No Skits, Vol. 1 showcases the production abilities of Hangmen 3 (Ray Benzino, Jeff Two Times, and Johnny Bananas) and the raps of the Wiseguys (
Tangg da Juice,
Big Roscoe, M3, Masta Criminal, and
Mann Terror) and
Made Men (
Benzino,
Twice Thou, and
Mr. Gzus). These rap artists rep Boston, and their local anthem, "Holla Back (Holla Boston)," is the album highlight. Hangmen 3 had previously produced the
Made Men album Classic Limited Edition, and the entire collective is rooted in the Almighty RSO. Anyone endeared to one of these acts -- be it Hangmen 3, the Wiseguys,
Made Men, or the Almighty RSO -- will likely find plenty to enjoy here on
No Skits, Vol. 1. The production work is the primary draw, though the raps are noteworthy as well, for these guys are gangsta, but they're especially literate gangsta rappers and bring a unique viewpoint, having grown up in Boston rather than New York or L.A. ~ Jason Birchmeier