Album Review: XstaSchema by NEME$1$ x ZillaBeatz
If you’re a fan of raw, unfiltered Hip Hop with a vibe that feels like it was cooked up in the back of a smoky tour bus, XstaSchema is worth your time. Released in 2016 out of the US and flying under the radar with no major label backing, this project from NEME$1$ and producer ZillaBeatz hits hard where it counts—authenticity. The album might not have gotten the shine it deserved back then, but it’s one of those hidden gems that sticks with you once you press play.
Let’s talk tracks. First up, “XTC.” This joint grabs you by the collar right out the gate. ZillaBeatz lays down a beat that’s equal parts hypnotic and gritty, all rattling hi-hats and basslines that feel like they’re sneaking up on you. NEME$1$ comes through with bars that are sharp enough to cut glass, riding the instrumental like he was born for it. It’s the kind of track that makes you nod your head so hard you might sprain something. What sticks with me? The energy—it doesn’t let up for a second.
Then there’s “Its Alright,” which flips the mood completely. Where “XTC” is aggressive and in-your-face, this one leans smooth and reflective. The production here has this warm, almost nostalgic undertone, and NEME$1$ matches it perfectly with lyrics that feel personal but relatable. You can tell he’s spitting from the heart, and it’s refreshing. The hook is simple yet catchy as hell, the type of thing that’ll loop in your brain for days.
The Day After”? Solid too, but these two tracks stand out because they showcase the range of what NEME$1$ and ZillaBeatz bring to the table. One’s got you amped, ready to take on the world; the other’s got you chilling, thinking about life. That balance is rare, and they pull it off effortlessly.
Looking back, it’s wild how XstaSchema flew under the radar. In a world obsessed with big-name features and flashy rollouts, this project reminds you that sometimes the best music comes from just letting the art speak for itself. Honestly, I didn’t expect to still be bumping an album from 2016, but here we are. Maybe greatness doesn’t need a label after all.
Final thought? If you’re scrolling through Spotify late at night looking for something real, hit play on this. Just don’t blame me if “XTC” ruins your neck.
