Vermont’s hip-hop scene has long recognized Nastee as a foundational figure, but his debut solo album, “Current Events,” officially elevates him to the forefront of contemporary rap artistry. This critically acclaimed release is a meticulously crafted homage to the golden era of ’90s New York City hip-hop, celebrated for its intricate lyricism, masterful production, and Nastee’s own potent delivery as both a rapper and producer. “Current Events” isn’t just a personal triumph for Nastee; it’s a significant marker for Vermont’s thriving music community and a compelling statement in the broader hip-hop landscape of 2025.
The Godfather of Vermont Hip-Hop: A Legacy Forged
Nastee’s journey in hip-hop is deeply intertwined with the evolution of the Vermont scene. As a cofounder of the influential collective VT Union, alongside the late DJ A_Dog and Dakota, Nastee was instrumental in the state’s early hip-hop explosion. Their trilogy of classic mixtapes and dynamic live performances solidified their status as local legends. Building on this foundation, Nastee honed his skills and expanded his network, notably through collaborations and work with the esteemed New York City collective Pro Era. This experience directly informed the establishment of his own label, AfterLyfe Music, further cementing his commitment to fostering local talent and artistic excellence. “Current Events” is the culmination of this extensive background, a highly anticipated solo project that follows his 2009 mixtape, “The Album B4 the Album.”
A Sonic Odyssey: Reimagining ’90s NYC with Modern Finesse
The sonic identity of “Current Events” is its most striking feature: a profound nod to the ’90s New York City sound. Critics have lauded Nastee for capturing the essence of that era, characterized by its emphasis on sophisticated song structure, narrative lyrical content, and a raw, authentic delivery. This revival of “real hip-hop” is not merely imitative; Nastee’s production shines with a unique craftsmanship, often compared to the meticulous approach of producers like Pete Rock. His ability to sample, reharmonize, and layer melodic elements creates compositions that feel both familiar and refreshingly new. The result is an album filled with “wall-to-wall bangers,” each track demonstrating a high level of sonic detail and creative vision. Nastee himself has ambitiously likened the album’s debut impact to Nas’s seminal “Illmatic,” setting a high bar that the project largely meets.
Nastee’s Versatility: The Rapper and Producer in Perfect Harmony
“Current Events” showcases Nastee’s dual threat as a commanding MC and a gifted producer. His delivery on the album is described as “urgent,” projecting a palpable hunger and intensity that permeates every track. He eschews complacency, presenting “Current Events” not as a celebration of past successes, but as an “urgent manifesto from a man on fire.” Lyrically, Nastee navigates a diverse thematic landscape. Tracks like “We Here” assert his established presence in the game, while “Knowhere” offers vivid storytelling. On “Evening News,” he delivers a streetwise critique of media brainwashing, demonstrating a sharp lyrical acuity. His “pen game is on point,” and his vocal performances are “perfectly calibrated,” making his evolution from a behind-the-scenes architect to a front-and-center artist a resounding success.
Esteemed Collaborations: A Showcase of Hip-Hop Prowess
The album is further enriched by a stellar roster of guest appearances from respected artists in the hip-hop community. Collaborations with Termanology, CJ Fly, REKS, and Konflik contribute significantly to the project’s depth and appeal. Termanology delivers a powerful verse on “No Funny,” a track that delves into the enduring cycles of hip-hop and its impact on contemporary youth, carrying a message of growth and empowerment. CJ Fly lends his distinctive flow to “Horizons,” a track that serves as an epic manifesto reflecting on personal journeys and future responsibilities. REKS offers a performance on “Free” that channels the classic stylings of AZ, while Konflik’s resonant baritone adds a crucial layer of texture throughout the album. The collective effort from these artists, each giving “110 percent,” underscores the album’s high caliber and its place among the top tier of hip-hop releases.
“Current Events”: A Defining Moment for Vermont and Beyond
“Current Events” is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a statement that firmly places Nastee and Vermont’s hip-hop scene on the national map. The album is recognized as a “template for doing it right,” demonstrating a commitment to lyrical substance and production quality that resonates with fans of classic hip-hop. Positioned alongside other notable 2025 releases from Vermont artists like Joint Manipulation and Devon Dutchmaster, Nastee’s debut “stakes his claim for the top spot,” reinforcing the state’s growing reputation for producing significant musical talent. The album’s detailed craftsmanship and Nastee’s unwavering artistic vision make it a standout project, contributing a vital chapter to the ongoing stories of hip-hop artistry and cultural evolution.
