I.M.P. – No Prisoners

Description

“I.M.P. – No Prisoners,” released in 1989 under Maxcacious Records, is a potent EP that captures the early essence of gangsta rap from the San Francisco hip-hop scene. This cassette EP is a pivotal work by Ill Mannered Posse (I.M.P.), showcasing their raw and unfiltered approach to music.

The EP opens with “For Your Dumbmuther’s,” a track that immediately sets a bold tone with its intense beats and confrontational lyrics, running for 4:50. This is followed by “I’m Rollin,” a 4:30 song that maintains the high energy and provides a vivid depiction of street life, reflecting the group’s authenticity and directness in their storytelling.

On Side B, “Scanlous” continues the narrative, offering a 3:58 glimpse into the gritty realities that I.M.P. members experienced and observed. The EP concludes with “Bass Kick,” a 5:25 track that showcases the group’s skill in creating hard-hitting rhythms and catchy hooks, further cementing their place in the hip-hop community.

Though the executive producer is uncredited, D. Smooth’s role was crucial in bringing the project to fruition. Similarly, the production and arrangement by Al Eaton, alongside I.M.P., were instrumental in crafting the EP’s distinctive sound. The uncredited rapping by C-Fresh and Cougnut adds to the EP’s raw and authentic feel, making “No Prisoners” a significant release in the early days of West Coast gangsta rap.

“No Prisoners” stands as a testament to I.M.P.’s talent and their contribution to the evolution of hip-hop. The EP not only showcases their lyrical and musical prowess but also paints a vivid picture of life in San Francisco’s urban landscape during the late 1980s. It remains an important piece of hip-hop history, reflecting the unique sound and style of the Bay Area’s rap scene.