"Two years ago, Maniac punched a dent in the state's hip-hop scene with his debut disc "Nightmerika."
Released through Night Shield Entertainment, the album was a fierce package with its stark, honest tales of reservation life seen through Maniac's eyes and told through his skillful tongue.
And while the disc was soaked in frustration and anger funneled through Maniac's scathing wit, it had a sensitive side with sympathetic rhymes questioning why Maniac - born Troy Eagle Chasing - was living in a depressed world.
Listening to Maniac's second disc, "Paranormal: The War Within" - just released by Night Shield Entertainment - this softer side has taken over.
"Paranormal" is a thoughtful romp through the sadness, frustration and aborted hope that Maniac lives among on the Cheyenne River Indian Reservation.
Though the songs may show a more sensitive Maniac, you might not want to call him a "softie."
"People know who I am," Maniac says. "If they say I've gone soft, I'll punch them in the face.""
Get the Story:Robert Morast: Area MC Maniac raps about his rough roots (The Sioux Falls Argus Leader 3/16) $rl Night Shield Entertainment - http://www.nightshield.net
