Listen to ATL-based rap duo EarthGang's track, "Machete" [Download]

It still remains the case that Atlanta and the larger West Coast region (from Los Angeles to Seattle) are running the current hip hop game; both areas sounds are reminiscent of the old and door-opening to the new. Atlanta has always been a heavy bass, intricate high hat, syncopated drum work type of city, connecting much of their music to the dominant strip club culture that's present almost anywhere one goes.

EarthGang is one of the newer names to publicly emerge from the scene, but embody so much that is good and pure about the ATL sound. The emcee tandem of Doctur Dot and Johnny Venus, who make up the group, both have impressive deliveries and hold your attention from beginning to end (an ability not all artists have). This specific record, "Machete" - produced by 808 Mafia, can only be imagined to be played while rolling down the street [real slow] in a drop-top Chevy Impala (yes, picture that). It's trap-loaded and aggressive - a perfect track to bob your head to.

They've been cosigned, for good reason, by the likes of B.o.B and Childish Major. "Machete" is the fourth single off their LP Shallow Graves For Toys, released via Spillage Village Records.