Masta Ace and Marco Polo turn it up once again with the cinematic-like sensation, Richmond Hill. Guests include Inspectah Deck, Coast Contra, Blu, Che Noir, Speech of Arrested Development, and Masta Ace's longtime collaborators Stricklin and Wordsworth.
Inspired by Marco Polo's roots in the neighborhood it’s named after, a quaint town in Ontario just beyond Toronto's borders, Richmond Hill unfolds as a nostalgic journey through his formative years. Between interludes showing Marco's twin passions of hip-hop and cartoons, the record twists together a narrative that’s as personal as it is profound.
At the heart of Richmond Hill lies Marco Polo's introspective exploration of his own life – a narrative rich with the struggles of addiction, the unwavering support of his parents, and a deep-seated passion for hip-hop. Masta Ace, with decades of rap knowledge under his belt, joins forces with Marco to confront contemporary issues with a clarity that cuts through the soulful samples and crisp percussion. It's a demonstration of the duo's storytelling abilities, the seamless blend of Marco Polo's evocative production and Masta Ace's seasoned lyricism. Each track serves as a chapter in a larger narrative, unraveling how the echoes of the past resonate in the present. The warm soul samples create a nostalgic atmosphere, while Masta Ace's sharp verses add the contemporary edge.
As Masta Ace and Marco Polo navigate through the intricacies of life, their lyrical skillfulness and musical synergy create an experience for listeners where past, present, and future converge. Richmond Hill not only pays homage to the duo's roots but also serves as a mirror reflecting the broader spectrum of hip-hop's evolution. So, take a walk with Masta Ace and Marco Polo through the streets of Richmond Hill, and ultimately, a trip through their own lives.