Words by Josephine Nava Rañeses
Images courtesy of Phantom Thrett

Over the years, Hip Hop has racked up epic mileage traveling from its birthplace of Sedgwick Avenue in the Bronx, marking its territory worldwide… Much like a cross-breed with a bad spell of Cystitis. Parallel to that, so has Jazz — shouts to New Orleans. Both their influences can be traced back to most, if not all, corners of the globe. In this case, a two day drive West to inland Pomona, California.

On the oh-so mellow Sunday I first caught glimpse of the ‘Loose Leaves’ artwork… It was thereafter impossible to not notice his movement; committing verbal assassination in the open-air, freestyle battling, machine-gunning verses at an absurd challenger who would learn all too soon that whenever he opens his mouth, it marks the beginning of the end.

In my mind, if I were the challenger, I’d have shook my head, said nothing and just stared, attempting to look my grimmest and keep faith. In reality, I’d have fled the scene, tail between legs. Safe to say, I’d think twice before I challenged Thrett.

Read up and get acquainted with man like Phantom — straight no chaser. Eat up. Ya filthy animals.

Let’s get right to it. What’s in the name? What makes you a thrett?

I am Phantom Thrett. My approach to things is in the name, my personality… It’s who I am. Being a Jack of all trades makes me a thrett.

Describe yourself in one unobvious word…

Cerebral.

Interview after the cut →