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Collectors Item - Music, Art and Life: October 2011
Stream: Evil Needle - 2011 Beats Collection

By JR on 4:20 PM

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I've been intrigued by the sounds of Evil Needle upon the first listen. As a producer who is based in the rhythm of Hip Hop he carries a range of emotion to his work which strikes the soul with each track. I appreciate a futuristic and cleaner-than-normal approach to production every now and then and Evil brings that while keeping the traditional feeling of beats in his music. Although Evil calls this collection "Beats", I think these go above and beyond beats. These are polished compositions which carry the loop sensibility of a forward-thinking Hip Hop beatmaker. Sit back and enjoy the vibes.

Sauce Money Flows To A DJ Premier Beat In '98 on Stretch & Bobbito


On a 1998 episode of Stretch & Bobbito's Hot 97 radio show, Sauce adds on to where his partner Jay-Z left off, spitting fire over DJ Premier's sinister "A Million and One Questions" remix beat. Enjoy this cassette rip from my rare radio archives.

Elliott Randall - "Lovely Day" feat. Bernard Purdie, Chuck Rainey & JAG






The classic Bill Withers' tune, "Lovely Day" gets a fresh vocal makeover courtesy of Elliott Randall featuring JAG on vocals, Bernard Purdie on drums and Chuck Rainey on guitar. This definitely a song which was written to leave a smile of the face of the listener, and the vibe of Bill's original masterpiece translates beautifully in this 2006 cover. From Elliott Randall's album "Still Reelin'" available now at bandcamp.

Jose James - "Trouble" (the Oh No Remix)

By JR on 10:35 AM

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Minneapolis bred vocalist José James teams with Oh No who provides this soulful remix of "Trouble". José is a true talent of R&B to watch for in 2011 and beyond, a formerly trained musician who has been mentored by greats such as Chico Hamilton and the pianist Junior Mance and has worked on songs with Flying Lotus, Moodymann, Taylor McFerrin, and DJ Mitsu the Beats. Oh No is showing his range on this remix as a prolific producer who has the ability to branch out of Hip Hop and provide ear-opening sounds.

Written by José James + Scott Jacoby 

Remix by Oh No @ohnothedisrupt 
www.stonesthrow.com/ohno @josejamesmusic 
www.josejamesmusic.com

Tree City - "Chemistry" (produced by 14KT)

By JR on 10:10 AM

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I believe there is something truly special about the art of lyricism which plays upon visions of life, especially moments which bring about the good feeling of recognizing the chemistry between you and your significant other. Tree City (Cheeks, Clavius Crates, General P., and DJ Cataclysmic) rock impressive rhyme flows over 14KT production for "Chemistry", a great dedication women from the perspective of an MC.

LÀ The Darkman – "No Peace Treaty" (prod. by Blastah Beatz)

By JR on 9:41 AM

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The song is short but banging as Wu Tang affilate La The Darkman teams with Blastah Beatz. This sounds like a very promising MC/producer duo who will hopefully release more music together in the future.

J. Rawls Presents "A Tribute To De La" (from The Liquid Crystal Project 3)

By JR on 9:31 AM

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This track flows with plenty of soul and emotion as J. Rawls incorporates ideas of traditional Jazz into the sound of Hip Hop. This is the type of music that might make you wonder what the creative atmosphere of the studio session was like. De La fans should recognize the interpolation of a tune from "Stakes Is High" which was masterfully executed by Rawls' band which adds an extra element of Dilla nostalgia to this great tribute.

Check out more from J. Rawls' Liquid Crystal Project series here.

StryfeD & ILLingsworth - "Shells"

By JR on 8:46 PM

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StryfeD embraces the power of street knowledge on "Shells", a song which not only depicts the act of gun spray but puts you right in the heat of the moment which occurs from the use of a firearm . ILLingsworth provides heat on the boards for a track which matches the intensity of StryfeD's visuals.

Sav Killz & Planet Asia - "Incarcerated Scarfaces" Freestyle

By JR on 8:41 AM

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Listen to this tight display of lyricism as East meets West over a classic RZA beat. This reminds me of the mixtape cassette era where freestyle verses were short but left a powerful impression.

Download: Pete Rock & CL Smooth - Live at Jazz Cafe 2004


With great stage presence and chemistry Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth return for a 2004 U.K. performance, commanding an enthusiastic crowd with classic after classic. After years in the game, these guys still give a show which will entertain even the die-hard fan from the variety of surprises included. The beat changes and crowd participation keep the performance flowing with excitement through the entire set. This is a definition of classic in the form of a Hip Hop duo.  
 
 
 
Download - Pete Rock & CL Smooth - Live at Jazz Cafe 2004
 
 
 

Blastah Beatz - "Graduate Studies" Sampler

By JR on 11:23 AM

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In the midst of a growing career of laying tracks for great MCs such as Kool G Rap, Busta Rhymes and Inspectah Deck, Portuguese producer Blastah Beatz presents the sampler for his mixtape "Graduate Studies" . The project features a variety of unreleased songs, freestyles and remixes featuring Blastah production and is mixed by DJ Fishr Pryce. Guest emcees on the 21-track CD include Joe Budden, Cappadonna, Chamillionaire, Papoose and Canibus, among others.

"Graduate Studies" is set for release on November 10th through the French label Ascetic Music and is a precursor to Blastah's debut producer album entitled 'Ph. D in Beatmaking' which will be released in Spring of 2011. Check out the sounds of this emerging producer who has caught the ear and cosign from a notable crop of established MCs. 

Slakah The Beatchild - "Beat Tape vol.5ive"


The prolific and soulful Slakah The Beatchild returns with "Beat Tape vol.5ive", a project which he describes as "fun loving soulmatic joints for your listening pleasure". I would agree with that description, Slakah shows his musical ability in the form neck-snapping instrumental with beautifully layered samples and touches of live instrumentation.

If you would like to purchase a high quality version of a beat for your project, email him at beatchildmusic.beats@gmail.com.



Black Cherry Jazz - "American Tango" (Weather Report Cover)

By JR on 10:49 AM

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Black Cherry from Curitiba, Brazil are definitely funky and pay a wonderful tribute to the unorthodox Jazz fusion style of Weather Report with their Rock-tinged cover of "American Tango". The lead guitar featured on this cover lends more of a Rock influence to the composition, but overall Black Cherry manages to keep the dark, improvised Jazz instrumentation style which Weather Report displayed on the original. Some of you may know the 1974 song by Weather Report to be sampled by the likes of Diamond D, Brand Nubian and O.C. who as Hip Hop artists used it to create classics in their own right.

In covering this very original style of Jazz, Black Cherry show one of their main influences and the qualities which make them original as an experimental band. These talented musicians from Brazil bring a high standard of Jazz, Funk and Rock fusion which rival the work of pioneers within the genre. 

Here more of Black Cherry at soundcloud.com/blackcherryjazz

Common – “The Leaks” (Let’s Move, Six Feet Over, Chi City, Ghetto Dreams)

By JR on 10:17 AM

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A fan and member of soundcloud as been kind enough to compile Common's leaked tracks of 2011 in this set for streaming and download. Overall, I think Common has left us with some gems which are designed to make you feel good and leave insightful messages in his style of providing deep content of life in songwriting. I think he's done a good job in advancing his musical style while keeping the essence which fans have loved hearing over his career. I'll definitely be keeping these songs in rotation for awhile.

Unfortunately "Dreamer, The Believer" has been pushed back to December 2011 but this compilation should hold you over 'til the album finally arrives.

Koncept "Hear, Hun?" (Produced by Tranzformer, Cuts by DJ Brace)

By JR on 9:40 AM

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Koncept's entertaining wordplay begs for attention from those who appreciate the art of lyricism. "Hear, Hun" features the production of Tranzformer who lifts a soul sample from The Lovelites, adding heavy chopping and drums. The song is laced with cuts by DJ Brace for a song which upholds the traditional sound of independent New York Hip Hop.

Union & Damu The Fudgemunk - "Time Leak" (Preview)

By JR on 5:27 PM

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This sounds interesting. I've been digging both the melodic, synth production sound of Union and the dusty, Jazz-inspired boom-bap of Damu The Fudgemunk for awhile now, hopefully you have had the chance to as well. On the new single "Time Leak" they collaborate with Talib Kweli for a forthcoming project on Fat Beats records which will be available November 1, 2011.

"Holy Motion" by Patrick Butler

By JR on 7:00 PM

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This is that summertime, 70's Jazz fusion sound which features plenty of Rhodes keys combined with Funk instrumentation to put you in a zone. "Holy Motion" is my favorite from Patrick Butler’s third jazz CD release "TRANSCENDER". This is a pleasant Jazz sound which flows as a river of guitars, Rhodes pianos, Hammond B3 organs and double track bass clarinets, reminiscent of the Miles Davis sessions with Bennie Maupin or Paul Humphrey's 1973 album "America Wake Up".

 released 01 January 2011 
 Patrick Butler - Guitar 
 Damien Smith - 2nd Guitar, Tracks 1-4 
 Joshua Harris - Bass Clarinet 
 Tom Salyers - Keyboards 
 Austin Nicholsen - Contrabass 
 Andre Allen - Drums 
 Julio Muniz - Congas, Percussion 

 Written and produced by Patrick Butler.

Cormega - "Journey", "IV" and "VII" from "Raw Forever"




Listen to more snippets at Amazon, iTunes or Undergroundhiphop.com

Preview these 3 songs from "Raw Forever" which features Cormega's vivid street lyricism paired with the moody Funk sound of his band The Revelations. The depth of "Raw Forever" as an album stands as both a testament to Cormega's past greatness and as a glimpse into his continued evolution as a forward-thinking artist. One disc of this 2 disc set features Cormega performing with The Revelations who providing the musical backdrop. The stellar guest lineup includes Lil' Fame, AZ, Nature, Blaq Poet, Tragedy Khadafi, Havoc, Red Alert, Parrish Smith, Grand Puba, KRS One & Big Daddy Kane who all contribute to the sessions of Cormega's best songs reworked in a live band setting.

The second disc of "Raw Forever" features the original/studio versions of Cormega's best songs. Not a bad way for a Queensbridge resident turned successful independent MC to encapsulate years of great music releases, this project should inspire others to create songs which are lasting works of art in 2011 and beyond. 

"New Direction" by Yukiko Matsuyama

By JR on 3:19 PM

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On "New Direction" Yukiko Matsuyama fuses mysterious harp sounds with traditional American Jazz fusion for an edgy Jazz sound which builds with intensity through a variety of trasitions similar to the musical vibe of Bob James, but with a strong Japanse influence. With authority and grace Yukiko uses the Koto, an ancient 7th century instrument also known as a 13-string zither or harp, which is Japan's national instrument. She delivers the sounds of her native country while infusing elements of jazz, pop, new age, and world music into her mesmerizing compositions. "New Direction" is featured on Yukiko's 2011 album "Crème Brulée", a musical feast which blends the Japanese flavors of the Koto with rhythms from around the world . Personell features Greg Vail on flute and saxophone, Diana Dentino on piano & keyboards, Vince VanTrigt on bass, Mike Bennett on drums & percussion, with help from Daniel Mulliken on cello, David Brock on violin & viola, Chris Darrow and Dave Wood on guitar & Michael Kotzen on cajon.

Frootful - "Latin Strut", Live From The Colours Album Release Party

By JR on 2:13 PM

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Enjoy the fast-paced Funk of UK musician Frootful on a live version of "Latin Strut" recorded from his release party for the album "Colours". These sounds remind me of the late, great Isaac Hayes.

"The Funklet Audio Buddy Companion" feat. Pretty Purdie, Clyde Stubblefield and others

By JR on 12:31 PM

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The Funklet Audio Buddy Companion" brings together some of the most important drummers of 70's Jazz, Soul and Funk music. It is also an inspiring story which shows the healing and motivational powers of music. Jack Stratton’s first passion was acting and was cast in a camp production at the early age of 8, making him the youngest method actor in the world. After an arduous ordeal upon being injured during his performance, Jack suddenly became unable to pursue his passion further. Immediately, he turned his focus to music. The result is "The Funklet Audio Buddy Companion" which shows appreciation for the art of funk drumming.

 Enjoy the audio stream above and learn more about the project/fundraiser directly from Jack here.

Stream: Show & A.G. - "Mugshot Music" Singles Collection

By JR on 11:53 AM

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A.G. has uploaded the latest singles at Soundcloud to be released thus far from "Mugshot Music" in high-quality audio. Here are the 3 songs for your listening pleasure in one set to prepare for the album release, plus one more called "Show & A". This is the hard-edged sound of The Bronx I think Hip Hop has been waiting to hear return to form by two pioneers of the craft.



Pro Tools 10 + Soundcloud Now Available, Click To Purchase

By JR on 11:05 AM

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Avid provides a special feauture included inside their renowned production software Pro Tools which allows direct sharing of music to your Soundcloud account. If you love using both Pro Tools and sharing music online through Soundcloud, Pro Tools 10 now features integration for ease of sharing files between the two applications.


 

As the industry standard for professional audio production, Pro Tools is the tool of choice from musicians, composers, audio engineers and sound editors of film to bedroom beatmakers. The sharing feature included in Pro Tools 10 enables it's users to share creative works of audio on the Soundcloud platform with ease, integrating one of the internet's best audio streaming applications and music sharing networks with a groundbreaking digital workstation. Soundcloud is a revolutionary music sharing network which allows for many useful ways of presenting audio to others efficiently while enjoying a thriving social atmosphere. Now with Soundcloud and Pro Tools combined, users have an array of options at their fingertips, from sharing their audio privately with collaborators, delivery of music projects to clients or creating and uploading presentations of finished works directly from Pro Tools for a large audience to enjoy online.

Pro Tools users can expect a lot more features included in version 10 besides the inclusion of SoundCloud. In 10, updates include real-time fades, ADC, Clip Gain, the support of multiple file formats within one session and higher resolution sound with more headroom. Gain access to over 75 plug-ins, including the new Channel Strip for your audio production. Find out more about the new features in Pro Tools 10 here. “As someone who has worked extensively with Pro Tools, it’s also a personal achievement to see SoundCloud integrated so well with the latest version of the leading audio production software.” says Alexander Ljung, founder and CEO of SoundCloud.

Good news if you are already a proud member of the Soundcloud community! SoundCloud and Avid have teamed up for a special giveaway and are giving away a copy of Pro Tools 10 to a member of SoundCloud who can give their own explaination of how sharing to SoundCloud from Pro Tools will help to improve your music production work flow. Share your recorded explanation with SoundCloud.com/pro-tools-contest.

http://soundcloud.com/apps/protools

Roll Up Radio Show 9/22/11 - The Cipher Edition


This episode of the Roll Up Radio Show is compiled from a collection of mixtapes, White Label 12 inch releases, and other sources of rare Hip Hop freestyles including sessions from renowned radio shows such as WKCR (Stretch Armstrong & Bobbito, CM FAMALAM, Squeeze Radio), WNYU (NY Live, Halftime Radio w/ DJ Eclipse), Hot 97 (Funk Flex, TF5 MC Show), Sway & Tech Morning Show, Marley Marl's In Control Rap Show, DJ Doo Wop & DJ Tony Touch and DJ Clue.

If you are not a New York or Cali resident, these recordings may have been hard to come by, until now. Download and enjoy!

PLAYLIST

4,3,2,1 Intro - DJ DooWop & DJ Tony Touch
4,3,2,1 - Joell Ortiz
Dilated Peoples (WKCR 1999)
The Lox 2001 (Hot 97 Funk Flex)
NYU Freestyle (95)- Natural Elements
Apathy (Halftime 10 Year)
Lord Kid Wizard Rakim & Super B (Rakim & Biz Markie) - Wyandanch High School Jam 1985
Kool G Rap 1989 (In Control Rap Show)
Big L 95 (Hot97 TF5 MC Show)
Rasheed Chappell X Blacastan X Wais P X Soul Khan (HalfTime 13)
Canibus Freestyle (DJ Clue 98)
Boot Camp Clik (Funk Flex Vol. 2)
Mobb Deep Freestyle (DJ Clue 97)
Armageddon X Blacastan X Maffew Ragazino Sr. X Soul Khan (HalfTime 13)
A Butta Freestyle (WNYU 95)
Souls Of Mischief X Kurious (WKCR 93)
Madd Skillz X Q-Tip (WKCR 94)
Eminem X Royce 5'9 (WNYU 98)






Emoce - "Think it Over" (Darien Brockington remix)






Check out this intercontinental collaboration of a soulful producer and vocalist, the Emoce remix of Darien Brockington's "Think it Over". This is one of 11 gems from the Holland producer's beattape project "It's The Crack". Listen to the rest of this project over at Emoce's bandcamp http://cremedelacrack.bandcamp.com.

 www.cremedelacrack.com

Rashid Hadee - "Night Train" feat The Primeridian

By JR on 8:41 AM

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Rashid Hadee and The Primeridian aim to make the world a better place through their words on "Night Train" a song from Hadee's "Leakage The PrEp" released October 7, 2011. The reality of life laid down by these two talented MCs over a mellow track is both entertaining and inspiring as each show their ambition through music.

Hear Rakim Perform Live at Button Factory Dublin, Ireland 6/5/11





Check out this hour-long performance by The Microphone Fiend who kills it with his timeless catalog of rhymes live from Ireland, courtesy of music promoter ChoiceCuts.

Easy Mo Bee Cuts Up Breaks & Samples For Bobbito on The CMFamalam Show

By JR on 10:36 AM

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The one and only Easy Mo Bee blesses the wheels of steel for a display of classic Hip Hop samples and breaks in the art of turntablism on this 2000 episode of Bobbito and Lord Sear's CMFamalam radio show. Expect some dusty gems for your eardrum as the veteran DJ/producer covers a variety of samples and breaks from Soul, Jazz, Rock and Funk genres.




Stalley – “Born To Win” (produced by J Rawls)

By JR on 10:03 AM

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The ambitious and life-loving perspective of Stalley on the mic paired with J Rawls Jazz-influenced sound on the boards makes for a great combination on "Born To Win". This is an inner city vision through Hip Hop which is here to inspire people to be humble and appreciate their surroundings. J Rawls provides some really nice keys which contribute to the vibe of this song, especially on the outro which features a solo on the Rhodes.

Savant aka Stanstro - "Make Your Move" (prod. by Luke Vibert)

By JR on 6:45 PM

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Savant aka Stanstro provides you with a preview to the video treatment for "Make Your Move", a song which showcases his impressive flow as he pays tribute to some of his main influences which range from the likes of A Tribe Called Quest, Mos Def and Black Thought to Jay-Z, Redman and Ludacris. This song from his Crash Course Leak Series is produced by electronic music soundsmith Luke Vibert (aka Wagon Christ) and features the soulful chorus vocals of Nora Perez. Gain further insight behind Stanstro's creative process behind this song (including the original instrumental, lyrics, Savant's audio commentary and more) by visiting www.ohhla.com/Savant/index.html and listen to the song in full below.


The full length video of "Make Your Move" drops October 24th.
 

The Official 2011 CMJ Mixtape (Mixed DJ JS-1 & DJ SKizz)

By JR on 11:47 AM

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There's nothing like that New York indie Hip Hop sound. DJ JS-1 & DJ SKizz combine for "The Official 2011 CMJ Mixtape" which showcases small labels and emerging artists who continue to uphold the art of two turntables and a mic. These two skilled DJs who are regulars of the Halftime Radio Show on WNYU FM 89.1 are known for their quality selection of new artists who display high potential to add onto Hip Hop. Check out this mixtape as an overview of heat coming from the underground in 2011.

Ro Spit - “Detroit 101 (feat. Fat Ray, Black Milk, Fatt Father, Guilty Simpson, & Marv Won)

Detroit has been doing their thing in bringing standout posse cuts for the new millenium. When you look at the Black Milk produced ones alone, you'll witness the cream of the crop of Detroit MCing and a revival of aggressive posse cuts in general. Ro Spit brings some of his Detroit friends for “Detroit 101 (feat. Fat Ray, Black Milk, Fatt Father, Guilty Simpson, & Marv Won). This song is from Ro Spit’s album “Glass Ceiling” which comes out on October 25th. Thanks goes to Michiganhiphop.com for the audio.







Drift Away On "Summer Dusk" (A Tribute to Lonnie Liston Smith and George Duke) by Pianist RichBrand


Drift away on a heavenly musical vibe like none other as one musician pays tribute to the pleasant sounds of two others. RichBrand blesses the keys to deliver pleasure on his instrumental tribute to Lonnie Liston Smith and George Duke "Summer Dusk". Enjoy a modern twist on the unmistakable fusion sounds of Liston and Duke as Rich merges the influences of both greats to create an inviting musical escape.

Coltrain - "Green" (Tall Black Guy Remix)


Re-discover the soulful voice of R&B artist Coultrain through the melodic vibes which Tall Black Guy provides on his remix of "Green". These two artists from California are a pairing of music to remember.

Nick Wiz - 'Cellar Sounds: Vol. 3 1992-1998 (2 CD Album)


One of New Jersey most important Hip Hop producers Nick Wiz returns with another batch of unreleased gems from the 90's on "Cellar Sounds", a 2CD trilogy which features some of the underground's finest rhyming over Nick's signature sounds. Nick's studio 'The Cellar' is responsible for a sound which helped define independent tri-state area Hip Hop through a unique combination of filtered samples, echoing horns, thick SP- 1200 drums and outstanding bass-lines.

The 2CD, 43 track project includes the bulk of Nick's archives from the 'Underground Airplay' tapes, unreleased remixes, and demo versions of songs from a host of talented lyricists from the tri-state area. Cellar Sounds Volume 3 is an overview of early Nick Wiz production from 1992 when he first began up until 1998 when he was a more sought-after and experienced producer.

Read more details about this project here at 


Brooklyn's Own F.T. Meets The CM Famalam Show In 2002 For A Freestyle

F.T.'s appearance on Bobbito and Lord Sear's CM Famalam represents the uncut Brooklyn approach of emceeing. Listen as the street smart lyricist delivers sights and sounds of BK through brash wordplay and a careless attitude. The sinister sound of DJ Premier's "The Natural" instrumental serves as the perfect backdrop to match F.T.'s rhyme flow for this 89 Tech 9 freestyle session.

Download: A Tribe Called Quest - "Can I Kick It" Live In '91 (Video)

By JR on 10:14 AM

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Enjoy a VHS rip of this classic performance for your iPod or iPhone: Phife, Q-Tip, Jarobi rocking an amped crowd in 1991 with "Can I Kick It". I think Tribe re-defined the way we nod our heads to the beat of Hip Hop on this one with a simple guitar and drum loop.



Talib Kweli feat. Big K.R.I.T., Outasight & Mela Machinko - "Beautiful"

"Beautiful" is a great feel-good Hip Hop song based on appreciation of life which also an effort to raise health awareness and funds for the American Cancer Society. As this songs uplifts the spirit with sound and messages it is also made to help a common health cause which benefits many people. To support the cause, please go and buy the single here on iTunes, produced by M-Phazes.

"Ubiqua" by Cookoobabee

By JR on 3:12 PM

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This young band has tapped into a soulful sound which made artists like Herbie Hancock and The Mizell Brothers stand out. "Ubiqua" by Cookoobabee features a mellow bass groove accompanied by a flute melody, with pleasant breakdowns and solo performances on the horn and guitar for a funky Jazz fusion.

On the full length album "Promonition", Cookoobabee offer a diverse package of music as they take inspiration and experiment with a number of styles which revolve around the soulful, from the Donny Hathaway, Marvin Gaye to the electro funk of Parliament.

"Rhodes Scholar" a mix by Wax Poetics

By JR on 12:03 PM

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This Rhodes is known as the tool of choice for a much-loved fusion sound of the 70's and has transcended over the years to maintain a lasting impression within modern music. Wax Poetics takes a look at a variety of these type of Jazz recordings by offering a mix of songs for your listening enjoyment from great albums which utilize the classic Fender Rhodes electric piano.


Download the playlist snippets here (m3u file)


1. Together in Paris
Marco Di Marco Chris Woods Sextet

2. Rhode Trip
Slide Five

3. The Genie - Themes and Variations from the TV series "Taxi"
Bob James

4. At the Living Room
Marco Di Marco Trio

5. Funkia
Michael Longo

6. 900 Shares of the Blues
Mike Longo

7. Jazz Video
The Swingers

8. Shirts and Skins
The Mackrosoft

9. Upgrade
The Mackrosoft

10. Antonio's Giraffe
The Mackrosoft

11. Peoples Market
Misled Children

12. One
Bob James

13. Two
Bob James

14. Three
Bob James

15. BJ4
Bob James

16. Thrust
McNeal & Niles

17. Yaina
Pucho & His Latin Soul Brothers

18. Angles Without Edges
Yesterday's New Quintet

19. Simba
O'Donel Levy

20. Sweet Sister Funk
Ramon Morris

21. Ao Vivo No Rio
Eumir Deodato Trio

22. White Heat
Barry Miles

23. Lialeh: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Bernard Purdie

Beatnick & K-Salaam remix Common on "S.T.O.R.Y." (Stories Told Over Remix Years)

By JR on 10:11 AM

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Beatnick & K-Salaam are bringing a new standard to the Hip Hop remix in 2011 and beyond with their musical talent on "S.T.O.R.Y." (Stories Told Over Remix Years), an impressive collection of remixes for some of Common's most well known songs. The New York based production duo bring a combination of thumping rhythms and wonderful musical vibes to the table, providing soulful melodies which compliment Common's writing as original compositions that tell a whole new story apart from the original songs. My personal favorites are the remixes of "Resurrection" and "The Light". Common has embraced a notably wide variety of production sound to go with his lyrics, "S.T.O.R.Y." takes his vocals and gives even more range to his approach on the microphone.

soundcloud.com/beatnickandksalaam

Mobb Deep - "Street Lights" (produced by J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League)







"Street Lights" from the "Black Cocaine" mixtape shows the Mobb are unparalleled in their ability for expressing dark emotion in songwriting based on a view of the ghetto. This it's you're typical song about the streets, this moody piano-laced tale is designed to leave you feeling the darkness and depression of the streets from the cinematic writing of Havoc and Prodigy.

Celebrating Wrath of The Math: The B-Side w/ Jeru & DJ Premier, 1996

By JR on 7:56 PM

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On his second LP "Wrath Of The Math", Jeru The Damaja returned more determined than ever to use his voice as a weapon to cut through the illusions of society and enlighten people to the truth with sharp rhymes. Backed by the hard-hitting production of DJ Premier who blessed the boards with his unique creativity, "Wrath" burned throughout the underground airwaves in '96. In the Gangstarr Foundation tradition of presenting an intellectual Hip Hop rebel, Jeru represented Hip Hop in it's dirty form. Throughout this LP a dark, threatening sound dominates mixed with light-hearted moments to showcase Jeru's aura as a multi-faceted MC from Brooklyn NYC.


The "Wrath" of Jeru & Preemo served as a rebellious alternative to a growing commercial industry of Hip Hop. Consequently mass media began to focus more and more on escapism from reality in favor of materialism. As a result, Jeru's determination and purpose provided fuel for the potent content contained in his rhymes through this great project.

"Wrath" has it's own moments of escapism, but reaches it through the tradition of showcasing skills through beats and rhymes. "Black Cowboys", "Whatever" and "Physical Stamina" are a few example of classic Jeru and Premier as a display of skills which compliment each other for a style of Hip Hop which is undeniable. Songs like "One Day", "The Frustrated Nigga" and "Scientifical Madness" not bang with a sound that is undeniably dope and groundbreaking. In addition, this work of art displays the voice of an MC who speaks messages of truth, self-awareness and the need for change. The wrath of Jeru was definitely felt by the time the LP was finished as he tore through the weak-minded, fake and materialistic leeches of society by representing skills on the mic.

To celebrate the 15th anniversary of "Wrath Of The Math", here is a recording of Stretch Armstrong & Bobbito's b-side radio show. On this episode, Jeru and Premier stop by the studio for an interview and premier songs from the LP. This is a great moment in time as one legendary duo meets another for a casual discussion of Hip Hop.


Lord Finesse - "The Art of Diggin: The Grind & The Hustle" (Preview)

By JR on 4:06 PM

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The great thing about music is that so much of it exist that Hip Hop will have an infinite arsenal of beats and breaks to surprise your ears with, when spun by dedicated DJs and crate diggers. The Funkyman Lord Finesse digs deep to present a mix of obscure breaks unlike that which you may have heard before, if you've been fortunate to even hear one of Finesse's great breakbeat mixes. These breaks include familiar samples used in today's Hip Hop as well as those which have yet to be touched.

Listen to more snippets of this forthcoming project at soundcloud.com/slice-of-spice

"Aquil - "40° N" (produced by Astronote)






The lead single off his album "Land Of Synth" features the socially conscious and determined approach of Aquil as he introduces himself and gives his view on the world around him. It seems he has a lot on his mind about life and manages to project many images within a short track time for a overall message and groove which is memorable. Astronote provides raw sounds on the board in his simple approach of using a dirty drum break, horns and some touches of synths to give the track a traditional Hip Hop feel. Be on the look out for more from this Philadelphia MC who has already worked with the likes of 9th Wonder and Kuddie Fresh.

Jazz Fusion Meets Soul On "Song For Mr Hayes" by Tim Hoare

By JR on 3:55 PM

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Jazz Fusion meets Soul in this laid-back and blissful tribute to the legendary singer and songwriter Isaac Hayes, by South African musician Tim Hoare.

Video: Nice & Smooth - "Sometimes I Rhyme Slow" (Live in '93)

By JR on 9:28 AM

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Enjoy Greg Nice and Smooth B puttin' it down for a live studio audience at the Uptown Comedy Club, Greg is known for getting a crowd hyped 'til this day as you'll see he does in this video. One thing I remember about their 1992 album "Ain't A Damn Thing Changed" was their unique ability to bring together common moments of life into song with simplicity and an overall feeling of depth which left a lasting impression. "Sometimes I Rhyme Slow" gets the crowd moving with a soulful groove, memorable lyrics, social commentary and inspirational messages all in one entertaining package.

DJ Center & Oddisee - "Workin' In NYC" (Free Limited-Time Download)

By JR on 9:08 AM

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The daily responsibilities of work and survival that lie before us as adults is one of the most thought-provoking moments of life which evoke many feelings of goal chasing, anxiety and anticipation. On "Workin'" Oddisee collaborates with DJ Center to express thoughts from the everyday, working class individual. If you didn't realize the unique style and mic presence of Oddisee before and thought of him as more of a producer, this track should enlighten you as he brings thoughts most can relate to.

Video: Black Moon and Big Daddy Kane Red Bull Tour Performances 9/29/11



As part of a series of Red Bull-sponsored shows, Black Moon & Big Daddy Kane performed their albums at Southpaw in Brooklyn New York 9/29/11. Check out the footage of these Brooklyn Hip Hop legends.

"Watermelon Man" Covered by Jazz Greats, Live at the Jazz For Japan benefit, 2011






Legendary and Grammy nominated performers Marcus Miller, Ndugu Chancler, Clarence McDonald, Lee Ritenour and Kenny G. & Everette Harp gather to perform the classic Jazz tune "Watermelon Man" to benefit the earthquake victims of Japan, live from Capitol Studios in Hollywood, California. Head over to the Jazz for Japan soundcloud page to stream more performances from their benefit event, and purchase the full-length album here at iTunes which features even more top-notch musicians who give it their best.

YC the Cynic feat. Soul Khan, Von & Sene – More & More (Video)



There's some wild stuff going on in the video but one things for sure, these dudes can rhyme and definitely put a nice posse cut together that'll have you wanting more & MORE.

YC the Cynic's album "Fall FWD" is now available for listening at his bandcamp page, featuring Homeboy Sandman, Wordspit, C-Rayz Walz and others.

"Misc. Remixes" by Freddie Joachim

By JR on 8:06 AM

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Freddie Joachim has a way of providing mellow, jazzy vibes in his music which hit the soul and get the head to nod. On his "Misc. Remixes" project, Freddie shows his range in matching his unique sound to classic Hip Hop and R&B vocals as an up and coming producer to watch for. This is a project which shows the relation between the two musical genres, since the vibe of each instrumental carries a similar mood and style although each are unique in telling it's own story.

Alfonso - "Tutti I Colori Del Fumo": Autumn 2011 Podcast by Finders Keepers Records





Finders Keepers Records is a one-of-a-kind label located in the U.K. known for upholding a lost genre of music through their re-releases of obscure European sounds of the 70's. Listen to this podcast to get an overview of their catalog as they take you on a journey through unorthodox sounds of Euro cinema, Library music, Funk and Jazz fusion. Unfortunately no tracklisting was posted for this mix, but with or without one each song is pretty memorable if your a fan of this style of music.

Rasheed Chappell - "Stay Sharp" (Official Video)



There is more than meets the eye when it comes to the talented writing mind and musical presentation of Rasheed Chappell. On "Stay Sharp" Rasheed displays his edge as someone who stays intellectually and lyrically sharp as well as showing fellas how to remain sharp in physical appearance as he takes you through a regular day in the hood.

Listen to and pick up "Future Before Nostalgia" here if you haven't already, this video is just a taste of the good Hip Hop music he has to offer.

Audio: Roy Ayers, Pete Rock & The Robert Glasper Experiment – Live @ North Sea Jazz Festival 2011



The blog "Funk It" has scored the soundboard recording for an unprecedented union of 3 great artists for one hour long performance: Roy Ayers, Pete Rock & The Robert Glasper Experiment – Live @ North Sea Jazz Festival 2011. I'd personally like to hear these artists do a full-length album together for the amount of quality music they offer individually and as a group. Enjoy the audio from this one-of-a-kind musical event.

01. unknown instrumental
Roy Ayers enters:
02. Everybody Loves The Sunshine
Pete Rock enters:
03. Don’t Stop The Feeling
04. We Live in Brooklyn, Baby
05. Pete Rock spins records
06. Don’t Stop The Feeling

Roy Ayers – vocals, vibraphone
Pete Rock – DJ
John Pressley – vocals & percussion
Raeford Gaskins – saxophone
Robert Glasper – piano
Derrick Hodge – bass
Chris Dave – drums
Casey Benjamin – saxophone & vocoder keytar



68 minutes long, mp3 format, sourced from the North Sea Jazz Festival web video stream.

Common talks New Album, An Album with Nas, Acting, Soulquarians + More

By JR on 10:53 AM

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Common's come a long way since the jazz-influenced Hip Hop sounds of "Can I Borrow A Dollar" & "Resurrection". In this interview with HardKnockTV Common breaks down his current paths of life which seem to offer him a lot more creative freedom and happiness. I'd say this interview and looking back upon Common's whole career says that hard work, belief in what you can potentially accomplish and taking chances can eventually lead to good things.

"Dreamer, The Believer" by Common arrives November 22, produced by NO I.D.

Celph Titled & Buckwild Present - "Nineteen Ninety More" (2CD Bonus Songs w/ Instrumentals!)


Celph Titled & Buckwild are back with a generous offering of Hip Hop for the supporters of their acclaimed project "Ninety Ninety Now". On "Ninety Ninety More" the duo present bonus songs that serves to satisfy the appetite of 90's heads everywhere again, including 4 unreleased songs from the original Ninety Now recording sessions which include guest appearances from Cella Dwellas, Outerspace (AOTP), Laws (J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League), Kwest (formerly Kwest Tha Madd Lad) and Lord Digga (Bluez Brothers/Masta Ace Inc). Also included are the 3 previously vinyl-only cuts "The Celph Titled Show", "Nothin' To Say (feat. Rise)" and "There Will Be Blood [Remix] (feat. DITC and Brand Nubian)".

Click to listen to all snippets at UGHH.com

In addition to these 4 bonus songs, you also receive the instrumental version of the entire "Ninety Now" album, including the interludes and 4 bonus beats. This specially priced 2xCD is the perfect addition for owners of  "Ninety Now" and a refreshing revival of classic 90's Hip Hop sound in the tradition of a project held down in entirety by talented MC and producer.


Click to purchase "Ninety Ninety More" at

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