Up & Up Presents: Gods'Illa- The Album

Product Description

The hunger of these artists is prominent and apparent. Listeners hear it in every word, of every line, on every track. Their words chronicle struggle, celebration, reality, and hopefulness, all of which make them believable. The typical hood clichés are left at the door and listeners are authentically entertained by a striking flow of depth and lyricism from start to finish. Where other artists lend exaggerations or seek empathy from their listeners, these men seek betterment, hoping to motivate and inspire rather than simply impress and overly amplify.

Review

"If I'm not nice on the mic, then show me somebody who might... give me some competition/let me hear something that'll make me wanna listen/'cause everbody hustlin' and everybody spittin'/everybody smokin' and everybody sippin'/I'm powerful, I strive to do different (listen)/So who readin', who writin', who teachin'/who keepin' all of you out the streets when/guns and drugs is giving them a reason to run around acting like a heathen (damn!)/I'm still in B'more, so yeah, I'm still believin' that wack rap cats'll fall back (and) stop speakin'"

Not even half way through the first full-length song on this album and I was sold. You'll see their name and think "okay, they're a spiritual group because they feel that God is illa (iller) than all." While that may be true, being spiritual or even Christian is not the running theme. Now others might be saying "aah, just like Ol' Dirty Bastard once said, the black man is God, so does that mean that these guys feel that being a self-proclaimed God is iller than most, and if so, more than who?" Whatever the proper definition of their name is, what I do hear on Gods'illa: The Album is the kind of rhymes, flows, and production that brings to mind the best of groups like Heltah Skeltah, Originoo Gunn Clappaz, Smif-N-Wessun and Black Moon. In other words, there's a sense of brotherhood and friendship that comes from being together for a few years, it doesn't sound like a rush job or something manufactured. Each of the guys have distinct voices so it's not like you'll hear this and go "now is this verse from the same guy I just heard rhyming for the last 45 minutes", I myself like hearing individuality in their deliveries and I do hear it here. As they say in "Glaciers", it's all about blasting "verbal shots" because they may be "slaving for paper" due to the fact that they still have to be grinding in order to survive. They are willing to fight in order to make a living, and that fight is done in the means of writing intense lyrics.

With that said, don't expect them to come off as 24/7 street soldiers or anything like that, they do manage to have a bit of fun and spirit in a Pharcyde sense, but also don't take that to sound like they're rhyming nothing but jokes in high pitched voices. There's just an attitude that I like because it sounds as if they're all in the same room, making smirks at each other, and going "yeah, I wanna out do you for the love of what we as a collective represent." When you have special guests dropping rhymes with Acem, Truth and Powerful, they become a part of the family too, it doesn't sound like any of them are trying to 1-up on each other for the sake of future credibility on their resumes.

Gods'illa will hopefully continue to do what it takes to get themselves heard, but I hope this i no way diminishes the united spirit I hear here. They sound hungry, and that makes this even more of a vicious attack on the senses, as the verse I quoted above shows. What's the time? Yes, it's time to get Gods'Illa. -- This Is Book's Music

Hip-hop fans are sick of both overly preachy and hard-partying rappers -- most artists are aware of this, but the trio Gods'Illa actually tackles the problem. On their debut album, "Up and Up Presents...Gods'Illa the Album," brothers Acem, Truth and Powerful, who hail from the DMV and New York, address the issue head-on and attempt to bring a bit of fun and humor to social commentary.

"So who is Gods'Illa?/Cause I ain't never heard `em/Prolly just another group of rappers talkin' murder/And I ain't tryna hear that/If they fake pro-black, they can take their [expletive] back to Africa with all that," goes the opening line of "Who is..."

"Stuck" is a break-up to make-up song that recalls Slum Village, while "Run On" takes the Burt Bacharach-penned "This Guy's in Love With You" and remarkably turns it into a super-charged hip-hop burner. The album, released digitally today, also shows love to go-go, but not by merely borrowing its distinctive percussion, as so many artists have done--instead there are guest verses from D.C. heavy-hitters Tre of UCB and Black Boo from Mambo Sauce.

When it comes to hip-hop, no album ever truly offers something for everybody, but Gods'Illa has impressively created something that should appeal to almost anyone. -- The Washington Post

The reemerging Hip Hop scene in the Washington metropolitan area, typically referred to as the DMV (short for the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia), owes a great debt to the high profiles of artists such as Wale and the potent trio Diamond District. However, an entire crop of unknowns possessed of their own signature and polished styles bubble quietly under the surface. Of the many acts who have yet to crack the first ballot, the trio of physical brothers Truth, Acem and Powerful - known collectively as Gods'Illa - deserve much attention. Their debut album, Up and Up Presents Gods'Illa: The Album, is a refreshing throwback to when the flow of an album still mattered and that message driven Hip Hop could be entertaining without being overbearingly preachy.

The album begins with a brief intro produced by frequent collaborator Joe D. (who produces all but six tracks on the album). Setting the tone well, the LP launches into action with "Glory" and Joe D.'s excellent track is elevated by confident rhymes from the brothers. This early highlight captures much of the LP's aim and serves as a perfect introduction to their varied vocal styles. "Who Is..." is another incredible Joe. D track featuring Acem, who delivers a strong verse with hints of frustration of not being lauded or well known amongst the throng. The track is far too short and Joe D.'s versatility impresses. The track "Stuck" is a welcome, smooth switch of the LP's direction. The mellow production from Beggah Ooh (and co-production from Def.nition) boosts the relationship theme and Acem's well-placed hook is stellar. "Another Day" ventures into grittier territory with the MCs' graphic depiction of the streets matching well with AOF Music's driving beat. The track "Protect It" continues the string of Acem's excellent hooks, Powerful's distinctive style and Truth's bare honesty. Acem wisely allows his brothers to carry the bulk of the record and the beat from 8Trix Music is perhaps the strongest of the disc thus far.

The LP thankfully has very few dull moments. The well-meaning "Times Is Hard" is evidence of this fact. The song, while not entirely terrible, drags the energy down to a snail's pace. Producer Algorythm offers heaping doses of smoothness and the positive rhymes from the brothers are thoughtful. However, the track just doesn't fit with any of the others preceding it. "Helping Hand", which features Substantial, corrects things quickly and Joe D.'s track adds another superb melding of beats and rhymes; the theme of unity and collaboration resonate well within the track. "Decisions" is another track that threatens to derail the LP's momentum. The production from Chris Wright is decent enough but the rhymes from the brothers (and the features from Diggz and Tre of the Go-Go band UCB) are unmemorable.

The last full track, "Run On", features Joe D. and Black Boo of the Go-Go Band Mambo Sauce. Saving the best for last, Joe D.'s horn-laced track is just busy enough in the background to give the MCs and vocalist space to work. As throughout most of the LP, the recurring themes of positivity and accomplishment over struggle are at the core of this track. The MCs of Gods'Illa do an excellent job of matching strong messages within their rhymes that never stray far from their Nation of Gods and Earths influence. However, it never feels misplaced or unnecessary. With one of the stronger debut LPs to be released in recent time, Gods'Illa appears ready to take their place as one of the DMV's most talented acts. -- Potholes In My Blog

Three blood brothers, all with awesome names, come together to form the lyrical trinity that is Gods'Illa. Who is Gods'Illa? Not a giant monster tearing Japan apart, that's for sure. Rather, Gods'Illa is a giant family tearing up over-privileged, underwhelming emcees. Their intentions are to destroy and rebuild, and with their first full length, self-titled album, I'm excited to say that they made an amazing start at doing just that.

Acem, Truth, and Powerful, are all the types of emcees that we all love. Clear, concise, articulate, creative, intelligent, but still a bit raw. The type of dudes who would whoop you on a bad night, and then sit down and try to figure out a way to build some sort of community organization with you. Three Rakims. Better yet, Three Black Thoughts. Three young men who, without being overly explicit, make it clear that they have a purpose and a mission, coupled with the everyday carnality of regular life. Oh, and they love hip-hop. A lot.

I know, I know. These are all pretty bold statements about three men, I've never met. But from the very beginning of their album, these poignant characteristics burst through vividly. The first song "Glory," they repeat the mighty mantra, "Who can be against me, if I got God for me" while explaining and exhibiting that they are thorough emcees, due to God, without sounding preachy. Hence the name Gods'Illa. The song that follows, "Who Is..." strengthens the introduction as Acem runs through the stereotypical questions about a group like Gods'Illa, such as whether or not they stand on the Africa soapbox, and whether or not they have songs for the club. It's a short clever song that really drives home who they are - young brothers, trying.

Balance is shown on the mild tempo'd "Stuck," which as an interesting song about relationship trouble. Each brother tells a different story. Their personalities are all different, as are their perspectives. This fact makes for a really dope, dynamic song. Not to mention the track is an amazing, Dilla-esque groove, reminiscent of old Slum Village. But, I must say, my personal favorite on the album is probably one of the heaviest. "Glaciers," is the epitome of a hip-hop song. A driving beat, complete with a stinging snare and stuttering bass drum, serves as the backdrop for Gods'Illa and the feature, Joe D, to give an amazing performance. The lyrics are laden with spiritual teachings, revolutionary rhetoric and struggle talk all being disseminated without pretense or prejudice.

All in all, Gods'Illa's self-titled debut album sounds good. More importantly, it feels good. It feels real. Sincere. The familial connection is as evident as their lyrical ability, which makes for quite a stew. They are focused and mission oriented which is always a good thing. Hip-hop doesn't have much space right now for art for art's sake, in my opinion. So it's refreshing to hear what can be created when family holds tight to one another, and builds. It's funny, when I think about it, some people will be as frightened of them as the Japanese were of Godzilla in the movies. If truth is fire...I can understand the fear. Be afraid. -- OkayPlayer

Today's music rarely presents a legitimate combination of talent, virtue, optimism, and intelligence, but the originality and masterful skills laid down by this trio of brilliant brothers tells a much different tale.

Through hard work, perseverance, and pure hustle, Maryland natives, Gods'Illa, consisting of Truth Hall, Acem Hall, and Powerful Aguliar, deliver an album packed with wise words, incredible truths, and a unique vision. It's not that we haven't heard politically, socially, culturally, or emotionally passionate tales before, but the powerful lyrics, nostalgic suggestions, and infectious beats spread across multiple tracks, is impressive to say the least.

The hunger of these artists is prominent and apparent. Listeners hear it in every word, of every line, on every track. Their words chronicle struggle, celebration, reality, and hopefulness, all of which make them believable. The typical hood clichés are left at the door and listeners are authentically entertained by a striking flow of depth and lyricism from start to finish. Where other artists lend exaggerations or seek empathy from their listeners, these men seek betterment, hoping to motivate and inspire rather than simply impress and overly amplify.

There ain't no fluff here -- just artists with a true gift, a genuine passion, a love for music, and a positive message. Gods'Illa doesn't attempt to force you into adopting a new reality; they just want to make you aware of their reality and further inspire you to reassess your own. Unlike many other hip-hop albums, there are no guns blasting, no trap house glory stories, or sexual promotions, simply MEN teaching other men (and women) how to be exceptional.

Up and Up Presents Gods'Illa: The Album isn't preachy or redundant, just truthful, straightforward and enjoyable. And there is a tangible liking for every listener, no matter their musical taste. "Stuck" appeals to couples in limbo while "Protect It," the most commercial of the album's 17 tracks, appeals to more hardcore hip-hop listeners. "Times Is Hard" pulls on the interests of music realists; those that seek out the true emotion behind the artist. And "Winner," allows listeners to recognize the influence of a beautifully worthy woman coupled with the ego of even the most humbled cat.

Gods'Illa didn't go about conducting the business of music without the support of some local, veteran musicians and Maryland/D.C. "big wigs" for its debut album. Those artists include: international hip-hop artist Substantial, Joe D., The Five One, Diggz, Tre of UCB, and Black Boo of Mambo Sauce. Although some of these names may not be world-renowned, they pack one hell of a punch on this album, introducing Maryland's most established newcomers.

Failing to cop this album would be a melodic disservice. For music lovers who seek to support up-and-coming artists, this is the album for you. Not only are these young brothas humble, they're tangible, approachable, and down-to-Earth.

All of DMV (D.C./Maryland/Virginia) can't be wrong about this one. This group is definitely D.C.'s best kept secret; "the Great Unknown." So grab the album and hear some truth for a change. -- DMV Spectrum

About the Artist

First, there was Run DMC then Public Enemy, A Tribe Called Quest, Mos Def & Talib Kweli, etc. Now introducing, Gods'Illa; the evolution of true Hip-Hop music. With lyrical prowess, presence and authenticity reminiscent of the glory days, Gods'Illa, a hip-hop group consisting of 3 actual brothers Acem Eternal Mind, God Allah Truth & Powerful Rasheem Mathematics, has stepped on to the scene to provide the masses with a sound that shifts the paradigm and brings the focus of the music back to the experiences of everyday people. The name Gods'Illa (God Is Illa) embodies not only the group's culture but also the scale of music they create in comparison to the competition.

Formed in 2004, Gods'Illa's journey began well before the brothers banded to collectively embark on this dream. Acem, the eldest of the three, was first to display his love of music as part of S.C.A.N; a group created by international rap artist Substantial under the Unlimited Vinyl Ink umbrella. Not long after, Truth followed suit and began performing at local talent shows throughout the Washington, DC metro area, developing his musical craft while shadowing his older brothers movements. So, it comes at no surprise that 300 miles away in Brooklyn, NY, Powerful, the youngest of the brotherly trio, began experimenting with writing and effortlessly became the missing piece to the group.

Since their debut on Unlimited Vinyl's, Make Da Face mixtape in 2005, Gods'Illa has performed throughout the Washington, DC area and Mid-Atlantic Region opening for legendary acts like Brand Nubian in addition to several other performances including but not limited to: Capital Hip Hop Soulfest, Hip-Hop on the Hill (McDaniel College), CMJ Showcase and the world renown End of the Weak Mic Series. In 2009, the group garnered a great deal of notable achievements including placing #1 in MTV's VMA Best Breakout DC Competition followed by the release of the critically-acclaimed Pre-Lease EP which attracted the attention of legendary DJ/producer DJ Scratch as well as 9th Wonder. Gods'Illa has been featured on sites such as Okayplayer, DJBooth.net and even Peter Rosenberg has begun including their music on Late Night with Peter Rosenberg show on NYC's Hot 97.

With the ability to tell stories through the use of powerful rhymes that transcend life, Gods'Illa promises to truly be a cut above the rest. The brothers vary in age as they do in style but it's their unique element of creativity that helps to create a sound collectively described as Universal.