Since Hip Hop has become a business in the fast lane and a thing that changes everyday, we’ve heard many new voices in this game. And now, there’s another new face, a single voice delivering a message of post-struggle fortune out of Tacoma, Washington: Azarel.

Since 1996, he has circulated demo tracks locally and attracted a lot of fans normally accustomed to West Coast and gangster rap. Azarel was then provided with numerous club bookings, performing locally with many of Tacoma’s top acts.

Next step was the mainstream recognition. In 1999, he got signed by Ocean Records.

And now, his single “U&I” is available! The track which made its debut on the internet, has been receiving thumbs-up from hip hop fans al over the world. With his positive, sensual lyrics, Azarel is different from many others, he spreads very positive vibes, and the production of this single is well-done, too. Azarel finds a new way to surprise and entertain hip hop fans because he isn’t a standard rapper: he’s got a different style, a voice that goes deep but isn’t rough and totally smoked up, and the beat corresponds ideally with his style.

The b-side called “Smile a Little” is a real b-side: it’s not really able to come up to the expectations that became higher and higher after listening to the a-side several times. I mean, this track isn’t wack, but if you’d like to inform you about the things and skills Azarel knows, better get on “U&I”
Another man that delivers more than just rhymes, nothing like th is standard gangster-stuff, positive lyrics and head nodding beat, but Azarel prevents himself from sounding preachy. And, if you’ve heard his second track, too, then you know:

Watch out now, a new face, but it’s going to stay for a longer time! (M)