Michaelangelo's "Ransom Blvd" is a gripping journey through the raw and unfiltered world of underground hip hop. Released on November 4, 2020, under the independent label 30Below, this album is a testament to Michaelangelo's prowess in crafting authentic boom bap and East Coast hip hop beats. Clocking in at just under 38 minutes, "Ransom Blvd" is a concise yet powerful collection of tracks that showcase Michaelangelo's lyrical dexterity and storytelling abilities.
From the haunting intro to the climactic finale, Michaelangelo weaves a tapestry of vivid imagery and hard-hitting rhymes. Tracks like "Birds of Passage" and "Medellin Bolognese" highlight his ability to blend intricate wordplay with smooth, melodic flows. The interlude "Dog Eat Dog" serves as a brief but impactful pause, setting the stage for the intense "MedeBean Shit" and the reflective "Ransom Blvd."
Michaelangelo's production on "Ransom Blvd" is a love letter to the golden era of hip hop, with dusty breakbeats and soulful samples that create a rich, atmospheric soundscape. The album's standout tracks, such as "Protagonista" and its sequel "Protagonista Pt. 2," demonstrate his versatility and range, seamlessly shifting between introspective and aggressive delivery.
With "Ransom Blvd," Michaelangelo solidifies his place as a formidable force in the underground hip hop scene. This album is a must-listen for fans of boom bap and East Coast hip hop, offering a raw, unfiltered glimpse into the mind of a true lyrical artist.