Muenster :: Warped Tape :: Muenstervision
as reviewed by Steve 'Flash' Juon

[Warped Tape] Spell it like the cheese. Denton, Texas based emcee Muenster aims to be as pleasing as the ubiquitous cow based product which you can frequently find in high calorie treats like grilled cheese sandwiches. He's not just throwing his slices on the shelf with no market research though - Muenster is basing his "Warped Tape" on experience he's gained from being on the Vans Warped Tour. He's also bounced around through several different rap groups developing his style, but for the present time Muenster is saying no to the mozzarella and cheddar.

"Quack" is a good place to start. Production by CloakBeats and scratching by DJ Centrifik fit the aspiring emcee well - I'm loving the lyrical samples of Common and Redman and the overall dark and gothic sound of Muenster's musical backdrop. The track literally rings bells. Vocally Muenster is a little bit harder to get a handle on - he strikes me as a cross between Mike Shinoda and MC Serch. The beat tends to drown him out at times but he's got a little bit of swagger in his step when it drops out and lets him stand alone:

"Yeah I'm taking shots and nah I don't give a fuck
If you're finding yourself offended then homey go take a look
Cause probably there's a reason I'm crackin attackin and keep 'em shook
So go on give me the Credence, Reviving Clearwater took"

There are a few songs where Muenster is willing to accept a colby jack like blend from guest stars. "Perfect Timing" has cameos from Flotation and X-Calibur, bragging that "we got the right mix for your area" before D.Teknics scratches his way into the song. It's one of only 25% of the songs that's blended out of 12 tracks, but it's an acceptable milkfat ratio - even though the line "ladies and gentlemen, you are now rocking with the veterans" strikes me odd since I'm new to every artist heard here.

Muenster's "less is more" formula allows him to build on his strengths, with all but three tracks being under 3:30 in length. It's the right amount of time to get into his style before you're left trying too hard to discern how deep he really gets. There are unexpected moments of greatness here and there - "Close to Prime" sounds like a musical parody of Nas' "Hero," the light airy breeze of "Bridge the Balance" matches boom bap with a peaceful summer day and wind chimes (no kidding) and "No New Ways New" proves Muenster can hold it down on longer tracks too. He's obviously got some skills or he never would have made it on the Warped Tour, but I believe that Muenster may get better with age.

Music Vibes: 6 of 10 Lyric Vibes: 6 of 10 TOTAL Vibes: 6 of 10

Originally posted: September 9, 2014
source: www.RapReviews.com