Milwaukee rapper Kid Millions releases his second full-length disc this week. "Catch the Fever" -- released on Random Heet Recordings -- draws on the skills of a number of local producers and musicians, but Kid Millions, aka John Kuester, says it's just a start.

"I always try to work with different people because it pushes me to try new things," he says. "At the end of the day I gain much more respect for the producer or MC and end up with a variety of styles for my album."

Another result is that the record showcases the talents of more than just Millions himself.

"It represents part of a scene and I hope to work with a wider range of other groups in the future."

Kuester -- who got his start in 1993 with Brew City hip-hop crew 3'z Company -- says that the people he collaborated with on the 14-song disc -- including Sage Schwarm of Codebreaker, Jason Todd, The Rusty P's, Brandon Bside, Jus Dan, Salva and S. Watson -- were natural choices for him.

"Everyone on the album that I've worked with is my friend and has respect for what I do. Working with people you know is much easier because you're comfortable with them and can also voice your opinion!"

After a slow, ominous intro that clocks in at just under a minute, Millions is off and running on "Catch the Fever," with a string of uptempo thumpers that showcase his rhyming skills and the varied musical visions he crafted with his cohorts.

"Tuff Wit My Stuff" features a guest appearance by Milwaukee's Rusty P's and the title track, produced by Schwarm, is an infectious mix of hip-hop beats and the kind of '80s synth bass sound that fuels much of Codebreaker's music.

Million says the tune is the high point of the record for him.

"My favorite track on the album I would say is "Catch The Fever." This song was the last one we recorded and gave it the 'special touch.' My favorite tracks are always the one that get done real quick!"

Kuester released "Words Get Around," his first record as Kid Millions, in 2001 and is also a member of the group Minus After. He also co-owns LotusLand Records, a Riverwest collector's and DJ record shop on Center Street.

Kid Millions launches "Catch the Fever," with a CD release party on Friday, Aug. 18 at Stonefly Brewery in Riverwest. Also on the bill are DJ Abilities, Class: Sick and his LotusLand partner, Andy "The Getdown" Noble.

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