Spotlight on: Nacho Picasso

Although Seattle's hip-hop scene has steadily been gaining some much deserved recognition, there are still several undiscovered talents a midst the city's vast collection of up and coming artists. However, with a name like Nacho Picasso, it's hard to go unnoticed. 

While Seattle's most renowned hip hop artists such as Macklemore, Sol, and the Blue Scholars are known for complex beats, tasteful sampling and lyrically conscious raps; Nacho Picasso's ponderous flow, comical punchline lyrics and musical backdrops that mirror the soundtrack of a video game contribute to a style that would lead you to believe that he is not from Seattle.

Life after Nirvana

Headlining the "Moor Gang" of Beacon Hill, Nacho Picasso has teamed up with San Francisco instrumental duo Blue Sky Black Death and fellow Moor Gang member Jarv Dee to complete three full length albums. "I've got an odd flow, one that the Gods quote" raps Picasso on his song "Moor Gang". While it may not seem that Nacho Picasso is one to take himself seriously, the national media has. Spin Magazine listed Nacho's For the Glory as one of 2011's mixtapes you need. In addition, Passionweiss.com listed For the Glory as one of 2011's 50 best albums, and listed "Moor Gang" as a top 50 hip hop song of 2011. The site went on to state that Picasso's vibe is "young, stoned, and gangster as shit".
Above, a picture of Nacho Picasso's February show at Nuemos. Proclaiming himself high enough to make up for anyone that was sober, Picasso went on to dazzle a robust audience with bass laden stoner raps complimented by his hype man Jarv Dee helping out with every hook. No smoke machines were needed.

Similar to New York's A$AP Rocky, Nacho still has a ways to go before attaining his desired amount of recognition. Increased variation in style and more elaborate hooks would work towards Nacho's benefit. However, the fact that he is already gaining notice from national media in addition to playing shows across the country is a good sign.
Fresh off his new album Exalted, now is an ideal time to catch Nacho in concert. I know I will be checking out his set at this year's Capital Hill Block Party. Nacho Picasso has three albums available for free download on his site http://nachopicasso.com/ in addition to show updates.