Vermont’s own Nastee, a seasoned artist known for his deep roots in the state’s hip-hop scene, has finally unveiled his highly anticipated debut solo album, ‘Current Events’. Released via AfterLyfe Music, the project is being hailed as a “’90s-style hip-hop masterpiece” and a significant moment for Vermont’s music landscape, often described as the most long-awaited album in the state’s hip-hop history. The album follows his 2009 mixtape, ‘The Album B4 the Album,’ and showcases Nastee’s considerable evolution as both a rapper and a producer. The release has garnered significant critical acclaim, with reviewers praising its authentic ’90s New York City sound that still feels fresh and relevant today.
Nastee, who has been a foundational figure in the Vermont hip-hop scene since its early days, has a rich background that includes work with the legendary New York City collective Pro Era and the establishment of his own label, AfterLyfe Music. His journey began with the influential group VT Union, alongside Dakota and the late DJ A_Dog, who dominated the local scene with their energetic live shows and classic mixtapes. This extensive experience and dedication have culminated in ‘Current Events,’ an album that proves Nastee’s music can stand firmly on its own merits.
The album opens with “1st Album Intro,” featuring Nastee alongside Konflik, where Nastee boldly compares his debut to Nas’s seminal 1994 album, ‘Illmatic.’ This ambitious statement is backed by the quality and execution found throughout the project. Nastee delivers passionate and technically skilled verses, demonstrating a hunger and urgency that propels each track. His lyrical depth is evident as he navigates themes from asserting his place in the game to offering streetwise commentary on media brainwashing, with his pen game consistently on point and his vocal delivery perfectly calibrated.
‘Current Events’ boasts an impressive lineup of collaborators, with artists such as Termanology, CJ Fly, and REKS contributing standout verses. Termanology delivers a powerful performance on “No Funny,” CJ Fly offers an emotionally resonant contribution on “Horizons,” and REKS channels the essence of classic AZ on “Free.” Konflik’s distinctive baritone also serves as an essential element across several tracks. Reviewers note that all guest artists bring their A-game, enhancing the album’s overall impact and reinforcing Nastee’s vision.
As a producer, Nastee is lauded for his keen musical ear, particularly his ability to craft boom-bap compositions. He follows in the tradition of producers like Pete Rock, meticulously layering samples not just for chopping and looping, but for reharmonization, creating entirely new sonic landscapes. This production style, combined with intricate samples and lyrical depth, solidifies the album’s ’90s aesthetic while maintaining a contemporary feel.
The release of ‘Current Events’ places Nastee among a strong cohort of Vermont artists making waves in 2025. The state has seen a significant resurgence in hip-hop, with projects from artists like Joint Manipulation, Devon Dutchmaster, and Asterisk garnering attention. Nastee’s debut is seen as a benchmark for craftsmanship in the genre, staking his claim as a top contender and offering a template for excellence in hip-hop production and lyricism.
Nastee’s dedication to the culture extends beyond his own work; he is recognized for actively supporting and nurturing emerging talent within the Vermont hip-hop scene. His enduring passion for hip-hop music at its highest level is evident in every aspect of ‘Current Events,’ from its production to its lyrical content and guest features.
“Current Events” is not just a personal statement from Nastee, but a master class in ’90s-style hip-hop craftsmanship that resonates with the authenticity and skill that defined the golden era, proving that true hip-hop remains timeless and relevant. The album is available on Nastee’s Bandcamp page, further cementing his commitment to independent music distribution.
