Libretto returns for his sixth full length album entitled Rusty Bladez, and is accompanied by Seattle legend Vitamin D handling all production duties, plus a few standout verses of his own.
As evidenced by his inmate ID on the cover, Libretto's meditations on his time spent in the Federal Penitentiary system run throughout the entirety of Rusty Bladez. Libretto recounts in vivid detail the experiences and lifestyle that led him there, and his experiences and mind state once released. Rarely has an album so clearly captured a mood, and provided the type of first person insight that is captured on Rusty Bladez.
Vitamin D's production mastery provides the perfect backdrop for Libretto to recount his true life tales. Finding the perfect balance between the album's somber tone and an undeniable groove, Vitamin D crafts beats that are at home in the world of underground rap, but clearly stand out as a result of their layered musicality. Showcasing his versatile skills across all 17 tracks, Vitamin D once again demonstrates why he is your favorite producer's favorite producer, as well as a force of his own on the mic.
Helping round out the complete picture, Libretto & Vitamin D are joined on the album by top notch lyricists and vocalists including Roc Marciano, Guilty Simpson, Gift of Gab [R.I.P], Planet Asia, Keisha Plum, Jumbo (Lifesavas), Toni Hill, Syndel, and more! But beyond just dropping great guest verses, the features work alongside Libretto and Vitamin D to truly enhance the larger vision and story being told.
Rusty Bladez is the product of two West Coast veterans, made in true collaborative fashion, with their talents and expertise on full display. The album is cinematic, and a complete, fully realized vision with infinite amounts of replay value.
credits
released May 10, 2022
All Production by Vitamin D
All Vocals Written and Performed by Libretto, except where noted
Mixed by Vitamin D & Libretto
Mastered by Ryan Foster for Foster Mastering
Art & Design by Dan Kinto, using artifacts and documents from Libretto's time in Federal Prison.
Alternative King Tee Inspired Cassette Art by Aaron Moiel
Supreme wordplay coupled with relevant, focused topics. Solid and complementary production throughout. Understated project that deserves attention. Liquid Beat
Tony has blessed more than a few Liquid Beat releases. He is a multi-talented producer, instrumentalist, and singer. On this release, he does it all along with label duties. Solid from every angle! Liquid Beat
One of the greatest rhymers in the game teaming up with one of the greatest producers in the game for this timeless collab that deepens in richness with each spin. Had to cop the Sky High vinyl!! Charlie Moonbeam