The West Coast has been on fire this year. I'm not trying to instigate and suggest a divide as I think it's great for hip hop culture in general, but the talent from Cali is so immense yet underrated right now.
Thurz is the star member of the once popular, now disbanded hip hop duo, U-N-I. I was sad when I learned of the group's split, but it seems like It was for the best. Now, I am hopeful that Thurz will be recognized as an emerging star in the game.
LA Riot is a hell of a way to debut as a solo artist. This concept album was inspired by the Los Angeles riots of 1992, and chronicles the anger building up to the riots as well as the positive and negative outcomes from the situation. Thurz's ability to capture these emotions is amazing along with the production and selective use of guest features.
To learn more about Thurz's journey as and artist and his process while creating the album, read his entire inteview with The Smoking Section here.
Preview three tracks from his incredible album, LA Riot below:
THURZ - RIOT ft. BLACK THOUGHT (prod. DJ Khalil) by #92CREW
Hell's Angel f/ BJ The Chicago Kid
If you're feeling these select tracks from the album like I am, I guarantee you'll want to cop the whole album. Purchase LA Riot on iTunes here.