Late 90′s indy rap fiends might remember the Houston-based K-Otix. Turns out the guy behind the boards is now doing his own thing and producing for other groups, and when I was assigned to interview him for a mag I found some quality free concept albums he’s put together to showcase his superior beat-chopping skills. The most recent is his unique take on classic MJ/J5 records called Dem Damb Jacksons, while even more enjoyable was his reworking of all the samples from Tribe Called Quests‘ third LP for Manipulated Marauders (just don’t tell Lupe). Thanks to Rappers I Know for the links, and check out The ARE’s MySpace to hear the new record he just did for Lil’ Kim.

The ARE – Dem Dumb Jacksons

The ARE – Manipulated Marauders