Orgone is an 8-piece funk band from North Hollywood, CA who caught my ear from their raw and organic sound, a collective of talented musicians who bring the essence of 70's funk/soul fusion into their contemporary compositions. The range of musical influence that comes out in the music of Orgone is impressive, from horn section arrangements reminiscent of The JB's, to Funkadelic rock-influenced guitar solos, drum heavy compositions of The Meters and soul ballads. These guys have alot of the great traditional feel and unique nuances of funk/soul fusion covered in their music, plus much more to offer.
"or·gone (ôr'gōn) n. A universal life force, a cosmic unit of energy, the creative force in nature. Los Angeles based band Orgone is many souls with a cosmic connection, a natural creative force and musicians who have played together for years. They are self schooled and continue to shape their musical voice as a solid unit of guys who hang, spin records and jam out their shared inspirations. With a rooted sense of funk, soul, afrobeat, deep rhythms and an intimate understanding of dj culture..."
Read more of their bio here at Ubiquity Records
Orgone is: Fanny Franklin, Dan Hastie, Sergio Rios, Stewart Killen, Ethan Phillips, Sean O'Shea, Darren Cardoza, Devin Williams, Joel Bowers.
http://orgonespace.com/
As a proud native of Brownsville, newcomer Maffew Ragazino carries the torch for painting pictures of dark street reality as a lyricist on "Where I'm From", the lead single from his upcoming 'II Kool IV School' project. The one and only Masta Ace joins Maffew over the dark strings of a powerful Nottz production to represent a place of infamy, talent and street pride known as Brownsville Brooklyn: one of the greatest hoods to ever produce Hip Hop music. Check this official video for many authentic visuals of New York, with appearances by Rock of Heltah Skeltah and Sadat X.
Stay tuned to Maffew (acronym for Money and Fame Fuels Everyone’s World) , from the sounds of this single he may be one of the up and coming people you need to follow for an above average gutter, NY Hip Hop sound. I look forward to learning about the choices in producers and MCs he'll be working with, hopefully with the right picks he can continue to bring heat like this. In the video interview below you'll here he's working with DJ Clark Kent.
www.facebook.com/maffewragazino
http://twitter.com/ragazinosr
Behind The Scenes From "Where I'm From", Interview In The Projects
Maffew interviews live and direct from the projects of Brownsville, behind the scenes of the shoot for "Where I'm From". This gives you a better idea of his movement as a promising new act from Brooklyn and how the neighborhood has shaped him, creating the foundation for the reality brought forth in his music. Some inspirational ideas of entrepreneurship, the music industry and thoughts of succeeding in life are given by Maffew in these interviews.
I've got to check out what the Hip Hop scene is like out in this region of the world sometime! Freeway kicks a freestyle over Jay-Z's "The Takeover instrumental.
Ruste Juxx speaks with HipHopAndBS.com about his upcoming Mix CD "Adamantine" a collaboration with UK producer Endemic who handles the total production duties for the project. As he sits in what looks like a park playground of New York, Ruste also reflects on his early days as an Duck Down MC being introduced as a feature on Heltah Skeltah's "Magnum Force" LP. Prepare for aggressive sounds and street representation at it's finest with this latest release from Duck Down records.
Announcement by Duck Down:
"RUSTE JUXX'S ADAMANTINE MIX CD IN STORES SEPTEMBER 14TH:
August 20th, 2010 - Within two years, Ruste Juxx has proved he is Indestructable with his Sean Price co-signed album, then went in for the kill with producer Marco Polo on The eXXecution, and is now claiming his longevity in the underground hip-hop scene, letting it be known that he is strong as Adamantine.
Well known for his strong delivery and hardcore rhymes, Ruste Juxx is back with a new mix CD, Adamantine, a project entirely produced by Endemic. "I first linked up with Endemic three years ago when asked me to be a feature on a project he was working on called Terminal Illness," says Ruste Juxx. "I was on three songs, one with Sean Price, then later on we were going to put out an EP but we wound up knocking out a album. Crazy part is all of this was done just talking online & over the phone. I never met son but my hardcore rhyme style and his murderous production... IT'S ADAMANTINE!"
Adamantine features Duck Down label mates General Steele of Smif N Wessun, Skyzoo and Torae, as well as Ill Bill, Wordsmith, Supreme, and more."
Adamantine hits stores September 14, 2010
Official Track Listing:
1. Adamantine
2. U Kno What Crime It Iz ft Sledge
3. Thrill Is Back ft Reek
4. Music To My Ears ft Skyzoo
5. Skit
6. How U Selling That ft Supreme & Wordsmith
7.Turmoil ft Torae & Supreme
8. 24 Karate Flow ft 34 Click
9. U A Bitch ft Skanks & Reek
10. Skit
11.Mastered The Art ft Reek
12. Rap Assassins ft Ill Bill, Sav Kills, Cyrus Malachi
13. BCC Official ft General Steele of Smif N Wessun
14. Killa Crown Heights ft Skanks, Shatike, Sledge & One Click Bang
Listen to "U Kno What Crime It Iz" ft Sledge
If you are unaware of his work by now, here is a good look into the musical and independent grind of a promising new independent artist from Gary, Indiana known as Freddie Gibbs. Hosted by DJ RTC, this video shows the journey of Gibbs on a self-initiated path to success and notoriety after leaving a major label to navigate the world of independent Hip Hop. From heaters such as "The Ghetto", "Rock Bottom" and other songs which span the gamut of traditional East Coast and current Southern sounds, the music of Freddie Gibbs is the future of ghetto visualization and range of self expression in Hip Hop.
The Hip-Hop Project Radio of Chicago gives impressive interviews with quality artists. Listen as Freddie Gibbs speaks about his new EP 'Str8 Killa' and how Chicago has embraced him as one of their own, even though he's originally from Gary, Indiana. He reflects on his days as an artist of Interscope Records prior to becoming an independent artist and defines the concept of 'Haterville' for the listeners.
Freddie Gibbs Interview on The Hip-Hop Project Radio
The instrumental version of Apollo Brown's The Reset is an exciting listen into one the latest voices of gritty, drum heavy, head-nod production sound of Detroit. As the newest member of the Mello Music Group production team, Apollo Brown grabbed the attention of a dedicated following of Hip Hop listeners on Finale's Pipe Dream & a Promise album and then again as the Detroit Red Bull Big Tune Champion. The Reset is an introduction to the raw sound of Apollo Brown, a solid album which features Black Milk, Buff1, John Robinson, MED, Oddisee, Prince Po, Rapper Big Pooh and yU who lend their lyrical skills to Apollo's soul-drenched production. Keep your ear tuned to the sound of The D, Apollo is the next addition to a collective of artists who are likely to change Hip Hop for years to come.
Visit mellomusicgroup.bandcamp.com for a download of "The Reset Instrumentals".
Hell Razah give you the raw, uncut truth about how he feels the expression of Hip Hop has gone wrong, and gives solutions on where it needs to go.
I like this interview because 9th gives a general overview of new producers to check for while comparing them to some of the all-time greats. His choices of inspiration are collaborating with some of the best MCs to produce lasting, memorable Hip Hop music. 9th seems to have a broad outlook between mainstream and underground artists, this is part of what I believe can help break the divide between the different sections of Hip Hop we have nowadays.
Click here to purchase at UndergroundHipHop.com!
1. Digital Analog (Produced By: Illmind)
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2. Frisbees (Produced By: Illmind)
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3. The Burn Notice feat. Sean Price & Rock (of Heltah Skeltah) (Produced By: Illmind)
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4. Speakers On Blast (Produced By: Illmind)
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5. #Allabouthat (Produced By: Illmind)
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6. Barrel Brothers feat. Torae (Produced By: Illmind)
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7. The Winner's Circle (Produced By: Illmind)
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8. Krylon (Produced By: Illmind)
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9. Kitchen Table (Produced By: Illmind)
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10. The Now Or Never feat. Styles P., Buckshot (of Black Moon) (Produced By: Illmind)
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11. Understanding Riley feat. Rhymefest (Produced By: Illmind)
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12. Langston's Pen (Produced By: Illmind)
Release Date: 28th September 2010
Label: Nature Sounds
Released Format:
CD
Track listing:
01: The Arrival (Intro)
[Performed by Hell Razah]
[Produced by *Dev 1]
02: Negro Angelitos
[Performed by Hell Razah]
[Produced by *Dev 1]
03: Book of Heaven Razah
[Performed by Hell Razah]
[Produced by *Rainmayqah]
04: Medical Kush
[Performed by Hell Razah]
[Produced by Bronze Nazareth]
05: Raised in Hell
[Performed by Hell Razah]
[Produced by Mathematics]
06: Fear of God
[Performed by Hell Razah]
[Produced by *Godz Wrath]
07: Return of the Renaissance
[Performed by Hell Razah, and *R.A. The Rugged Man]
[Produced by ]
08: Cinematic
[Performed by Hell Razah]
[Produced by 4th Disciple]
09: Kids In The Street
[Performed by Hell Razah]
[Produced by *Ayatollah]
10: Skit
[Produced by *Dev 1]
11: A Brooklyn Tale
[Performed by Hell Razah, and Shabazz the Disciple]
[Produced by *Shroom]
12: Selah (A Thug's Prayer)
[Performed by Hell Razah]
[Produced by *St. Peter]
13: Dear Lord (Project Heaven)
[Performed by Hell Razah]
[Produced by *Dev 1]
14: My Testimony
[Performed by Hell Razah, and *Darnell McClain]
[Produced by *Blastah Beatz]
15: Araboth
[Performed by Hell Razah]
[Produced by *Dev 1]
16: Heaven on Earth
[Performed by Hell Razah, Timbo King, and *Darnell McClain]
[Produced by *Blastah Beatz]
17: Armageddon (Heaven & Hell)
[Performed by Hell Razah]
[Produced by *Havoc]
Ras Kass definitely had a top notch rhyme flow during his debut, more than enough technique with the wordplay to separate him from a talented crop of MCs coming out at the time. This appearance on The Stretch Armstrong & Bobbito Show always reminds me of his writing talent, in addition to the deep lyricism he presented throughout "Soul On Ice" and various guest spots. I don't know who the guy rhyming with him is, but Ras steals the show for sure.
Check out an interview during "Soul On Ice", plus more 90's Hip Hop magazine articles at ifihavent.wordpress.com
Bilal and the The Miguel Atwood-Ferguson Ensemble perform Donny Hathaway's classic "Someday We'll All Be Free".
Photography courtesy of Frolab
The Miguel Atwood-Ferguson Ensemble is:
Miguel Atwood-Ferguson (violin, writer/arranger, musical direction)
Bilal (vocals)
Flying Lotus (laptop, effects)
Chris ‘Daddy’ Dave (drums)
Stephen ‘Thundercat’ Bruner (bass)
Aloe Blacc (vocals)
Co$ (vocal)
Evan Francis of Spaceheater (flute)
Dontae Winslow (trumpet)
Joey Dosik of Symbology (alto sax)
Kamasi Washington (tenor sax)
Garrett Smith of Spacheheater(trombone)
Sheila Govindarajan of Sin Sombra (vocals)
Rebekah Raff (harp)
Marcel Camargo of Hour of the Shipwreck (guitar)
Brandon Coleman (keyboards)
Nikki Campbell (percussion)
Re-Discovery Fridays
Going into the weekend, I usually find myself taking a look back maybe a few years into my library for something good which I haven't listened to in awhile, a song that is memorable but may have not received as much recognition as I feel it really deserves. With the speed and abundance of online music release today, there are many times when I feel I'd like to slow down, go back to reflect on a single song that made me feel good just so I can put it back in rotation throughout the weekend.
Finale & Spier1200 "Eye Of The Beholder" (Feat. Invincible & Elzhi) has a strong jazz/Hip Hop vibe unlike anything I've heard in recent years. The song lends from a unique style of early-mid 90's Hip Hop in combining boom-bap with the most mellow of Jazz sounds as the musical background to each MCs deep, poetic imagery. From their album "Develop" on Soul Step Records.
Purchase "Develop" by Finale & Spier at Access Hip Hop
TRACK LISTING
1. A New Beginning
2. The Backstory (feat. Bilal Salaam)
3. Trouble Makers
4. The Ring (feat. Jazz / Wordsworth / Invincible)
5. Fly Love Song (feat. 5ela)
6. Life Lesson
7. Frequency
8. Family Portrait (feat. Jazz)
9. Eye Of The Beholder (feat. Invincible / Elzhi)
10. The Bigger Picture (feat. Supastition)
11. All About Us (feat. Neco Redd)
12. Closing Remarks
13. One Sound Two Feet (Bonus Track)
14. History (Bonus Track) (feat. Spiryt)
The Returners from Poland are an example of a new wave of international Hip Hop producers who consistently bring the classic neck-snapping sound into songs with upcoming and established talent, with a fresh, new twist. El Da Sensei and Rakaa sound hungry and determined as ever, that's most likely due to the dope production sound of The Returners. "Knowledge Is The Key" featuring Rakaa Iriscience is the debut single to El Da Sensei & The Returner's forthcoming LP, 'Global Takeover 2: Nu World' (GT2) which drops on October 12th, 2010. Check out the album trailer below, direct from the studio sessions.
This was a part of the absurd foolishness the New York tri-state was fortunate to hear from Dirty on his promo run for the album "Return To The 36 Chambers". I think Ol' Dirty Bastard's radio interview and freestyles of this time were more insane than some of the album material itself! It blew my mind to hear such a wild beast emerge from The Wu-Tang Clan in 1995. This berserk moment of FM radio shows how Dirty provided comic relief at a point when Hip Hop started to become even more more hardcore and serious.
I haven't heard a Hip Hop album that represents the climate of Los Angeles quite as dark and aggressive as this, I think the cover image says it all. EQ "Out The Ash Tray Of L.A." takes a departure from the traditional sounds and mood you might expect from a West Coast MC, into hard edged, East Coast inspired production with cutting-edge battle lyricism and a few touches of live instrumentation in some songs. "Out The Ash Tray Of L.A." is no-filler, go for broke underground Hip Hop, an example of the battle driven hunger which still exists in the heart of East and West Coast MCs focused on ripping the mic apart. Don't be depressed by the darkness of the cover because the drive shown by each MC on this album is a light of hope towards the future of underground Hip Hop.
A couple of my favorite songs:
"Out The Ash Tray Of L.A." features underground heavyweights such as Planet Asia, Outerspace (of Jedi Mind Tricks), Copywrite, Writersblock (of Visionaries), Planet X, Block McCloud, Pumpkinhead, Sick Since and many more. Listen to and download the entire album at eqmusic.bandcamp.com
Just Blaze speaks casually to a live studio audience of producers and gives some insight into his experience as a producer in demand. The topics range from the difference between a beatmaker and producer, the pros and cons of sampling, competitiveness as a producer and the progression of his working methods over time. One of the most interesting parts of the interview is learning how he gained the inspiration from a Youtube sensation for producing his largest record to date in T.I.'s "Live Your Life".
To Producers: The 6th ASCAP "I Create Music" EXPO will be back at the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel in Los Angeles, April 28-30, 2011, Be sure to mark the date in case you decide to make the trip.
This video of Ayatollah using an Akai MPC 60 looks good enough to run as an ad for the company if Akai ever decided to re-release MPC 60s, I'd probably be eager to buy one as a fan of Hip Hop after watching. It's interesting to see producers like him, Marco Polo, Premier and others who don't mind working with floppy disks and worn 80's equipment in this age of digital convenience.
Amazon.com | Undergroundhiphop.com
Photography by bigbabygsus.
This audio of De La Soul performing at one of New York's best summer Hip Hop events is courtesy of SubsoniqRadio.com, visit their site and tune into their radio show. Enjoy!
The audio gear manufacturer made famous to Hip Hop through the work of producers such as Marley Marl, Paul C., The Bomb Squad, Pete Rock and Large Professor approaches it's 40th year in business. I appreciate the sound of E-MU products more each day when comparing the definitive late 80's/90's Hip Hop made on a 1200 which offered a heavy, gritty sound, to the more popular digital audio workstation sound of today.
Adagio! "My Girl" 1997 EMO Recordings
Whatever people decide to use or how to express themselves in the future, I hope I can continue to hear creations that have a warm, analog sound of sampled vinyl used by producers who made an effort to create alot with little resources with this type of gear. These machines gave producers more options of looping, but with enough limitation to keep from going too far, it's that sort of simplicity I define as Hip Hop sound 'til this day.
From emu.com:
"In 2011, E-MU will be 40-years old. Going 40-years strong for any business is quite an accomplishment even in the best of economic times. As one of the early premier music and audio technology leaders, E-MU has spent those 40-years making cool and innovative products for musicians and for professional audio use. As we approach our 40th Birthday milestone, we are considering developing a special new product or maybe even bringing back or updating an E-MU legacy product from the past. We would like you to help us decide on which product that may be. Go to our Facebook Fan Page, look for the 40th Birthday discussion and let us know your thoughts and desires "
http://www.facebook.com/EMUSystems
E-MU mentioned in June 2010 issue of Keyboard Magazine. Sampler Evolution (Page 74).
In this interview from his hometown of Dallas, producer Symbolic One gives details on his continuous work path through collaborations with Kanye West, Rhymefest and new expectations for his next album as a member of Strange Fruit Project. It has been a good listening experience to hear his work on "The Art Of Onemind" album up to his recent digitally-released instrumental albums in gathering a collection of newer artists to make music which is not only on another level of head nodding, sampling enjoyment, but very inspirational in it's messages. I am glad to see his work continue to gain the amount of recognition it deserves as a producer with great potential.
Check out this video of S1's son Vohn Beatz showcasing his own music at the 2010 Texas Urban Music producer showcase. The beatz and dedication at his age are something to witness, but the root of his abilities seems to come from the support of his family, which is always important.
For someone who laced the Hip Hop world with a significant number of bangers in recent years, this guy sounds real humble. Which he should because he still comes from the perspective of an average 9 to 5 working person/Hip Hop lover who eventually carved his own path to self employment as a producer. In part 1 of an interview with Grind Music Radio, Seattle producer Jake One reflects on coming from working a regular job at a courthouse counter to slowly becoming a sought-after producer by using opportunities to his advantage. It's funny how he remembers the day he started to gain recognition, but shyed away from it. Whether you're an aspiring producer or shooting for any other goal in life, this is a good interview to sit down and learn from.
"Slinky" by John Murtaugh really shows the interesting sound gained from the 1969 Moog synthesizer when used by a talented composer from a jazz fusion perspective of the 70's. On the album "Blues Current", John Murtaugh uses the fourth Moog ever manufactured, displaying an image of this amazing machine proudly on the back cover. The sound attained on "Slinky" feels mysterious and edgy, but with touches of funky jazz sound throughout for an dark, cinematic sound. John wasn't the only one to have a picture of the Moog on an album, it seemed to be a small trend between more obscure artists of the time who embraced the Moog sound, showing off this new tool of the trade to their listeners.
Hear what Danny Murtaugh has to say about his father's work "Blues Current" which features Bernard Purdie and Herbie Hancock here at his site, www.dannymurtaugh.com
John Murtaugh "Blues Current" 1970 Polydor Records available on vinyl at CDandLP.com
Dicer by Novation is a compact cue point, looping controller which allows quicker access and control for Digital DJs over song cue points, controls effects and looping functions. This device which is designed for Serato Scratch Live and Native Instruments' Scratch Live is assignable to your controls, from triggering samples and effects to browsing for the next song to play from your laptop's iTunes library. This palm-size controller fits at the corner of your Technics or CDJ turntable for easy access as a new point of access to your tools in the DJ setup. From the video demonstration of Dicer below, I am convinced this innovative technology may virtually eliminate the need to reach from the turntables to your laptop, giving much more creative freedom to Digital DJs.
Watch a live demonstration of Dicer from Novation TV, also words about the product from Jay Electronica's DJ, DJ TJ the King.
"Now you have musicians digging, it started with the love for his music": Dj Spinna
From The 2010 Brooklyn Hip Hop Festival is an in-depth discussion on the legacy and influence of J Dilla, also a reflection upon the origins of Hip Hop culture based on the strength of his work. For some, a casual conversation about J Dilla's music can easily relate towards thoughts about how his music has changed the lives of people, but for others it can inspire deeper discussion into the techniques of Hip Hop. This is one of those deep discussions to be referenced for years to come, where producers Waajeed, Raydar Ellis, Q-Tip and DJ Spinna express their thoughts, experience and memories. This panel features technicians of Hip Hop who still show a genuine love for the music as if they were still new to it. It is nice to hear discussions like this every once and awhile to learn and gain a different perspective of music beyond the corporate entities that sometimes overshadow the passion of people creating the music itself. J Dilla's music is a testament to love of the artform and culture, first and foremost as a recording artist.
Check for an appearance by J Dilla's mother Ma Dukes and Q-Tip, plus live performance by The J Dilla Ensemble at the end of the video playlist.
![Nyce Da Future – Still Infamous: Free P Edition [Mixtape].jpg](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVX_6UcQkpYW-gy0r4-KidiSizaHqDE7ypOuSYZiHDhAb3i2mY1l0yAi2VqZG4biQJTMxT24uuISwcQOh9BYkSwFc3Vr91DRqWbNq5iq3FQvYnhyphenhyphen8_57NLZpABP1FxZaNIsfrGEN6x-Goe/?imgmax=800)
The latest mixtape from Nyce Tha Future of The Infamous Studios features brand new production from Havoc, Alchemist and Sid Roams with appearances from La The Darkman, a sure-shot line up of talent for a dedication toward Prodigy's upcoming release date. You may have heard Nyce as a new Mobb affiliate on Havoc's "The Kush", J-Love's "Mobb Misses" and Havoc's more recent internet singles. His rhyme style and persona stand out on each track I've heard him on, helping to bring a more current flavor of MC to the refined, street sound of Mobb Deep. Thanks to Onsmash.com for the release of this project.
01. La The Darkman – Intro
02. Nyce Da Future – I Got The Drop (feat. Mobb Deep & La The Darkman) (Prod. by Havoc) Listen
03. Mobb Deep – That NY Bullshit (Prod. by Havoc)
04. Nyce Da Future – Real Talk (feat. Havoc & Cory Gunz) (Prod. by Havoc)
05. Mobb Deep – I’m A Thug (feat. Raekwon)
06. Nyce Da Future – Who The Fuck Is This (feat. Mobb Deep & Cashis)
07. Nyce Da Future – Shoot A Nicca (feat. Vic Damone & 40 Glocc)
08. La The Darkman – I Ain’t Lettin Shit Slide
09. Nyce Da Future – Forever Be Guilty (feat. Cau2G$ & Cory Gunz)
10. Nyce Da Future – Highlife (feat. Cash Bills)
11. Prodigy – Sugar Pop (Prod. by Alchemist) Listen
12. Nyce Da Future – Hot Summer (feat. Havoc) (Prod. by Havoc)
13. Tony Yayo – So I Don’t Hurt Nobody (Prod. by Havoc)
14. Mobb Deep – BuckWildSpansihHorns (Prod. by Havoc)
15. Nyce Da Future – 3 The Hardway (feat. Havoc & Cash Bills) (Prod. by Havoc)
16. Nyce Da Future – High As A Helicopter (feat. Prodigy & 40 Glocc) (Prod. by Alchemist)
17. Mobb Deep – Ya’ll Can’t See Me (Prod. by Havoc)
18. La The Darkman – Figaro Chains (feat. Havoc) (Prod. by Havoc)
19. Nyce Da Future – What Time It Is (feat. Cau2G$ & Un Pacino)
20. Big Noyd – T.O.N.Y.
21. Nyce Da Future – We Rollin’ (feat. 40 Glocc & Prodigy) (Prod. by Havoc)
22. Havoc – Ribs (Prod. by Havoc)
23. Havoc – Letter To P (Prod. by Havoc)
24. Prodigy – Welcome To State Prison (Prod. by Sid Roams)
25. Willie The Kid – MI40 Weighs A Ton (Prod. by Lee Bannon)
This is a funny freestyle by Rhymefest, it brings a smile to my face every time I hear it, for the few times I've heard him freestyle live on radio it's always been an entertaining listen. When I say freestyle I do mean freestyle, this is an off the top of the head display of skills and his humorous personality over DJ Premier production. The fact he's spitting spontaneous is what makes it a good listen. The session starts off with a Tragedy Khadafi beat, but gets more live once the Premo beat kicks in. I guess Premier just has something about his production that makes MCs give their best on the mic.
Check out the album "El Che" by Rhymefest at his site, elchethemovement.com
Knitting Factory Brooklyn Presents: Brand Nubian performing "In God We Trust"in it's entirety.
Featured guests included: The Legion, DJ Dante Ross (Stimulated Dummies/SD50's)
Knitting Factory Brooklyn
Wed, September 1, 2010
361 Metropolitan Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Enjoy this contemporary jazz cover of Ronnie Foster's "Mystic Brew" by the Vijay Iyer Trio. This song is better known to the common Hip Hop fan as source material for A Tribe Called Quest's love classic "Electric Relaxation" from"Midnight Marauders". I am one listener of music who appreciates both songs equally, the cover by Vijay Iyer brings back appreciation and memories ofthe first time I discovered these great songs.
The original version of "Mystic Brew" is written from the perspective of 70's jazz fusion, a song which is filled with a warm combination of vibes, funk drumming and sharp organ sounds which come to the forefront of the composition, highlighting Ronnie Foster as an organist. Iyer's crafts a 2009 towards traditional Jazz sound, his work as pianist, composer and bandleader are backed by the upright bass of Memphis-bred bassist/composer Stephan Cump and drumming of Marcus Gilmore. In this cover, Vijay ensures a similar exciting rise in the instrumentation throughout, one of the great defining writing elements of the original 1972 "Mystic Brew".
Amazon.com | iTunes
"The Sandwich Shop" finds DonWill and Von Pea of Tanya Morgan using their knack for slick and imaginative wordplay to form a collection of memorable, fun-filled songs over the instrumentation of The Roots' "Late Night With Jimmy Fallon" jam sessions. The combination of free-flowing creativity and skill in each MC's performance with the funky, improvisational sound of a tight band creates a listening atmosphere which reminds me of how much fun I had listening to skits from The Pharcyde's classic debut album.
This is an example of when music has the potential to be at it's best by providing an element of enjoyment in the process of recording which translates back into the listening experience. "The Sandwiches Shop" feels without the restrictions of free-thinking and creative control, just a collaborative effort of talented MCs and producers getting down and letting their emotions go on a track.
Once In A Lifetime
Sizuuuuuuuurpin
Head Slicer
Spain (ft. Chick Corea)
The Juice of Chicago
Baatin
Woman
Choir Fire
Teen Town
Cant Keep Headphones on Head
Red Toe Nail Bashing
Blinded By The Light (No Douche Here)
Caveman for Dennis Quaid
Wan Cook Soup
Someone Is Late To Dentist Appointment
I Get Lifted
Werewolf Barmitzvah
Like This Anna Torv
Breezin (ft. George Benson)
EvenzarahlikesTHISone
The Suits
Usher In That Choir
If anybody's got a story to tell about the making of classic Hip Hop records it's Pharoahe. Watch the latest installment from one of the best online video series, True Hip Hop Stories With D-Nice.
Duck Down Records has announced that 9th Wonder & Buckshot are currently mixing their 3rd studio album together, entitled, "The Solution", so stay tuned for new music, interviews & upcoming videos from the duo. Here is "Concrete Jungle," an unreleased track from 9th Wonder & Buckshot's vault, video directed by B Green. This song should serve as a nice preview of more good music to come from the forthcoming album.
Watch as EPMD, Big Daddy Kane and The Artifacts run through a number of their classics in one video playlist, video courtesy of The 1134mixshow.
When I discovered this mural of DJ Premier and The Guru was being created in my hometown of New York, I knew I had to make the trip to see what turned out to be a nice work of street art proudly displayed in a borough of New York which remains true to it's traditional elements.
On my arrival at the 174th St. station of the Bronx, I was happy to discover a part of the community that has remained more socially and economically unchanged over time than my own neighborhood of Harlem which is undergoing large changes by corporate America. To witness a Gangstarr mural in the heart of the Bronx also brought back a sense of reality to where I was standing, this is the home of Hip Hop and a place like none other which for the most part still belongs to the people. I can only hope this mural which serves as a true symbol of Hip Hop remains untouched by outside corporate forces who threaten to exploit inner city culture rather than support, which is similar to how I feel about the treatment of Hip Hop in mass media.
After walking awhile through the neighborhood I finally arrived between Webster and Park in The Bronx to find the mural located in a small, non-commercial area between 2 buildings near the underpass of a highway known as the Cross-Bronx Expressway. It was unexpected to find it in such a secluded spot but I guess as a graf artist this is an ideal place to concentrate on creating a work of art without distractions. As a huge Gangstarr fan I was hoping it would be more exposed to the public view like a number of other murals dedicated to Hip Hop I've witnessed over the years. The artists did a good job in capturing the likenesses of Premier and Guru, the color scheme of purple and the accuracy of the famous chain & star logo is well done.
As I made my way back home on that hot day I caught a vibrant sunset towards the west which was nice. The experience was memorable in visiting a part of The Bronx I hadn't before, seeing some great art and getting a sense of the thriving community who created a culture which DJ Premier and The Guru represent to the fullest.
The interview starts around the 2 hour mark of the 4 hour show, since Dres was late to the radio station that night. He reflects on the early days of making Hip Hop history as Black Sheep from in-depth details of production with Lawnge, influences gained from his upbringing that went into the music to memories of the early 90's lifestyle as a successful, breakout artist. Dres also speaks with great honesty about the ups and downs of the record industry experience from his perspective, showing that perception can sometimes be far from reality.
This interview is an awakening look into behind the scenes aspects of the music business for the beginner, as Dres explains the many obstacles he navigated himself through up to the present day to emerge towards independent success by using his greater belief of self as an artist. The genuine love and concern he has for the people of Hip Hop is inspiring to hear in this interview, this is someone who has witnessed the large cultural changes over time and willing to provide the most positive outlook from his experience. Get ready for the 20th anniversary of "A Wolf In Sheep's Clothing" Tour next year where Dres and Mista Lawnge will reunite once again as Black Sheep.
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The iconic group from Brooklyn, New York perform some of their best songs released over a 15 year span of classic street-defining Hip Hop., Enjoy this live stream of The Boot Camp Click performing at the Splash! Festival in Germany.
Smif-N-Wessun - Timz N Hood Check - Wreck
Smif-N-Wessun - Let's Git It On - Wreck
Mary J. Blige feat. Smif-N-Wessun - I Love You (Remix) - MCA
Smif-N-Wessun - Stand Strong - Wreck
Sean Price - Gang Leader - Unreleased
Sean Price - Figure Four - Unreleased
Sean Price - Start Of The Ending - Unreleased
Heltah Skeltah - Operation Lock Down - Duck Down
Heltah Skeltah - Everything Is Heltah Skeltah - Duck Down
Heltah Skeltah - The Art Of Disrespekinazation - Duck Down
Boot Camp Clik - Trading Places - Duck Down
Sean Price - Unreleased
Cocoa Brovaz feat. Raekwon - Black Trump - Duck Down
Sean Price - P-Body - Duck Down - Duck Down
Boot Camp Clik - And So - Duck Down
M.O.P. - Ante Up (Interlude)
Smif-N-Wessun - Bucktown - Wreck
Heltah Skeltah feat. Starang Wondah & Doc Holiday - I Ain't Havin' That - Duck Down
Sean Price - Boom Bye Yeah - Duck Down
Smif-N-Wessun feat. Rock & Joell Ortiz - Stomp - Duck Down
Heltah Skeltah & O.G.C. - Leflaur Leflah Eshkoshka - Duck Down
Super Beagle - Dust Out A Sound Bwoy - Techniques
Damian Jr. Gong - Welcome To Jamrock - Tuff Gong
Smif-N-Wessun - Sound Bwoy Bureill - Wreck
Thanks to Red Bull Music Academy for providing the audio recording of the show.
Another DJ Khalil banger featuring Chace Infinite the other half of Self Scientific, SK and Tha Liks associate Phil Da Agony (who used to be a group). The use of organ sounds on this track is unlike anything I've heard in Hip Hop so far, a fine example of Khalil's unique style of dark production. Look for more great music from the Self Scientific camp in their own releases and collaborations with other emerging West Coast talent, they seem to be leaders in the future sound from this region.
I appreciate the personality and realness these two bring to the current landscape of Hip Hop music, also the futuristic rhythm/bounce in their production. Witness the unique qualities that make the music of Freddie Gibbs and Black Milk something to look out for in this performance clip at SOBs nightclub in New York from 8/3/10.
More Black Milk live performance footage from SOB's:
"Give The Drummer Some" from "Tronic"
"So Gone" from "Popular Demand"
"Sound The Alarm" from "Popular Demand"
"Keep Going"
This song by Mercy , Mercy is another one of the great examples of 80's R&B to emerge from the U.K., a song which is a bit overlooked so I thought I'd share it here who never had the opportunity to hear the great sounds. "What Are We Gonna Do About It?" brings many of the smooth signature sounds which place U.K. 80's R&B artists in a category of their own, through memorable song writing about love over outstanding vocal parts and synth-based, funk instrumentation. The song flows with a feeling of escapism but a level of energy and rhythm to make you move at the same time, the bass guitar groove is great throughout. This is the type of song which stands out among other genres of music I listen to as the best definitions of a party groove.
Here are 2 of my favorite songs from Fresh Daily's latest project "Mothership/Land". I think these give a good idea of the range of sound, thoughts and ideas he presents on the album. I appreciate hearing an MC like Fresh who has a considerable amount of talent and personality and is unafraid to take chances, as shown on this latest project.
The first song "ALLBLACK (Menelik)" is a good start if you are discovering Fresh Daily, he defines himself and what he represents in the most straight-forward sense of sharp lyrical skills and traditional Hip Hop sound.
Check the dreamy, Dilla-esque vibe of "Thankx", Fresh Daily shows his appreciation for the important things in life. I think I hear some Nintendo game samples on this song too, which helps in the nice nostalgic vibe it brings.
The new album "Mothership/Land" is available at Fresh Daily's Bandcamp, featuring production by BENAMIN, CALVIN THE GENIUS, DEVONWHO, HI-RES, FLYING LOTUS, SCOTT FREEBASS, MELO-X, MNDSGN, SAMIYAM, FLYAMSAM, J DILLA, DJ MENTPLUS
On August 24, the Audio Engineering Society of New York is hosting a 40th anniversary commemorative ceremony to Electric Lady Studios and the legacy of Jimi Hendrix. The legendary guitarist opened Electric Lady Recording Studios at 52 West 8th Street in New York City's Greenwich Village on August 26, 1970 and passed away on September 18, 1970 at the age of 27. Electric Lady Studios thrives to this day as one of the greatest audio facilities of music production in New York servicing a variety of notable artists ranging between Hip Hop, Neo-Soul, Pop and Rock. My personal favorites artists to ever use the studio such as Common, Jay-Z and Beyoncé, Reflection Eternal, Erykah Badu and The Roots are all people who would change our view of music over the past decade, creating classics and paving new directions of social, cultural change. Some of my most treasured recordings of music have been produced at Electric Lady by musical icons such as Stevie Wonder, Prince, Chuck Berry, The Rolling Stones and Curtis Mayfield.
The 40th anniversary ceremony to Electric Lady Studios will feature a panel including Jimi’s sister, Janie Hendrix, CEO/president of Experience Hendrix, LLC; Eddie Kramer, who engineered Hendrix’s recording sessions; studio architect/acoustician John Storyk, longtime Electric Lady engineer Tony Platt (AC/DC, Foreigner); and Grammy Award-winning engineer Bob Margouleff (Stevie Wonder). The A.E.S. will also include guest artists who have recorded at Electric Lady throughout its 40-year history.
David Bialik (AES New York Section Committee Member): “Our goal for this dual event is to honor one of the longest-lived studios in NYC’s history, and to pay tribute to the indelible mark its founder has left on contemporary music. While admission is limited to 60 attendees, CBS will provide streaming of the event via the AES Website, as artists, engineers, producers and studio designers reminisce about Hendrix and his studios’ amazing history.”
Registration for this event is limited to 60 attendees and begins on Thursday, August 5, at 10 a.m. EST and concludes on Thursday, August 12 at 10 a.m. EST. The AES requires each attendee to provide his or her full name and affiliation for its security list.
For further information, visit the AES New York section, www.electricladystudios.com and Experience Hendrix.
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