The Seattle based hip-hop duo consisting of Mezus (aka J.Lee) and Paradame, has forged its own unique musical sensibility and it’s one that is in full bloom with an innovative …and eclectic style.Since its inception, Active I has gone through several incarnations. The brainchild of producer/vocalist J.Lee, Active I released its first LP Be Smart Don’t Think in 2006, featuring J along with emcee/vocalist Rube dog. A mix of hip hop, reggae, and electronica featuring almost entirely live instrumentation, the album was critically acclaimed and gained a cult following, with tracks that are still heard on independent radio stations across the globe, and have been featured on multiple nationally broadcast TV shows.

Active I released its second album The M Thesis in 2009, featuring a diverse line up of rappers and singers including Auraswon, Paradame, Rubedog, B.Smooth, El Bouchere, and Charms La Roc, (in addition to J.Lee who produced the entire project and raps on almost every song). Typical of J.Lee, it is not an album that is easily categorized. Traces of reggae and industrial are incorporated woven into the fabric of electronic beats, that while based in hip-hop, expand on the possibilities of what the music can be. The album employs J.’s love of paradox; of what he calls, “complex simplicity.” Lyrically, the M Thesis encapsulates that sensibility perfectly; over hypnotic beats, with discerning and intricate messages acknowledging of the ills of society, while simultaneously delivering a feeling of senseless tomfoolery and sarcasm.

Between 2008 and 2011, Active I grew its following, performing shows featuring J.Lee alongside a rotating lineup of artists, mainly Auraswon and Paradame, the most heavily featured vocalists. In 2011 and 2012, the crew took a hiatus from performing as Active I, to join with a larger set of performers which became known as the A.D. Crew, storming Seattle with a fiery blend of hip hop. In early 2013, the A.D. crew disbanded from doing regular shows, but still collaborate on new projects together. Active I is now back again, working on its third release, with J.Lee and Paradame as the new official group lineup.

Far from usual fare for hip hop, Active I continues to create unforgettable music and gain devoted fans, fitting for artists who long ago quit trying to be anyone but themselves. Look out for new singles and a new album set to be released in 2013.