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Yes, it's been a minute since I've posted something. It's that time leading up to and following the Christmas holiday that throws me off; so let's start back with this gem from brothers Acem, Truth & Powerful bka Godsilla. Featuring the captivating voice of Maimouna Youssef, this hip hop - party version of Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis Jr's, 1976 classic "You Don't Have To Be A Star" is just right to get the New Year party flowing in the right direction. I'll definitely be vibing to this joint for weeks to come. Be sure to check the album CPR BlendTape hosted by DJ Lo Down Loretta Brown (Erykah Badu) and peep the "You Don't Have To Be A Star" remix below featuring Bahamadia, Monie Love and MC Lyte.
Over the past year plus some, I've become more acquainted with the warm and soulful sounds of Indianapolis native Bashiri Asad. The upbeat defining single, "I Am 1" brought him to my attention and caused me to seek out more. Since that time, I bought a few singles from his previous (I Am 1) and current project (The Space Between), but fell behind on posting anything about him. So let me say this, the brother is definitely one you need to have added to your collection. Bashiri reminds me of a young Luther Vandross! That's an automatic win for me. But Bashiri has great storytelling and song composition of his own that's well worth giving him your ear. I suggest you head on over to his bandcamp right now and idulge in some great soul music from an artist who's making moves toward becoming one of your favorites.
I won't brag and say how much you should be up on this cat, but based on what I heard via his bandcamp, Mecca:83 got something for beat heads like myself and others. His approach at beat making translates to a finely polished collective of instrumentals, some with vocal samples that clearly draw influences from producers, Peter Rock, Flying Lotus, JDilla, Large Pro and a host of others which soothe the soul as well as get your head bobbing. "Midnight Kids" is featured on his Life Sketches Vols. 1&2 (available now) as a bonus track, but as a thank you to all his supporters, he decided to release this one for free. Featuring the talents of Tokyo based producer/pianist Kan Sano and Pittsburgh's finest beat technician Buscrates 16-Bit Ensemble, this gem is sure to have you seeking more from M:83. Get your free download of the track here and follow him if you feel his work on twitter Solarsounds. Another dope album just added to my to get list.
Georgia Ann Muldrow is one artist known for delivering a plethora of very different styles of music. Soul, jazz, hip-hop, electro, funk... you get the picture. She's super talented and blessed with the gifts of voice, songwriting, production, instrumentation and much more we have yet to see. The featured single, "More & More" ft. Bilal comes from her latest release, "Owed to Mama Rickie" which is now available everywhere. The song itself is straight up classic, and the message throughout the video is one of staying true to yourself & loving who you are. So many beautiful images of black and brown people rocking their naturals and just expressing their beauty and love of self and family. I sat watching with my five year old son and had him nodding his head and singing the hook after our second viewing. This album is next on my to get list. I suggest you do the same. Take your preference below and support good music.
"Makin' Moves" is the debut and lead single from London based singer, Himal. Just last week I received an email notifying me to Himal, the video above and his forthcoming Ep, Soul Light /Soul Love. The track is produced by Kensaye, who brought us an amazing remix of Amy Winehouse's "Rehab." On "Makin' Moves," Kensaye composes a summery feel type track which compliments the easy going flow of Himal's vocals. As much as I like the track, I thought it was a bit long though and could've ended under four minutes (just my thoughts). Still and all, it's a solid first for Himal so I won't be to hard on him. Check out below another single that I came across from him and keep watch for the Ep in 2012. Get your free download of the single here.
One of my new favorite voices on the scene is London's, Kaleem Taylor. After first being introduced via his classic track "Never",I was sure of his abilities to create something pretty nice for audio relief. And with a baritone so rich in soul, 20 year old Kaleem,delivers this five piece recording - Smooth Ep to wet the palates of his fans and new ones to come. Do not sleep on this kid! You can download the project for free here.
Back in August, Maimouna Youssef dropped the lead single, "I Got A Man" from her well crafted debut album, The Blooming. With the visuals, Maimouna along with director, Brian "B Kyle" Atkins create a colorful backdrop for the song. I don't watch to many videos from start to finish, but this one definitely had me, and at over 6 mins long, that's saying a lot. Enjoy! Stream/purchase the album here.
Last year, I was introduced to powerhouse producer and Hungarian born musician, Opolopo. Strange name, yet a strong and simple definition meaning "Plenty" in Yoruban gives validity to the man's abilities behind the boards. For over a decade, his sound has played behind the works of various labels and artists, some I may have heard but would have to research for familiarity. Voltage Controlled Feelings (which is not his debut) released on Tokyo Dawn Records presented an array of funked out vibes in combination with a sonic blend of 80's inspired R&B, techno synths and future electronic sounds. Tracks like "Glide" "Take it Slow" and "Waiting" all had me moving and contorting my body in ways it hasn't done since I was a teen. Okay, I'm exaggerating, but seriously, I bounced and jerked my body uncontrollably to the rhythms as they blared from my speakers. Before now (Mutants), his full production on Amalia's Art Slave brought more attention to his diversity in the lab which churned out some gems for this album. Amalia, with her very passionate vocals and stylish groove worked wonderfully with Opolopo's new production course. I heard influences from Janet Jackson's - Rhythm Nation and Guy's - The Future (both classic albums) throughout the project.
Now on Mutants it's all about the remixes he has done. Scheduled for release on December 5th, the 14 track album is filled with some banging tunes. Taking on tracks which feature artists like Talib Kweli, Amalia, Colonel Red, Gregory Porter, Soulparlor and more, this one is a great introduction for those who aren't familiar and a true gift for those like myself who has heard one or two of these remixes, but doesn't own any - until now.
I spoke about Proh Mic in my post connected with the Hawthorne Headhunters, so it's only right I give shine to the man himself as he too has his album out in stores. Rhythm for Days is the official debut by emcee/producer Proh Mic. The West Seattle, Wa native has been putting in work for a few years now, and it's unfortunate that so many, myself included has just come to know of him. Right around late 2010 was when I got introduced to his vibe. Catch A Pisces,Cheesecake and Prohmita are three free albums I got put on to courtesy of BIFTK. Rawsome is another, which I don't have, but right now it's all about Rhythm For Days.
Released on Oct 25th via All Natural Inc, RFD took me on a musical journey back to the 80's while still finding current ground with original production, stellar song composition and a cast of superb indie talent. "Mothership" sets the tone of the album beginning with what sounds like an emergency bell, but is more of an activation sequence preparing listeners for the cosmic journey ahead. The multi-faceted Georgia Ann Muldrow is the first of several guest appearances. She sings a tale of lost knowledge ranging from black love, raising our children and cultivating our foods on "I Remember."Coultrain drops in on the funky club banger "Hit The Floor" The first of Proh Mics 80's renditions is "Don't Stop The Music" and "I Can't Wait" is the second - both easily placed me back in Brooklyn, NY jammin' on the block with my boom-box.
"Sleep In Girl" ft Tone Trezure, I'd have to say is my fave for now. Despite hearing it some time prior to the album's release, something about that deep bass-line groove and Trezure's distinctive voice will have me on repeat a few times. "Easy Luvin'" ft Paolo Jean is another winner with its soulful-samba feel.
Outside of handling the production, Proh also contributes his share of lyrics throughout, but shines so bright on "Optimistic." Really feelin' the positive outlook he has on this track, and to add more to keep one salivating, Proh closes out the track with this is Busta Rhymes sample that's just fire! He told me via twitter, he believes there's an extended version on the physical cd. Well, I'm gonna have to order one in due time.
As this is not a review, but merely a quick glance into a really dope album from a very talented brotha, I say to you, check this album out and support it. I read on one of my acquaintances FB page that it's our responsibility as music seekers and lovers to promote and share the news of really incredible artists when we come to know about them. I'm doing me part, now you do yours. Proh Mic - Rhythm For Days is available now via itunes, amazon, and for the physical which includes a separate instrumentals disc, you can get that here.
Groups breakup! It's just something that happens. Sometimes the answer is obvious (friction), while other times it's just simple differences that don't even matter. Well, St. Louis natives Black Spade and Coultrain, the two remaining members of Hawthorne Headhunters have no beef whatsoever with former members, MCAdad, I -Ced & Pro Mic. The desire to go solo was just imperative for the former three. Good for them. MC Adad is currently working on his solo while both I-Ced and Pro Mic have release dope debuts. Now Hawthorne Headhunters follow up and carry the name strong with their Myriad of Now Ep. This is just a glimpse of what's to come from the full length 14 track album due out next year. A combination of Electro, Funk, Jazz, and Soul music fused with free spirited lyrics. I'm a fan of both artists, so when I pressed play, I allowed the music to do what it do: ENGAGE!
Myriad of Now released last month, and I've had this since the 24th of then, but for those who are still sleeping or just not at all aware, peep two gems from the EP below. Groups like Hawthorne Headhunters in my opinion deserve to be a household name, but I do understand, some things are just not for everyone. But for those that feel their eclecticism, support them on itunesand stay tuned for more.
Hawthorne Headhunters - Teleport
Hawthorne Headhunters - No Crying Now, No Lyin' Down
Heard this joint while listening to 22tracks and had to inquire about dude. Shocked to see who the singer was, but nonetheless Allen Stone has a soulful voice that can't be denied. I appreciate that fact that this is so organic - live from his mother's home and it plays just as beautiful as the recorded song itself. "Unaware" comes via his sophomore effort - Allen Stone. Some pretty nice tunes provided the preview on itunes. It's been added to my wish list. Check it out for self.
Queens-bred femcee Dynastydrops a truly emotional tale about her absentee father and the trickle down affect it has had on her life as a grown woman today. As a father of four and one who only knew his own through pictures, I feel Dynasty's hurt. At 39 years of age, I often reflect on how lessons in my life would've been delt with differently had my father been there. In the end though, the will to "Forgive" allows the freedom to let go of the pain and live for the joy that is there for us all to gain. "Forgive" comes from Dynasty's latest effort, The Love Ep which is available today. With production from Jinx, Tall Black Guy, O.p. Supa and more, this is the next phase to come from an emcee that remains to thrive despite all diversity. Please be sure to support The Love Ep, and thank you Dy for a beautiful song and Darryl Richardson for a well conceived video!
Tamara Wellons is one of a few artists that has been making moves for a few years now, but I honestly just got into her early last year. I heard her song, "Like Rain" on some dj's mix and couldn't stop bouncing to the heart pumping house song. Her debut, "Life Is" is a great mix of dance, house, jazz and R&B vibes sprinkled with inspirational and uplifting lyrics. Her beautifully executed cover of Nirvana's"Smells Like Teen Spirit" is one that needs to be heard by the masses.
Three years later, the Ivor, Virginia native returns with her first single, "Ah God"off her long awaited Songs For Janie, due out next Tuesday (11-15-1). Tamarabeen hard at work creating this work of art and which happens to be inspired by the Zora Neale Hurston classic, "Their Eyes Were Watching God." "Ah God" begins with a quick tale of blinded love then breaks into a richly sung chorus of trusting ones intuition. To carry out that dream inside your heart and in to the world where it belongs. Sounds like a pleasant changing of musical lanes for Tamara, and I thus far personally accept.
The artist known as Dirg Gerner remains somewhat of a mystery to me. I first came to know of him back in September of 2010. Tokyo Dawn Records put me on courtesy of their compilation, The Heart. With a voice able to seize your spirit with an ad-lib or the use of just a few words, Dirg Gerner is soon to become one of the Uk's most wanted artist. His forthcoming project, Preface EP, due out sometime soon will feature the likes of Rahel, Fatima and Olmino, and the sound will draw upon soul, jazz, latin, hip hop and more. Here's the first track - Rubies & Diamonds ft Fatima. Opening with an odd pogo spring sound then moving into an eerie vibe, the track takes on a slow bouncy groove allowing Fatima's soulful voice to shine just as well. Keep your ears and eyes open for Dirg Gerner's - Preface Ep.
Last night at Crowbar, the 813 came out strong to represent & celebrate for one of their very own favorite & gifted artists - emcee/producer, Jinx. The release of his long awaited sophomore album, New Growth was a moment in hip hop that had to be witnessed. Accompanied by all the good and bad of the culture - squealing mics, smokey air space, b-boys and gay boys who love the music equally, old school funk and soul joints, mad scratching courtesy of a few hometown djs, the tight fit of the crowd and the feeling of being out in the park after dark made the night just right for the occasion. This was Jinx' time to shine as he unveiled the second coming of himself.
Sharing your flaws, achievements, struggles and overall soul isn't always received by the fickle fans of this music, but there's no increase to ones being when you remain in one lane. Sure you can have a couple dope beats, but what's left after that? Simply the beats! But there needs to be some substance as well to balance. Jinx provides that substance with New Growth and it is pure honesty from a humble young man who's very aware and informed of his surroundings.
The 16 track album produced by Jinx with the exception of two, featuring fellow Tampa artists, Dynasty, Mike Mass, Monica Delgado, Ron Marks and others touches heavily on the current state of the music via tv/radio programming (Robots), the beauty and ugly of female relations (Split Personality & Let Me Go) his dance vibe paying homage to the b-boys & b-girls (U) and various aspects of todays society on Reality Check. Jinx spits raw emotion into every track from commencement to close. A true sign of growth from his previous works and just a preview of what's to come from this continually aspiring artist.
I interviewed Jinx back in March where he spoke briefly about the album and his excitement for the world to hear it. After witnessing his performance last night, I can say he accomplished one tier by breaking ground once again at home. Now it's time to spread it out beyond the city. Physical copies are currently only available via mail order and the digital will soon be on his Bandcamp. Contact freeyourrhyme@gmail.com for your copy. Until then vibe to two gems from the album. Support the real!
This is a big tune right here! "Broken Toy" from UK producer fLako is a funky Mardi Gras type joint filled with blaring horns, a marching band drum and some quirky additions to complete. This is just one of five ill tracks from his forthcoming ep, Carving Away The Clay due out on Project Mooncircle next Friday (11-11-11). My introduction to the abstract producer came mid last year after hearing his work on a few podcasts and online-radio shows I listen to. Dude is definitely an instant like or dislike depending on how out there you are with your musical taste. I absolutely love his vibe! There's no specific genre to place him in - just consider him eclectic art flowing through your speakers. Peep the track below, and if you like, make sure to support the ep when it drops. Pre-order available now on itunes.
French producer, Onra gets the fans ready for his Chinoiseries Pt. 2 album with his second single from it entitled, "No Matter What." It's a short monster of a track, but it grabs you from the onset of the haunting intro. I hadn't heard it's precursor, but from what I know about Onra via his work with Byron The Aquarius (The Big Payback '08) and his Long Distance (2010) album, I'm certain Chinoiseries Pt. 2 will be something of epic standards. Pre-order of Chinoiseries Pt. 2 available now on itunes. Album drops November, 15th.
My girl, ReneeDion came through yesterday to bless us all with a little Halloween treat. Not that it's just for the day, and mind the fact I'm a day late, but the track was appropriately suited for the occasion. With the go ahead from Tall Black Guy, Renee lends her sultry vocals to his TBG vs Michael Jackson's Thriller remix. I've witnessed before with Eric Roberson's "Past Paradise," the unique way Renee takes a song and flips it to make it her own, and that is what she has accomplished once again with Michael Jackson's major classic "Thriller." Her last project, "The City That Sleeps" is still available for free download here. Please show your support and check her out.
Earlier this year, Seattle, Washington based husband & wife duo, Malice & Mario Sweet gave to the world their Happy 2 Year EP as an introduction to their work. The lead single, "Speed of Light," produced by none other than my dude, Tall Black Guy showcased one dimension of the couples soulful/good feeling vibe. Now several months later, the three unite once more to bring a very cool & sexy type joint entitled "Love and Friendship" off their new release, Happy Two Year: Deluxe Edition. As you can see from the video, the couple share their relationship and what they do while out on tour with The Physics and Blue Scholars.
Along with the gems from the first installment, Malice & Mario have included the new TBG single and three remixes for you to delight in. Show your support for good music on itunes or on bandcamp. #Happy2Year again!
A couple weeks back, I supported the joint album by lyricist, Hassaan Mackey and producer, Apollo Brown - Daily Bread. The album is amongst my top ten for the year thus far. Consisting of raw soul fused beats and Hassaan's slow flow and insightful lyrics, it's an instant classic for the duo and for all true hip hop advocates.
Producer Gensu Dean, the newest addition to the Mello Music Group decided to contribute his expertise to the dopeness by remixing "The Note." In my opinion and not discrediting Apollo's production, but this one trumps the original, and compliments Hassaan's gritty baritone voice quite nicely. Peep the rmx and original below, then head on over to give the album a full spin.
During my initial viewing of this video by Miami based hip hop group, Spoken Thought, I contemplated posting it simply because of the visual message. Despite that, the verbal message the group conveys is absolutely spot on with what's currently going on in commercial hip hop music. So many subsets of the music, but none truly original, nor inspiring and all are killing the art form and creating strife amongst each other trying to attain the magic formula for success. It's straight madness, and the video gives a simple yet straight forward portrayal of this.
Consisting of emcees, Joe Turman and Real Cypha,Spoken Thought's debut album, And So It Begins produced exclusively by Tony Galvin (Basic Vocab) was scheduled for a first quarter release, but for whatever reason it was pushed back 'til further notice. From what I heard of it via the sampler, it sounds like my kind of album. Another group that's bringing back the lyrics.
A few months back I was sent an email introducing me to Atlanta based recording artist, Naira. I don't remember exactly what the joint was, but I don't remember being moved by it. However, this go round Naira grabs my attention with this video for her latest single "inkDREAMING" ft Young Scolla & D. Julien. "inkDREAMING" comes off the See Me, See Trouble album which I'm gonna have to give a listen to now. "inkDREAMING" is what she calls the process of being lost in the pages of your mind and the ink with which you write the story of your life in song. I'm feeling the way the three convey their stories on this joint. Make sure to check out the album for yourself.
Right around the latter part of 08', my knowledge of Minneapolis native, Sarah White was formed. The ill remix of "Fade" by J Todd got me hip to her vibe very quickly. I eventually copped the album, Hiding Blind - which was good, but a lot different from the single. Even still, the album displayed the work of an artist who's not afraid to experiment with a plethora of sounds.
Three years later, Miss. White is back with her latest, Space Madness - a more cohesive style project that blends entrancing soul and electronic vibes which showcase Miss. White's vocal and songwriting abilities to a greater degree. With features from up and coming soul crooner, Nicholas Ryan Gant and Cecilia Stalin and production from Rico Simon Mendez (a.k.a. DJ Don Cuco), PoLo (PapaJazz), Teddy G and additional productions from Hadyn, Space Madness could be the record that gets her the attention she deserves. And to anyone not yet familiar with her work, I believe Space Madness serves as a great introduction.
His name may not ring any bells right now, but surely after you listen to his vibe - his sound will be engraved in your memory. One look at London native, Kaleem Taylor and you wouldn't think those raspy soul vocals are coming from him. He instantly reminded me of K-Ci from Jodeci (before the drugs and alcohol). I was just talking to a friend the other day, stating to her that London has all the fly stuff. Not taking anything away from home, but it just seems that way.
Well, Kaleem Tayloradds value to my statement with his singles, "Interlude," "Never" & "Blow Out." I'll be the first to tell you, "Never" rocks! It's the first I'd heard from him, and all I needed to become a supporter/fan. "Never" sets the tone for what I believe will be an awesome debut. With its deep bass line and groovy tempo, smothered with his captive vocals like your favorite southern dish, Kaleem's setting a new standard of R&B - the kind from a mature, young man's perspective.
"Blow Out" takes you out on the dance floor with a uptempo pulsating rhythm, and "Interlude" is just that - the perfect transition before the climactic slow jam comes on. Inspired by the likes of Nat King Cole, Lauryn Hill, D'Angelo, Jazmine Sullivan & Stevie Wonder, music lovers will soon enjoy the sounds of #Kaleem Taylor.
Last year right around this time, DJ/producer, Roddy Rod dropped his album, Cuba Aftermarket 2 to an almost private audience. I'm sure, not intentionally, but I hadn't seen too much talk across the web regarding it. Well, if you hadn't heard it, you can preview two of the tracks here.
As for what's new with him, this gritty souled out remix of London's based Omar's - There's Nothing Like This is pure finesse. My memories of this track always date back to the 94', 95' remix done by DJ Premier, Correction: it's the In the Park (rmx) by Trackmasters which I found my 12" copy not cassette single of, and you can check it out here. Enjoy this stellar version of an already classic gem.
Sometime last week, I heard this remix of Jose James' latest single, Trouble. Producer, Oh No (Madlib's younger bro) lessened the bassline a tad, added some bells and whistles but overall kept the vibe very close to the original. You can purchase your copy starting tomorrow here.
Trouble (Oh No Remix) by josejamesworldwide
Not to many may know about keyboardist/producer, Byron the Aquarius but the Alabama native has been around and doing his thing since a boy. May sound bugged, but dude is only in his early twenties so it's not that hard to imagine. Over the past year I've come to know him having seen post here and there on the net about his production which in turn led me to his collaborative project, The Big Pay Back(2008) with french producer Onra. I've recently connected with Byron via Facebook and he's been putting me up on what's next in store from him. In the works and dropping real soon is The Cosmos
Luxury Life LP. Also, Byron recently singed to Mr. Porter Productions (Eminem's producer) so expect to read his name within the liner notes of future projects coming out the D as well as around and abroad.
To get you familiar with his sound, Byron decided to free up his hard drive and unleash a few beats and collaborative works from over the years for new and old fans to ride to. Enjoy and #T.A.L.K N.O.I.S.E
Here comes another worthy artist from the All Natural camp! Producer, songwriter and emcee, Proh Mic, one third of The Hawthorne Headhunters is readying fans for his upcoming release, Rhythm For Days (10-25-11) with an electro funk-styled dance track titled Hit The Floor. A head bobber and body mover for sure, there's no denying it grabs your attention once the needle drops or mp3 plays.
Added to enrich the track even more is the soulful gritty vocals of my dude Coultrain and Cali emcee, Uncle Imani from The Pharcyde. Rhythm for Days is expected to be more dance orientated (not that corny watered down techno crap) unlike his past works which display various soul, hip hop, jazz and eclectic styles of music. As an entity of his own, I just got hip to him last year, so I can't speak heavily on him. However, as long as he continues to craft dope music like this and that which I've come to know, I'm a fan for life.
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