Chino XL Has A “Poison Pen” In Hand

Chino XL is at last ready to release his long-awaited “Poison Pen” album on January 31st 2006. The inspired two-disc set has been in the works now for nearly two years, in which time, Chino says he has had offers of a major deal from Dr. Dre at his Aftermath label as well as a G-Unit contract offering. He has however opted to take his “Poison Pen” on a free and independent basis. He states that it was a major consideration when releasing the album, which is being released by the Activate label, that he wants to make a passionately artistic statement and refuses to be subjected to any outside censorship or control by major label executives:

“We gave Chino a budget, and let him do his thing. Chino delivered an unfiltered, mindbending stream of consciousness statement built on strong songs and hooks.” says Jay Warsinske. (Activate label CEO who is releasing the album worldwide.

The album comprises of 18 tracks (including 2 bonus tracks) and feaures special collaborations with Killah Priest (Wu Tang), The Beatnuts, Proof of D-12 and other special guests. The 2CD package is available in a Limited Edition Silver Metallic Foil Cover, enhanced with extras that include a music video and two hidden bonus tracks, including the dramatic buzz track “Nunca”. Each album will be personally autographed with a silver ﾑpoisonﾒ pen by Chino XL himself. As an extra feature the disc, when inserted to a computer, will open up a plethora of extras that surround Chinoﾒs sometimes controversial lyrics that are quite often the subject of discussion by hiphop fans. The second disc is a Special DJ MIX version of the album by L.A.ﾒs Power 106 Mr. Choc, in which Chino also recounts stories behind the making of the tracks, and the soul searching he did when recording this introspective new album: “This is me at my most honest, most heartfelt and most uncompromising when it comes to whatﾒs on my mind” says Chino.

Comprising of all new songs this dramatic, undiluted and daringly bold, essential album includes “Wordsmith,” “Beastinﾒ” featuring Killah Priest – which was produced by Carlos Bess, “Even If It Kills Me” – about the perils of the rap lifestyle, produced by One Eye (Ice Cube, Ruff Ryders), “Donﾒt Fail Me Now” featuring Psycho Les of the Beatnuts and Sin Gutta – produced by Byrd, “Canﾒt Change Me,” and the leadoff track, “All I Wanna Do…(Bout Nothinﾒ).”

The limited edition signed collectors package is limited to the first run and will be available January 31, 2006. Chino XL says: “I hope that in the New Year, hiphop will regain a certain amount of integrity in the current overly corporate state of affairs. Hopefully, we will be able to focus on the artistry again. The machine should not be larger than the architects who create the music.”

As ever we have exclusive audio from the project available below, check it out and leave feedback over at the forum. Additional background, including booking information on Chino XLﾒs upcoming “Poison Pen” Tour will be available at the Offical Site.

Chino XL – Beastin’ (Feat. Killah Priest)
Chino XL – Don’t Fail Me Now (Feat. BeatNuts & Sin Gutta)