The Vermont hip-hop landscape, long cultivated by dedicated artists and collectives, has reached a new apex with the release of Nastee’s debut solo LP, ‘Current Events’. Hailed as a “’90s-style master class in craftsmanship,” the album solidifies Nastee’s status as a foundational figure and a formidable artist in his own right. This long-awaited project, following his 2009 mixtape ‘The Album B4 the Album,’ showcases a producer, engineer, and rapper who has not only witnessed the evolution of Vermont hip-hop but has actively shaped its trajectory.
Nastee’s Deep Roots in Vermont Hip-Hop
Nastee, a name synonymous with the burgeoning Vermont hip-hop scene, has been a consistent force for over a decade. As a cofounder of the influential collective VT Union alongside Dakota and the late DJ A-Dog, Nastee was instrumental in popularizing the genre within the Green Mountain State during the late 2000s, known for their powerhouse live shows and a trilogy of classic mixtapes. His journey has also seen him collaborate with the legendary New York City collective Pro Era, experiences that undoubtedly honed his skills and broadened his perspective before he launched his own Vermont-based label, AfterLyfe Music. This history positions ‘Current Events’ not just as a new release, but as a culmination of years of dedication to the craft and a testament to his enduring influence on local hip-hop stories.
The Sonic Tapestry of ‘Current Events’
‘Current Events’ is a deeply immersive dive into a classic sound, drawing heavily from the golden era of ’90s New York hip-hop. Critics have lauded its production as a masterclass, specifically noting Nastee’s meticulous approach to sampling. His beats are characterized by melodic, carefully layered samples, reharmonized with a skill that draws direct comparisons to the legendary Pete Rock. This dedication to the art of sampling creates a rich, intricate sonic backdrop that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. The album is described as “wall-to-wall bangers,” a “distinctly ’90s, extremely NYC throwback that still sounds brand-new,” proving that the ‘real hip-hop’ sound is not only relevant but can still captivate audiences with its structural integrity and lyrical focus.
Lyrical Prowess and Urgent Delivery
Beyond his production prowess, Nastee shines as a rapper on ‘Current Events.’ The album captures him in a state of urgent manifesto, sounding “hungry on every song.” This isn’t a victory lap, but a powerful statement of intent. Comparisons have been drawn to the monumental impact of Nas’s ‘Illmatic,’ with Nastee himself referencing iconic debuts on the album’s intro. His lyrical skill is evident throughout, marked by a cleverness and a challenging flow that listeners first noted in his earlier work. His vocal delivery is commanding and confident, articulating complex thoughts and asserting his place within the hip-hop hierarchy. The music serves as a vehicle for his sharp observations and a reflection of his journey, demonstrating a maturity and an artistic vision that has been refined over years in the music industry.
Collaborations: A Stellar Assembly of Talent
Adding significant depth and star power to ‘Current Events’ is a curated list of esteemed collaborators. The album features guest appearances from Termanology, CJ Fly, REKS, and Konflik. Each artist contributes a standout performance, elevating the project and showcasing the respect Nastee commands within the hip-hop community. Termanology delivers a fiery verse on “No Funny,” CJ Fly pours his heart into “Horizons,” REKS channels classic lyricism on “Free,” and Konflik’s distinctive baritone adds an essential layer of gravitas throughout. These features not only enhance the album’s replay value but also underscore Nastee’s ability to attract and collaborate with top-tier talent, further cementing the album’s status.
Critical Acclaim and Impact on the Vermont Scene
‘Current Events’ has been met with widespread critical acclaim, with publications like Seven Days highlighting its exceptional craftsmanship and infectious energy. The album is recognized as a high-water mark for Vermont rap music in 2025, with Nastee staking a claim for the “top spot” among the year’s releases. This debut solo LP is more than just a personal milestone; it represents a significant achievement for the entire Vermont hip-hop scene, a community that has seen artists like 99 Neighbors, Jarv, and many others gain national attention. Nastee’s continued dedication and the success of ‘Current Events’ serve as an inspiration and a benchmark for the next generation of artists emerging from the state, contributing to the ongoing narrative of Vermont’s vibrant music culture.
A Masterclass for the Ages
Nastee’s ‘Current Events’ is a potent reminder of the enduring power of classic hip-hop. It is an album that masterfully blends nostalgia with contemporary urgency, delivering potent beats, sharp lyricism, and memorable collaborations. For Nastee, it marks the triumphant arrival of his solo vision, a project that pays homage to the genre’s foundations while forging its own distinct path. As a pivotal figure in Vermont’s hip-hop history, ‘Current Events’ solidifies his legacy, offering a timeless collection of songs that are poised to become cherished entries in the annals of independent music stories, proving once again that true craftsmanship in hip-hop music never goes out of style.
