Ramson Badbonez has been a formidable presence on the London underground for well over a decade, and judging by the hit count on his various freestyle spots on You Tube he’s racked up more than a few devotees over the years. Unsurprising perhaps given the London rap luminaries he associates with, namely, UK Hip Hop top dogs Task Force, the highly coveted DJ/Producer Harry Love and the formidable beatsmiths, Dr Zygote & Jazz T. Along with these celebrants, Badbonez has racked up two well-received mixtapes and a slew of verses – online and on wax – which have provided the bedding for Bad Influence, his debut album.
With the intro from Hardmen concluding with ‘sit down and shut your fucking mouth’, Rap’s more sensitively disposed may be forgiven for nervously dropping their Ipod on the carpet. A just response, as this LP’s evidently not for them. First track ‘Bring Ur Shit’ suitably produced by those responsible for the release, Jazz T & Zygote, sets the tone production-wise, doggedly taking us to the murkier corners of the sonic Kasbah with Badbonez’ rhymes barring any hope of escape. Thereafter, beats by Harry Love, Farma G, Jetsun, Row.D Beats, 184, Wizard and DJ Insite build on this uncompromising theme, whilst adding some balance with a few mellow moments, and the odd 2-step-esque aside.
Rhyme-wise, Badbonez has a distinctively brash and uncompromising flow, which is well supported by the guest spots, yet, ever the sign of a good host he ultimately outshines them all. This being said, Mystro’s suave tones on ‘Food Glorious Food’ compliment his compere’s energy nicely.
In regards to special mentions, ‘Gingabread Man’ stands out, with its sinister, sinuous horns and barely tamed percussion, giving Badbonez a brooding platform from which to taunt the Feds as he dodges their chubby clutches. And with the final track ‘This Street Life’ allowing a brief insight into the twists and turns of Badbonez’ life thus far, here’s predicting with the release of Bad Influence he’ll gain some more followers for the road ahead.
4 out of 5
Review by Henry Langdon
