LOU PHELPS’ FAVOURITE MIXTAPE: Canadian rapper Lou Phelps is the latest artist to tell VIPER all about his favourite mixtape, selecting a classic from Action Bronson and Alchemist…

What’s your favourite mixtape ever?

‘Rare Chandeliers’ by Action Bronson and Alchemist. 

Why is it so significant to you?

I used to listen to this mixtape every single day when I was on the bus going to school. The beat selection, the bars and the flows; everything is in alignment. 

Were there any artists or producers that you discovered through this tape?

I was already familiar with most of the people on the tape but I was definitely surprised by some of the verses in there.

Where exactly were you when you heard the mixtape for the first time? 

I was at home, just surfing on the net, browsing blogs or whatever and I remember seeing the cover of the mixtape and saying “oh shit, that’s pretty hard.” I just had to see if the music matched the cover.

Did it come into your life at a significant time?

It was around the time when college students and teachers were striking because the government was warning the country about a price raise for education. Students stopped going to class and teachers stopped teaching. The strike lasted at least three semesters; basically no school. I could dedicate myself to music in a time when Hip Hop was evolving exponentially. 

How did the mixtape cover make you feel?

With the visuals associated with the cover, it’s like I could imagine the songs being scenes to a movie, the beat selection is really top tier.

Describe the mixtape in three words?

Real. Raw Rap.

What song is your personal favourite?

‘Gateway To Wizardry’ featuring Styles P – that beat switch, lord!!

If you could put a price on this mixtape, how much would you pay?

Retail price, whatever that is.

Did you have a physical copy?

I wish I did, as soon as I find a vinyl of it I’ll cop.