The intersection of the Underground: Music, Fashion & Art

Welcome to Hells Gates A ntagonist Dragonspit (also known as Dragonspit Jones) is a seasoned emcee, beat‑maker, and drummer hailing from the Hampton Roads region of Virginia (7 City/Tidewater).  He ended up on my Spotify playlist and found myself being pulled back to this song over and over. He is also very chill and responded to my messages on insta and was very humble. When I first listened he had less than 300 followers on Spotify he now has  over 1000 in just a couple of weeks.   Over the past 15+ years, he’s navigated the independent hip‑hop scene with gritty lyricism, raw boom‑bap production, and an unwavering DIY ethos.  🎙️ Origins & Style Described in RVA Magazine as an “absolute disdain for the current ‘Turnt Up’ state of Hip‑Hop,” his Ugly Truth LP (2014) revisits 1990s‑era beats with razor‑sharp lyricism and no-nonsense social commentary  . He merges roles as both MC and producer—on tracks like “On a Mission” from Back On The Map (2011), Dra...

Artist Showcase: Hey there, fellow music explorer! If you're here, it's probably because you're curious about the vibrant, evolving world of Afro Hip Hop. Today, we're diving deep into the southern part of the African continent to explore some fresh, up-and-coming artists who are making waves with their unique sounds. These artists, although relatively new on the scene with less than 5000 followers on Spotify or iTunes, are set to redefine the genre. Let's jump right in! My number one pick for the year!  Beast Viking is a versatile South African producer and artist gaining traction in 2024 with a distinctive style that blends traditional African rhythms, house beats, and modern vocal arrangements. Known for his ability to merge genres seamlessly, he has collaborated with other notable artists, producing works that resonate with a global audience while staying true to his South African roots. Notable Tracks and Collaborations Beast Viking's catalog includes stand...

Image from  https://images.app.goo.gl/WagQmHS3dZnPZr359 In the ever-evolving landscape of modern music, few artists have managed to carve a niche as distinctive and impactful as Johnny Katharsis. Known for his eclectic style and emotive performances, Katharsis has become a symbol of artistic authenticity and innovation. This article delves into the life, music, and influence of this remarkable musician. Early Life and Influences Johnny Katharsis, born Jonathan Keller, grew up in a small town where music was a significant part of his upbringing. His parents, both avid music enthusiasts, introduced him to a diverse range of genres from classical to rock, jazz, and blues. This eclectic musical environment fostered a deep appreciation for the art form and ignited his passion for creating music. From an early age, Katharsis was drawn to the emotional power of music. He started playing the guitar at the age of eight and soon after began experimenting with songwriting. His early compositi...