Hip Hop Band Show Off Their Lyrical Super Powers

By Robin Cooper, Staff Writer

Rob Banks, is a SUNY New Paltz senior who leads a double life, under the name "Count Banks" when performing as part of "alternative hip-hop" group, The Heist.

Bronx-based The Heist (known by their pseudonyms: MC Cutta, Count Banks, Petro and Faceman) self-promotes, self-produces, writes, mixes and even does their own album art. Banks said that everything their fans see or hear, in association with their CD, is done by the group, including the up-and-coming comic book, which coincides with their first official album, Super Powers.

Super Powers is the first of a planned trilogy of albums that will follow the paths of the members' lives, their "journey up the mountain." "Everyone goes through a journey," said Banks. "These [CDs] are about our journey."

The band writes lyrics about "doing cool things" and who they are according to Banks. Their different personalities are "the blood that runs through The Heist," said Banks.

During their shows, each of the members raps, using their personalities as the driving force; one is intellectual, while another may rap angrier or more aggressively.

The Heist has been featured in music magazines, such as Word Up! and Black Beat, who described their sound as "Armed with razor-sharp lyrics and brandishing a hybrid-style with roots in hip-hop and rock & roll filled with witty lyrics and inventive production."

Their style is reminiscent of the Beastie Boys and Wu Tang Clan, but Banks also credits artists such as Metallica, Ozzy Osbourne, Red Hot Chili Peppers and a myriad of "old school" rappers for their inspiration.

"It wasn't about guns in the day, it was about spitting the lyrics," said Banks of The Heist's message in comparison to today's popular hip-hop.

Bronx based radio stations give their tracks airplay and have labeled them the "rap Beatles." They also have established a reputation in New York City by performing at many well known venues, such as Limelight, Lion's Den and Club Speed.

They recorded their first full-length album at the 121 Studio, a few blocks from "where hip-hop was created," said Banks, giving them credibility in the rap industry where they are usually criticized.

"[We] don't wanna be sucked into gangsta rap," said Banks. "The industry right nowis so close-minded. It's all about the glam."

Banks described The Heist as being more focused on the energy, excitement and emotion of their music, rather than success or creating a revolutionary sound. They write their songs to evoke particular feelings in their audience, which explains the jump from aggressive songs to more laid-back beats.

"After the party rap you just wanna sit back and chill," said Banks.

Most of their performances take place in New York City, but they are trying to expand their territory to draw in more of an audience. For more information on The Heist and their performances visit their website, www.heistclick.com.