Primeridian "On Tha Spot" (1997)

At the University of Illinois in the mid-90's, Chicago's Primeridian were one of the local groups of choice. I thought this early release was dope; group member Simeon had a reputation among battle rappers, so they could talk shit, but there were more abstract joints like "Musical Mirages" as well. Simply put, tight mid-90's indie record, with surprising range as well. Some heads in the crew have always felt that this record was too soft (i.e. "get that 'dreams of poetical collages'-shit outta here"), but whatever...

Primeridian "On Tha Spot" 12"

My joint on this twelve has usually been "Musical Mirages", for the more abstract vibe. This cut in particular has been featured on a number of comps, so if any Primeridian track can be considered well-traveled, it's probably this one. "On tha Spot" rocks a nice KRS sample, tight beat and solid battle rap. "Invisibly Invincible" is a more forceful battle cut (although the title hints at the pretention some cats would dislike them for). "Primates" is a bit more difficult to defend, and since I've grown so used to defending this record to some heads that disliked Primeridian personally, I usually don't even bother. Listening to it now, I'm appreciating the beat a lot more, a sunny soul sample.

Primeridian's MC's (Tree and Simeon) typically trade rhymes, and the back-and-forth is usually effective. Definately recommended, as they manage to produce a unique sound while sounding oddly familiar. Includes "On Tha Spot" (vocal and instrumental), "Musical Mirages", "Invisibly Invincible", and "Primates" (vocal and instrumental).