WHATUPRG is the newest squad member of Reach Records and, until recently, was mostly known for The Walmart Song (actually called "Don't Forget To Live"), where the Georgia-based hip hopper shot an entire music video in the retail discount store. After trending for such a unique concept, rap fans started noticing that this guy can rhyme and before you know it, "Aquafina" was released and Reach Records came asking for more. This brings us to the Pleasant Hill EP, a seven-track formal introduction to WHATUPRG (that's pronounced "What-Up-R-G" just so we're clear.)

"Yellow Paint" opens with a unique and rather distinctive flow with no typical musical path as the 21 year old rapper creates a dream-like setting. It's a very creative opening track. "Lil Holy" is up next carrying great beats, and RG flows tightly in a short intro song. "Rose Gold" delivers a nice drum beat, which has an anthemic feel, as the hip hopper chants "They all told us no, we said oh yeah." Focusing on God over haters and trusting Him at all times makes for a superb message to listeners. That same theology is showcased in "Exit 104" and "Lovely," with each track giving great reminders to stick close to God no matter the circumstance you find yourself in. My favorite song on Pleasant Hill would have to be "Wesside," where WHATUPRG showcases his Mexican/American roots with amazing production and Spanish lyrics mingled throughout this stellar head noddin' joint.

In the end, this is a solid start for the newly acquired Reach artist. The message is clear and spiritually driven and seven tracks should give listeners a pretty solid indication of what to expect from RG in the future, despite some of the songs being relatively short. Given Pleasant Hill's uniqueness, rap fans are either going to love this or want to pass on it completely. While I can't find a really good comparison, fans of nobigdyl and Zauntee will probably dig this one. If you're into the CHH scene, I would recommend giving WHATUPRG a shot.

- Review date: 5/29/18, written by Kevin Hoskins of Jesusfreakhideout.com