Hailing from Greenville, S.C., Alpoko Don crafts an extremely raw and ultra-minimalist style. He rhymes over basic cafeteria-style table-banging without any accompaniment from the usual drum machines, synthesizers, or samples. With no distracting music, you can focus entirely on his unique voice: an undeniably soulful, distinctly Southern vehicle that combines old-school blues, Negro spirituals, spoken-word poetry, gospel, and roughneck rapping. His grimy and unpredictable sing-song flow lies somewhere between early Mystikal and The Last Poets, while his highly visual and thought-provoking storytelling skills recall Scarface and Big K.R.I.T. He's probably way too pure to break through to massive airplay. But for those who appreciate straight lyrics with no hooks, no gimmicks, and no filler, Alpoko Don is a breath of fresh air. Don't miss "Gone Tomorrow," "Sittin Sideways," and "Change My Ways."