G-Side

The One … Cohesive

G-Side’s self-proclaimed place as outcasts in the Southern rap world carries some weight. Aside from the Alabama duo’s inherent likeness to that balmy, midsummered ATLiens-era OutKast, G-Side operates on a more conscious tip than much of its modern Southern brethren. As lyricists, Clova and ST 2 Lettaz are both hyperaware of the perils of shooting for fame (“I’m Sorry”), and as the crawling piano of “Y U Mad” attests, their best material doesn’t come prepackaged for radio play. Instead, The One … Cohesive earns all 55 minutes, from the simmer of YelaWolf’s Creek Water on “Came Up” to “How Far,” the duo’s clever remake of Beach House’s “10 Mile Stereo.” Clova and ST 2 Lettaz stay straight-faced throughout – driven, impassioned, and keeping their eyes on the prize (“Nat Geo”). Won’t be found on “No Radio,” though. G-Side knows that a hit does not a career make. (Thu., 9:50pm, Beauty Bar)

***.5

This article appears in March 18 • 2011.

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