TheDarkPhoenix Alpha Review

Release Date: 1-1-10

*Download link available in the previous post*

Mickey Factz has decided to begin the new year with a new project he's been working on for quite a while now. The mixtape known as TheDarkPhoenix Alpha, shows the rapper in a different light instrumentally, but remaining lyrically conscious. Just by glancing at the tracklist it's obvious that Factz chose to approach this release from an emotional perspective, which results in an unique, heartfelt piece of work.

Just like a new day, this project begins with a "Sunrise" where Mickey immediately begins asking some thought provoking questions that he himself chooses to answer.

"Why do we wake up, if we don't plan to dream
Why do we take off, if we ain't plan to leave
I plan for me, so I plan to be
A man for mankind that withstands the sea of hate
And still makes the art that you need
New fantasies for all fans to see
I plant the seeds, truth for the soil
The roots turn royal, man becomes king
Girls hear the words, to transform to queens"

He continues in that same format for nearly 7 minutes showing that length has no bearing on thoughtful lyricism.

The next song, which is arguably the best song, "Amnesia" is up next and finds Mickey rapping over the Justice instrumental "Let There Be Light." As intended, the song displays Mickey’s ability behind the mic for those that forgot he can actually rap. The song that follows is no different, entitled “Turn It Up.” Though only a snippet of what to expect more of later this year, it’s easy to see that Mickey is setting the bar high for himself and plans to maintain putting out quality material.

“S_ecrets T_hat D_estroy” is probably the emotional climax on the project as it discusses secrets that people keep that lead to destruction and in most cases death. Just like the song preceding “Ashes”, pain is vividly illustrated by the lyrics and can provide the listener with a sentimental connection. If notice in the track title the first letter of each word is disconnected from the rest of the letters to form the word STD.

“You better pray you catch a fast break
Laid up with a sad face
Bad taste in ya mouth, it’s too damn late
Lust just sent you damn fate
Victoria, living with a secret
Probably don’t know so you snitching as you speakin
You don’t wanna tell, but you itchin for a reason
Something’s living with you, but ya dignity is leaving”

Overall, this release proves to be enjoyable to those of you that appreciate creativity and actual thought put into lyrics that help paint a picture of reality. If you’re not willing to expand your musical horizons, most of the instrumentals used on here will not appeal to you, as since they’re a mixture of different genres mashed up together (hip hop, indie rock, and pop). But for those you looking for something new and with meaning, you should definitely check this out.

Amnesia


Turn It Up