W.B.K. Mobb – Sett Trippin

Album info

Released in 1995 under the labels Black Market Records and Power Sett Recordings, W.B.K. Mobb’s “Sett Trippin” stands as a time capsule capturing the raw essence of mid-’90s Gangsta rap. Hailing from Nevada, USA, the group consisted of Mr. Belo and Raiza-Man, whose collective vision is incisively depicted in this full-length album.

The album opens with “MOBB (Intro) / Anutha Friday Nite,” a 3:51-minute track that lays the thematic foundation of the entire project. It establishes W.B.K. Mobb’s identity as part of a larger community, sharing the complexities of life in a gang-dominated setting. Following this is “Flossin’,” a track that delves into the material pursuits often glamorized in gangsta culture, with a runtime of 4:20 minutes.

“Mobbin’ Wit Tha’ Sett” and “Tek. 9’s & Clipz” serve as anthems for the group, with the former clocking in at 3:06 minutes and the latter at 3:07 minutes. Both tracks focus on the weapons and power struggles inherent to gang life, with “Tek. 9’s & Clipz” featuring additional rap by K-Swhahili.

The mood slightly shifts with “Groove 2 My Funk,” a 4:25-minute track that offers a momentary respite with its lighter, funk-inspired rhythms. This is quickly contrasted by “Got My Shit Tight,” a defiant 3:18-minute declaration of the group’s unwavering resolve in the face of adversity.

Among the shorter tracks, “Tha’ Party” and “Early Every Day” provide different perspectives on daily life, the former being a 1:02-minute sketch capturing the fleeting joys and escapism found in social gatherings, and the latter, at 2:41 minutes, discussing the grind and hustle essential for survival.

Featuring guest rappers and additional vocals from the likes of Connie Pedraza, Ruby Fair, and Sharonda Manor, the album is a comprehensive portrayal of W.B.K. Mobb’s environment. Produced primarily by Mr. Belo, with co-production on track 9 by ATG and engineering by Rob Devlin and Robbie Hamilton, the album is a fine example of DIY ethos meeting professional execution.

“Sett Trippin” is not just a musical project; it’s a narrative. It dives deep into the experiences that shaped W.B.K. Mobb as individuals and artists, fulfilling the promise of what W.B.K. stands for: WhutaBrothaKno. With “Sett Trippin,” what the brothers know is shared with the world, raw and unfiltered.