X-Raided & Kingpen – City Of Kings: The Sac-A-Indo Project

Album info

Released in 2002 under the label Out Of Bounds, “City Of Kings – The Sac-A-Indo Project” is a collaborative album that brings together the creative energies of X-Raided and Kingpen. The album is a sonic tour through the rugged landscapes of Thug Rap, Gangsta, and Hardcore Hip-Hop, offering an in-depth look into the duo’s unique perspectives on life, power, and struggle.

The album initiates with “Sac-A-Intro,” a track that not only pays homage to their roots in Sacramento but also sets the stage for the gritty narrative that follows. “Respect For None” makes it clear that this project is not about conforming to societal norms but is a defiant stance against a system that often neglects marginalized communities.

“What Can They Say” and “The Monster Mash,” featuring Luni Coleone, delve into the psychological and social implications of living a life dominated by gang culture. These tracks pull no punches, laying bare the raw truths and emotions that shape their worldviews.

“City Of Kings” serves as the centerpiece of the album, illustrating a life led on the peripheries of society yet dominated by a sense of regality and self-determination. Featuring No Love on “It Will Never Happen,” the album explores the fatalistic attitudes that come from life experiences often dominated by tragedy and betrayal.

“Otherwise (Neglection)” and “The Process,” which includes a feature by Robert Jr., explore the destructive cycles of life and the continuous effort it takes to break free. These tracks are juxtaposed by the ferocity of “Relentless” and “Bomb Guts,” which detail the duo’s uncompromising attitudes.

Tracks like “Off The Deep End,” “Repercussions (A Time To Ride),” and “Retaliation (Coming For Me)” featuring C-Lim and T-Nutty, elevate the album to a full-fledged war cry, displaying an aggressive and unforgiving stance against all who dare to cross their paths. The album comes to a close with “We Did That (Outro),” a moment of reflection and proclamation, solidifying the indelible mark they’ve made.

Executively produced by Big Hollis, Pudgie, and X-Raided, and mastered by Kenya Baker, “City Of Kings – The Sac-A-Indo Project” stands as a gripping and audacious testament to life in the underworld, as seen through the eyes of its kings. It’s an essential listen for those looking to explore the untamed territories of hardcore hip-hop.