Tha Alkaholiks Members, Gear & Sound

Tha Alkaholiks is a dynamic hip-hop group known for their infectious party anthems and classic West Coast vibe. Formed in the early 1990s, the group consists of Tash (Rico Smith), J-Ro (James Robinson), and DJ E-Swift (Eric Brooks). Originally hailing from Cincinnati, Tash and DJ E-Swift eventually teamed up with Los Angeles native J-Ro to form the trio. Their style is a vibrant mix of West Coast hip hop, underground hip hop, and boom bap, characterized by lively beats and clever, humorous lyrics. Tha Alkaholiks made their mark on the hip-hop scene with albums such as 21 & Over and Coast II Coast, collaborating with prominent figures like Q-Tip while maintaining their signature West Coast party vibe.

The sound of Tha Alkaholiks is built on energetic, punchy beats and charismatic lyrical delivery. Their music often features crisp, rhythmic production with a raw, yet polished edge, aligning with the classic boom bap style. The group's sound benefits from the use of equipment like the E-mu SP-1200, which is renowned for its gritty, percussive sampling capabilities, and the Akai MPC 2000, which provides precision and flexibility in beat-making. DJ E-Swift's skills on the turntables, often using the Technics SL-1210MK2, add a layer of dynamic scratching and mixing that enhances their lively and party-centric sound. Together, these elements create a vibrant and engaging listening experience that captures the essence of West Coast hip hop.