Fiasco, track “Paris, Tokyo”. Eshamanjaro is given the opportunity to immediately show-off his river-like flow, and without a doubt sets the album off the mark. Quickly following on is “The Rambler”, which is a more beat-concentrated affair, with Mark now displayed his flawless production skills. The vision and ear for good music is evident within the duo from the get-go.

The album packs more surprises, one of which “Keeper of the Flame”. The Egyptian, snake charming like beat will undoubtedly prove a favourite on the album, and Esh finds it more than simple to rap over the given beat. “Off It” features broken-samples and various metaphors and similes from Esh, which combined with Mark’s choice of beat (again) works wonders as a finished product. It’s very difficult to pick a fault with the music; however the acquired taste may take a while to win over various fans. The mixture of solid UK Hip-Hop and Beats/Breaks is a newly named formula, and the lads should have the cross-genre named after them.

“In Heavy Weather” could create much debate from fans of Hip-Hop, Beats and Breaks, and even stretching into the Grime/Funk genres. A combination of various sounds and instruments is not only refreshing, but highly addictive! Esh proves his worth as a lyricist, and Mark Ford is already becoming a household name across the country. A little more from the duo would be nice, and providing they have a strong marketing campaign/record label, I don’t see why Mystic Man and Eshamanjaro can’t achieve big things.

Hip-Hop Kings Rating: 4 out of 5 Crowns

Written By Ryan Maxwell

www.myspace.com/mysticmaneshamanjaro
www.thefatclub.com
www.itunes.com/podcast?id=268478290