By Odeisel

Sometimes in Hip-Hop it’s nice to be wrong. The first time I saw Vado was on stage live last year with Cam in his comeback concert at BB King’s. His performance was uninspired and I wrote him off as another failed Harlem hanger on. The next time I heard him was on Cam’ron’s Boss of All Bosses 2 Gangsta Grillz tape, and while he had improved, I remained unimpress. By BOAB 2.5 he had improved significantly, outshining Cam on a couple songs even though their styles ran too close for my tastes. Vado has evolved into a credible artist, wiping the entire Dipset off the remix to “Salute.” He’s come a long way and that progress is evident on his new collaboration with fellow Harlemite Jae Millz on “Respect The Jux.”

The song opens with a soul sampled monologue that cedes to thumping, double-timed drums with background snares and high hats. Laser sharp strings and well-spaced key strikes create a soulful, yet cold world atmosphere for Vado and Millz to do what they do. The video is well shot with appropriate gravity. Vado looks like a rapper. His movements and aura actually make him look more seasoned than veteran Millz and that says a lot. He’s added precision to his arsenal and looking the part is half the battle.

He’s lyrically credible on this track as well. His tales of hits gone wrong and drug deals gone bad speak to the mean streets while his compact lines are crisp and easy but not simple. His narrative is easy to follow and the drama of his story is not glamorized. His closing verse warns neophytes that walk this street looking for adventure that it’s real out there and the game is played for keeps. Think about that before you want to move packs. Ain’t so such thing as halfway crooks.

Jae Millz does his thing and is a suitable guest star for the track and his lines are precise. Mentions of the Black Mamba (Go Lakers), stick up kids that are still out to tax (R.I.P. Guru) and federal surveillance (No Mercy) keep Millz right on his narrative which keeps the song focused.

I hope Vado continues on his path, not only for his sake but for the sake of New York street MC’s who are keeping it concrete jungle and not trying to sound like they are from other regions. Keep your eyes open and your wallet in your front pocket. “Respect The Jux.”

[pro-player width=’425′ height=’344′ type=’video’]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YA7rw6DNqW0[/pro-player]

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