01/20/04 | Training Day In The LBC

      For years the StormRyders have played the backseat to other fellow Long Beach rappers in efforts to map out a clear plan of attack. The attack is primarily to show the world that Long Beach is not just jheri curls, perms, fake ganstas, and aspiring artist who's only desire is to be like Snoop Dogg.

Through countless battles and performances at some of L.A.'s underground spots, The StormRyders have opened the eyes of labels and management firms. But not just on the West Coast, but the East as Well. Most notably, Protect-Ya-Neck rep Iron Spear.

The Group consists of B.l.a.k. Atlus (Whose name breaks down to Beats Lyrics and Knowledge Worldwide) and Joseph Blaque. B.l.a.k. Atlus ( who in fact is the younger brother of former Death Row Records Inmate RBX) is quietly making a name for himself as the most prolific emcee that the city by the sea has to offer.

B.l.a.k. Atlus has a razor sharp delivery and verbal wordplay skills that could very well outshine his big brother. His voice is fluid and his rhymes paint pictures that true emcees can appreciate and admire. B.l.a.k. Atlus launches lyrical attacks on 'Dangerous Ground', 'V.I.P.', and the message filled anthem 'Pro Choice'. B.l.a.k. Atlus will soon be the prototype for Long Beach Hip Hop with his crisp delivery and expert Lyricism. B.l.a.k. will be the one lyricist from Long Beach to have emcees revise their rhyme books.

The groups other member is Joseph Blaque, the groups producer. Joseph’s style of production is truly innovative and very detailed on giving everything that the west coast is missing. Gone are the funk synths, whiney keyboards and countless 808 drum hits. Joseph fuses ambient elements with classic hip hop drums to create backdrops and tracks that are reminiscent to legend Pete Rock. Sample free production is what Joseph thrives on and beat makers alike have all praised his level of skill and innovation. On the mic, Joseph is no cream puff either; complimenting Atlus's verbals skill for skill. The two are definitely giving Long Beach a lesson in originality.

The Storm Ryders were the first and only hip hop act ever to have an article in the local Long Beach Press Telegram without any label affiliation. They have raised the bar for Long Beach hip hop and are on a mission to the East Coast to get the respect that not only they deserve but the entire West Coast also.

Fore more info on the StormRyders check out their website on soundclick.com, and download 5 of their songs in Mp3 form.