Some claim that hip-hop is dead, while others say that it's thriving now more than ever. Regardless of any opinions on the genre, though, what we have here is a timeless effort that meshes old-school with the new, and it makes us believe that the genre is fully alive and well. German producer Shuko has brought together two legends, CL Smooth and 20syl, to create "The Same", and it's one of the better laid-back hip-hop tracks we've heard in a while. Shuko has crafted a smooth, jazzy instrumental here complete with a classic drum kit, subtle piano chords, and soulful trumpet melodies. The song is blessed with some fantastic bars from one of the greats, CL Smooth, and though 20syl touches up the production, he actually lays down a solid rap verse in French as well. The three complement each other greatly throughout, and we think that the sound they sculpt will be one that resonates with all members of the hip-hop community. "The Same" is set for release on November 21st, and Shuko's upcoming album, For The Love Of It, is being released worldwide in January.
Shuko