By Adrian Richards
The 21-year-old Charlotte native brings us an EP filled with braggadocio, grit and somber aggression. Truly aiming to kill.
Ahmir has definitely been a mainstay as his presence has been growing indefinitely in the underground hip-hop scene. With this project, a prelude to his long-awaited album, he taps into an element higher than Black Tape. Truly representing the Queen City to the fullest. “My music reflects reality, good and bad, and I never try to be something I’m not,” he states in an interview with SiKK Magazine. He refuses to limit himself with his writing. “It’s crunch time dog, so it’s really through the wire” he says on “BirdsEye”, channeling the angst of a hungry artist. Many facets of his progression are heard throughout every track.
Originally released back in November on his SoundCloud, this project I would say is a display of everlasting growth. “Real niggas only know how to make somethin’ from nothin’/Couch hopping, road runnin’, swear that shit made me humble,” he speaks on the Zalmighty-produced “No Problem”. He conveys a confident spirit while acknowledging that he’s still proving the weight he has. No question the overall production was pretty potent for my taste, transitioning downward in energy almost as the tracks go on.
Ever since BTV1, the King has been working to mold his heavily anticipated debut to perfection whilst putting out consistent content. Visuals, tracks, there was no end to the fire, especially with his team of heavyweight rappers known as KILLSWITCH, consisting of MAVI, MESSIAH!, & SSCOPACK. They definitely played a part in helping the MC become a household name not only in Charlotte, but reaching to many different avenues. AIM TO KILL hits hard in the underground circuit hands down. Influences ranging from Hot Boyz & The Diplomats are heard throughout. He definitely not sitting and wasting our time with these songs at all.
This prelude was definitely needed, everyone is ready for the debut, addressed in the ending of “BirdsEye”, the rapper ensuring that it’s coming soon. It’s a heavy hitter, giving the outlook of the world through his words. Be on the lookout for KILLA and you’ll see what I mean.
7.7/10
Moderate Replay Value
Stand out songs: “No Problem”, “LOSE ME”