Although Cassidy's underground title has been out of commission for some time, that doesn't mean he isn't a legend in his own right. Especially in Philadelphia, where his epic freestyle with Freeway is considered a touchstone moment for miles on end. Cassidy might have been awarded the W in their battle, but that didn't deter the rap public from raising both their arms in a symbolic "split decision."
On Cassidy latest rap stencil, appropriately titled "Bars Is Back," takes up the ground he gave up when he debuted with E1 Records to mixed results (2010). Sampling what appears to be a relic from the Metal Gear Solid video game, "Bars Is Back" makes up for lost time with its loose narrative structure, akin to a plot synopsis. As you likely know, Cassidy is never one to stay on topic for longer than two bars at a time - but to his credit, that's all the time he needs to articulate himself at max efficiency.
Cassidy might seem out of synch with the current zeitgeist, on paper alone. But "Bars Is Back" slots in perfectly next to a host of Philly undergrads. Cass talks a good game about making important strides in the pre-Meek Mill era of Philadelphia rap.
He also wishes Freeway a speedy recovery from his kidney disease, out of good faith. As urban legend would have it, as the battle with Freeway as about to commence, Jay-Z was said to be goading him as a pressure tactic leading up to the coin toss. Thankfully, Cassidy held composure long enough to realize Jigga was simply backing his soldier by insulting him. At the time, Cassidy was being backed by Swizz Beatz, his executor at Full Surface.
Quotable Lyrics:
You can tell I hustle by the way I make my shoulders move.
- Cassidy "The Hustler"
