The World Is Yours
Trev Munroe… real name, no gimmicks… or “Mister Double his Dough” are just a couple of mantras or nicknames this Queens, New York emcee goes by. Born in the island of Jamaica, then migrating to the rough streets of Hollis Queens, New York, this slick talking, flame-spitter's life has played out like a movie. That's why there's really no surprise his latest offering "The World Is Yours" mixtape hosted by Queens best kept secret, Dj L-gee, has the streets buzzing. This dark, gritty, sometimes beautiful soundtrack to the streets plays out like a motion picture over classic beats, while paying homage to his favorite movie of all-time, the Al Pacino classic "Scarface", directed by Brian De Palma. Now it’s time to venture through the project… track by track.
"T.R.E.V." opens the mixtape with the classic Scarface movie intro music sampled by Mob Deep’s G.O.D. Part 3. Trev’s smooth delivery and hard punches on the song set the tone for the mixtape very nicely, commencing with audio from the actual Scarface movie itself in the background.
"Imma Don" takes you further into the underworld over another Mob Deep/ Scarface inspired classic instrumental,"It’s Mine". On this one, Trev shows off witty wordplay with clever metaphors as he takes you deeper into the Tony Montana themed persona.
"HIP-HOP" sonically takes some twists and turns over the Dead Prez’ instrumental classic, "It’s Bigger Than Hip Hop”. Trev switches his flow as he touches on recent current events plaguing the hip-hop culture and black community, with politically charged fire aimed to get listeners attention, including lyrics such as "Who killed Sandra Bland? We don't get ‘em they'll kill us all.”
"KICK IT" starts off with heavy strings and banging drum kicks courtesy of producer Strumental. Trev takes you on a lyrical joyride through the streets, all the while asking if he can kick it with more hardcore music with a message.
"RING DA ALARM" clashes hip-hop with dancehall music as Trev spits fire over the legendary Tenor Saw Reggae classic. With a little added harmony on the hook, you definitely see how he brings back to life the classic tunes for all new-school listeners.
"DRUG TRAFFICKING" is a stellar collaboration with Boston's own Primo Profit. They both make great contributions, but it’s Trev’s hook that sucks you into the song produced by Jungie Keyz. The name of the song speaks for itself… what do you expect when you have a Colombian and Jamaican emcee throwing lyrical jabs while using music as metaphorical drugs?
"IN THE EYES CHICO" introduces the smoother, more flamboyant side of Trev… in contrast to his Scarface-themed persona. Rhyming over the classic L.L. Cool J "Luv U Better" beat, this one is definitely for the ladies.
"CORNER" takes the CD back to the streets. As Trev walks you through his hood, he paints a Picasso-like picture of the corner, where Dope Boys, dice games and THOTS run rampid over Pusha T's "Exodus" instrumental.
"LIVE AT DA BBQ" is a lyrical sparring session of epic proportion with the Busta Rhymes’ "Respect My Conglomerate" track featuring Nobi, A-dash and Coach Real. Simply put, from beginning to end this one goes hard.
"ALL UP" is a melodic banger. Trev’s flow stays in the pocket as he drops jewels over Drake’s "Charged Up" instrumental.
"BANG" is a hardcore rap fan’s dream. With sharp lyrics and a drill music influenced hook, this is a shoot-em-up bang-bang track that brings Tony Montana back to life.
"BLUEPRINT 2" gets its name from the Jay-z classic. On this one, Trev shares his thoughts on everything from street cred to weirdo rappers. Combining controversial views over thumping drums, this track doesn't disappoint.
FLORIDA MAGAZINE JAN 15, 2016 18
Review of Trev Munroe's Mixtape