Vermont Hip-Hop Veteran Nastee Unleashes Debut Solo Album ‘Current Events’, Hailed as a Landmark Release
After years of anticipation and establishing himself as a cornerstone of the Vermont hip-hop landscape, artist, producer, and engineer Nastee has finally released his debut solo LP, “Current Events.” Dropped on August 20, 2025, via his own AfterLyfe Music imprint, the album is already being heralded as a significant contribution to the state’s vibrant rap scene, drawing comparisons to hip-hop’s golden era and cementing Nastee’s status as a master craftsman.
A Journey Through Vermont’s Hip-Hop Evolution
Nastee is no stranger to the music industry, particularly within his home state of Vermont. His involvement in the scene dates back to its early days, notably as part of the collective VT Union alongside Dakota and the late DJ A_Dog. Their powerful live shows and trilogy of classic mixtapes in the mid-2000s left an indelible mark on the local hip-hop culture. This long-standing dedication and hustle culminated in his work with the New York City collective Pro Era, an experience that informed his subsequent launch of the AfterLyfe Music label. “Current Events” follows his 2009 mixtape, “The Album B4 the Album,” making this full-length debut a highly awaited project for fans who have followed his journey.
‘Illmatic’ Echoes and ’90s Sonic Purity
The sonic foundation of “Current Events” is deeply rooted in the ’90s East Coast hip-hop era, a style that has seen a resurgence in contemporary music. Nastee himself has declared the album, “This is my Illmatic,” referencing Nas’s seminal 1994 masterpiece. This comparison is fitting, as the LP features a classic, sample-based production style that Nastee, as a producer, meticulously crafts. His approach is reminiscent of Pete Rock, characterized by melodic, layered samples that are not merely chopped but reharmonized into new compositions. The result is a sound that is both a distinct throwback to ’90s New York City hip-hop and remarkably fresh, embodying a “hungry and urgent” feel that resonates throughout each track.
A Stellar Lineup of Collaborators
“Current Events” is elevated by a curated selection of featured artists, each contributing their unique talents to the project. The album boasts collaborations with respected figures in the hip-hop world, including Termanology, CJ Fly, and REKS, along with consistent support from Konflik. Termanology delivers a powerful verse on the track “No Funny,” while CJ Fly offers an emotionally resonant performance on “Horizons.” REKS channels the spirit of classic AZ on the track “Free,” and Konflik’s distinctive baritone provides an essential presence, particularly noted on the album’s intro and throughout other cuts. According to reviews, all guest artists bring an exceptional level of energy and skill, delivering “110 percent” on their respective features.
Lyrical Depth: Assertion, Storytelling, and Commentary
As a lyricist, Nastee demonstrates significant growth and skill on “Current Events.” His writing navigates a range of themes, from asserting his rightful place within the competitive music industry in tracks like “We Here,” to painting vivid narratives through compelling storytelling in songs such as “Knowhere.” He also tackles thought-provoking social commentary, offering his streetwise perspective on issues like media brainwashing in “Evening News.” His lyrical prowess is described as “on point,” complemented by vocal performances that are “perfectly calibrated” to match the intensity and message of each song.
A Top Contender in Vermont’s Music Scene
Released in what has been described as a high-water mark year for Vermont rap albums, “Current Events” stands out. It has confidently staked a claim for the top spot alongside other notable 2025 releases from artists like Joint Manipulation and Devon Dutchmaster. Nastee’s debut is more than just a personal statement; it’s presented as a blueprint for executing quality hip-hop music with precision and artistry. The album is a testament to his decade-plus journey and his commitment to honing his craft, offering a compelling collection of “wall-to-wall bangers” that solidify his legacy and showcase the continued evolution of hip-hop in Vermont. “Current Events” is a must-listen for fans of authentic, sample-driven hip-hop and a powerful introduction to Nastee’s undeniable talent.
