Jaime Roundtree (Tree tha Scarecrow) and Simeon Viltz (See-Me-On) both grew up listening to jazz and funk from their parents' record collections, and the spirit hasn't left them since. Blending the old with the new, Primeridian has been able to consistently deliver a groove-heavy, thought-provoking sound that appeals to both old-school and new-school fans. Roundtree first tapped into his art while growing up in a working class community on Chicago's West Side. Surrounded by social and economic turbulence, Tree channeled his angst into honest and articulate rhymes that can often be read as poetry. This unique style has made him popular among hip-hop intellectuals. His work has even found its way into various after-school programs as an example of rap that is a means of critiquing street life, rather than glorifying it. His counterpart, See-Me-On, shares this same mentality, but his upbringing in a family full of gospel singers and jazz musicians helps him bring a different style to the table. Known as "the soul" of Primeridian, See-Me-On takes on a more spiritual, often metaphysical, approach to music. The unique artistic bond that these two share is something that is felt through their music rather than heard, and it's that feeling that has allowed Primeridian to perform all over the world. Primeridian has opened for a number of artists including Run DMC, Common, Redman, Talib Kweli and many others. The group is currently signed to the All Natural Label, and its first album for the label Da Allnighta is still regarded as one of All Natural's most underrated releases.
The Primeridian's subsequent album, Da Mornin Afta, was produced exclusively by beat-makers from the UK and Europe, giving a different vibe from their previous works. They still showcase their soulful and smooth vibe with songs like "Take You There" featuring Imani from The Pharcyde and "Melodic Healing" featuring the soulful vocals of Yaw (who recently graced the cover of Straight No Chaser). However, on Da Mornin Afta the duo shows an edgier side with cuts like "Hang On," produced by the world-renowned Nicolay, and "High Noon Stank," produced by Willow. Others featured on the album are J-Rose from Norway, DJ Steady from France, and Naledge from Kidz in the Hall. To add vocal variety, Simeon and Tree have added a third MC to the fold, Race.
For more information, visit their website: http://www.myspace.com/primeridian
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