Stevie Drumma, Victory Lap Mixtape (Independent)

Just over a decade ago, Louisiana was a hotbed for emerging hip-hop talent. But in recent years, the scene’s vibrant and rapid growth has almost slowed to a complete stop. Only Lil Wayne is still representing the city on a major label level. With this reality in mind, New Orleans producer/artist Stevie Drumma is still attempting to fight his way into the game with his mixtape, The Victory Lap. The Victory Lap is composed like a night on the town in the clubs; it’s loud, flashy, boisterous and filled with celebrity cameos such as NFL player Corey Webster, up-and-comers including Raw D.I. and Lil’ Cali. Drumma’s subject matter remains typical of the average hip-hopper–money, hoes, and clothes–but the producer/rapper’s flow and ear for the club may set him apart from others in the future. The mixtape’s intro consists of a medley of minor hits he has already produced, including Master P’s “Where You From?” and the Baton Rouge club anthem “I’m on My Shit!” The upbeat intro is followed by Drumma’s catchy yet slightly comedic single “Shawty is a Twenty” which features Mannie Fresh. The song, which describes Drumma’s romantic pursuit of a gorgeous woman in the club, is an almost guaranteed club banger if given the right promotion.

While The Victory Lap is far from a classic—Drumma’s not immune to Auto-Tune’s robotic siren call—it shows that he can definitely get the party started.