The V.I.Kings

At the end of the Western World's first millennium, sea rovers and pirates calling themselves Vikings pillaged the coasts of Europe. In 2007, the V. I. Kings are poised to do similar things to the ever-expanding landscape of Hip-Hop. The V.I.Kings bring to Hip-Hop what the original vikings brought to the world: a love of poetry and culture and a raw, reckless abandon when it comes to the pursuit of life and power. V here now. V.I. stands for Vicious Intent, the mindstate through which the Kings rock mics. The untitled, eight song demo was recorded mixed and mastered primarily at the legendary Sigma Sound services. These eight skullcrushers demonstrate the versatility and range of the V.I.Kings. They rock a party as easily as they rip mics and whack MCs. The full length album, Bread and Meat, is slated for an early summer (2007) release. The artistic direction, music and production are overseen by Hiphop Scholar, Dr. James Peterson including tracks from R5, Jay Infinite, Ted Chung, Dave Tozer, and Third Floor Productions. The Kings are part and product of Philadelphia's presence as a central site in the Black Music World. They've been busy doing shows in and around Philly since 2000 including sets at The Five Spot, Filo's, 8th Street Lounge, Club Egypt, Cloud Nine and The Foundation. Their extensive list of college campus performances include shows at Temple University (Spring Fling), The Penn Relays, Lincoln University Homecoming and the Kutztown College's homecoming. Once you get a feel for their styles (plenty of athletic allusions mixed with pure illadelph street codes) You'll choose your own favorites, but Black, VHS, and Dye Nasty are prepared to raid the industry and represent Philly Hip Hop at the next level. For more information please email hiphopscholar@msn.com or call True at Hip Hop Scholars, Inc: 267-879-4465.