The Bay Area has become the hotbed of the hyphy movement, a stark contrast to typically defined West Coast hip-hop. At the fusion of these two distinct musical styles – the up-tempo energized beats of hyphy music and the cool yet gritty swag of West Coast rap – is Fatal Konnektion. Richmond, California natives David Virdure, a.k.a. Ralph Sleeze, and Dale Jones, a.k.a. D-ski Hendrix, are authentic diamonds in the rough. Super-producer Ralph brings to the group dazzling beats bound by no genre. His capabilities are not limited to hip-hop, as he can effortlessly create a hardcore rock track or silky R&B beat without missing a step. Not to be overlooked is his lyrical aptitude, as his rhymes flow with ease but retain the necessary edge. The second member of this duo is D-ski Hendrix, a legitimate game-spitter and lyrical juggernaut. He is swag and cool personified, lending his versatility to any track. Like his legendary namesake, he is definitely not a cookie-cutter artist. Together the two undeniably live up to the group’s moniker. The pair began as childhood friends, embarking on their music careers in 1997. Along with three other members of the group, Ralph and D-ski released their first album, Hostile Intentions, in 2002. The album was true to West Coast form, with its hardcore gangsta rap feel and sound. That same gritty style was carried onto their second major project, Nationwide R.A.N., a compilation that featured the likes E-40, Too $hort, Rappin’ 4-Tay, Nate Dogg, and Sugafree. Working at the same level for these great artists gave the group the confidence needed to maintain in an industry not favorable to newcomers. After some ups and downs, the group was forced to take a long hiatus, and reemerged with the two phenomenal talents who learned to adapt to the changes in the West Coast musical style. They have struck a harmonious balance between electrifying and smooth, fun and edgy. And now they have hit the ground running, recently touring with Bay Area favorite San Quinn, and tearing the clubs up with the crowd-pleasers “That’s That Flava” and “Do That Sh**” from the upcoming album Activated, slated to release early in 2008. The future is blindingly bright for these two stars. We hope you’ve got your stunna shades on!
