J.U.S. Music

London Posse (1989-90) Gangster Chronicle

2010-05-07T16:53:00.007+01:00

London Posse were one of the earliest groups to emerge from the British hip hop scene, initially formed by Sipho the Human Beatbox who asked friends Rodney P, Bionic and DJ Biznizz to join him for a tour of the US supporting Mick Jones' (formerly of The Clash) new group, Big Audio Dynamite. When they first formed, they didn't even have a name, but whilst playing in New York City, they were constantly referred to as "the London Posse" because of their hometown, and the name stuck.
On their return, they released a single - "London Posse/My Beatbox Reggae Style" (Big Life, 1987) produced by Tim Westwood which detailed their experiences, but following this, Sipho and Biznizz left the group.

Rodney P and Bionic continued to record, releasing a single - "Money Mad" (Justice, 1988) - with Westwood's Justice label, before moving to Island Records' subsidiary Mango Records to release more singles and their only album, the classic Gangster Chronicle (Mango Records, 1990). With its roots in Reggae and New York hip hop, the album sounded significantly different to the predominant hardcore sound of their contemporaries, and cemented London Posse's reputation as one of the UK scene's most talented groups. When Mango was closed down by its parent company, London Posse moved to Bullit, run by their manager Errol Bull. They recorded a second album, but although a selection of singles came out - "How's Life in London" (Bullit, 1993), "Supermodel/Here Comes the Rugged One" (Bullit, 1993) and "Style" (Bullit, 1996) - the band couldn't afford to put the record out as any money they received for their work was ploughed back into the record company, and it was permanently shelved.

Bionic moved into drum and bass, whilst Rodney P continued as a solo artist - he has formed a partnership with DJ Skitz to host a BBC 1 Xtra radio show and has released a solo album. In 2001, Word Play records reissued the Gangster Chronicles album, adding some of the more sought after later work such as "How's Life in London" and "Pass the Rizla".

GANGSTER CHRONICLE

In 1990, London rappers Bionic and Rodney P released arguably the first true UK hip-hop album. A potent blend of the reggae, dub and cockneyfied rhymes, their debut album Gangster Chronicle was also to be their last. Successful though it was, when their label went bust, it ceased to be commercially available. Rodney P later became a leading light in UK hip-hop, Bionic got into drum 'n' bass, and Gangster Chronicle was all but forgotten about. Over a decade on and the original ten tacks, plus four follow-up singles, have finally been resurrected and re-issued. And while a lot of water has passed under hip-hop's bridge since its first airing, it's fair to say nothing's ever sounded quite as London as this. It wasn't just Rodney P's Lundunn accent and Bionic's ragga toasting and slang that set the pair apart.. Their use of dancehall reggae ("Money Mad", "Livin' Pancoot"), Soul II Soul grooves ("How's Life in London") and speaker throbbing dub ("Oversized Idiot") ensured they were nothing like their US counterparts or anything else since.
Essentially it's as unique as UK hip-hop gets.

Frickin' Excellence Epitomised

London Posse (1989-90) Gangster Chronicle

LL Cool J (1993) 14 Shots To The Dome

2010-05-07T16:38:00.004+01:00

After hearing revolutionary music from Afrika Bambaataa and Sugar Hill Gang, little James grew to love the rap scene. His grandfather bought him his first DJ set when he was nine years old.

By 13, he was already out on the streets selling his demos. The first one to notice this budding talent was Rick Rubin of the then-new Def Jam Records. At 16 years old, Smith, now known as LL Cool J (short for Ladies Love Cool James), had a contract with the upstart label and released its first single ever, "I Need A Beat," in 1984.

It was with the release of L.L.'s inaugural album Radio the following year that L.L. knew he had the talent for a promising career. The album was received with surprising acclaim, and the single "I Can't Live Without My Radio" became memorable, as it was featured in the movie L.L. performed in that same year, called Krush Groove. He followed up his newfound fame by joining the "Raising Hell" tour of 1986-1987, with Run-DMC, Beastie Boys and Public Enemy as headliners.

On a frenetic pace and not even out of adolescence yet, L.L. padded his bare-chested, gold chain-wearing image with his sophomore album, 1987's Bigger and Deffer. Almost single-handedly, he was making Def Jam a major label, as "I Need Love" became a huge chart hit across the board. For his third LP, L.L. successfully experimented with new styles, making Walking With A Panther his third platinum seller. "Goin' Back to Cali," which appeared on the soundtrack for Less Than Zero, is still a song that every rap aficionado should have in their collection.

Between concerts and some controversial incidents by L.L.'s crew that left his image a tad tainted, he teamed up with talented producer Marly Marl to make Mama Said Knock You Out in 1990. The album blew up around the world, with the title track getting him his first Grammy in the Best Rap Solo Performance category. His fierce lyrics and catchy duet ballads with various R&B groups appealed to a wide range of people, further broadening rap's popularity. The album, which is considered L.L.'s most popular, spawned the hit singles "Around The Way Girl," "6 Minutes Of Pleasure" and the title track.

As the awards from MTV, Soul Train and other institutions poured in, L.L. took a step toward acting. In 1992, he appeared in Toys with Robin Williams, the beginning of what was to be a successful career in film. 1993 saw the coming of some gangsta rap in L.L.'s repertoire, with the release of 14 Shots To The Dome. Further cementing his influence as an artist, he performed at MTV's Inaugural Ball for President Clinton, and became the first rapper to be featured on MTV's Rockumentary.

In 1995, L.L. Cool J landed his own NBC sitcom with In the House, in which he starred as Marion Hill. That same year, Mr. Smith was released and proved that fans' love for L.L. was undying -- the single "Hey Lover" with Boyz II Men brought him his second Grammy.
A year after 1996's All World (a greatest hits album) dropped, the edgy Phenomenon was released, hardly giving fans time to breathe. The title track climbed its way up the charts, and brought more record-setting numbers for L.L. In the meantime, films like Woo, Caught Up and Halloween H20: 20 Years Later filled up his time. He even wrote his autobiography, entitled I Make My Own Rules.

14 Shots to the Dome was LL Cool J's fifth album. The album had three singles ("How I'm Comin'", "Back Seat" and the strangely titled "Pink Cookies in a Plastic Bag Getting Crushed by Buildings") and guest-featured labelmates Lords of the Underground on "NFA-No Frontin' Allowed". The album went gold.

LL Cool J (1993) 14 Shots to the Dome

sickenin' LP, His best from my perspective

Genius of Wordplay - GZA 1990

2010-05-07T16:30:00.004+01:00

When it comes to thought provoking, street-bred raw lyricism, the Wu-Tang Clan's fountain of wisdom, GZA takes his job very seriously. The way he crafts his double-edged rhyme flow mirrors the skill and precise technique of one who works with fine ceramics. GZA's metaphoric and multi-layered lyrics are often touted by critics as his rap name implies; genius.

Born in Brooklyn, NY and raised in every borough of New York City, The GZA's workmanship can be found three albums deep with classics dating back to 1991 including the albums Words From The Genius, the gold-selling Liquid Swords and Beneath The Surface. Before his days of microphone notoriety, GZA found himself, during the early ages of rap music, travelling throughout New York City sharpening his rap skills in scattered rhyme battles. "I've studied rap in every borough," the GZA says proudly. "I've been rhyming before a lot of these cats out here were born. We've [Wu Tang Clan] always drank, ate and slept hip-hop. I love it." On his latest blockbuster album Legend Of The Liquid Sword, The GZA makes reference to his hip- hop foundation on the reflective Fam (Members Only) "I grew up around B-Boys, DJs, MCs, through rap, never thinking in ways of TV," the Genius raps. "It was strictly all about magnificent rhyme clout."

During GZA's travels, he encountered other rap veterans that recognized his promise and helped to nurture his talent. "I watched a lot of people come up that are big now," Genius says earnestly. "I used to make demo tapes with cats that rocked with Russell Simmons and people like that. The history goes so far back; I've always been really focused on writing dope rhymes."

The GZA's dream of perfection has been realized once again on his fourth album to date. Legend Of The Liquid Sword not only regains the powerful momentum started by the last three releases, it adds to the Genius' verbal legacy with uncompromising integrity. Heat-seeking darts like the introspective, Auto Bio where GZA breaks down the elements of his life that created the man he is and the crime thriller Luminal.

What has always set The GZA apart from the ordinary is his ability to create complex images with simple context. In the same way it's said that a picture is worth a thousand words, Genius assembles his words to create thousands of vivid pictures. "I don't like to just be simple," he explains. "Even though some of my stuff can seem simple at times, I like to write in a way that when you listen to it over and over again, you hear something new and it requires you to think." Legend Of The Liquid Sword does just that. Whether the listener gets captured by the vocal acrobatics of Santi White (who has written songs for Res) on GZA's Stay In Line or the authentic old school soul production on the masterpiece Animal Planet, Genius weaves satisfying brain food through his lyrics. In his phenomenally cerebral use of metaphors, The Genius flawlessly equates human city dwellers to animals in the jungle on Animal Planet, which was produced by rhythm doctor Bink (who has produced heavyweight joints for Fat Joe, Nate Dogg, Mr. Cheeks and Faith Evans). With beats by fellow Wu Tang brother RZA, Jaz-O (Jay-Z's Reasonable Doubt album), DJ Muggs (who has produced for Cypress Hill, Mobb Deep), Wu producer Mathematics (Ol' Dirty Bastard, Method Man, Sunz of Man), Arabian Knight and other sonic masterminds, GZA's talents come across even heavier. On the adrenaline raising Hip Hop call to arms, Knock, Knock (the album's shining debut single), The GZA asks on the chorus, "knock, knock, who the f*** is banging at my door, is it abstract, commercial or hardcore?" In his signature way of ill rhyme construction, GZA further defines the parameters of what rap music should be.

Don't call GZA's comeback just a comeback, it's a return of an entirely revolutionary thought process. "When we did Back In The Game on the Wu-Tang Iron Flag album, I did a verse about gambling," he explains solidly. "I didn't want to be 'back in the game' or 'back on the block,' that's typical. I made it all metaphorical." It's those same metaphors that makes the Genius' liquid sword a living legend in it's own time.

GZA (1990) Words From the Genius

Outlaw Posse (Brothers Like Outlaw) '90 & 92'

2010-05-05T11:31:00.005+01:00

Outlaw Posse was a UK duo formed by Bello B (real name Isaac Bello) and K-Gee (real name Karl Gordon). They also recorded together as Outlaw and Brothers Like Outlaw, before the group finally split in 1992. The LP's are sensational, absoloutely worth a listen the beats are nostalgic to say the least. The Nineties was a great era, The UK were there to.

K-Gee started out as a drummer in the school band, but soon had a residency as a DJ in the Fringe in London. Together with his school friend Bello B, K-Gee used to rap over beats and basslines and record their efforts onto tape. The duo called themselves the Outlaw Posse, and the tapes they recorded came to the attention of DJ Richie Rich, who was making his name as both a club DJ and a recording artist in his own right. He was also the owner of Gee Street Records, and was impressed enough with the group to offer them some time in a recording studio. The tunes the group put together became their successful debut album, My Afro's On Fire (Gee Street, 1990), an album that was decidated to Bello B's late brother, Bentil Bello.

Tours with Arrested Development and the Brand New Heavies followed, as the group went through their first change of name, releasing the single 'Party Time' and 'Good Vibrations' both featuring Singer and Songwriter Alison Evelyn (Gee Street, 1992) as Outlaw. The name didn't last until the end of the year, and by the release of their final album the name had changed again to Brothers Like Outlaw. The album was well received amongst the fans and the music press, but the dissatisfaction with their name echoed the group's growing dissatisfaction with each other - their final album's title The Oneness of Two Minds In Unison (Gee Street, 1992) clearly intended to be ironic. Citing musical differences, the group split and went their separate ways in 1992 - although more recently K-Gee has stated that the group were actually recording a third album and split because of Gee Street's delays in putting out new material

Outlaw Posse [Brothers Like Outlaw] (1990) My Afros On Fire

Outlaw Posse [Brothers Like Outlaw] (1992) The Oneness of II Minds In Unison

Tragedy Khadafi: Intelligent Hoodlum

2010-05-05T11:20:00.006+01:00

He began his career as half of the duo Super Kids, along with Hot Day, releasing the single "Go, Queensbridge" in 1985. This got them noticed by Marley Marl, who produced the duo's next two singles, and Chapman was also made a junior member of the Juice Crew alongside artists such as Big Daddy Kane, Kool G Rap, and MC Shan.
After a conviction for robbery followed by time in a correctional facility, Chapman became a Five Percenter and began working under the alias Intelligent Hoodlum. His self-titled debut, Intelligent Hoodlum, released in 1990 and produced by Marley Marl, was full of political commentary, Five-Percenter rhetoric, and controversial messages in tracks such as "Arrest the President" and "Black and Proud. He returned in 1993, releasing his second album, Tragedy: Saga of a Hoodlum, which would be his last album under that moniker.

(courtesy of wiki)

Tragedy Khadafi (1990) Intelligent Hoodlum

Tragedy Khadafi (1993) Intelligent Hoodlum Saga Of A Hoodlum

Gold Clippin Ice (that nineties vice)

2010-05-05T10:56:00.006+01:00

After last nights random session I thought I'd have to re-up alotta important LP's from my early listenin' days.
Alotta old stuff is coming your way shortly, all good of course. Strange listening back to the fore-fathers, the beats are raw, production isn't of the same quality as todays beatsmifs (understandably), but the rhymes are surpass todays offerings. Over the next coupla days, I'll gift you with some legendary formulas from the 90's golden era.

Back When MC's wore T-Shirts & Jeans, had gold and not ice, rocked a boombox not an ipod, healed the youths with wordsa wisdom and ig'nant poetry was discriminated against, not to forget that four-finger ring ish....

Now I'm not on some ''keep it real'' bullshit, your ears are yours so whats real to you is as real as it'll be within that moment, and the past is the past, nothing stays the same, artisticly anyway. But with so much nonsense fluctuatin from station to station, blog to blog & mp3 to mp3 its appropriate to school the youngsters on the soundsa the sices'!

Soulscapes & Jazz Breaks (instrumentals)

2010-04-14T10:34:00.001+01:00

Some great material from Pat D & Lady Paradox, jazz soulful breaks as always, laced with the delicacy of Lady Paradox......Great Stuff!

Soulscapes & Jazz Breaks (instrumentals)

Static: The Movement Serie v1.3

2010-04-07T15:32:00.004+01:00

The Static Movement Connects on a 3 month period to collaborate the cream of international, independent beatsmifs associated with Hip-Hop, Nu-soul / jazz & Electronic sounds gift you with this, the Most Recent addition to the Electronic Series, again fans of Dilla, Waajeed and the entire gritty soul movement.......Enjoy

Static: The Movement Serie v1.3

http://www.staticthemovement.com/page.php?3

Elzhi (2010) Leftovers

2010-03-12T10:53:00.003Z

Those in the know, are aware of the slum village connection, Dilla Connection, Black Milk, Waajeed in fact the best that the D (Detroit, Motor City.....maybe not anymore!!) has to offer. Elzhi for me is definitely has a talent desreving attention from all ears, all over.

This guy can flow......flow with a point....give it a listen

Elzhi - Leftovers

if the link doesn't work try

Elzhi's Homepage

Oddisee (2010) Odd Winter (Odd-is-Seasons)

2010-01-22T15:17:00.015Z

For me, possibly (my opinion), the finest producer in Hip-Hop, percussive expertise, a Bias with rhythm, the jazzy, funkyfied, electro DMV (DC, Maryland & Virgina) based Musician Oddisee treats us once again with the latest in his current seasonal odysseys with Odd Winter.

13 tracks deep, some instrumentals (essential man, got let that beat talk), an injected euphoric feelin' (Oddisee has many tracks provoking that nostalgic feeling, think Odd Autumn, trk 11 Autumn Run, Show You with Mike Slott & Hudson Mohawke (Heralds of Change)) & kissed with a synchronistic flow synonymous with some of the greatest Mic-Smiths of past & present, Oddisee's tight rhymes & (very important) lyrical content are a blessing to us all.

The Odd Season Series is a 1/3 of the way though & this herendous season (you don't need the cold to appreciate the warmth......its a myth) sees the Odd winter as the latest step in the works.

Odd Winter

01 Ci'iy Life (ft. Tranqill)
02 Frostbit
03 Winds From The North
04 Black Broadway (ft. X.O)
05 Brain Wash (Remix Instrumental)
06 Riiight (ft. Stik Figa)
07 Carry On (Instrumental)
08 The Warm Up Feat. Homeboy Sandman
09 Queue With No Coat
10 60901 (Instrumental)
11 All Because She's Gone (Instrumental)
12 It's Over (ft. Tranqill)
13 Blizzard of 09

Odd Autumn / Fall

1. Oddisee - The Supplier Feat. Tranqill (3:33)
2. Oddisee - Almost A Year Since (3:29)
3. Oddisee - Everything Changed Nothing Instr. (3:50)
4. Oddisee - Every Day People Instr. (1:54)
5. Oddisee - Pulp Fiction (1:46)
6. Oddisee - Saw Myself Today (1:30)
7. Oddisee - The Second Date (4:08)
8. Oddisee - Grey's Anatomy (1:55)
9. Oddisee - Tell The Truth Instr (3:13)
10. Oddisee - Theatre (2:16)
11. Oddisee - Autum Run (3:08)
12. Oddisee - Bonus Tell The Truth Feat. Nikki Jean (3:13)

alternate link

Odd Summer

1. Oddisee - In Your Eyes (3:58)
2. Oddisee - Sligo Creek (3:30)
3. Oddisee - Sand To The Beach (5:02)
4. Oddisee - When Everything Changed (3:26)
5. Oddisee - Chocolate City Dreaming (4:05)
6. Oddisee - Viva Brasil (3:59)
7. Oddisee - That Day Instr. (3:33)
8. Oddisee - That Day Feat. Muhsinah (3:33)

Oddisee on the Blog

Oddisee at Myspace

Tranqill on Myspace

Mello Music Group

Justa Break & a Welcomed One (JUS MUSIC is Back)

2010-01-22T14:52:00.004Z

Been a while, it appears many follow the blog & rude it would be not to bother with keepin' those who want to know in the know.
despite the apparent need for so many to voice opinions regardin' musical rules (the don't listen to that, listen to this attitude).............despite millions of blogs with the same objectives........despite so many others with such a similar musical preference I've opted to continue (re-open) the blog.
My objective remains the same & this blog will be updated frequently. Stay Tuned & remember don't listen to sh!te, listen to real stuff I post......JUS' KIDDIN' after all its Jus' Music

Stay Strong

Freddie Joachim (2009) Getaway

2009-09-17T12:06:00.002+01:00

Freddie Joachim (Mellow Orange x Organology) - Getaway (2009)

01. Splendor
02. Awake
03. One More Night
04. Suzie
05. Flip Birds

http://organology.blogspot.com

http://www.myspace.com/melloworangemusic

http://www.myspace.com/freddiejoachim

Freddie Joachim (2009) Getaway

Another dope drop from the jazzy maestro, freddie j-ski!
Enjoy

Kenn Starr (2009) It's Still Real

2009-07-23T10:44:00.002+01:00

Following up on the premiere of last week’s Budget Is Low Mixtape, today brings us yet another full-length free download from the Low Budget Crew - this time from rapper, Kenn Starr. Entitled It’s Still Real…, the unmixed non-tape is a discography update of sorts - collecting the guest appearances and collaborations Kenn has done his 2006 debut, Starr Status. Included are production & appearances by the likes of 9th Wonder, Kev Brown, Marco Polo,Oddisee, Raheem DeVaughn, Wale, and more. .. The download also serves as a prelude to an upcoming mixtape of all new material with Hot 97’s Peter Rosenberg. All of this is in preparation for the release of Kenn Starr’s upcoming album, Two Track Mind - a double EP produced byBlack Milk, with remixes by Kev Brown, M-Phazes, Mr. Porter, DaveNotti and more. Two Track Mind is slated for release this fall through Mello Music Group - so look out for much more on that in the coming months. .. Check the tracklisting here and get your download below. Also, be on the look out for yet another Low Budget-related free download coming here this weekend. .. 1. Let It Be Known (feat. Hassaan Mackey & Silent Knight) (prod. Analogic) 2. The Truth (feat. Kaimbr) (prod. RODDYROD & Kev Brown) 3. In Check (feat. Oddisee & Supastition) (prod. Oddisee) 4. DJ Flexx Freestyle (’01 Throwback) (Live on WPGC Washington, D.C.) 5. It’s Time (feat. Soulstice, Eternia & Tiffany Paige) (prod. M-Phazes) 6. Low Budget All Stars (feat. Kev Brown, Oddisee, Cy Young & Kaimbr) (prod. Marco Polo) 7. Represent (feat. Akir & Oddisee) (prod. Oddisee) 8. That’s How We Kick It (feat. J. Sands) (prod. Chief) 9. Price 2 Pay (feat. Asheru, Oddisee & Darien Brockington) (prod. Oddisee) 10. DJ Eclipse Freestyle (’04 Throwback) (Live on WNYU New York, NY) 11. Wonder Why (feat. Wale, Big Sean & Mike Posner) (prod. 9th Wonder) 12. Q&A (feat. Oddisee) (prod. Oddisee) 13. The Dropoff (feat. JLaine) (prod. JLaine) 14. Kemistree Meets Low Budget (feat. Hassaan Mackey, Kev Brown & Gut) (prod. Young Cee) 15. DJ K.O. Freestyle (’04 Throwback) (Live on WRSU New Brunswick, NJ) 16. Coming Of Age ‘09 (prod. Nick Tha 1da) 17. Hennessey Pt. 3 (feat. Kev Brown & Raheem DeVaughn) (prod. Kev Brown) 18. Sum Ish For Dave (feat. Haysoos) (prod. 9th Wonder)......

Kenn Starr (2009) It's Still Real

Prickly Pear (2009) Coffee Shop (vol. 2)

2009-07-22T13:21:00.003+01:00

Another contributin to the coffee shop series, this is volume 2 from prickly pear, Make sure you jump to his myspace & bookmark that brilliance

http://www.myspace.com/pricklypearmusic

Vol. 2

FS Green (2009) Rookie Season

2009-07-17T13:56:00.004+01:00

FS Green (2007-2009) Rookie Season

In His Own Words.....

I started crafting beats in 2004. My first production on an album was in 2006. People started catching up to my music in 2007.. about time to compile some of my music that I have produced so far.

There's two different ways you can look at "Rookie Season". If you are familiar with my music you'll probably find some tracks on it that you've heard before. You might know these from albums, but some tracks have only been played on the radio or in mixes or mixtapes. Here are all those tracks plus some extra's, only with no shouts or sound effects on it, in a nice quality.

If you haven't heard a lot of FS Green productions yet, you can see this as a full album, consisting of tracks, remixes, instrumentals and a few interludes. Most of these interludes where taken from radio shows over the passed three years.

However you may receive this, just make sure you enjoy it. Mr. Maze made the artwork so it looks good in your iTunes too!

VISIT HIS NEW SITE LAUNCHED YESTERDAY......I Am FS Green

Teru (2009) Mr Le Masque

2009-06-04T13:45:00.003+01:00

\\\\\\\ MR LE MASQUE ///////

Compilation by Teru 8 tracks complete by MB Serval, Tayreeb, Pater Jacob, Supafuh, Alif King, Creestal, Moresounds, and Teru...

Teru (2009) Mr Le Masque

Get Eye (2009) Above the Clouds

2009-05-20T15:34:00.000+01:00

Get Eye - Above the Clouds

http://www.myspace.com/geteyeofstrangenature

The Music of Sun-Ra (2009) Adventures on the Sun

2009-05-20T14:02:00.000+01:00

The Music of Sun-Ra - Adventures on the Sun

mixed by Re:source

Hip hop Appreciation wk with KRS One

2009-04-28T14:06:00.000+01:00

Jus quickly.....peep this!

KRS One

Static: The Movement v1.2 (World Music)

2009-04-27T16:21:00.000+01:00

Another drop from the gritty movement whcih seems to be making alotta ground in the world of electronic music, advertised for fans of J Dilla, Waajeed, Madlib and Sa-ra Creative Partners. these drops offer nothing but, class; modeled on themes for each series, the current theme World Music will surely entail elements crossing borders world-wide. (1st track is top notch by tErU)

this is the 3rd release in the series thus far; this follows series 1.1 Magic Night available from the site, also kop the 1st serie 1.0. (damn Chiefs track is tight)

1. 01 - tErU feat Supafuh - Yamabushis (2:42)
2. 02 - Matrix Beatz - Space India (2:29)
3. 03 - Chief - Breakfast in Tokyo (3:32)
4. 04 - Crackzata - Oh pagode (3:40)
5. 05 - Nicky Lars - AFREAKA(BIL) (1:39)
6. 06 - O5kiem - beats make fallin asleep (4:00)
7. 07 - Madden - From B to I (3:04)
8. 08 - Jr EakEe - Ngoni Guitar Ouatson
9. 09 - SPON - GO!!!
10. 10 - Moar - Ya head
11. 11 - AK the Urbanist - Griots of rythm
12. 12 - Young Raven - Medina
13. 13 - Tismé & Spacis'm - Samboss
14. 14 - Milesfender - Miles of the World
15. 15 - Greg 7e ciel - En la onda
16. 16 - Alif King - Neo AOF

Static WebPage

Staticians on the Space

Static: The Movement v1.2 (World Music)

First Touch (2009) First Touch LP

2009-04-23T15:54:00.000+01:00

Finally here it is, the long awaited First Touch debut longplayer. During a creative period of almost two years and several unexpected breaks and ups and downs, the two band members nanthara and jelly put all strength together and selected 10 fine boogie tunes to please your thirst for authentic true 80's funk'n'disco grooves. It's officially released early 2009 on their own homebase label Highsteppin records. The tunes were completely mastered by our partner in crime Reeno at spazzoid studios nyc. The group's first release got a great approach that hints at more sophisticated soul styles, but which is still firmly in charge of those bass-driven grooves that made the late 70ies disco, early 80ies funk years so fascinating to funkheads all around the world. Originality is the ruler of the set, and most tracks here vamp around in a very smooth modern soul style of groove.

Lots of chord progressions jumping around irresistible rhythms, a reduced but effective ensemble arrangement style, and not to mention an armada of synthesizers help keep things clean and mean. From the smooth midtempo tune 'all because of you' to the more uplifting gem 'it's yours', you can't help but smile. Groove & move to the debut lp from this Germany/Mannheim based funk group, delivering a long lost goodtimesfeel along with the side-dishes of boogie and modern soul.

First Touch (2009)

http://www.myspace.com/firsttouchmusic

Jinesis & Prickly Pear (2009) Coffee Shop

2009-04-23T15:40:00.003+01:00

A Dedication to Detroit, you know what that means.....gritty soul, raw funk, big drums amidst the heat of rhythm.....enjoy & keep an eye on these 2, check the spaces

myspace.com/Pricklypearmusic

myspace.com/Jinesispro

Jinesis & Prickly Pear (2009) Coffee Shop

Real J. Wallace (2009) A New Day

2009-04-22T12:33:00.004+01:00

What I know about this guy, is what I know about you so I'ma keep this ish simple, EP's tight well worth a listen. MAKE SURE YOU CHECK HIS SPACE

Real J. on the Space

Real J. Wallace (2009) A New Day

Paul Pre x tRUEradio mhz x YYY (2009) mix (Sweet)

2009-04-18T11:13:00.002+01:00

Playlist:

01. Dorian Concept - Fort Teen
02. Exile - Your Summer Song
03. Floating Points - For You
04. Slumgullion - Disko Bowler
05. Devon - Houston
06. 14KT - Tick Tock Hustle
07. Débruit - Pointy
08. Harmonic 313 - The Returners
09. AD Bourke - Queen Beez
10. Jr EakEe - Club sandwich
11. Anemonen Entertainment - Soul Ane
12. CHIEf - Pump
13. 00Genesis - Cheddar Puff Dreams
14. Mr. Beatnick feat. Ahu - I Know All The Bitches // Bullion Remix
15. Dr. Who Dat? - Ghetto dreaming
16. SA-RA Creative Partners - Master Teazer (Ken's Revenge Edit)
17. Suzi Analogue - Hey Relax
18. !NSiDE - orb-15
19. Brenk - Ole Woam (Iawiszas)
20. KiEnRa - Golden Child
21. Byron & Onra - The Return
22. Elaquent - Tip Toes
23. Slumgullion - Springers
24. Flying Lotus - RobertaFlack (Featuring Dolly)
25. Afta1 Feat. Kreme - Six
26. Comfort Fit - Rock da Dam (feat. Portformat)
27. Kazi - You Wanna Take this (fLako Remix)

PAUL RPE x tRUEradio mhz x YYY

Bluntmosphere (2009) Semester Break Tape (vol. III)

2009-04-18T10:43:00.001+01:00

beatmaker from zürich, switzerland diggin in the crates, Flavorin the Fender Rhodes, sweetin it with Gobin Guitar & Blednin it with Fruity loops.

Semester break Tape (vol. III)

Sir OJ & FS Green (2009) Remixing EP

2009-04-17T15:12:00.002+01:00

New drop from production extrodinaires hailin from the land of the Dutch. Story behind this EP? Dutch radio station KINK FM and television network Veronica (V-Academy) recently did this program called CollabOrHate. Each week they put 2 totally different artist / singer / band / producer / musician in a studio for 6 hours, with the idea of making a track together, and see if they would Collab or Hate. Simple, fun.

This resulted in 6 episodes. KINK FM approached FS & SirOJ, asking if they'd be interested in remixing 6 tracks..........Enjoy

Sir OJ & FS Green (2009) Remixing

Slumgullion

FS Green

Oddisee, X.O. & Y.U (Diamond District) (2009) In the Ruff

2009-04-16T15:55:00.006+01:00

Y.U., Oddisee & X.O. Respectively

New from Oddisee, X.O. & Y.U......dope music from Hip-Hops Best at present, and mos-definately the best on the mic, props to the Low Budget Movement, check this ill-release.

The District of Columbia is home to our nations politics and some of the wealthiest African Americans in the country. It is also home to one of the nations largest income gaps with some of the highest crime, murder and STD rates. It is the culmination of these statics that defines DC Hip Hop. Oddisee (producer/MC from Prince George’s county, Maryland) formed this group with solo artist, XO and YU. The idea was to create a mid-90’s boom-bap themed record for the DC, Maryland & Virginia metropolitan area. XO, (born & raised in North West DC) defines what it is to be a black male raised in the district, with lyrics that have a way of philosophizing that street life. Oddisee defines the experience of growing up in black middle class Maryland. Bordering the poverty his and many other families fled to escape, they found the troubles of the inner city came along with them. YU, having been raised in the district, Maryland & Virginia, shows that DC culture exceeds it’s 10 mile radius. “In The Ruff” is the DMV’s soundtrack. its street savvy, politically conscious lyrics and grimy beats depict life in and around our nations capitol.

Diamond District (DL)

Elaquent, Mr. Diabise, Mr. Hone, Supa Koop, Chief (2009) Isaac hayes tribute

2009-04-16T12:32:00.000+01:00

A Huge lineup her, ft. production from the next generation of Old Skool Legends, such as Elaquent (EQ), Mr. Diabiase, Supa Koopa, Mr. Hone & Chief & to an abundance of other talented beatsmifs, this a timeless tribute to the legendary Isaac hayes, Jazzy, Soulful & Gritty.....timeless epic seasoned with the soundsa the tru-skool.....Tune in

Isaac Hayes Tribute Continued

Hip-Hop Connection Digital Magazine Issue 01

2009-04-16T10:40:00.007+01:00

Keepin up with the jones' is a tedious but exciting element of modern marketin, advertisin & Journalism, with that in mind HHC, Hip-Hops longest servin Magazine came to a halt this year......& also began.

Its new distrubution techniques involve the online world, the 1st issue, is available free for download from their webpage, whether charges will be introduced in future is beyond my knowledge at present....to be honest I don't really care.

The Magazine features MF Doom whom is due to drop his long awaited LP shortly (although shitheads have big-time bootlegged that), Charles Hamiton, Ghost, Delegates Of Culture, Wordsmith & Inc The Poet & The extremely Talented Mr Lif, as always with HHC you can expect reviews of newcommers from LP's to Artists & of course alotta useless jargon & some highly contreversial comments from some of their moronic writers.

Hip-Hop Connection - Digital Issue 01 (apr 2009)

Budamunky & Joe Styles (2009) BudaStyles - (JazzySport)

2009-04-09T15:51:00.003+01:00

Joe Styles on Myspace

Budamunky on Myspace

You may or may notta herda Joe Styles, nevertheless A real gem & positve mover amongst the Tru-Skool scene, his first drop arived in 2002 via an LP namely "Joe Stylin - Melodica Era", His latest drop is a dope soundin collabo with one of Hip-Hops finest labels; JazzySport.

On Production is Budamunky; a favourite of mine, (I've got Joe Styles myspace player inthe background.........damn). Real chilled beats, if your a fan of Hip-Hop then as they say, don't sleep.

Preview the new LP, nicely named

"BudaStyles"

SugioSounds (2008) Solar Beat Tape

2009-03-25T15:46:00.003Z

Hailin from the cold but very scenic shores of bonnie Scotland (Aberdeen to specify), SugioSounds drops a gem on the table.

Now I have listened to this bad-boy several times, its dope as, real tight beats, think (in his own format of course) Dilla, Flying Lotus, Samiyam, Kev brown ya know......that Electro-Soul vibe, real good people real good.

The beattapes called the 'Solar ' Beat Tape & has a near 20 beats of delicious gritty soul. Enjoy, check his myspace & if your feelin generous drop a penny in his paypal.

SugioSounds Beattape (ain't about ratings but 10/10)

Sugio on Myspace

MERCURY (2009) Beacuse I feel Like It

2009-03-25T15:44:00.000Z

Ain't listened to the jus dropped joint from Cali MC, East Oakland where a certain Souls of Mischief hail from. whats in a name some may ask......M.E.R.C.U.R.Y, which stands for "Messenger Expressing Rhymes of Consciousness Unto Revolutionary Youth". He likes to be called "Merc" for short.
The Roman god Mercury was his favorite mythological figure because this character served as the messenger between Gods and humans. Merc felt it was the purpose of the poet/musician to be the communicator between the spiritual world and mankind. He's also a Gemini, who's ruling planet is Mercury, and he describes his rap style as being like the liquid-metal by the same name.

Now thas what i call deep.....chk this latest joint & check his page to

MERCURY (09) Because I feel Like it EP

1. Ya Love it (ft. Kampaign) beat by PortFormat

2. I got Bills (beat by Wake Flow)

3. Run On (beat by Silent Paul)

4. Monkey Bars (ft. P.O.C.) beat by Wake Flow

5. New Begining (beat by Inevitable)

Merc on MySpace

Adrian Champion (of Move.Meant) - Stars & Stripes LP

2009-03-25T15:03:00.005Z

Adrian Champion grew up in the Flint area of Michigan, where a blue-collar upbringing shaped his perspective on life and later, his music. By the age of 13, he was hooked on hip hop, unwittingly learning to write rhymes by transcribing the lyrics of groups like Public Enemy. But it wasn't until moving to California shortly after high school that he would find an outlet for his own creativity. It was there that he'd meet other aspiring artists and record for the first time. Although this early work was rough, it was clear he had something. That something evolved from just rapping and making beats, to writing and producing, composing, playing guitar, and even singing. Refusing to become complacent or stay in a particular box, Adrian is constantly adding to his repertoire and exploring new creative directions, from his own self-produced solo project to his writing and production for artist Brian Jacobs and others.

The LP features, Jay-Z, Nas, M.O.P., Busta Rhymes, Eminem, Young Jeezy, RedMan, Outkast, TuPac, Biggy & the legendary Pharoahe Monch

Adrian Champion - Stars & Stripes LP

Adrian Champion - Stars & Stripes instrumentals

IN THE WORDS OF ADRIAN CHAMPION:

I was late jumping on The White Stripes bandwagon. But, when I heard "Doorbell" a few years back I became an instant fan. That raw, classic sound was so fresh to me. I went straight to iTunes and downloaded the whole album. It wasn't long before I owned everything they'd ever released.

What really got me was that I wanted to sample almost every song. But, I couldn't just shamelessly sample their whole catalog. Plus, I had just decided to move away from sampling and focus on writing original music. So, a remix project seemed like the thing to do, and the idea was born.

I started digging through my collection and fitting all the pieces together. My goal was to use only samples from The White Stripes and a cappellas from classic songs and my favorite emcees. And of course, I had to rap on one of the tracks myself, with my man Brian Jacobs on the hook.

So there it is, hip-hop fans, meet The White Stripes.
Fans of The White Stripes, meet hip-hop.

— Adrian Champion

The ProjectPage

Adrian on Myspace

Self Says (2009) Something Out of Nothing

2009-03-25T12:21:00.001Z

A New drop from from an EmCee out in Michigan, he 1st featured (officially I believe) on Lawless Ent.s' Soundvision: In Stereo LP on a track called "The Crew" & Ki en ra - City Of Moment EP on "The Journey" & "Way Back".

A talented MC whom on occasion dabbles in the world of production, but then again who doesn't.

This here is his debut EP (REMEMBER CHECK THE SPACES.....Hidden Gems lie in abundance)

Self Says (2009) Something Out of Nothing

Self on Myspace

Beatnicks Tape (vol. I & II) Hubert Daviz & Powell

2009-03-24T18:14:00.006Z

Our man in Cologne Hubert Daviz (featured on both Beatnicks Volumes) has been abandoning daylight lately and got acquainted with his fresh off the ebay shelve MPC2500 + MicroKorg, starting to gear up.

The result of his first month with the new toys and a slab of dusty vinyl is what we have here, our first Beatnicks Tape - listen dont sleep. download link below.

Hubert Daviz' Tape (vol. I)

After the overwhelming feedback on the first Beatnicks Tape by Hubert Daviz from Cologne (5000+ downloads so far) we had to continue bringing you some free heat, nice like that! The man behind Vol.2 is Powell straight outta Paris, already known from his "Dimension X" track on Beatnicks Vol.2 with more releases to come later this year on UpMyAlley. Definetely one to watch out for in 2009, bad bad kid!

Part duex in the UpMyAlley Beatnicks Collat, 18 Beats in full 320k glory, as heavy as it can get!!! Check the download link below and spread this ish! Forward, blog, share, play! & remember to check the damn webpages!

Powells tape (vol. II)

UpMyAlley - Myspace

Hubert Daviz - Myspace

Powell - Myspace

Hubert Daviz (slackas haven)

2009-03-24T18:00:00.005Z

Real Chilled, nice to accompany that do nothing, self-reflection moment ya know.......enjoy this cweet mix from Hubert Daviz

Dont forget to check his mySpace

fLako (1st of many)

2009-03-24T17:49:00.004Z

I'm yet to listen to this, but this guy is dope, sweet as a nut, real tight productions, you may know of his work within the static' movement (that raw-gritty, dirt-city, electro-soul). This is his 1st drop for you all.....I'ma enjoy this bad-boy.

chk his myspace

fLako (2009) 1st Space on the Moon

Stevo (Static Mover) Earths Universal Odyssey

2009-01-27T15:40:00.004Z

Another Dope Beatsmif, Contributing to the sound of the Static Soul, check both his LPs & find him on The Static Movements

Stevo On Myspace

www.myspace.com/beatzbystevo

Stevo - Between The Earth & the Universe

Stevo - Another Space Odyssey

Tayreeb - Beat Heroes vol. II (Static Mover)

2009-01-27T15:27:00.002Z

Tayreeb on Myspace

A dope beatmaker from the Static' Movement, Real Sweet LP For ya got that Grimey, Soulful, Electro Sound

Follow the link to this Blog & Enjoy

www.stereotree.blogspot.com

Stereotree is a French webzine which the purpose is to promote the good music wheither its origin or its fame. So, We set up a serie of albums named "Beat Heroes Collection" putting in the spotlights some new beatmakers full of talent!Celebrating the one year's birthday of the site, here is the second volume of this collection, dedicated to the beatmaker Tayreeb (D3CCPT, Artik, Ripklaw, ...). You can download for free this 10 tracks EP right HERE! Push up the volume!!!

Tracklisting:

01. Intro Beat Heroes Vol.2
02. Koubiak
03. 1,2,3… Sun
04. Burning Love
05. Dual Core
06. Rescue
07. Give It To Me
08. Speak'N'Math
09. 9 Lives Cat
10. Da Punk RMX

Sir OJ & Hayzee (and Slumgullion)

2009-01-15T14:10:00.002Z

Hayzee, FS Green & Sir OJ Respectively

SirOJ

is a composer, producer and songwriter from Amsterdam, the Netherlands. He produced tracks for several Hiphop artists from the Netherlands such as Jiggy Djé, Turk, Spacekees, Brainpower, GMB, Big Boy Caprice and more. With his experience in playing keys he is the musical key to the Slumgullion typ of beats. As a solo producer SirOJ produced beats for several compilations like Beat Dimensions vol.1 by Jay Scarlett (Spacek) and Cinnaman (Rush Hour).

With airplay, guestmixes on radio stations all over the world, (BTS, Deviation a.o) he became known in every corner of the experimental beat side of hiphop. During the years of seriously producing beats SirOJ became influenced by producers as J Dilla, Madlib, Flying Lotus, Buggz in the Attic and Jazztronik but also Herbie Hancock, Weather Report, Steely Dan, Azymuth or Roy Hargrove and Marcus Miller.

Together with Kid Nap he learned Dok how to produce crazy music with all different software tools on his computer. In the near future SirOJ would like to produce and release a whole bunch of records in different genres and on different labels. Stay tuned…

Sir OJ Beatape

Disko LP (Made With Kid Nap & Dok) aka Slumgullion

Hayzee

Another Dutchman, completeing a trio of affiliated beatsmifs from Holland. Hayzee works closely with FS Green & Sir OJ, a trio definately worth keeping an eye, some real chilled & Funky Cuts on this expansive & totally digestable beat package.

State Beatape

Next Level Beatape

Interview with the Trio

Hayzee Myspace

Sir OJ Myspace

FS Green: State Beat Tape

2009-01-13T13:09:00.005Z

www.myspace.com/fsgreen

Dope sounds Stemmin From Holland, Some seriously slack vibes, this Ducthmans got the elements in perfect tonic up in here, check his track on his Myspace player called Preppy Lady, the riff just rolls around the percussive genius in timely fashion.

Big things happening for this buddin Beatsmif

This Guys produced for a number of MC's & Groups including the fantastic Counterpoise.

FS Green Beat Tape

01 FS Green - What it Is
02 FS Green - AATH
03 FS Green - Segriopepe
04 FS Green - Crisps
05 FS Green - Comeonbebe
06 FS Green - Haarlemmerdijk
07 FS Green - Bijlmer Bier Hall
08 FS Green - Watch Me
09 FS Green - Hoereren
10 FS Green - Mai Lof
11 FS Green - The Riddle
12 FS Green - Requiem for a Green

AATH Dope track

PS: Always check the "VIEW ALL BLOGS" Section on the MySpace(s) you maybe missing out otherwise

Transformer (Dirty Dome Beats)

2008-12-30T18:42:00.003Z

Transformer (2008) Raw & Homemade

1.take it over there - sosh b cardi
2. violence - tone liv of green lama
3.so much more - b stilt ( guitar jam version 1)
4.sun up - apollo
5.oh my - chucknubian
6.all good - tone liv and b stilt
7.pavement - apollo
8.escape - es
9.cool luv - Alex styles and cv
10. fat knot - decay of green lama
l1. life - smooth from the connection
12.when thoughts clash - arsun fist and john wayne
13.wensday - prolifical ( guitar jam version 2 )
14.doomzday - tone liv and b stilt
15.raw banger - b stilt and tone liv
16.s.e.x. - b stilt

This Gentlemans definately gotta sound, I wouldn't say unique but more of a trend & a formula he's constructed, he's got that grimey soul vibe grindin out the speakers & its dope as real cool, this dudes a mos def in terms of one-2-watch.

Transformer (2008) The Beat Tender

1. the beat tender
2.all good
3.hearltess
4.raw banger
5.studio gangsta
6.sumer skies
7.in the blue
8.shoulda known
9.fireball
10.porn star
11. dont fight it
12.you got nothing

Transformer (2008) Afternoon Sessions

1.float
2.skull crusher
3.in the sky
4.pile driver
5. the deal
6.back in the day
7.brain malfunction
8.new nintendo
9.blown
10.cali vibes
11.memories
12.dazed

http://www.myspace.com/dirtydomebeats

Enough Names is a trio consisting of the Transformer on the beats & Ahpasit & Glad2mecha, No beat tape for ya, but I believe the debut release is comin soon, stay posted with these guys

www.myspace.com/enoughnames

Stellar sounds in the blossomin

2008-12-30T18:23:00.006Z

Indeed it has been more than a while, some would say its been a minute, nevertheless the new theme a week, will be based on unsigned artists, MySpaces, ReverbNations, Soundclicks etc.....no point advertising artists whom most in the know of this scene are aware of......Time to use the blogging for its true power.

To Start I'm give Stellar Edwards a Run, Twenty beats with several musical genres engaging the listener. A Beatsmif hailin from the shores of sunny england, I say the weather tends to emulate throughout the people but these beats contradict that without a doubt. This will see outta 2008 nicely.

check the myspace:

Stellar @ Myspace

5 Download links for ya, so no whinging with that its only yRapidshare ish

Link 1 (Sharebee)

Link 2 (Mediafire)

Kam Moye's Self Centered Supastition

2008-06-30T10:06:00.007+01:00

A Long time in the game, chasin Paper & the Chasin Props he so rightly deserves, Supa (Stition) has recently dropped his side project EP "Self Centred" recorded under the name Kam Koye.
A soulful release, plentiful of competent producers D.R. takes claim to 3 tracks, The man of the moment M-Phazes adopts his classic Boom-Bap sound.

Another talented MC Kaze features on the album.

Quote from "Welcome to My Life" Track 2
"Same fans that download it give the same respect, then send e-mails askin why I ain't famous yet"

Jus one of many touchin rhymes, this album caters for the Tru School fans. People This album is Free.....I ain't providin the link for this gem cause to many of ya just click download & Phuck off, check his myspace.....& SUPPORT THE ARTISTS

01. Where & Why - produced by D.R.
02. Welcome to My Life - produced by Croup
03. Change of Heart - produced by M-phazes
04. Reach One ft Kaze - produced by Eric G
05. Around the World ft DJ Wreckineyez - produced by Veterano
06. Black Enough? - produced by Eric G
07. Give It Up - produced by D.R.
08. Self-Centered - produced by D.R.

MySpace with Supa

MySpace With Kam Moye

Sight 4 Sound

2008-06-29T14:32:00.005+01:00

Imagine Several Videos (from film, Music & TV) accompanied by a wicked break, Several acapellas.......Sounds warped I know....Probably haven't the feintest what I'm talking about.

This guy has a true sight 4 Sound Check him out. I belive he uses Abelton to create his pioneering visual sounds.

My recommendation is to visit the site & enjoy.......A Truly original.

>The Ultimate in Audio Visualisation

Will Holland aka....

2008-06-18T21:48:00.014+01:00

......Q U A N T I C

First & foremost, Apologies for such a long delay, busy doin' this, that & the other (You know how it is) I came across this guy through a friend who played me his Mishaps Happening Album....I instantly restarted the 2nd track & by the end I'd ordered to of his albums from amazon.

A Funky Breakbeat / Big Beat Producer / Talented Musician who Works damn hard, has put a lot of records out, and is still damn young. Of course, when you really consider that for someone in their mid twenties to be, in 2006, releasing what is essentially their 8th album, and racking up nearing 30 remixes since his first release in 2002, then that is quite astonishing.

We all know though, that quantity does not equal quality, so what really astonishes is the fact that every single release is a winner. Every single release is worth your time and sees him trying something different, exploring sound, and translating his own huge thirst for new sound into his own work.

There isn't a musical genre out there thats related to the hearts of funk and soul that he hasn't turned his hand to, and yet at the same time he his one of the few producers around that always sounds like himself.

Whether it's under his original Quantic moniker or as the live rocking funk soul heaviness of The Quantic Soul Orchestra you can spot a Quantic production a mile off, even if it doesn't sound like anything you've heard him do before.

It's a talent that has seen him work with some of the finest names around. Remixing Charlie Parker and Breakestra, collaborating with Sharon Jones and Mr. Scruff, sharing a live stage with De La Soul, to producing and writing with Spanky Wilson, Quantic's is a talent that is admired by producers, vocalists, and musicians of all the ages. And naturally, clubbers around the world have felt the Quantic pressure too.

From the festival stages of The Big Chill, Glastonbury, and Roskilde, super smooth clubs in Europe and Japan, hard core roadtrips around the USA and Australia, tiny Muscovite basement sessions and Puerto Rican Candela sweat boxes, where there's the music love Quantic will go. Literally, where there's a Will, there's a way. 2006 is set to be his busiest year yet. The 'One Offs, Remixes, and B Sides' collection has just been released on Tru Thoughts, his limited edition collection of rumba, plena, and cumbia music 'Mofongo Para El Alma' is just out, July sees him unleashing his brand new Quantic album 'An Announcement To Answer', and September is the launch of his QSO collaboration album with US soul legend Spanky Wilson.

Time for a rest perhaps? Never. Believe it or not there are still countries he hasn't DJed or dug for records in, still sounds he hasn't experienced, and still so many great records to make. Onwards and upwards my friends, onwards and upwards...

Quantic Soul Orchestra

"Putting something back" is how Will Holland described the reason for starting The Quantic Soul Orchestra. Having released two succesful albums on Tru Thoughts under his Quantic guise - The 5th Exotic and Apricot Morning (which fused jazzy and breakbeat sounds), he felt his next musical adventure would be to focus on the album you have in your hands. The Quantic Soul Orchestra is a live project, strictly no samples allowed. Influenced by Mr Holland's love of the dusty funk 45's, he wanted to record and produce an album with creative and like minded musicians.

With pop acts in the 2000s now using hip-hop beats (beats which are heavily influenced by funk records from the 70s) it was important for the QSO to make the album rough, raw and real - it's definately not Acid Jazz but has a deeper funk sound that shows that this music is well and truly alive in the new millenium. This is an album influenced by the many flamboyant (but often poor) musicians in the 70s who loved music for music's sake, who wanted to dance and make people dance.

This album is not trying to be retro and trendy, hence the cover version of 4 Hero's future soul anthem from 2002 Hold It Down. Sung in one take as vocalist Alice Russell warmed up before a recording session, it was decided that the original Holland penned instrumental should be replaced with this version. Ms Russell also lends her soulful voice to two other tracks on this album Something That's Real and Take Your Time, Change Your Mind. The other sung track finds John Hughes adding vocals (as well as some guitar and flute) to the classic QSO 7" Super 8. The QSO also adds Afro Beat, Soul and Jazz influences to the Funk sound with musicians Dave Woodhouse (Clavinet, Rhodes and Trumpet), Damian Bell (Trombone), Antonia Pheulatos (String Arrangements and Violin), Lucy Holland (Saxaphone), Richard Gibbs (Drums) and of course Will Holland himself (Guitars, Bass and Percussion) adding to the variety.

This is probably an album that future producers will be sampling, who knows someone across the world may even be sampling the music as you read these sleeve notes today!

This Download Collat Contains Tracks from His Solo Work, The Qauntic Soul Orchestra & some production on other artists albums. ENJOY!

Quantic Collection

Just remember to acknowledge The Quantic Soul Orchestra if you do sample them and if you make a success of your music to "put something back" too.

quantic

Grap Luva

2008-03-25T17:30:00.006Z

In the shadow of the Chocoltae Boy Wonder Soul Brother #2 namely Grap Luva is an artist featured heavily but remains quiet in terms of releases. A smooth Rhytmic poet who I first heard after doing some research following one of My favourite albums Pete Rocks ''Petstrumentals''.

The Download Contains about 15 tracks Grap Luva features on including The Bootlegged InI relase ''Centre of Attention''.

Graps MySpace :-
Hailing from uptown New York's Mt.Vernon,Greg Phillips A.K.A "Grap Luva" got his start out in the hip hop game dancing on tour with his older cousin and hip hop pioneer Heavy D,around the same time his older brother was about to drop a gem on the hip hop world as 1/2 of the ledgendary duo Pete Rock & CL Smooth. With the release of Mecca & the Soul Brother, Grap made his way onto the album with one of the most memorable freestlye's of the time...lets put it this way Lil Fame of M.O.P saw Grap coming out of the studio and asked him to kick it for him...Shortly after that Grap and a few of his boys(Rob O,Marco Polo) formed a group calling themselves InI,due much in part to Grap's Jamaican roots...with production duties handled by his brother Pete Rock the group released their first single and video for the classic 12" "Fakin Jax" on Elektra, with little push or promotion the groups,now heralded as a classic first full length album "Center of Attention" unfortunately never saw the light of day...With the subsequent demise of Pete Rocks Soul Brother Records to be distributed through Elektra the group parted ways with their label and the album was lost in limbo...that is until....a couple of years later gangsta rap and the so called "East vs West" fued was in full swing, a couple of songs started popping up on mixtapes,even though they sounded like recordings of recordings Djs all around the world were putting these songs on their mixtapes(yes actual tapes kiddies) and low and behold they were bootleg copies of songs off of the InI album"Center of Attention" fast forward a couple of years from then the very much classic album was bootlegged so much and sought after by so many that BBE Records decided to track down the masters and actually release the album almost a decade after it was recorded,the demand was that strong...As all this was going on, Grap stayed working with cats from all around the world releasing a slew of singles and now producing tracks for some of hip hop's up and coming heavyweight emcees in the game right now...although a very elusive cat Grap Luva has etched his name in the hip hop history book and has devout fans allover the world...he has helped alot of cats get on (Kev Brown,Sound Providers to name a couple)and to this day is sought after by new jacks all over who remember the first time they heard that famous first line "I am the one they call the G the R the A the P and..."

Grap ''SoulBrother #2'' Luva Collat

http://www.myspace.com/76645391

Golden Boy & Think Twice are.......

2008-03-14T18:37:00.011Z

The SPECIFICS

Hip hop in Montreal can get a little tricky at times. Blessed with an abundance of capable MC’s,a trailer-load of DJs, and a slew of hungry producers, talented individuals in the city constantly battle not with each other, but with the teetering possibility of an organized and unified hip hop scene. Clans, posses, crews and cliques come and go, but SPECIFICS are looking far beyond the confines of a local existence. Made up of producer/engineer Think Twice, and MC Golden Boy, the group got its start in the dorms of Montreal’s Concordia University back in 2000, where the two west coast transplants experimented with bedroom recordings and homespun LPs under the moniker Green Dragons.

Later they met DJ Goser, who was a welcome addition to the musical equation that had already begun to take shape. Backed by the soulful an expressive productions of Think Twice, Golden Boy shines on the mic, poetically weaving in and out of the subtle complexities of everyday life with style. DJ Goser is finesse on the cut, accenting a solid array of melodic beats and lyrical rushes, completing this trio of dedicated heads.

THINK TWICE & GOLDEN BOY

A flow that can only be described as relentlessly fluid. His rhymin technique compliments Think Twices' slack jazzy production. His recent release is his 1st & hopefully not his last LP, namely "With a Loop & Swing" a nice solid effort sitting adjacent to 2 very succesful LP's his lacksidazical flow blends perfectly bringin the J.U.S. Sound home.

His Poetry is almost like no other, Listenin to his rhyme connections over "You", "Under the Hood" & "Craigs House" to name but a few symbolise everything said in this post, the tracks featured in the download are taken from "Lonely City", "II" & Think Twices LP "Witth a Loop & Some Swing"

The Beats are stone Jazz-N-Soul through & through, many producers will take a straight sample and lace it with a kick, snare & hat in your standard 4/4 time stamp, Think Twice builds some of his tracks with some more than welcomed unorthodox drums, with the occassional quantized percussive hit blended into the stew.

Some of the Beats are seriously smooth, track 5 on "II" called "Look Alive" & 7 "Lampin (Lava)" is a perfect example. In fact "II" is slightly smoother in contrast to its jazzy pre-decessor "Lonely City" released in 04'. The Jazz vibe of "Under the Hood" accompanied with Think Twices' Flawless Poetic Rhymes is one for the walkman for sure.

Fortunately I can't state any particular as a favourite which means a good album, the collat contains tracks fom 3 albums and still I can't specify any as a header for the canadian duo.

NOTE: The tracks conatained in the collat are neither the best or worst & are merely examples of production an rhymin at its finest. if your familiar with my posts & like what you hear then buy these albums immediatly after listenin......More than Worth it (Pure Inspiration).

Specifics on MySpace
http://www.myspace.com/specifics

Think Twice (Beatsmif) on MySpace
http://www.myspace.com/thinktwicemtl

Golden Boy (EmCee) on MySpace
http://www.myspace.com/dertiger

The Specifics' Collat

Muneshine, Dminor, M-Phazes, Illmind, Raks One (Emilio Rojas) & Presto are.....

2007-12-21T12:51:00.000Z

My 1st contact with any form of Wax Reform was through Akrobatiks album "Balance" when Remind My Soul stood out like a sore thumb (I actually recognised the sample because I'd been samplin my mums Wilson Pickett records at the time) If I'm to be 100% honest I hadn't a clue about WR back then & its only late last year I'd any contact with their work & naturally I was engrossed. The choice & manipulation of the samples, the Groove of their warming bass really is there not only to be enjoyed but to be appreciated in terms of Production.

With the rhymin talents of Muneshine & Raks One / Emilio Rojas, the flawless & relentless talents of M-Phazes you shouldn't be guilty of expecting to much in believing the next coupla’ years in could & should be very, very positive. Add the rhymin, singin & production Skills of Dminor to the blend & you've a complete package........Then there’s Illmind a Producer who appears to have thoroughly blossomed in recent years, with his ability & huge reputation the Wax Reformation Team have the fundamentals needed to cleanse a stagnant industry of its impurities (optimism is a great thing).

Presto (The member I know nothin about) is one of the biggest DJ's out in Holland at the moment & with Nicolay & Von Pea as his compatriots I look forward to grabbin some of his work.

From the Wax Reform MySpace......

"An unlikely collection of some of the finest producers/emcees, you've never heard of or at least you don’t think you have. From the people who brought you Dead Prez, Common & Last Poet's "Panthers", Akrobatik's "Remind My Soul", MF Grimm's "Together", Louis Logic's "Gentleman & A Scholar", as well as the "Opportunity Knocks", "A Vision And A Plan", and "For Good" albums, Wax Reform is a name to be reckoned with.

A collective of independent producers/emcees that span the globe, Wax Reforms two founding members hail from sunny, Los Angeles, California (Dminor) and the, often snow covered, plains of Saskatchewan, Canada (Muneshine). But it doesn’t stop there. With members in New York (Emilio "Raks One" Rojas) and New Jersey (ILLmind), Wax Reform takes its roster around the globe to Australia (M-Phazes) and the Netherlands (Presto) to round out the crew.

Conceived in 2002, it wasn’t until 2003 that Wax Reform would begin to take shape. All of its members had made significant contributions to the world of hip-hop, but had yet to move as a unit with one common goal, to produce quality music without compromise. And so Wax Reform was born.

Since then, Wax Reform has been involved with projects both domestic and foreign, with ILLmind providing production for G-Unit and Muneshine's collaborative efforts with Pete Rock and DJ Spinna, as well as The Phocus(Muneshine & Raks One) album, "A Vision And A Plan", released in Japan on Handcuts Records.

With an arsenal of infectious grooves and thought provoking lyrics, it is only a matter of time before Wax Reform changes the face of music, by doing what they do best."

Making good music, without compromise.

M U N E H S I N E

Canadian EmCee / Producer with 2 solid LP's to his CV: "Opportunity Knocks" released back in 2005 houses appearances from Raks One (aka Emilio Rojas) who partners him in the duo Phocus; a subsidiary of Wax Reform. The production on his debut LP is predominantly from his the rest of His Crew, namely D-Minor, Illmind & M-Phazes.

A guest feature is from production legend Pete Rock bringin his classic heavy soul driven sound.

2007 has overseen the release "A walk in the Park" an instrumental LP. Muneshines production is soulful & the title "A Walk in the Park" fits the bill perfectly. Phocus & WR partner Raks One features on the only vocal track the album has.

(Read Lightheaded Post for more info)

Muneshine's Homepage

D - M I N O R

Don't know much about this guy biographically, The MySpace houses a picture of the late Great James Yancey (Dilla), so I assume it safe to state (like allot of Producers) he's been a huge influence on Dminor.

Dminor, whose musical influences range from such contemporary artists such as Marvin Gaye and Miles Davis, has been cultivating his love for music from an early age. Starting at age 7, Dminor has recorded with many well known artists, including Al Arrau, Harry Belafonte, "Aladdin" and "Beauty and the Beast" composer Alan Menken, and more recently, The Beastie Boys.

Writing, arranging & producing for himself means Dminor has crafted a unique sound unlike those flooding the airwaves right now.

With engaging lyrics and sentiment not found in popular music, Dminor hopes to broaden the ear of his listeners with timeless music to be enjoyed for years to come.

His latest gem features production from M-Phazes & is called “Supreme Goodie”

Dminor's MySpace - Dminor's Homepage/ - Supreme Goodie - Dmnior's LP Site

E M I L I O R O J A S ( R A K S O N E )

A natural born spitter of Venezuelan heritage & hailin from New Jersey. A real tight lyricist with what I believe to be 2 LP's under his belt "For Good" from 2005 & this year has seen "A Breath of Fresh Air" released. Naturally both albums feature production from the rest of the production team, especially the latest release in which all (aside from the mysterious Presto) appear. A lyricist of ear catchin talent....& ear catchers are rare as I'm sure your aware. Many can rap but very few can rhyme, & with Raks one in this coalition I'm picturing big things for the future.

"For Good" a solid Debut and a nice build before the excellent "A Breath of fresh air" of which a more formal approach was taken as he records under his birth name Emilio Rojas. The album is deep in production & very deep in vocal content; Everyday Life issues & personal issues are laid out on this more than solid release.

The other big spitter in the crew is Muneshine, His partner formin the duo Phocus, a project released via the Jazzy Japan "A Vision & a Plan" released back in '04, features production naturally from Muneshine, but Illmind & the multi-talented Dminor.

Emilio Rojas' MySpace

I L L M I N D

Production started at a young age & with the aid of the internet ears started opening & noses started sniffing in the direction of Illmind. His 1st single (The instrumental is included in the package) was/is a deep track called "Remind My Soul" featured on Akrobatiks 2004 release "Balance". Posting His work online caught the ears of the folks over at Soulspazm Records, who at the time started a live producer showcase called Beatsociety (Hail Hezekiah for this genius idea). Iillmind within time performed at a Beatsociety showcase in Philly, alongside Kanye West, 88-keys, Dj Jay-ski, and Fury. This showcase turned the keys to many doors for Illmind, & as time progressed eventually showcases all over the U.S. followed. Inculdin appearances alongside Just Blaze & 9th Wonder.

This year saw production with the respective artists; 50 Cent, G-Unit, 2pac, Diamond D, Ghostface Killa, Pharoah Monche, Phife Dawg, Little Brother, Apl De Ap (Black Eyed Peas), and a huge array of other artists.

With such a Huge Body of work & a blossoming reputation its no wonder Illmind appears on almost every LP I've purchased recently. A prominent figure rhymin on his tracks is the hugely underrated Supastition who seems to create a winning tonic every time he hooks up with Illmind (& M-Phazes), fast-n-furious rhymes over some seriously artful tracks is a formula that can only leave you questioning why an album hasn't been made with the 2 of them (Well maybe the whole of Wax Reform).

Hip-Hops new generation is currently cradling some of the best beatmakers on the planet within Wax Reform.......Ears up people!

ILLminds MySpace - ILLminds Homepage

M - P H A Z E S

M-Phazes is the perfect example of a diamond in the rough. Born and raised in the Gold Coast of Australia and relatively isolated from Hip-Hop culture, M-Phazes has carved a place for himself among Australia's Hip-Hop elite and is undeniably responsible for putting Gold Coast Hip-Hop on the map.

His style is best described as a combination of Neo-Soul & Boom Bap with a modern twist. Drawing inspiration from the obvious; Dilla, Primo & Kanye, M-Phazes has forged an original sound that is uniquely his own. Like the producers mentioned & others that haven't (Pete Rock, Large Pro & as much as I hate to mention but adds to the point Swizz 'Fuckin' Beats) As soon as the beat drops, you know exactly whose on production.

With 9 years of production work under his belt and over 50 releases all over the world, M-Phazes has moved from way down under (apologies couldn't resist) to a more than recognisable producer. Landing his first serious release on Supastition's "Chain Letters" years ago and most recently remixing the entire Bliss N Eso "Day of the Dog" album, M-Phazes seems unstoppable. His discography reads like a who's who of underground Hip-Hop.

A definite firm favourite of mine, The Wax reformation crew is certainly & has certainly been making some more than positive moves.

M-Phazes' MySpace

P R E S T O

I can honestly say I've heard nothing by this guy & this is officially the shortest review in History, check his MySpace & his homepage

Prestos MySpace - Brain Storm - Prestos Homepage

Download Links

Wax Reform - Dminor & Emilio Rojas (aka Raks One)

Wax Reform - Illmind

Wax Reform - M-Phazes

Wax Reform - Muneshine

Web Sites

Supreme Goodie - Dmnior's LP Site

Emilio Rojas' MySpace

Brain Storm - Prestos Homepage

A Light Headed Vibe

2007-12-10T09:37:00.000Z

Lightheaded fundamentally a 3-man crew consists of: Braille, Ohmega Watts & Othello of which all are Producers with a Mic. I've added Muneshine to the review as He produces alot on the albums. They appear to work closely with Stro the 89th Key (I'll refer to him as Stro for timesake) & Jason Medeiros (The Procussions), Illmind, D-Minor & M-Phazes (Wax Reform), Surreal (Sound Providers), Theory Hazit, Sharlok Poems & Sivion.

PURE THOUGHTS & WRONG WAY

The 1s LP "Pure Thoughts" released in 2003 is excellent to say the least & is definitely one of my favorite albums, in fact both the LP's are a firm favorite of mine, with production from all members a coalition in full form is present, "Wrongway" released in 2005 follows suit & like the 1st LP is the perfect addition to your (J)azzy (U)nderground (S)oulful collection

Wisdom One & Just Jared form 1773 have an LP released this year featuring Watts, Braille & Othello. A solid album & the duo may be one for the future.

OTHELLO

After hearing Othello’s solo work, I thought the clarity of the tracks were of such a natural sound that I became interested in what he was using to make his music & thought there was no way He could produce these tracks or replicate the natural vibe of pure music without the aid of a band after reading the inlay & of course the internet I kept seeing the name The Black Notes, who appear to be a band (of evident ability) Othello is working with at present.

Othello’s work appears (like most great Hip-Hop of today) to be released pre-dominantly out in the Land of the Rising Sun (My next focal Point). He has 3 solo projects to his name that I own (amazon.co.jp or HMV.co.jp) & the work he has done with the rest of the crew (Lightheaded) proves that not only is he a more than efficient artist but the crew appear to be progressing at such a rate that their proving to be one of the best groups of this decade.

2004 brought his EP "Classic", 05 saw Elevator Music hit the scene followed by "Alive at the Assembly Line" a year later in his own words "Alive at the Assembly line is what I consider my debut recording because it showcases where I am upon the release of it, and utilizes the resources God has granted me to create a project I believe to communicate my heart honestly and effectively. The record is all about development. Using the good and bad to benefit your growth...The assembly line represents life......."

OHMEGA WATTS

Like his pal Othello he appears to work closely with a selected group of people almost like a recruitment process in where you have to prove yourself as an emcee before you gain the delights of their work. His 1st LP namely "The Find" feature many artists but as I've said in regards to the consistency of guest appearances Othello, Stro & Surreal.

"The Find" from 2005 is an album with a soul-funk tip, His rolling basslines accompany his flow that acts as an instrument because of his natural ability to weave steadily throughout.
I hate to start disregarding other members of the band but Ohmega in terms of a complete package is for me the prominent member, He's certainly no better or worse than any other member as they all bring different aspects to the table (thus making a superb group), but my personal preference in terms of production & rhyme style veers towards Ohmega.

This album is accompanied with several instrumental tracks, letting you enjoy Watts' Cut-N-Paste Skills.

"Watts Happening" released this year is further evidence that Ohmega Watts is a great producer & EmCee, quite a progressive album in terms of production a track that stands out & proving this is "Platypus strut" which is pure funk driven & proves his extraordinary production skills.

MUNESHINE

Canadian EmCee / Producer with 2 solid LP's to his CV: "Opportunity Knocks" released back in 2005 houses appearances from Surreal & Raks One who partners him in the duo Phocus. The production on this album is predominantly from the industrious Wax Reform (D-Minor, Illmind & M-Phazes), a guest feature is from production legend Pete Rock bringin his classic heavy soul driven sound.

2007 has overseen the release "A walk in the Park" an instrumental LP showing another avenue the lightheaded crew has. Muneshines production is soulful & the title "A Walk in the Park" fits perfectly. Phocus partner Raks One features on the only vocal track the album has.

BRAILLE

The hardest spitter from the crew, a bass heavy producer with more spit than an angry camel. Braille’s rhymestyle completes the Quad nicely. His solo work also contains 2 LP's "Shades of Grey" released back in 2004 & "Box of Rhymes" released last year. The most aggressive EmCee in the crew also caters for the lovers of head-nodding beats. Braille's latest addition is without a shadow of a doubt his best work to date, "A Box for Japan" was a Japanese project (again the best stuff is released out there at present) until recently & can be purchased on the Japanese Amazon.

PRODUCTION

Othello

His production appears to be band based & a huge focal point seems to be on acoustics to gain that natural sound, The advantage of working with a band shows in his work & the clarity of the sound shows, Like The Roots best work & one of better posts, Hocus Pocus, there proves to be an obvious advantage with having access to a band as you have an endless (infinite) supply of riffs & percussive sounds.

His rhyme style is versatile to say the least, Fast, slow & hard & soft etc, he's capable of reaching Hip-Hop fans of all preferences.

Ohmega Watts

A very consistent producer, his feel for the Funky Soul sound is evident in his production a more bass heavy producer than Othello, with Horn stabs, & funky samples rolling around in the background his tracks leave your head-nodding & soulfully yearning for more.

Braille

Again the heaviest Beatsmith amongst them, he makes beats in a manner only a hard spitter can manage. His latest release & I can only reiterate his best work to date, contains some fresh funk & some slack soul in which he drops neat verses throughout.

Muneshine

A lover of Jazzy soul, well at least that’s what his instrumental LP appears to claim. "A Walk in the park" is the perfect reminder that this crew has everything in terms of production.
Slack drums, Beautiful samples, an array of delay added to filtering effects panning in the background & the perfect amplitude in terms of Bass, means we've got ourselves a perfect J.U.S. Music producer.

www.myspace.com/lightheaded

The Lightheaded Collat

Hezekiah - Music for the Grown

2007-10-25T13:33:00.000+01:00

Hezekiah; a firm reminder that Hip-Hop still cradles a soul, A soul that many believe to have died. Like all listeners I've my own ideology of what Hip-Hop is & should be about. As far as production goes the name of this blog is a huge clue to what my perception of a flawless recording.

Oddisee, Kev Brown, Illmind, Hocus Pocus, Pete Rock, Jazzy Jeff, Dilla, Sabzi are amongst only a few that epitomise Jazzy Underground Soul & to be frank Hezekiah's work on his Releases are flawless which is rare t carry over more than 1 album. The Sound left my ears yearning for more......His more than welcomed follow up to his array of epics really couldn't have arrived quick enough.

Exit Wound Status (mixtape)

A debut release from the Philadelphia born Musician

Hurry Up & Wait (2005)

Like all 1st releases, a debut album is an insight to the artist, This album was a huge introduction. Again flawless production, lyrical content & a flow of the highest order.

Ruby Valentine (2006)

Hezekiah's 2006 release Ruby Valentine appears more relaxed than the other releases, Hip-Hop & Nu-Soul enjoy a rich vein of form.

I Predict a Riot (2007)

I Predict A Riot follows trend with his formula; slack drums accompanied with intricate patterns, relaxing riffs, quality samples & the difference between a quality artist & an average one, of course is originality & style.
The album is full of interesting sounds & sytnhs subtly introduced melodically throughout.

The Grimey Soul Touch

Like Pete Rock, Dilla & Kev Brown, Hezekiah cradles a consistent style in his Grimey Soulful production. The basslines on his tracks sound played & they may well be, I'm not sure whether he records live instruments or uses software, regardless His beats are of sheer quality.

Producer on the Mic

I'm yet to mention his ability on the mic, well to be honest it doesn't fail deliver. lyrical content, social relevance, government policies, Hip-Hop Politics, Love....he covers everything & is definately one of the best Producers to pick up the microphone.

His CV covers work with Bilal, Freeway, Chief Kamachi, Eleon (slum Village) & Bahamadia. A consistent feature throughout the Hezekiah journey is a gentleman with some serious soul to his voice namely Aaron Livingston.

Todays pack houses releases from both albums & a couple of singles

In his own words "I didn't give you an album I gave you my Soul" - Wild & Reckless (Track 2 / I Predict a Riot)

Enjoy or Endeavour

Hezekiah Collat

Official Press Bio

Around 1986, Hezekiah's cousin brought home a track machine and a drum machine and he was instantly hooked. Predating the live Hip-Hop trend by years, Hezekiah spent much of his early days in front of the two machines, rocking sellout shows in the living room with his Cousin on bass and his Uncle on Guitar.

Once out of High-school, Hezekiah linked up with arguably the only Hip-Hop crew to ever exist in Delaware and put together a mixtape called "Exit Wound Status" which sold an impressive 2,000 copies (of the hand-to-hand variety) on the streets and at shows. But it was getting down with the Legendary Roots Crew in '93 that spurred him to get down to business. Hezekiah then began to work his way up through the ranks of the Philly’s ever-strong and flourishing Hip-Hop scene with his on point wordplay, superior songwriting, and lovely production skills—working with the likes of Musiq Soulchild, Bilal, The Jazzyfatnastees and Bahamadia.

In 2005 Hezekiah's debut album Hurry Up & Wait (a title dedicated to the woes of the independent artist), was released to critical praises by Vibe, Trace, XLR8R, Allhiphop.com, Pitchforkmedia.com, okayplayer.com and also included on Itunes “Best Of 2005” list among many others) on New York's Soulspazm Records. Put together in full-on Hiphop hermit mode, as he produced the record locked up in his home studio and penned all of its lyrics lost amongst crowds in the chaos of Philly. What resulted was a collection of luxurious, smoked out Hiphop beats and minimal synth Funk produced by the man himself (with notable exceptions coming from Illmind); with Hezekiah flowing beautifully atop it every second of the way. And although the record is let Hezekiah shine, the guestlist he assembled was impressive; Bahamadia, Scratch (The Roots), Grand Agent and Chief Kamachi all made appearances. Hurry Up & Wait was an album intended for headphones, getting deep tissue massages and eating fruit smorgasbords at dusk.

In addition to the release of Hurry Up & Wait in 2005, Hezekiah keep himself busy working on albums for Philadelphia singer and sandwich-making mastermind Aaron Livingston and Musiq's backup twin singing sensations Aaries. In addition, he's the driving force behind the influential Beat Society and at the request of Dawn Thompson (sister of The Roots musical mastermind ?uestlove) was tapped to co-produce the music for a Showtime original series entitled Street Time.

In September 2007, Hezekiah returns with his sophomore LP, I Predict A Riot, which features guest appearances from Bilal, Freeway and Jaguar Wright.

Hezekiah on MySpace

Percee P (2007) Perseverance (produced by Madlib)

2007-09-24T14:16:00.000+01:00

One of the most talented EmCees to grace the last 2 decades has finally released his 1st solo LP - with Madlib on prodcution expect nothing but greatness, My next purcase for sure.....!

Review at Impose magazine

Buy it at amazon

Buy it at Rhapsody

Buy it at e-music

Buy it at i-Tunes

Skillz & Krafty provide Some More Brighton Beach Memoirs

2007-09-20T18:00:00.000+01:00

Residing in Brighton the south of England come 2 funky beatsmiths whose love for the breaks & beats will replicate any of the top producers; A. Skillz & Krafty Kuts are the names to which this fantastic album would look excellent on anyone’s CV.

A. Skillz & Krafty Kuts namely Adam Mills & Martin Reeves are the brainchildren of an LP that was released on one of the capitals breakbeat labels towards the latter stages 2003.

Tricka Technology is the funkiest, Jazziest reminder of the early Hip-Hop years that I've heard for ages, great riffs & samples laced with some intricate Drum patterns is only half of what the album cradles.

The Emcees featured throughout are unquestionably party Emcees, but not to the irritational degree that the efforts of That FatMan they call Scoop or to the pointless barkin' of DMX (who correct me if I'm wrong still ain't found his Dogz yet) accomplish. Fortunately No cursing, unfortunately no inspiring or lengthy rhymes that the Nas', Percee P's, J-Live's or Cise Starr's of the world would deliver but with Afrika Bambaataa’s seed TC Izlam (who I've seen at several Drum'n'Bass raves) Delivers some classic 70-80's rhymes to the table. He appears on the track(s) "Tricka Technology" & "Ill Type Sound". The "12" release of "Tricka Technology" features a nice B-Side “Ain’t It Funky” also featuring TC Izlam.

As the album progresses I notice a name on in the CD Sleeve.....Dr.Luke. He appears several times & I believe had a heavy hand in the production of the album. Dr. Luke (birth name Lukasz Gottwald), A New York-based producer who in his spare time plays the guitar for The Saturday Night Live band co-wrote, arranged & produced 7 of the 16 tracks available. He Wrote & Played the guitar and bass riffs.

Here’s 5 tracks for you to sample before you go shopping

Gimme the Breaks:

Dedicated to the forefront of a great musical art, the track is accompanied by the legendary Kurtis Blow (One of the forefathers), I found myself steadily increasing the volume throughout as the Sweet West Coast Bassline filtered through the monitors, a classic track leaving the reminiscence of the early years of Hip-Hop.

Peaches:

A "thesis" on a classic summer scenario of "Juicy Voluptuous woman filled with Sweetness" brings a track called Peaches in which to be honest is fairly self-explanatory in regards to what the lyrical content - The production houses a sweet guitar riff (as is much of the album) & some slack drums that only have your fingers ready to press repeat, a Jazzy track that can accompany a more than welcomed Indian summer. Droop Capone an LA Emcee that I'm not particularly familiar with delivers a series of welcoming verse's, with the beautiful vocals of a Yolanda. Backed with a sublime sample, of the Late Great James Brown (RIP).

Roll Over Baby:

Nicely done with the funky 70's Bassline, Funky Drums & the assistance of a nice synth with the occasional Sax riff dropped into a very nice equation; a recipe of which success is surely the only outcome. Ashley Slater a feature on the track provides the vocals which sounds similar to Latryx / Quannum. Ashley Slater known predominately for his work in Freakpower with Fatboy Slim.

Give You That:

A Slack Soulful track which caters the best flows on the album, the appearances from Obi & The Real Elements blend sublimely with the grimey Soulful production. Perhaps it was my mood I dunno, normally I can tolerate singing but the singing on this track to me is a little to whiney but throughout the album that is my only criticism, & that’s some serious nit-picking, 'cause the album appears flawless.

Come Alive:

A Modern Breakers track in its purest form, After the 1st break every element is assisting the other, you can't help but nod back'n'forth to the bassline, as the 2nd break enters your given a nice guitar riff & some sweet vocals to leave your neck embracing the sound. Another track for the summer.

Remember to check the links for more info & of course to order the album

Enjoy or Endeavour

A Bit about the artists

A Skillz

Adam ‘A.Skillz’ is one of the country’s most funky beatmeisters. His fierce production skills and turntable dexterity has seen him explode onto the scene, collaborating with hip-hop legends and making music for worldwide brands.

At only 24 years old his incredible deck talents involve fusing funk, hip-hop and breaks with his unique style of scratching and mixing. His reputation as a true party rocker has won him prime-time slots across the UK at FabricLive, Spectrum, Chew The Fat, Supercharged, The Boutique and Sugarbeat as well as gigs around the world at major events, festivals and music industry parties such as The Hit Factory (New York), WMC (Miami) and Field Day (Sydney).

In 2003 A.Skillz released his debut album “TrickaTechnology” alongside Finger Lickin's very own Krafty Kuts. The album was a nod towards musical influences like De La Soul, James Brown and Jurassic 5, true Finger Lickin' Funk that enlisted the talents of some of the world's best hip-hop and funk artists including Kurtis Blow, Real Elements and Ashley “Freakpower” Slater.

February 2004 saw A.Skillz and Krafty Kuts team up on the TrickaTechnology Tour with live MC’s from the album playing shows all over the UK. The duo then went on to DJ together leaving audiences and dance floors astounded with their skills on four decks and four CDJ’s, playing at Glastonbury Festival, Pacha (Ibiza) and a live session for Steve Lamaq on BBC Radio 1.

In October 2004 A.Skillz then embarked on his first solo tour of Australia which saw him play to sell out crowds in all major capital cities, gaining new fans and respect from fellow DJ’s along the way. He followed this by extensive gigs in the UK and a busy studio schedule producing music for Channel 4 (Talk Back), Renault (TV advert) and Sony Playstation (Gran Tourismo 4).

A.Skillz kicked off 2005 in January with a mini-mix for Annie Mac that was later voted best mini-mix of the year by Radio 1 listeners, beating industry heavyweights such as Basement Jaxx, Mylo and Scratch Perverts. He followed this with a series of remixes including The Fort Knox Five and a re-rub of his own track Simple Things.

Highlight gigs last year included 10:15 (San Francisco), Snow Bombing (Austria) Mystery Lands Festival (Amsterdam) Homelands (UK), Live 8 After Show Party (London). Since October he has clocked up some serious air miles playing across Australia, Canada, America, Europe and returning to the UK to bring in the New Year at GPO in Ireland.

2006 is shaping up to be his biggest year yet. He is currently working on his first mix album for Finger Lickin Records whilst planning his next artist album which will see him team up with some major names for some seriously hot collaborations!

Krafty Kuts

Krafty Kuts, can truly be recognised as a member of the breakbeat elite. And along with other high profile figures such as Adam Freeland, Rennie Pilgrem, Freq Nasty and the Plump DJs, Krafty Kuts has been instrumental in pushing the breakbeat sound to a world-wide audience.

In 2006 in released the critically acclaimed “Freakshow” album on Against The Grain with massive singles such as “Bass Phenomenon” with Tim Deluxe and “Tell Me How You Feel”.

He has been voted Best International DJ at the Australian Dance Music Awards, the Face Of Breakbeat (2003) and Best DJ (2005 and 2006) at the International Breakspoll Awards, Best Breaks DJ at the M8 awards (2006) in Ibiza, Best Mini Mix on Annie Mac’s radio 1 show. These continue to be great accolades for his efforts. However, this success didn’t come overnight.

Krafty Kuts’ first ventures on the wheels of steel occurred in the mid 80’s when he was bitten by the hip-hop and electro bug. It was during this period that he developed his cutting and scratching skills, which are now a trademark of his party rocking sets.

While Krafty Kuts was smashing it with his DJ skills, he also found time to release his own music. In 1996 he was signed to FSUK, one of the Ministry Of Sound’s offshoot labels. 3 EP’s were released to critical acclaim, as well as ‘Gimme The Funk’; a one-off release for Fatboy Slim’s label Southern Fried that was hammered by every DJ worth their salt.

The success of these releases led to Krafty Kuts becoming one of the most highly demanded remixers within the UK dance music scene. Today, the list of people Krafty Kuts has remixed for reads like an who’s who of the music world, including the likes of Jurassic 5, Utah Saints, Dead Prez, Fatboy Slim, Afrika Bambaata, Arthur Baker, Eric B & Rakim and the Classic ‘Humanoid’ by Stakker Humanoid. His remixing talents were cemented at the 2003 International Breakspoll Awards, where he won Best Remix for Afrika Bambaataa’s ‘Funky Heroes’.

As well as dishing out killer remixes, he’s also managed to compile ‘Slam The Breaks On’ 1 & 2, both classic overviews of the breakbeat sound. Look out for his Fabric Live mix CD coming soon.

Whilst producing and remixing, Krafty Kuts also managed to maintain his Djing commitments the world over, playing alongside such luminaries as Fatboy Slim, The Freestylers, Jungle Brothers, Scratch Perverts, Roni Size and Armand Van Helden.

At present, Krafty Kuts is enjoying success in many areas. To date, his music has been used for a Coca-Cola advert, Playstation 2 and PS3 games and for Guy Ritchie’s film ‘Mean Machine’. His club night Supercharged, co-promoted with fellow breakbeat crusader Skool Of Thought, is still rammed every week and is widely regarded by many of the scenes big players as having been instrumental in pushing the breakbeat sound to a wider audience.

1. A.Skillz & Krafty Kuts - Tricka Technology - Come Alive (Ft. Dr Luke)
2. A.Skillz & Krafty Kuts - Tricka Technology - Gimme The Breaks (Ft. Kurtis Blow)
3. A.Skillz & Krafty Kuts - Tricka Technology - Give You That (Ft. Obi & Real Elements)
4. A.Skillz & Krafty Kuts - Tricka Technology - Peaches (Ft. Droop Capone)
5. A.Skillz & Krafty Kuts - Tricka Technology - Roll Over Baby (Ft. Ashley Slater)

A.Skillz & Krafty Kuts (2003) Tricka Technology (Fast Link - Rapidshare)

A.Skillz & Krafty Kuts (2003) Tricka Technology (Slow Link Z-Share)

A Skillz MySpace

KraftyKuts MySpace

Fingerlickin Website (record label)

Skillz & Krafty on Website

Hocus Pocus Alakazam.....Magic Movement

2007-08-31T14:46:00.000+01:00

I can only reiterate that I will not upload Full albums or EPs from the last 3yrs its disrespectful to the artists & consequently the music WILL suffer which means we all suffer, the reason I write this is because I've received several e-mails requesting the full albums particularly fro the J. Medieros album well it ain't happening.

Anyway in relation to posting only a coupla tracks & Mr. J. Medieros this next post is from an acoustic Hip-Hop band from the passionate nation of France, they've worked closely with Medieros featuring on his recent release & vice versa......namely Hocus Pocus. The beats are second-to-none featuring relaxing riffs, intricate drum loops & some seriously nice synths thrown into the package.

Unfortunately I don't speak french so I'm clueless as to what their referring to but never-the-less I can listen to this album repeatedly, with the french lingua being the most poetic of languages it fits perfectly with this great culture of music - This album confirms that when the french do something well they do it really, really well.

Check their web-pages for more releases, upcoming tours & of course more music

There's 5tracks available for you - but it will undoubtedly keep you yearning for more.

These tracks are taken from the re-issued 73 Tocuhes

1. 73 Tocuhes
2. Feel Good (ft. C2C)
3. OnAndOn
4. OnAndOn [pt. II] (ft. Ty)
5. Zoo

Rapidshare Link (fast)

ZShare Link (slow)

Official WebPage

MySpace Page

4 Great Artists

2007-08-29T15:56:00.000+01:00

Blue Scholars

Well I stated in my most recent post that Mr. J Medeiros' album was the best thing I've heard this year & it'd be pretty damn hard to top that.....Well to be frank The Blue scholars have done just that, everything about the latest release Bayani is brilliant....You only know me through my posts, but "they" do say you can gage alot from a mans music so if you like the stuff I review & upload then head over to the MySpace (link provided) or Amazon & buy this album, its definately not being topped this year.

The tracks provided are 2 tracks from The Long March EP (2005) & the recent prodigee Bayani (2007)

Blue Scholars - Loyalty
Blue Scholars - Morning Of America
Blue Scholars - Sagaba (Remix)
Blue Scholars - Talk Story

In homage to hip-hop's empirical formula - one DJ & one MC, and duos such as Pete Rock & CL Smooth, Gangstarr and Blackalicious, the Blue Scholars embody the chemistry that made these groups so consistent not only on wax, but live on stage as well. What results is the blend of poetic, raw vocal delivery with melodic boom-bap and turntablism, painted with politics and preservation. Residing where the hustle and the struggle coincide, Blue Scholars craft the soundtrack for everyday folks with everyday problems seeking everyday release.
After dropping one full-length album (Blue Scholars LP, 2005) and an EP (The Long March, 2005) the Blue Scholars have emerged as the latest in a long line of torchbearers for Seattle and greater Pacific Northwest hip-hop scene. The duo formed in early 2002 after ciphers and sessions in a makeshift attic-bedroom-studio in Seattle's University District, where emcee Geologic and DJ/producer Sabzi came from vastly different musical approaches to collide. One a distinguished battle emcee and poet, the other a former punk/ska drummer and jazz-trained pianist, the duo's backgrounds laid the foundation for a versatile combination of beats and rhymes at once political and personal.

Since 2002, the duo has become renowned live show veterans, rocking nearly 200 shows with the likes of De La Soul, Immortal Technique, The Coup, Zion I, One Be Lo, Soul Position, Slick Rick and Spearhead. The mass appeal of their live show has brought them to many diverse venues - from labor organizing conferences and youth-run community center shows to playing the main stage at Sasquatch! (2006) and Bumbershoot (2006).

In June 2006, Blue Scholars joined forces with Common Market (emcee RA Scion and DJ Sabzi) and emcee Gabriel Teodros (of Abyssinian Creole) to launch MASS LINE MEDIA, a new artist-run independent record label.

Sabzi

The media has called him a mystery man. He makes you scratch your head and ask yourself all types of questions. How did he flip that sample to make that melody? Is it true that he makes all his beats with computer software? Is it true that he only started really making beats around 2000? Is he Chicano? Hapa? Mestizo? Palestinian? (He's Persian, folks). Did he go to my high school (somewhere in the North End)? Does he have a girlfriend? Is he some sort of communist like that damn rapper in his group (he's Baha'i, draw your own conclusions)? Where did he learn to dance like that?

While the public at large goes mad pondering these questions, Saba is sitting somewhere in basement on Beacon Hill, crafting some thickly layered melodic mood music. His homecooked vibe is naaaasty - like spring rolls without the sauce, like chelo kabob without sumac, or really old doogh - as he draws influences from a wide spectrum of music, with Pete Rock, DJ Premier and Madlib on one end, and Aphex Twin and NOFX on the other. And yea, Middle Eastern and Indian music, too.

He's currently mediating the contradiction between joblessness and holding an B.A. in economics through random hustles, DJ gigs, temp jobs testing video games, and mandatory frugality. As a result, the group has the benefit of a DJ who can count the change in your purse - really fast.

Geologic – Prometheus Brown

Geologic came on the scene simultaneously through the battle circuit and as a spoken word poet. Drawing from both experiences, his rhymes seek to build and destroy at once, a balance of imagery and wordplay with a sharpened analysis and an unapologetically critical world view.

The second son of Filipino working-class immigrants, Geo moved frequently up and down the West Coast and to Hawaii, coming of age in Bremerton and soon making his way to Seattle. Years of building in the progressive arts community with isangmahal arts kollective led to community organizing in the youth and student sector with Anakbayan.

Emcees who have influenced him, in no particular order: Nas (poetic), Rakim (delivery, voice), Ras Kass (organic intellectualism), 2Pac (complexity, duality), E-40 (slang, swagger), Boots (politics), Aceyalone (conceptuality), KRS-One (authority), Chuck D (articulation), Common (introspection), Paris (fearlesness), Pharaohe Monch (wordplay).

He works in Seattle's Chinatown, a block away from the hotel that Ray Charles played his first gig at, and across the street from where Bruce Lee worked and lived.

Blue Scholars on Discogs

Official Blue Scholars Site

Blue Scholars MySpace

or Cultivating Your New Experience is an underground hip hop group. Avoiding the material trappings of mainstream hip-hop as well as the lyrically self-congratulatory social consciousness of much of today's underground, the two MCs and two producers of CYNE are everything hip-hop should be: lyrical commentary that opens minds and moves bodies. Hailing from West Africa and the cultural melting pot that is Florida, CYNE has spent the past four years working to make sense of the world through the introspective interplay of emcees Akin and Cise Star. Akin attacks the mic with a conversational flow that runs with a sense of impassioned urgency, while Cise Star's delivery rolls over the listeners with an uncanny self-assured smoothness. Together, they reach back to the self-reflective days of hip-hop's past, they engage themselves and the world in discussion of matters social and personal import. Beneath the lyrical venom of Akin and Cise Star is the dynamic, layered genius of Speck and Enoch. Combining elements of rock, trip-hop, jazz, and countless other influences, they create atmospheric landscapes of simple complexity that push the creative capabilities of hip-hop, reminiscent of Five Deez and Japanese hip hop producer Nujabes, the latter of which Cise Star and Akin have also worked with.

I'm not a huge fan of CYNE, I love the emcees but find that half the songs are amognst genius & the other well....aren't, that for me comes down to the production. But the decent tracks really are something to admire: 4 tracks from The Collection, Time Bieng & Evolution Fight

Cyne - First Person
Cyne - Octagon
Cyne - Paradise
Cyne - Tragic

Official CYNE site

CYNE MySpace

CYNE on Discogs

Gagle

I've been familiar with Gagle for quite a while now, as the Far-East continues to press on with the epitome of Jazzy Hip-Hop & Gagle certainly keep that reputation in tight Tact. I've taken 4 tracks from the recent Big-Bang Theory (2 originals & 2 Instrumentals, as I've a vast knowledge of Japanese Lingua)

* DJ MITSU THE BEATS ([mitsu] the [bitsu] and autonym: Kawamura optical interest) older brother
* MC HUNGER (hanger and autonym: Kawamura optical child) younger brother
* DJ Mu-R (Mullerian, autonym: Koichi Miura)

solo album which release is done consists of three people of DJ Mu-R which HUNGER and the scratch which have DJ MITSU THE BEATS and original [hurou] whose appraisal is high is made to hear even in the foreign country. As for MC HUNGER and DJ MITSU THE BEATS actual sibling.

[jiyaji] of DJ MITSU THE BEATS which was shown even with the solo album the unique scramble, production and HUNGER probably is the reason of popularity. As a feature of the rhythm of the lap, [shinkopeshiyon] and three connected signsThere is frequent use, those [jiyaji] have become with one of the reasons which engender atmosphere.

Recent [jiyaji] the track/truck has become popular, but as for MITSU THE BEATS the time when to the last it has taken root in HIP HOP, because to ruin [jiyaji] which is converted one line is worked out, the core there is support from the HIP HOP listener.

DABO and M-flo, the hungry ghost ranger, rhyme 踏 combination union, you compete with Sound Market Crew whose, local end is the same there is the connection of the many artist.

Discography

album(s)

BUST THE FACTS (2001/5/31)
3 MEN ON WAX (2002/8/9)
Superego (2004/8/25) mini- album
GAGLE RETROSPECTIVE-Mixed by DJ Mu-R- (2004/8/26)
BIG BANG THEORY (2005/11/23)
BIG BANG THEORY SHUFFLE (2007/2/21)

With Others

"Tate & Markie" joy 唄” (2004/3/10)

　　2. Life Is Show (feat.GAGLE)

JAFROSAX “JAFROSAX” (2004/3/24)

　　6. Truth empty impression ~feat. GAGLE

DJ MITSU THE BEATS solo work

NEW AWAKENING (2003 August 14th)
RE-NEW AWAKENING Part.1 (2004 September 10th)
RE-NEW AWAKENING Part.2 (2004 September 10th)
Excellence: Selected Works (2006 June 16th)
25 Rose (2006 August 9th)
Stones Throw Ten Years Mixed By Mitsu The Beats (2006 October 21st)
Bbe Sessions (2006 November 4th)

In addition DJ MITSU THE BEATS has gone Remix of the other artist and offer etc of tune

www.gagle.jp

Gagle - Rap Mystery Circle
Gagle - Shikabane O Koete (Unplugged) (ft. Cro-Magnon)
Gagle - Shikabane Wo Koete (Instrumental)
Gagle - Sokokugo Zenya (Instrumental)

Granite State

Not 100% sure where or how I stumbled across these two, but nevertheless a more than impressive album, More often than not I found myself restarting near enough every track due to the-ever- impressive production & flow.

New Hampshire isnt synonymous with hip-hop music, but when Bugout and Doug York say they want to change that, its clear theyre serious. Together, the two lifelong friends make up the Exeter based hip-hop group Granite State. Be sure you dont get it twisted though, this isnt a pipe dream from some hack kids in the sticks....

A lifetime in the making, Granite States debut album is more than the groups first release, its their Breaking Point. Coming from two different backgrounds, Doug York and Bugout express two different points of view, yet the same frustrations. No gun talk, jewelry, or tales of heists, The Breaking Point is the average blue collar fans life put to music. It is the struggle that everyone can relate to, no matter where youre from. Whether its getting personal on, "Said and Done", settling the score on "My Sweet Revenge", or getting the party going with, "What Up B?!", the album represents an America rarely portrayed at all in todays mainstream Hip Hop.

Backed by strong production from DC the MIDI Alien (Cormega, 7L & Esoteric, Termanolgy) and Statik Selektah (AZ, KRS-ONE, Royce the 59, OC) Granite States album is destined to put Northern New England on the Hip Hop map.

Granite State has had numerous songs on various mixtapes throughout the world and theyve received spins from DJ Premier (NYC), DJ Geespin (WJMN Boston), Sirius Shade 45 and Groove FM (Australia). The follow up single "Gone With The Wind" has been on Sirius satellite radio's Hip Hop Nation top five hit list.

The group has rocked dozens of shows across the Northeast, including headlining the bill at numerous sold out venues in New Hampshire, the groups home state. Granite State has shared the stage with Method Man, Krumbsnatcha, Royce 5' 9", Devin The Dude, Black Sheep, 7L & Esoteric, C-Rayz Walz, Louis Logic and Akrobatik.

Granite State - Darker Than Blue
Granite State - Gone With The Wind
Granite State - Out Of Sight, Out Of Mind
Granite State - Said & Done

Granite State MySpace

Granite State CD Bay

Blue Scholars, Cyne, Gagle & Granite State

remember to check the webpages (links provided)

World Trade London Centre

2007-05-22T12:55:00.000+01:00

World_Trade_Centre_London

Just a quick post, alerting of the quality available from the UK scene, anyone worth talking about, from the UK has/will be mentioned.

For those of You with Tunnel-Vision & can't see beyond the Atlantic, then heres a good corner for you to progress from.

World_Trades_TV

Also check out the new subsidary - worldtradestv - Important issues, factors & policies affecting us all, whether we like it or not.

The Cotton Wool we tend to be wrapped in is literally burnt from you during viewing. Check it out ASAP.

comin soon...

1. The Beatsmif Presents: Tunnel-Vision Irradication

2. The Procussions....

3. J-Live

4. Jehst

5. Braintax

Jason Medeiros......Of Gods & Girls

2007-05-14T13:23:00.000+01:00

This album is literally flawless, I never post new albums, but heres an exception (well The 1st minute of each track) Everyone needs to hear this......More Hip-Hop in it's True-School format.
A part of the Procussions crew, Mr. J Medeiros performed consostently throughout the 5 Sparrows for 2 Cents (gonna have to do a little post on that soon).

The latest release Of Gods & Girls, was marketed via the very succesful YouTube with the VERY, VERY touching video. "Constance," tis track gives an insight into the overlooked child pornography in a very poignant & thought-provokative style.
After I heard this track I literrally froze (No-Shit), the riff is enough to leave you captivated but the lyrics are the fundamental factor that grabs you.

To be honest I was slightly depressed after hearing this track & I felt kinda pissed-off but this explains a harsh reality of to many seriously sick individuals (I'm a passive wimp, but if I ever came across one of these Phuckers then they'd need god & the Devil herself on thier side). But this is only track 4, Track one is the romantic track called Amelie (featuring a french MC namely 20syl), Jason also rips up another firm favourite of mine Her Wings, Silent Earth is another song addressing the reality of mans ill-thought & actions.

One of the biggest cancers that infect 99% of the planet for me is an apathetic attitude; Apathy covers this chronic & ever common problem. Jason produces himself on this album, his accompanied by Stroh the 89th Key (Also a Procussionist) & a favourite of mine Illmind.

We're neay half-way through 2007 & I'm giving this album of the year, this is gonna seriously hard to push from the top spot.

In fact this is the best album I've heard for ages, Kev Brown was My number One of last year; maybe We've something on par for the Tru-Skool, Nu-Skool Hip-Hop Heads.

Mr. J. Medeiros MySpace

The Procussions Website

The Procussions MySpace

Mr. J Medeiros (07) Of Gods & Girls

Buy It Here

2007-05-12T16:45:00.000+01:00

See-Me On & Tree Make up Primeridian I got thier album a while back, & to Be 100% Don't know to much about them so....now descriptions just Grab it....then Buy It....Its Worth it....Trust (apologies for the vagueness but, lovely weather need the sarotonin)

Primeridian (2002) I'll MeetYou In Greenwich

Asheru & Blue Black (2003) 48 Months

2007-05-12T16:31:00.000+01:00

The Unspoken Heard is the hip-hop collaborative of rapper Asheru and producer Blue Black. The group is often referred to as Asheru & Blue Black of the Unspoken Heard. They began getting significant recognition in underground hip-hop around the turn of the millennium. Their sound is reminiscent of the New York "new school" sound of the early '90s, particularly that of the Native Tongues Posse.

Seriously Funky, Jazzy Hip-Hop in its True-School, New School Form. I can't be bothered describing this.....Just Download it....I Phucking adore this album.....great stuff

Unspoken Heard (03) 48 Months

J-Zone - Music For Tu Madre

2007-05-12T16:08:00.000+01:00

J-Zone is a rapper, producer, and CEO of Old Maid Entertainment. He lives in Queens, New York. J-Zone has enjoyed a large following of underground hip hop aficionados and a sizable European fan base, which continues to grow.

At a young age, he developed and honed his musical abilities by listening to records and playing bass guitar. He later learned the basics of production under the tutelage of DJ Vance Wright (Slick Rick's DJ) in 1994. In 1999, he released Music for Tu Madre, garnering critical acclaim in the hip hop underground, but it was not enough to propel him into the mainstream spotlight. He has since worked with and produced beats for artists such as Biz Markie, Cage, Diversion Tactics, DM & Jemini, High and Mighty, Jehst, Redman, R.A. the Rugged Man, Tame 1, MF Grimm, and Tha Liks.

Usually accompanied by fellow Old Maid Billionaires Huggy, Al-Shid, and Captain Back$lap (J-Zone's more crass, arrogant alter ego), J-Zone's music could be described as somewhat unconventional. He typically uses lots of offbeat samples, which often function as a sort of Greek Chorus. While generally praised for his comedic storytelling, clever punch lines, acerbic wit, and stellar production work, some critics have claimed that his music is crude, juvenile, and misogynistic

Apparently Music For Tu Madre Was his High-School Graduate Project, in which he passed & then went on to sell it out the boot of his car........Classic.

Wihout A Doubt His Best Album (Music For Your Mama)

zonesite

People Under The Stairs......

2007-05-12T10:24:00.000+01:00

Los Angeles residents Michael Turner (Double K) and Christopher Portugal (Thes One) came together as People Under The Stairs in the mid-1990s , through a common love of record digging, making beats and the classic hip hop sound of The Beatnuts and Freestyle Fellowship.
Thes One and Double K worked together making music and soon had a completed debut in the shape of 'The Next Step'. Released in 1998 the album was an unexpected success, especially in the UK, securing the duo a record deal and several overseas tours.

After performing across the globe, Thes One and Double K returned to the studio and came out with another classic 'Question in the Form of an Answer' in 2000. By this time their jazz, funk, rock and soul inspired albums, infamous vinyl collections and energetic live shows had gained them acclaim all over the world, from America and Europe to Australia and Japan.
In 2002 they released O.S.T. - confirming their position as masters of the art in the hip hop scene. An EP '...Or Stay Tuned' quickly followed the year after.

Although widely unrecognized, PUTS is often considered one of the hip hop underground's most prominent acts, with a musical style similar to that of A Tribe Called Quest, The Pharcyde, and fellow Los Angeles group Ugly Duckling. PUTS is also renowned for their incredible live shows, featuring a large amount of crowd interaction and humour.

The array of Jazzy Samples & Inricate Drum Patterns compiled by the consisitent Thes-One opitimises (for me) Hip-Hop at its Purest.

PUTS The Next Step

1stly The Debut Album, The Next Step Which was released, well nearly Ten years ago (1998), seems so recent!

People Under The Stairs (1998) The Next Step

PUTS: Question in the Form of an Answer

The 2econd release came 2yrs later in A Question in the Form of an Answer

People Under The Stairs (2000) Question In The Form Of An Answer

PUTS "O.S.T."

Last & certainly not least the Original Soundtrack which again cme 2yrs later

People Under The Stairs (2002) Original SoundTrack

Four years since their last full-length release, People Under The Stairs have finally returned with another breath of fresh air in full drum-banging, chorus-shouting, feel-good musical form with their long awaited album 'Stepfather'.
"People are really going to be surprised by this album," says Thes One, "We're flipping the script on this one, coming with an extremely progressive approach. We study a lot of music theory and classic material, and this album reflects that."

Once again setting the standard for the rest of hip hop to follow, Double K and Thes One have created their most impressive album to date; released 18th April 2006 on CD (with DVD and poster) and vinyl, be sure to pick it up

P.U.T.S. online

P.U.T.S. MySpace

Thier Currently Touring England If You Can.....Get There! Definately Worth It

May European Tour with Time Machine

11th May - Winterthur, Switzerland, Albani Music Club
12th May - Brighton, UK, Ocean Rooms
13th May - Bristol, UK, Clockwork
14th May - London, UK, Jazz Cafe
16th May - Edinburgh, UK, Cabaret Voltaire
17th May - Glasgow, UK, King Tut's Wah Wah Hut
18th May - Manchester, UK, 'Friends and Family' at The Mint Lounge
18th May - Sheffield, UK, Plug
19th May - Bournemouth, UK, The Consortium

Does Suspatition Have a Deadline....?

2007-04-28T15:50:00.000+01:00

Supasition was born in the small town of Greenville, North Carolina. He was an early fan of Hip Hop music and culture, and began rapping as early as 1986. In 1995, at the age of 18, he began to pursue a career in rap. Over the next seven years, he experienced severe industry mistreatment, receiving the runaround from various labels.

He spent 2 of those years waiting for his contract to expire after he was shelved by Davey DMX's (early RUN DMC producer) Lo Key Records. After a mutual friend introduced him to Cali emcee Rasco, he released the single "Broke Man's Anthem" on Rasco's imprint, Pockets Linted Entertainment. By 2002, he was finally able to release his debut album, 7 Years of Bad Luck, through Freshchest Records.

The title referenced the seven years he spent struggling in the music industry. The project was widely unnoticed and received moderate reviews.

In 2003, he appeared on Cunninlynguists acclaimed SouthernUnderground album. Supastition began receiving more wide attention in 2004, when he entered an Okayplayer record contest. His track "The Williams" (produced by Dutch producer Nicolay) was picked out of over 5000 entries as the winner, and was included on Okayplayer's True Notes, Vol. 1 compilation that year. Billboard Music labeled the song as one of the standout tracks on the compilation. In summer 2004, he appeared on legendary MC KRS-One's album Keep Right, on the song "Still Spittin'". In late 2004, he released an acclaimed EP titled The Deadline.

The single "Boombox" (great track) reached #2 on National College Radio charts and was featured on MTV2's One Life: The Love, The Game. He continued his exposure in 2005, appearing on projects from Little Brother (The Chittlin' Circuit and Separate but Equal mixtapes), Pumpkinhead and Cesar Commanche. In late 2005, he released his second full length album Chain Letters, featuring production from Nicolay, Jake One, Illind and M-phazes. The effort was one of the more acclaimed underground Hip Hop releases of the year. Chain Letters received high praise in magazines such as Scratch, XXL, Elemental, and many other highly respected publications.

Supastition (2004) Deadline EP

The Deadline EP info (wiki)

Supastion on Amazon (Buy it Here)

Supastion on the Japanese Amazon (Buy It Here)

Jazzy Jeff (One of the Greatest)

2007-04-28T10:30:00.000+01:00

The Magnificent DJ Jazzy Jeff

DJ Jazzy Jeff aka Jeffrey Townes was born on January 22, 1965 in Philadelphia known primaraly for his early work with the notorious Will Smith as half of DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince.

Together, the duo had several gold and platinum-selling albums and singles in the late 1980s and early 1990s, earning them the first rap Grammy ever presented in 1989 for Parents Just Don't Understand. When Smith branched out into television with the sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.

DJ Jazzy Jeff is not to be confused with Jazzy Jeff from the earlier hip hop group Funky Four Plus One, which in fact filed and won a lawsuit over the name Jazzy Jeff against Jeff Townes and Jive records when they signed DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince. After DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince broke up, Townes went on to become a prominent R&B, soul, and neo soul record producer, establishing the A Touch of Jazz production company in his native Philadelphia. Among the artists that Jazzy Jeff has helped develop are Jill Scott and Musiq. Even though he separated from Will Smith as music partners, they are still best friends and still occasionally work together. Some songs by Will Smith were produced by Jeff Townes (Ex. Here He Comes), and he has performed on some songs by Will Smith such as "So Fresh" and "Potnas". In addition, he appears in several of Smith's music videos such as "Will2K", "Freakin' It", and "Party Starter".

He, along with DJ Cash Money, is credited with making the transform scratch famous. The scratch was actually created by another Philadelphia DJ by the name Spinbad (not to be confused with DJ Spinbad from the cold cuts crew). On July 2, 2005, DJ Jazzy Jeff performed with Will Smith at the Live 8 concert in Philadelphia. In the past, Will has performed on concerts with DJ Jazzy Jeff for the scratches. Moreover, Will acknowledges him in his music like "Comin' To The Stage" from the album Lost & Found or "Potnas" in his album Willennium.

The Magnificent

Released in 2002 On the great BBE record label, The Magnificent features various artists on different tracks, all contributing their own individual styles to form a cohesive whole. The guests on here range from the established, to the upcoming, and include Boyz II Men's Shawn Stockman, soul singer Jill Scott, acclaimed rapper J-Live, and underground hip hop legend The Last Emperor.
Although Jeff is the chief producer of the album, he nonetheless recruits an assortment of talent, which includes ?uestlove (of The Roots), Masters At Work (Louie Vega & Kenny Dope), and Kev Brown (who contributes 7 of the 18 tracks).

Tracklisting

1 "Da Ntro" (guests: Pauly Yamz & Baby Blak)

2 "Shake It Off" (guest: Chef Word)

3 "For Da Love of Da Game" (guests: Baby Blak & Pauly Yamz)

4 "Break It Down" (guest: J-Live)

5 "How I Do" (guests: Shawn Stockman & Cy Young)

6 "Worldwide" (guests: Baby Blak & Pauly Yamz)

7 "Musik Lounge" (guest: Oddisee)

8 "Rock Wit U" (guest: Erro)

9 "Travelz" (guests: Baby Blak & Crushall)

10 "Scram" (guest: Freddie Foxxx)

11 "My Peoples" (guest: Raheem)

12 "Know Ur Hood" (guests: Chef Word & Pauly Yamz)

13 "Love Saviour" (guests: Flo Brown & Raheem)

14 "Mystery Man" (guests: The Last Emperor)

15 "We Are" (guests: Cy Young & Raheem)

16 "Charmed Life" (guest: J-Live)

17 "We Live In Philly" (guest: Jill Scott)

18 "In Time" (guest: V)

DJ Jazzy Jeff (2002) The Magnificent

DJ Jazzy Jeff (2002) The Magnificent (instrumentals)

Jazz on UK Amazon

Jazz on The Japanese Amazon

LL Cool J - 14 Shots To The Dome & Mr. Smith

2007-04-24T14:53:00.000+01:00

An Old Legend who if you like kinda soled out - namely James Todd Smith III (born January 14, 1968), better known as LL Cool J, is an American hip hop artist and actor. He is best known for romantic ballads like "I Need Love" as well as pioneering pop rap like "I Can't Live Without My Radio", "I'm Bad", "Boomin' System", & "Mama Said Knock You Out". He has also appeared in several films. LL Cool J is an important figure within the hip hop community, and is one of a few hip-hop stars of his era to sustain a successful recording career for more than two decades. He has released 12 albums and a greatest hits compilation so far, with his next album, Exit 13, set to be released sometime in May, 2007. The album will be the last for LL's record deal with Def Jam Recordings, a deal which has lasted more than twenty years, making it the longest single hip hop deal to date.

Around the late 1980s, hip hop began experiencing a shift in consciousness away from the music's early themes of partying and braggadocio, to more socially aware issues such as drug abuse, race and racism, and economic empowerment. LL Cool J, as a result, experienced a drop in popularity due to the view that his music was behind the times and materialistic.

Following this, LL released Mama Said Knock You Out generally leaning towards a tough street image. The record reestablished his reputation in the hip hop community. It spawned three hit singles, "The Boomin' System," "Around the Way Girl," and the title track, which received special notice after LL Cool J's dynamic performance of it during an episode of MTV Unplugged. It was also featured in the film The Hard Way. The album included themes of police misconduct, spirituality along with back-to-basics hip-hop party rocking. Mama Said... eventually went on to sell over two million copies. It marked the first of many self-reinventions LL Cool J would undergo to adapt to hip hop's often changing atmosphere.

After acting in The Hard Way and Toys, he released 14 Shots To The Dome (1993) (definately his best album) to muted sales and mixed reviews, despite producing the small hit "Back Seat of My Jeep." He starred in In the House, an NBC sitcom, before releasing Mr. Smith (1995), which went on to sell over two million copies. Its singles, "Doin' It" and "Loungin", were two of the biggest songs in 1996 and both songs' music videos were hugely successful on MTV. Another of the album's singles, "Hey Lover", featured Boyz II Men sampling Michael Jackson's "Lady of my Life," which eventually became one of the first hip hop music videos to air on American VH1. The song also earned LL a Grammy Award.

In 1996, LL also helped to launch a clothing line named FUBU — an acronym for "For Us, By Us", meaning the clothes were made for, and marketed to, African-Americans by African-Americans. Around this time he became partially involved in the East Coast-West Coast hip hop rivalry when 2Pac dissed him, apparently in response to LL Cool J's "I Shot Ya" and its remix, both of which were featured on his "Mr. Smith" album. Neither of the songs however mention 2Pac or the simmering East Coast-West Coast conflict.

LL Cool J (93) 14 Shots To the Dome

LL Cool J (95) Mr. Smith

If You Want These Then You Know Where to Buy Em'

Common (97) One Day...It'll All Make Sense

2007-03-21T13:21:00.000Z

His 3rd album & for me his best effort to date, The album was mainly prodcued by NO.I.D. who is always ready to put out solid beats.

Album Synopsis

The album's recording was put on hold for up to a year as Common was busy becoming a father. After the birth of his child, Common returned to finish the album, albeit with a newer sense of responsibility, which he relates to his transformation from bachelor to father. He recorded "Retrospect For Life", with Fugees member Lauryn Hill, as a dedication to his new child and, apparently, a previously aborted pregnancy (it remains unknown whether this is based on real events). The song became the first single to be released from the album, and was accompanied by a video (directed by Lauryn Hill), as were "Invocation", "Hungry", and "(Reminding Me) Of Sef" (a eulogy to a close, deceased friend of Common's).

The multi-talented Cee-Lo, who at the time was still a member of Southern Hip hop group Goodie Mob, provides the vocals for the spiritual "G.O.D." (which stands for "Gaining One's Definition"). Rapper Canibus makes an early career appearance on the track "Making A Name For Ourselves", as do veterans De La Soul on "Gettin' Down At The Amphitheater". Other guests include Black Thought, and Q-Tip on "Stolen Moments" Parts "II" and "III" respectively, and Common's future love interest Erykah Badu, on "All Night Long", which was produced by The Roots. Chicagoan poet Malik Yusef, waxes lyrical about his hometown on "My City", and as usual Common's father Lonnie Lynn closes the album out with some words of wisdom on "Pop's Rap Part 2 / Fatherhood".

Although One Day... was better received by record buyers than the rappers' previous album, it was criticized by some longtime Common fans, mainly for its slightly more conventional (read: softer) production. Some felt that No I.D.'s scaled down contribution was a factor in this. Despite this Common has named this as his second favorite album, after Like Water for Chocolate. After the release of One Day... Common would relocate to New York and begin working with the Soulquarians for that album.

Click the link to find more about the very talented soulquarians

pass: juswtcl

Common on Wikipedia

Buy It Here

Common on Discogs

Common (97) One Day.....

Funky DL (2007) Street Swagger

2007-03-20T17:54:00.000Z

Basically This Album is bieng Given away.......Thats right totally free, well 10,000 copies anyway get to Washington Classics I'm not gonna provide the direct link to the album cause some of ya may decide not to visit the site......There were less than 2000 when I grabbed mine....

Theres also a bonus album avaliable

Kausing Much Damage (1994) Bl_ck B_st_rds

2007-03-07T18:19:00.000Z

KMD (Kausing Much Damage, or a positive Kause in a Much Damaged society) first came to light in 1989 as affiliates of Def Jam Recordings' highly talented trio Third Bass, an affiliation that would one day prove its irony. K.M.D. member Zevlove X contributed the concept and a compelling verse on the classic Third Bass jam, "The Gas Face." The crew composed primarily of Zevlove and DJ Sub-Roc kept close ties with emerging talents Third Bass for a couple of years, then went on to record their debut Mr. Hood on Elektra Records in 1991.

On Mr. Hood, K.M.D combined lighthearted humor with divisive political rhetoric, but the overall sentiment was one of youthful positivity. The album featured production from the Stimulated Dummies and a guest spot from Brand Nubian. "Peach Fuzz," a tale of young romance, rippled momentarily, but the crew could not capitalize on their connections to 3rd Bass (even with a "Gas Face" reprise entitled "The Gasface Refill").

Two years later in 1993, tragedy struck the group after DJ Sub-Roc was hit by a car and fatally injured. Devastated and full of bewildered rage, Zevlove and the rest of his crew released the controversial Black Bastards in 1994. The tragic death of Sub-Roc in combination with a newfound black nationalist ire produced a blatant and violent record. However, it was the album cover's artwork depicting a cartoonish Sambo-like character hanging from a gallows that caused the hubbub. The album was pulled from many record stores.

The crew that got its start with Caucasian sensations 3rd Bass now espoused a more militant racial attitude. Despite some inventive sampling including the use of Jody Watley's "I'm Looking for a New Love," the album's frustrated angst did not catch on. Hip-hop at the time was not in need of a savior, what with instant classics appearing fairly regularly. K.M.D's heartfelt and political expressions would go mostly unnoticed.

Remember to Buy it Here

KMD on Discogs

KMD (1991) Bl ck B st rds

Diverse (2003) One A.M.

2007-03-07T17:43:00.000Z

One AM Synopsis

From the mailroom to “Move,” to “One A.M.” and beyond, Diverse innovates. A self-described poet, his rhymes are true. Shunning the pseudo-hard stance taken by some emcees in favor of everyday human experience, Diverse consistently ups the ante. Over the course of numerous releases and collaborations, his rhymes have shown that flash and substance don’t necessarily have to be adversaries.
“Move” was released on Chocolate Industries in 2001, receiving a strong response from critics and listeners alike. A collaboration with Mos Def on the first installment of “Urban Renewal Program” followed soon thereafter; “Wylin’ Out” would go on to dominate college radio airwaves for the better part of the summer. The “Certified/Build” 12” was enough to keep heads happy for a minute, but soon the pressure would be on.

Diverse’s debut full-length “One A.M.” dropped in the latter part of 2003 to critical acclaim, featuring collaborations with Jean Grae, Prefuse 73 and Madlib among others. The tour appearances and showcases that followed packed venues, seeing fans channel the same charismatic energy that keeps our guy in the studio late at night.

One A.M. Tracklisting

01. "Certified" (produced by RJD2)

02. "Uprock" (produced by RJD2)

03. "Big Game" (produced by RJD2)

04. "Ain't Right" (produced by Madlib)

05. "Jus Biz" (produced by Prefuse 73)

06. "Blindman" (produced by K. Kruz)

07. "Explosive" (produced by RJD2)

08. "Under The Hammer" (produced by RJD2)

09. "Flyin' (747)" (produced by Overflo)

10. Prefuse 73's "Amberglis" (Produced by RJD2)

11. "Leaving" (produced by Prefuse 73)

12. "In Accordance" (produced by RJD2)

Diverse (2003) One A.M.

Diverse MySpace

chocolate Industries (label)

Buy His Work Here

Diverse Synopsis

Diverse got his start in the Chicago hip-hop scene while being employed at a post office. He has worked or associated with Chicago hip-hop mainstays such as J.U.I.C.E., Copperpot and Iomos Marad. His debut EP, Move, featuring the track "Time", appeared in 2001. He has professional relationships with RJD2 and Prefuse 73. He contributed to Prefuse 73's album One Word Extinguisher, rhyming on the track "Plastic". Prefuse 73 also produced the original beat for "Wylin' Out", a track which paired Diverse with the beloved New York rapper Mos Def.

After "Wylin' Out" was well-received, Definitive Jux's RJD2 was tapped to remix the song. The remix was selected for inclusion on the 2002 Urban Renewal Program compilation. Both Prefuse 73 and RJD2 contributed tracks to Diverse's 2003 debut full-length, One A.M. Prefuse 73's contributions were the ambient-flavoured beats for "Jus Biz" , "Leaving", and the interlude "Amberglis". RJD2's work on the album is some of the most directly rock and funk-influenced work of his career.

Other producers who contributed to the project were K. Kruz, Overflo, and Madlib. Guest appearances were made by Cannibal Ox's Vast Aire, the fierce Jean Grae, and Quannum Projects' Lyrics Born. In the same year, Diverse was featured on the track "Gray Scale" by Montreal-area DJ Ghislain Poirier. In 2005, Diverse teamed with a Detroit-based crew called Lawless Element, appearing on a track called "...Something." Produced by Magnif.

Summer 2006 saw Diverse participate in the Storm Tour, travelling across North America with tourmates Ugly Duckling, Aceyalone, Mayday! and Wrekonize. In June of 2006, Diverse was featured on the Chocolate Swim E.P., a combined effort of Chocolate Industries, Cartoon Network's Adult Swim, and Mountain Dew. Of the six-track EP, Diverse collaborated with Mos Def for another version of "Wylin' Out," this time a remix by Kut Masta Kurt, and included a remix of his song "Ain't Right" by DJ Mitsu. This EP was available for free download on the Chocolate Swim EP (right click on the blue writing)

Funky DL Jazz Collat

2007-03-07T17:13:00.000Z

just a quick post before I head back to work.......some of Funky DL's work, cut from 12's, EP's & Albums. Theres 17 tracks of some classic DL Jazz cuts'

www.washigtonclassics.com

www.myspace.com/FunkyDL

www.amazon.co.uk

www.amazon.jp

Japanese Amazon - Got some limited edition Stuff + some rare Hip-Hop (definitately worth a visit)

The Funky DL Collat

pass: www.jusmusic.blogspot.com

Nice & Smooth (94) Jewel Of The Nile

2007-03-06T14:15:00.000Z

Nice & Smooth is an East Coast rap duo from New York, composed of Greg Nice (Greg Mays) and Smooth B (Daryl Barnes). Together, they made several albums in the late 1980s and early 1990s to little popular appeal, though their second album (Ain't a Damn Thing Changed, 1989) was a commercial success that included a minor hit in "Sometimes I Rhyme Slow". They are known for their humorous rhymes and catchy hooks. They often appear as guest rappers on albums by the Beatnuts, Gang Starr and Tony Touch among many others. Tupac Shakur was going to sign Greg Nice, Rapper smooth, The Outlawz to his Makavelli label.

Anyway for those who come into the 2nd option If you Like Funky Jazzy Riffs, With Real HEAVY Bass then I suggest you grab this & play it explicitly Loud. Greg Nice has his typical Repetitive flow & Smooth Bee Does exactly what his name suggests.

Buy It Here

Nice & Smooth on Discogs

Greg Nice on Discogs

Smooth Bee on Discogs

Nice & Smooth (94) Jewel of the Nile

2 For 5 Broke (2004) Minds Think Alike

2007-03-06T13:51:00.000Z

Buy It Here

Oktober & Ace Lover are 2 for 5 & this their first coallition is a consistent effort from the duo....I 1irst heard the last track called ''Thah Fowndation'' which originally roped me in.....I naturally persued the Artists not just as duo but individually and found oktobers 1st solo release ''Project: Building'' which WILL be available shortly, But in the meantime This album is seriously worth a listen.

2 For 5 on Discogs

Oktober on Discogs

Ace Lover on Discogs

2 for 5 (2004) Broke Minds Think Alike