Striving to bring a message of unity to the Chicano community, the collaborative project Mentes Diferentes never shies away from discussing social issues regarding the Chicano experience.
The Sacramento-hailing collective is comprised of founder Reckless Reaction (Rodolfo J Rodriguez), Rocky Raps Number One Contender, KEST, J-Loco from Brown Hustla Records, and Chaotic Itilii.
Some influences that the group carries through their sound stems from acts such as Big Pun, Sick Jacken, Kid Frost, Delinquent Habits, Immortal Technique, Tech N9ne, Cypress Hill, Wu-Tang Clan, Mr. Shadow, Mr. Lil One, and Eminem.
Tackling their release of “STRONGEST SURVIVE,” Mentes Diferentes allows listeners to tap in through the sonic and visual extension of this heavy-hitting single. Exuding an old-school Hip-hop tone as they march to the beat of their own drum, we admire the nostalgic traits that Mentes Diferentes applies to their unforgettable sound.
With a fierce, united front, we get a series of vividly sculpted scenes that incorporate each member as they can be seen hanging around beautifully canvassed graffiti art while they get up close and personal with the camera.
Touring the back ways of their neighborhood as they deliver an intoxicating rush of swagger in their step, the essence of this main scenery is divided between images of vintage Godzilla films, where the creature is tearing up the city streets. We admire the lyrical dexterity that is flexed through a knack for wordplay and undeniable rhyme schemes. It allows the smooth as butter cadences to drift you in and out of “STRONGEST SURVIVE,” as you please.
Enhancing the scenes with visual effects that stimulate the mind and have you mesmerizingly hooked on what’s presented in front of you, we’re eager to admit that Mentes Diferentes is sweeping up the industry as they keep it real with their fan base.