The Niceguys

Based in Houston, TX, this four-piece group (one MC, one producer and two DJs) back up both the name of their group and their debut album, as they sound pretty nice and put on quite "The Show" on their first record. They cite influences as diverse as J Dilla, MF Doom and hometown hero Scarface, yet these influences culminate in an organic, funky, party vibe that gets you grooving the moment you press play. Self-titled album opener "The Show," featuring LeeLon Walker, instantly brings to mind the laidback groove of Minstrel Show-era Little Brother. The Niceguys show their versatility across the album, particularly MC Yves Ozoude, as he nimbly rides a melancholy indie rock beat on "Things Ain't The Same" as easily as he does a soulful Blaxploitation backdrop on "Members Only." With a solid debut album under their belts and a clothing line (Nice Look) in the mix, the future looks promising for these "nice" guys.