BLACK NOISE

The Midwest region has always been the melting pot of a vast array of musical styles, ranging from the soulful sounds of the O’ Jays, to the funky flavours of Zapp and Roger Troutman, as well as the Ohio Players. In today’s Midwest Hip-Hop music scene, there is no exception. … Enter BLACK NOISE.
Hailing from Youngstown, Ohio, lead vocalist Aarophat has been making his presence known since 96'. He has been on the grind recording demos and performing throughout his home state. His break came when Pockets Linted CEO and artist Rasco (Cali Agents) noticed the undeniable star quality in the hunger-laced, poetic swagger-saturated delivery of the budding lyricist, and immediately inked Aaro after having his first listen. He sided with Pockets Linted and Fat Beats to release a 12" single entitled "GRITTY" b/w “DARKWIND”. Aarophat was then featured on the Pockets Linted compilation entitled “THE MINORITY REPORT”, cast alongside the likes of Rasco, Planet Asia, Phil the Agony, Jean Grae and 9th Wonder, with the album’s stand-out track “OHIO STREETS”. Aaro’s growing momentum brought forth the Rugged Soul Records release of “THE SOUND VOL 2: VIBE MUSIC”. It was an effort that marked the union of Aarophat with producer Illastrate, highlighted by such tracks as “40 BARZ” and “TWO YEARS”.
Producer Illastrate is a native of Fort Wayne, Indiana. Starting out rhyming, Illa made a smooth transition to the boards in 97'. After moving to Atlanta in 2000, he quickly built his catalogue among local artists and has released two critically acclaimed albums. His accolades in the Atlanta underground community have lifted him to a higher level of recognition. Illastrate’s star quality is approaching new levels, along with his reputation for top-notch production, quality and style. Illa’s name now reverberates in the industry like his trademarked “dirty drums”, which can be heard on Akir’s “LEGACY” LP, the Broady Champs’ “BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS” album, and on the Dynas “THE LAST SHALL BE FIRST” CD. His beats are also behind the vocals of such artists as Willie Joe, the Invisible Man Project (Marq Spekt and Karnaige) and Lords Of The Underground.
Both Aarophat and Illastrate decided to merge as a group to generate a remedy for the lack of quality in Hip-Hop music today. After listening to the album, it's hard to imagine that they actually met 14 hours before recording a single note. Aaro brings his intense, versatile lyricism to Illa's nostalgic, boom-bap soundscape. The album consists of mellow instrumentals, along with aggressive percussion and heavy bass that allows Aaro to strategically map out his lyrical takeover by using his insightful lyrics, and an effortless flow. Aarophat gracefully walks the tightropes between the braggadocious/introspective emcee, while Illastrate's production is gritty, yet radio friendly. The chemistry between the two is undeniable; and the world will soon agree.
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