Aliso Black

The Aliso Viejo-based rapper rhymes about workin' the Great Recession
Comments (1) By HOBEY ECHLIN Thursday, Feb 18 2010
Aliso Viejo’s most prolific MC sounds like someone from Queens during hip-hop’s golden age of the 1980s and ’90s. “West Coast rap, I guess, you’re supposed to rap hella slow or something,” says Aliso Black, the 32-year-old born Aaron Williams. “I’m coming from a place where I’m very isolated, so my music is more a reflection of what I listened to growing up, that ‘boom bap’ sound you heard in the ’90s from East Coast cats.”

Still, for an OC rapper with a cerebral, confessional sensibility and NYC-influenced delivery, Black has good reason to follow the motto of seminal West Coast gangstas N.W.A and fire off “fuck tha police”-style flow. In February 2005, Douglas Bates, an off-duty federal Department of Homeland Security officer, shot to death Bassim Chmait, Black’s friend and fellow MC in Xtort Clan, as he arrived at an apartment-complex party near the lawman’s home in Mission Viejo. Bates was found not guilty in 2009. When Black heard what happened, he wasn’t so much devastated as determined. “It made me more hungry,” Black says. “Like I just want to get to the money and away from the bullshit.” The rapper quit his day job. As he explains it, “I can’t put on Dockers and go to work and come home and hit the phone booth like Clark Kent and turn into Aliso Black.”

Last month, Black dropped Soulful Saturday, the second installment of his three-year Weekend Trilogy. “It’s a street album, not a studio album,” Black offers, more as a matter of pride than as an excuse. The sound is pretty much whatever he (under his production moniker Dirty Lunch) and his friends (Brix, O-Phrap, B News) come up with: dusted, screwfaced beats; bootlegged Barry White samples; jazz licks chopped into woozy loops; even car alarms. Soulful Saturday falls somewhere between a mixtape free-for-all and a lost DJ Red Alert radio show of KMD and Chubb Rock on New York’s Hot 97 two decades ago. Compared to the hard bounce of last year’s Salesman Friday, Soulful Saturday is somber. Or “hip-hop blues,” as Black calls it.

“Ain’t it funny how shit can change in the blink of an eye?” a voice recites over a blaxploitation intro on the standout track “Get Own Up.” A clock-radio alarm keeps going off, and just before the snooze-button gets smacked again, a car window gets shattered, setting off the vehicle’s alarm. A frantic lick of a loop kicks in, with Black rapping in short, blunt phrases: “Shit creek, no heat, no eats, cold feat . . . Fast leaks, no retreats/Work till the morning, yes!”

Black explains, “Your business going down, the economy crashing down—the weekend continues. With Bassim dying, the weekend continues. My business is suffering; I got tax issues. But the weekend continues. All I got is this hip-hop shit, and I’m still in it.”

The sound and strategy make Black an anomaly in the SoCal scene. Not only in commercial hip-hop, but also the LA underground sound of Fat Beats Records, Stones Throw Records or beat-chopping purveyors such as Flying Lotus. Ask about Aliso Black just 20 minutes up the 405 at Long Beach’s Fingerprints record shop, and hip-hop-heads think you’re talking about Hollywood’s Aloe Blacc.

Black has focused on local impact—as in places he can drive to, even when his tank’s closing in on “E.” He makes regular rounds to such places as Ghetto Records & Pagers in Santa Ana and Universal Hair Salons in Tustin to give away CDs; Black calls it “hand-to-hand distribution.” He works with local promoters, such as Beat Club Co-Op at Tropics Lounge in Fullerton, and, like his Feb. 26 show, performs at such OC spots as Coconuts in Dana Point. “Having people hollerin’ at me from Germany means everything to me, but to be a part of the community, it’s a lifestyle,” Black says.

Being able to live it—however precariously—is what the rapper says makes him successful. “Make music from the heart, and you can never really be turned down,” he reasons. “It’s a lifestyle. It’s lyricism. That’s one thing, for real; you can’t fuck with it.”

Aliso Black hosts “A Tribute to Bassim,” featuring Big OZ, Kim Leyva, B News, and I & I, at Coconuts, 34235 Doheny Park Rd., Capistrano Beach, (949) 248-2448; www.pyroerogenizer.com. Feb. 26, 9 p.m. Free. 18+.

This article appeared in print as "Hip-Hop Gets the Blues: OC rapper Aliso Black rhymes about life and death in the Great Recession." - OC Weekly

At sundown, Aliso Black and his crew meet at a dim back patio at Classic Q's in Newport Beach. Squeezed around a tiny cocktail island, the five full-grown men hardly resemble nobility as they huddle over spirits and ashtrays of smoldering cigarette butts. Playful arguments and liquor-soaked enthusiasm fill the air as they discuss Sound Asylum, their new quarterly event at Detroit Bar. Meanwhile, clusters of starched, off-duty businessmen shake their heads and migrate inside to watch high-definition sports in peace. Realizing they're completely alone, Santa Ana rapper Kevin Parx has something to get off his chest.


Dude, wrong "A" on your cap!
Location Info
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Detroit Bar
843 W. 19th St.
Costa Mesa, CA 92627 Category: Bars/Clubs Region: Costa Mesa Photos
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Details
Buford House Presents: Sound Asylum 2, featuring Aliso Black, Kadillak Kaz, C4mula and Kevin Parx, plus DJ sets from Da Blenda, Prime Meridian, and Mr. Kees, at Detroit Bar, 843 W. 19th St., Costa Mesa, (949) 642-0600; detroitbar.com. Sat., 8 p.m. $5. 21+.
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"Sound Asylum will never be about status," he says. "As rappers out here, we're all getting fucked over. Because of where we're from and where we represent, we gotta fight harder—not just a little bit harder, but a lot harder."

Right now, their battle centers on the party that Aliso (born Aaron Williams) and fellow MC/business partner Suvivo (a.k.a. Demetrius Rachel) have dreamed about since November 2011. The mission was simple: deliver an ego-free, hip-hop club night that doubles as a curated showcase of four rotating, OC-bred MCs. Outsiders from LA or elsewhere need not apply.

Finally kicking things off this past July, the first Sound Asylum attracted a near-capacity crowd of boom bap fans in minimal clothing, sweat rolling down their faces and their hands in the air.

Aliso, a prolific South County rapper repping Aliso Viejo (hence the moniker), says OC's dire need for a hip-hop epicenter inspired him and Suvivo to start an event with a "for-us, by-us" mentality.

"I don't need to go nowhere else. I could bring everything here—the cameras, the fucking press, whatever—because we're so live," he says, his voice booming with preacher passion. "We're so nasty. And we've barely even started."

Inspired by the historical impact of Abstract Workshop and such renowned LA club nights as Boom Box and the Do-Over, Aliso parlayed his credibility as a resident MC for promoters such as Club Mercy (who works with Detroit Bar) into negotiating a slot for this new pet project at the Costa Mesa venue. He used his gig as host of Sound Science, a monthly DJ staple at the Crosby, to tap influential crate diggers including Salam Wreck, who's spun for artists like DJ Quik, Obie Trice and Tha Dogg Pound.

Instead of being focused on rapping, the night has to be about creating a party vibe that makes his prized MCs the cherries on top.

"No one wants to sit there watching nine fuckin' rappers," he says. "I'm bringing four of the best. We're getting people in so they can drink and dance. They don't even know they're getting blessed with a dope performance."

Aliso's dream team for the second installment includes himself, Kadillak Kaz, C4mula, Kevin Parx, and guest hosts Big Till and rapper Ashley Dominique. These lyrical mercenaries are all accomplished, battle-tested wordsmiths in their own right. Gathered at the table, they represent multiple generations of OC hip-hop. Kaz, whose gritty, tongue-lashing delivery comes direct from the streets of Santa Ana, says that what they're doing pays homage to '80s OC hip-hop legends such as H.B.O. and KMC Kru.

"We represent a small portion of what we call the New West," he says. "There are a lot of people out here doing their thing. And there's a history to it."

Though these artists have either known of one another or worked together in some fashion, building hype to promote this month's event brought them closer in ways they never would've expected. On a recent morning, Aliso and Kadillak hopped into Kadillak's red Nissan sedan and slapped fliers on every liquor-store window, hair salon and telephone pole in central OC. It's that kind of old-school bonding that Aliso believes will bring solidarity among local MCs chosen to represent the round table.

"I'm not doing that 'Hey, you're on the bill; just retweet the event page.' Nah, fuck that," he says. "Y'all are coming out to the bar, we're getting a beer, we've having a barbecue. If you're with Sound Asylum and your date is coming up, you're gonna see these other three fuckin' MCs and sit with them before the show." - OC Weekly

Tell us about where you are from and how you got to this position today.
My name is Aliso Black a.k.a. Cuatro..Uno..Tres. I’m from Orange County California. I came here in 1989 from Lancaster Kentucky. I was influenced during the 90's so my style is a reflection of that with my own twist. The world is my canvas and I add my originality to everything I do; whether it’s cooking, rapping, or the way I dress, I have to stand out.

Tell us more about the current song you are promoting to everyone.
It’s called “AHH-YEAHH.” it’s awesome and was produced by Kela from the United Kingdom. This was the 1st single of my album titled GIVING OUT MATCHES & SELLING LIGHTERS. The song is that guillotine rap, coming straight for the head and letting the world know my agenda is real; which is to make good of my wrongs and put this music down in a way you have never seen before. The video for “AHH-YEAHH” is out right now. Everybody should Google that! Aliso Black “AHH-YEAHH.”

Tell us about one of the hardest challenges you had to face in the industry?
I don’t know how to answer that one. I wouldn’t say I am in the industry yet. I haven’t even been on a red carpet before nor do I have a manager. For me as a independent artist trying to make into the industry I would just say raising capitol to become visible. It costs money to do this and you figure if you are not fitting the bill somebody is. Don’t trip though once I start attending some of these industry functions and round table meetings concerning my music, then WWS can interview me again! By then I’m sure I’ll have more game to drop for the up and comers, but right now I’m just a pea in the pod.

What was one of the biggest set backs in your career and how did you bounce back?
In 2005 a friend of mine was murdered. He was the nucleus to a multi-cultural crew called the XTORT CLAN. This is where I really began to find myself saying “okay I want this music in my life.” So when that happened it dismantled everything because everybody was young and dealt with that in their own ways. People just stopped doing music period, others moved away. It was really hard on everybody because SPAZZ meant so much. People say God has a plan for every one, I just know after that I wanted to keep going and if anything be able to do what I’m doing right now which is keep his and XTORT CLAN’s memory alive. So thanks for giving me this platform.

What are some things artists need to be careful of?
Wow were do I start. Look at it like this, if everybody and they momma wants to rap or produce then it’s common since your gonna have all these wanna be promoters and publicist telling you how they can take you to the next level. Be careful who you give your money to or line yourself with regarding your career. Some people are just scam artists, do background checks, get referrals from artist that are where you are trying to be. Don’t be so thirsty, if you are solid you will find the other solid ones. Ohhh and watch out for the ratchets, wear a rain coat because it’s pouring outside!

What suggestions do you have for other artists like yourself?
Make up your mind because it’s going to get worst before it gets better.

What is one of your favorite ways to promote yourself and your music?
At the show, hands down. When I rock live it’s a chance for me to convey these songs. Somebody told me once, “Learn to hear with your eyes and see with your ears.” My music comes from a authentic place so I want people to leave my show feeling like they met me and the problems I write about are my own and if you share some of the same struggles, well we just had a therapy session. That’s how I build and get my demons off my back by performing. I have had people tell me my live show made them buy my music and that feels good.

Where can people visit you?
I spend a lot of time at the Time Out Tavern in Aliso Viejo, other than that you know:
alisoblack.com
twitter.com/alisoblack
youtube.com/highcooshit
Hit me up on the BOOK

One more thing DOWNLOAD my new project with DJ ICEWATER from the OAKLAND FADERS called GIVING OUT MATCHES AND SELLING LIGHTERS. It’s a special album and it’s at alisoblack.bandcamp.com. Thanks. - WWS Magazine

MB: How did Aliso Black get to Orange County?
AB: My mother followed a dude she met were we originally from (Kentucky) and moved me and my lil brother to Stanton Ca back in the 80's. U gotta fix the gramatical errors if you gonna post this..haha

MB: What's the hip-hop scene like in Kentucky? Most of us know about Nappy Roots, but what about everyone else?
AB: Man I aint really aint up on the scene to heavy out there since I left before I really got into this rap shit but you got Rob Jackson, Scoupe, Senate Inc. & like you said Nappy Roots. I'm from Garrard County which is a small town so I'm forever gonna be that no matter were I may land. All my folks out there don't fucking rap they getting to the money in other ways they on that Aliso Black.


MB: A lot of people don't know about OC HIPHOP either. And there are alot of artist out there, correct? What is the scene like in Orange County, as far as Hip-Hop is concerned?
AB: Is there a shortage in rappers anywhere?? The scene is rebuilding it's a younger generation that's gonna build it up again I think. I'm trying to get the hell up out! I feel like I'm somewhat part of that..cause all these people and functions that were supposably poppin back in the day I dont remeber i must have been selling my dub sacks over on charlinda or something.

MB: What is the 'High Coo Shit' all about?
AB: Long story man but that's how all this shit began the Patient 413, that Psych Ward...the summer of 2007. You familiar with the asian version of what HAIKU means? If so you will get it..not the american riddle format but the journey men the warriors that brought back civilization to they people...i just flipped the spelling cause during that time the music was heavily drug enduced.


MB: Other than the Hip-Hop culture, what inspires you to keep doing what you do?
AB: I got this lil bug in me man..it's there every morning I wake up and the feeling aint about the "grind" I am innately with that working for mine shit. Nobody has ever gave me shit, and I have provided and continue for many..but that bug is a creative bug that just wants to create. Somedays I gotta tell it no..I gotta go get this money elsewhere but it's always there and the day I wake up and don't feel like that I know it's a wrap.


MB: What's next for Aliso Black?
AB: Midgets..specifically Midget Porn..yes directing my first movie called "Big Trouble in Little Heina"..I got the Brewsky Anderson Mixtape on the way and a project based of the characters in Cooley High. That's being produced by Depakote and hopefully this album will magically present it's self early next year.

MB: Anything else?
AB: Shout out to the MIxbullies, DJ Redrocks, and everybody that reads this...the weekend continues!
- Mixbullies.com

Aliso Black - Orange County, Ca

Q. How did the project come into existence? The "Weekend Series" is a trilogy that started in 2009 w/ one release per year this year you will have the final installment. I just wanted to do something creative and something people could follow and enjoy musically.

Q.Who are the members of the band if any and please tell us about it? I am Aliso Black a.k.a. Cuatro Uno Tres "Patient 413" the number is my b-day April the 13th. I came out in 2007 w/ a EP Called Psych Ward Presents..Aliso Black Patient 413. This was my identity into the Psych Ward and mind traveling through music. The Psych Ward consist of Me, 1115, Lah Jiggz, Madhadda, Chief these were all the brothers present when I was going through that phase musically day in and day out. Shouts to DJ Trust he definitely is a honorary member he mixed the first installment to the Weekend Series "Salesman Friday".

Q How would you describe your sound/genre? My sound is built from the late 90's just because I was influenced the most then even though I didn't start recording until 2002 but by then all I was on was what we were doing. I would say lately I have started coming out of my shell and making more music that reflects me today. Back then it was just wild that Psych Ward stuff was Dark & Angry, Conscious, and spitting a struggle. I can still relate but since then I have matured and find myself wanting to express myself differently. I would say my sound is hard though and definitely Rap Music.

Q. What formal training or previous experience do any of the members have? Well 1115 plays the drums he did 95% of the production on the EP as well, I meet him playing the drums in a Church in Carson Ca. I mess around and make beats here and there..I have credits of my own but I got hip watching him he's real good. Oh yeah I took a Pro Tools course before so I can do the basic recording stuff. I really just pride myself in feeling like I have a natural ear and feeling for music my first beats would sound good but not be even bars.. I used to think that was dumb "If it sounds good lets go" but I have learned since then and can still keep my creativity in the basic guidelines in building a beat now.

Q. Are you working w/ a producer on your upcoming album? Yes, I am working with 1115 of course Brix, J.Bizness, Depokate, Dibiase to name a few.

Q. Who would you say has been the biggest influence on the bands sound or that you have used as inspiration for your music? I always felt I was a chameleon in being a fan of Rap, so on any given day I could draw from somebody I listened to a lot. To give you a few cats though I would say Definitely Eric Sermon and the whole Def Squad movement then Outkast as the whole Dungeon Family movement

Q.What advice would you give to others starting out? I would say be selective don't be to eager to be heard right away sharpen your craft observe to bring something really inspirational and creative to the culture when you do drop. So much non groomed stuff out now it's hard to find stuff these days..a fan had to play like a DJ and be "Diggin" just to find good music and with all the stores closing it makes you wonder were music will even be in the future.

Q. Where can people go to learn more about you and hear your music? They can go to www.alisoblack.com as well as sonicbids.com both places have a bio, music, videos, etc.

Q. If you could play anywhere in the world or with anyone you wanted where and who would it be with? That's easy I would want to play at one of these hug festivals were you have 10,000 so wherever that is..I 'll go to Greenland to experience that! For who it would be with...my family the brothers that have supported me from day one and I always believed in there talent as well so it would be a dream come true to do that.

Q. What has been your greatest experience so far either individually or as a whole? I have had people from other countries send me messages and pictures on how they have got a hold of music and been able to go back 4 years of following it, and that blows me away...just anytime anyone acknowledges you for your craft is a great feeling because we do this for ourselves but at the same time I do for the people as well my struggles are no different that a lot of people even though they don't make music..so I do it for them. I have also rocked some thick crowds and that's crazy.. I rather be performing live than in the studio anyday!

Q. Do you have any upcoming events or news you would like to tell our readers about? Yes, you can expect the 3rd installment to the Weekend Series to come this year with a consistent show schedule so follow me @ AlisoBlack and for those who haven't heard Parts 1&2 you can download them Free at www.Datpiff.com just search Aliso Black and there yours for FREE you don't need an account or anything.

Q. Where do you see yourselves or hope to be in about 5 years? In 5 years I hope to see myself being on of the most looked for artist for all the major festivals, national & regional. Making the best music I can and building with people across the world and through that doing something positive that has nothing to do with music. - AJ & DBS Interview

As soon as Aliso Black’s “Ahhh Yeahh” hits the screen and the beat drops in, you know this jam means business. Black’s flow is as effortless as his thumping beat as he rhythmically jabs his enemies with sarcasm and elevates his friends rhyme and praise. There is no cheesy pop sample to be found for miles on this track. Instead, Aliso Black delivers a simple and effective “Ahhh Yeahh,” which is so memorable and infectious that it’ll have you involuntarily bopping to the beat, and possibly even throwing your hands in the air. After all, isn’t that what good hip hop is supposed to do? Aliso’s success on this track comes from his abilities as an MC and he knows that wit and delivery should be the center of attention. But not to be outdone, this lyrical fortress is well guarded by bass, snares, and synth. Aliso Black may be a strong contender in the underground world, but a gem like this will be tough to keep a secret when the public gets their ears on it. - Andy HIP Video

This project from west coast emcee, Aliso Black is 60 minutes of raw energy! This is the first mix CD that I listened to from start to finish! This joint was mixed and hosted by Trust. Be sure to check out my favorite track, "Treating Me Bad"... you'll LOVE it!!!
- JB of Ordinary Beats

In an area where rap and hip-hop is nearly non-existent, a rapper is trying to be heard and recognized amidst the pop, punk and indie music scene. Aaron Williams, better known as Aliso Black gives us his take on Orange County's hip-hop scene (yes, it does exist!), his musical influences and what we can expect at his upcoming shows.
OC Weekly: How did you get the name "Aliso Black"?
Aliso Black: I live in a small town called Aliso Viejo which is probably less than 8 percent black. I know everybody that is [black]...at least I think I do. An older cat from Detroit named Craig would yell out Aliso Black! Every time he would see me at this bar I'm always at, so I just ran with it.

How would you describe your music to those who aren't familiar with it?
My music is really all over the place, and I hate it myself sometimes because believe it or not I'm a neat freak. So when I look back at my catalog it seems real messy! Normally I sit down listen to instruments and in minutes they have pulled something from me..I will say this though about my my music; it's aggressive at times, vulgar as well as positive and fun. I am truly unorthodox when it comes to making music. I don't care but do at the same time. It's weird.

What does your music represent?
My music represents love of self and the people that are lost without it, like I am. A lot of the times we know what's good for us but we're still on a path of destruction. So anybody that feels that type of void in their life..I hope my songs about dealing with my own struggles inspire them to conquer what they're up against and have respect for themselves first.

What are your influences?
My influences to make music come from all the greats like James Brown, Curtis Mayfield and guys like that. I know my genre of music is different from theirs. There's so many incredible black artists and to be a part of that would be incredible. Rap wise, I am huge fan off Redman he's sick with it. I always played his stuff growing up and still do.

What's your take on the rap scene in OC?
My take on the rap scene in OC is that it's an untapped market waiting to be recognized. I know the scene would flourish if there were more outlets for artist to showcase their talents. In my dealings most DJ's out here spin a Top 40/Techno mix at these clubs around the county no DJ's are really in the street doing mixtapes etc..which is a great way for a new artist to be heard and when big names come to town promoters are more concerned with their own agendas than breaking what's here and having their own MC's & DJ's come out consistently. These might be the same issues of any place..I don't know but these are some of the problems I see on my side. I commend anybody though that is still pushing the envelope to be heard, stay creative, and creating outlets for others under these circumstances.

Do you feel the scene is under-represented?
I don't feel it's underrepresented. That would be disrespectful to myself as well as people here & before me that are true to this Hip Hop culture and live in Orange County..but like I said I feel there is a lack of opportunity out here that comes from other places besides the artist. Those are the areas which I think need to develop more and build on relationships with each other as well as neighboring cities and states to say hey look what my county has cooking. Every up and coming artist doesn't have a huge following..that's why they need to perform to earn those fans..so they should be able to barter there way into these shows by helping promote set up etc...for a chance to perform..the debate on that from artist to promoter perspective could go on and on but to help the "OC Rap Scene" a common ground needs to be meet.

What others artists have you worked with/opened for?
I haven't really worked with any high profiled artists before. Although I have been on the same show bill with some and opened for guys like Talib Kweli, Strong Arm Steady, Yelawolf, KRS One and most recently "THE CHEF" Raekwon which is going down May 3 at the Detroit Bar in Costa Mesa.

What can we expect at your upcoming show at Detroit Bar with Raekwon?

You can expect some hard lyrics, high energy...maybe a freestyle or two and few buckets of chicken going around during my set on May 3...anything else you'll just have to wait and see for yourself!

You've been performing at Detroit Bar a lot lately. How did that come about?

Yes I have been performing at the Detroit Bar in conjunction with Club Mercy a lot since the beginning of the year. We killed it at the Yelawolf show and since then it's been on...they have reached out in a way I am not a custom to and it feels good to be recognized. They are responsible for bringing some of the premier acts to Orange County and I cant say enough about the intimate setting the Detroit Bar provides with the audience..I enjoy the place and working with Club Mercy.

How many albums/EPs have you completed?

I have one EP that I created in 2007 called Psych Ward Present Aliso Black..Patient 413. I have also released a few mixtapes since then but would definitely like to put out an official LP one day.

What do you think you bring to the table when it comes to rap/hip-hop?

I believe I bring a piece of reality, contagious energy and a reason to believe rap is still the voice of the people. - OC Weekly