Review: Rico Nasty's Major-Label Debut Is a Dynamic Introduction

Felicia AbbanHip-hop's Internet-mediated underground currently teems with talented women like Maryland MC Rico Nasty. While her debut mixtape forAtlantic Records doesn't feel like a major creative breakthrough, it's a solid introduction to a dynamic, hard-charging voice in what Rico herself dubs "sugar trap." She raps with adrenalized passion on the Blocboy JB-assisted "In The Air" and freestyles withvigor over N.O.R.E.'s "Superthug" beat on "Countin' Up," evoking the spirit of vintage Crime Mob