When asked to describe his latest album, Iron Lyon simply states: “it’s one smooth ride with no filler, a true album from beginning to end inspired by my life experience.” That’s precisely what the sophomore LP, From the Ground Up is. The seasoned emcee/DJ presents a work that cohesively sets a vibe of 90s nostalgia that is still relevant and much needed in today’s landscape. He not only raps on the project, but also showcases his turntablist skills by scratching over various tracks. This album’s unique musical formula additionally spawned from producers, Chad Dubz and Mr. Koichi, also features Sean Price, Edo G, Slim Kid Tre of The Pharcyde, and others.
Upon temporarily locating to Miami, FL for spring 2011, Iron Lyon was immediately greeted by a severe bus accident, almost ceasing his music career and therefore having to put From The Ground Up on the back burner…until now. He credits the city of New York as a significant voice in his life and music; similar to the city’s daily struggle, progression, and rapture, “From the Ground Up” conveys a myriad of personal conquests and influences laced over classic hip-hop flavored instrumentals tinged in diversity. The album showcases musical influences ranging from classic reggae, to Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes, Aaliyah, Black Sabbath, etc., and speaks to an equally diverse audience. For instance, the songs “Walk Away” & “Got Love” tap into Lyon’s connection to West Indian culture, while “So Called Problems” has acoustic loops merged with boom bap drums and a John Mayer sample as the hook.
01. Come Back
02. Long Strange Trip (feat. Edo G)
03. Keep On (feat. Slim Kid Tre)
04. Step Into The Night
05. Iron Dubz (Interlude)
06. On Mission (feat. Sean Price & Monsta X)
07. Rainy Daze
08. The Way I Feel
09. Back & Forth
10. Time Spent (Interlude)
11. Walk Away
12. Summer In The City (feat. Iskwe)
13. White Girl Lost (feat. Nikki Jean)
14. Not Forgotten (Interlude)
15. So Called Problems (feat. Jen Dog Lonewolf)
16. Got Love
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