 |  |  |
|---|
| | |
|---|
|
Exposing Headshots is the story of Rhymesayers Entertainment , a Minneapolis based independent hip hop label, as told through five key members of the label: Slug, emcee of a hip hop crew called Atmosphere and one of the original founders of Rhymesayers; Eyedea, emcee, and Abilities, DJ, of a hip hop duo called Eyedea and Abilities; Felipe Cuauhtli, emcee of a latino hip hop duo called Los Nativos, and Carnage, an emcee who is a close affiliate and creative partner of Rhymesayers and founder of his own hip hop collective called Hecatomb. Through these main narrators we learn about the rich universe of Minneapolis hip hop that has fostered their now internationally recognized hip hop label.
Founded in 1996 by four inspired Minneapolis hip hoppers Rhymesayers Entertainment is now it's own independent production label that has over 20 artists on their roster. In that their crew is based in a community that is isolated from the main veins of the musical industry, not to mention a state that experiences one of the most brutal winters in the US, the musicians have had to form their own support system in order to develop their music. Even though they now have world wide distribution and work with artists from all over the US, Rhymesayers still operates like a brotherhood, bringing in artists whose talent is secondary to whether or not they are good, honest human beings. One of the main philosophies of the label is "do what you do, and do it well". Because of the familial nature of the label the artists all collaborate on an intimate level, supporting each others growth and influencing the style of each others music. Without the typical marketing pressures that are placed on most musicians, the artists of Rhymesayers are always able to produce music that is truly their own unique and genuine expression. The stories offered by each narrator give insight into how the Rhymesayers style, though ever evolving and undefined, has developed out of their long standing relationships and collaborations. Although the film is missing interviews with nearly fifteen other members of Rhymesayers the five that have been interviewed represent some of the core influences that have formed the label. The real treat is in the live footage. Filmed at shows in San Francisco and Minneapolis the music is both thought provoking and bursting with passion and energy from the performers. The film includes top notch performances from all of the main narrators as well as from special guest Illogic. You'll be "bobbin' your head so hard you're left with a permanent injury to your neck" (Eyedea Reintroducing). Whether you are a dedicated fan of the music of Rhymesayers, a hip hop enthusiast or even just a fan of documentary, Exposing Headshots: Hip Hop Below Zero will be an interesting and enjoyable experience that could be your introduction to one of hip hops chilliest independent hip hop labels. |