“You know the name and whereabouts…” Our Hidden Gems series returns with a huge A/B single from NYC trio Natural Elements which included L Swift, A-Butta, and Mr. Voodoo. “Bust Mine” and “Paper Chase,” the group’s first 12″ vinyl release, were both produced by Charlemagne.
“It’s the return of the
.45 caliber killer—you know the steez
I’m like the jake, making rappers spread and freeze
Pozole on breaded cheese, take aim and blast everywhere
Between your head and knees
In cyphers, I dead emcees” – Mr. Voodoo (“Bust Mine”)
While the group disbanded before their highly anticipated album could be released in the 90’s, a compilation, 1999: 10 Year Anniversary, dropped in 2009 under Kings Link Recordz featuring both songs. Of course, that project never ended up making it on to digital streaming platforms, but you can find the more recent, 2009: 20 Year Anniversary. And there’s a ton of big songs on there that will quickly make you fans of the trio.
More recently, Natural Elements officially reformed the group and has been putting out new material under their new monikers. Bronx lyricist L Swift is now Swigga Da Don, Brooklyn’s own Mr. Voodoo is now Agu, and West Harlem’s Anthony Cruz still goes by A-Butta professionally. In 2014, they released The Nep EP.
5 Ways to Support HipHopCanada:
