SXSW 2014 Records

Young Thug

Part of a burgeoning group of rappers reclaiming the sputtering, chemical-soaked autotune flow for artistic purposes, Young Thug is perhaps the most easygoing. Freshly signed to Brick Squad, the label that turned lesser talents like Waka Flocka Flame into commercial prowlers, the 21-year-old Georgian burps a swampy, lead-stained voice, but don't get it twisted. There's a method to his slop. "UNO DOS CUPS STUFFED, UNO DOS CUPS STUFFED" ("2 Cups Stuffed"): You won't find anyone happier to stomp all over boilerplate club beats. He raps like he's got something to prove, but it all comes so effortlessly. He's geeked up on helium, so nothing could ever break his stride. 1017 Thug showcases a young man who was unequivocally put on this Earth to rap. (12:50am, Avenue on Congress Rooftop)