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Witness the soulful sound of James Brown in past and present as one producer flips "Funky Drummer" to a funky spaced-out groove and the rare sounds of a concert archive. In 2013 BusCrates 16-Bit Ensemble takes elements of The Godfather and blends it with his own synth approach of music for a fusion of Hip Hop and Soul in a futuristic style of beatmaking to get your head nodding.
James Brown live at Newport Jazz Festival JUL 6, 1969 (Free Download)
For a limited time, the great music memorabilia and audio archive Concert Vault presents audio of James Brown live at Newport Jazz Festival JUL 6, 1969. Members can spend Labor Day with the Hardest Working Man in Show Business in this exclusive free concert download.
Not a member? You can sign up by 9/3 to get it here at Concert Vault.
Portraying J Dilla in the essence of objects which are symbolic to his music in a cartoon style, Mexican artist Christian Jamie Flores creates a work of art which tells Jay's story similar to that of a children's book. In the world of Dilla art homages, this series definitely stands out in it's originality and execution for an approach which is appealing to both children and adults.
Check out the full online exhibit here at Christian's portfolio.
On this blend remix DJ DODO creates a great blend of an unknown instrumental with the a capella of Common's "Dooint" to re-interpret the jazzy bounce of J Dilla.
Get acquainted with the music of Mark Brown on his "Opus De Funk" EP and "Nasty Sauce" single. One of the highlights of these two projects is his funky approach toward covering the Horace Silver's Jazz classic "Filthy McNasty". Enjoy as this Philly musician transforms a traditional swing Jazz groove into a new arrangement of heavy Funk with and new rhythm featuring plenty of entertaining breaks and drum solos.
Sit back and enjoy vibrant and uplifting arrangements of a saxophonist who aims to inspire you to reach your goals in life. "Moment of Resolution is a ten track album of instrumental soul, jazz, and funk music featuring saxophonist and producer, Raymond Johnson. The album represents the difficult choices individuals make to live consciously in a society that is filled with delusion.
Raymond Johnson: Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Flute, Auxiliary Percussion, Sample Programming, and Background Vocals on “Cassandra,” and “Freedom Funk”
Andrew Schneider: Guitar on “Lost and Found You”
Marina Schneider: Vocals on “Sleepless Nights”
Moment of Resolution was written, digitally recorded, mixed, and mastered by Raymond Johnson at his studio in Austin TX from February, 2012 to August, 2012. "
With powerful emotion and a strong display of musical inspiration, Dan Forshaw & Chris Smith ensure the presence of Jazz is felt on their 2013 cover of Stevie Wonder Soul classic "Superstition". Let these talents lead the way through an exciting musical journey beginning with a calm start which unfolds into a burst of energy to expand upon the sound of Stevie.
"For saxophonist, composer and educator Dan Forshaw, sharing his passion for music is an integral part of his soul. Whether playing in packed nightclubs, smokey jazz bars or cavernous Cathedrals, Forshaw’s charismatic approach to music leaves audiences engaged , entertained and enthralled.
A student of theology & philosophy as well as music, Forshaw's eclectic approach, is a breath of fresh air."
Saxophones & Bass Clarinet: Dan Forshaw
Trumpets, Trombone & Programming: Chris Smith
Keyboards: Mike Taylor
Bass: Simon Goulding
Vocals: Alison Beck
Guitar: Neil Morgan
Drums: Richard Morgan
Voice: El Gruer
!llmind is a producer known for heightening the level of emotion and melodic feel in beats through his approach of using of stand-out piano arrangements. In his latest Blap kit "Grand Sessions - Piano Loops", gain new insight into !ll's approach to keys as his riffs, chord progression ideas are provided as bare audio wav stems.
Words about "Grand Sessions - Piano Loops" from !llmind:
"The mighty Grand Piano (or what used to be known as the 'fortepiano') is debatably the most universally loved instrument on the planet. Often, I'll have melodies appear in my head at random moments, depending on my surroundings. Spending 2 weeks in Berlin, Germany recently, I was absolutely inspired with ideas to create specific songs & riffs. Continuing the trend of my previously released '808s & String Breaks', I'm proud to present the !llmind BLAP-KIT Special Edition: 'The Grand Sessions'! This is a collection of 17 pure & original Grand Piano riffs/loops, all performed, written & composed by me. It contains chord progressions in Major, Minor, Fifths and even Jazz, Pop & Gospel inspired compositions. I'm influenced and inspired by various types of music. This collection showcases royalty-free loops/riffs that can be used to create everything from hardcore street bangers, to big pop records, jazzy textures & anything in-between! With 'The Grand Sessions', I hope to inspire your creative imagination to run wild." -!llmind
!llmind's unique use of piano arrangements are showcased in a compilation below for your enjoyment. Download !ll's Blap kits here if you are inspired to make music like he is!
For the "Vinyl Junkie" and listener who wishes to get on a ride of escapism through music, Soulpersona Brings progressive Funk which combines heavy groove with heavenly emotion. This cinematic vision of music serves as an expansive look at how Funk can be interpreted as Soulpersona transforms what seems to be a traditional guitar and bass groove into something much more beautiful and pleasant.
The UK is no joke when it comes to grooving you with the finest of R&B/Soul music and does so with the help of a collective of veteran and emerging talent on the tenth of the "Soul Lounge" series. Soul Lounge celebrates its tenth edition with a very strong line-up of soul, R&B and jazz artists from both the UK and US, including Gregory Porter, Bluey, Positive Flow featuring Omar, Jason Miles featuring Chaka Khan, Incognito, Don-E, Reel People and Joey Negro & The Sunburst Band.
Tracks released on CD for the first time include a dazzling “I Might Do Something Wrong” by Tortured Soul featuring N’Dea Davenport, the same band’s single “Can’t Keep Rhythm from A Dancer”, “Last Time” by Full Flava featuring former Incognito vocalist Joy Rose, Bluey’s “Elevate The Feelin’” and “Luv U Girl” by US urban newcomer Laurone McLendon.
As ever, 40 top quality tracks – more than 3 hours of listening pleasure. Order your copy now at Amazon.co.uk and check out the 9 other volumes as well. Some snippets are available to stream below and additionally here at the online store of First Experience Records.
CD One
1. Bluey – Like Like A Milliionaire (Radio Version)
2. Positive Flow (feat Omar) – My Prediction
3. Don- E – Hold On
4. Hil St Soul – Together
5. Gregory Porter – Be Good (Lion’s Song)
6. Rahsaan Patterson – See Me
7. Jason Miles (feat Chaka Khan) – Love Me Still
8. Avery Sunshine – Blessin’ Me
9. Incognito – If You Want My Love
10. Angela Johnson – Wait 4 U (Josh From Blaze Remix)
11. Laurone McLendon – Luv U Girl
12. Anthony David – Let Me In
13. Heston – Brand New You
14. Frank McComb – Better Off Without You
15. Dennis Taylor – Feeling Good
16. George Duke – In Between The Heartaches
CD Two
1. Tortured Soul – Can’t Keep Rhythm From A Dancer
2. Bluey – Elevate The Feelin’
3. Full Flava (feat Joy Rose) – Last Time
4. Anthony David – Location Location Location
5. Heston – She Lives In Me
6. Adriana Evans – El Sol
7. Rosie Gaines – In Spirit
8. Don-E – I Do
9. Eric Roberson – Break It Down
10. Rahsaan Patterson – Miss You
11. Joslyn – Used To (Chill Version)
12. Donna Gardier – How Sweet It Is
13. Lulu – You Left Me Lonely
14. Avani – I’m Not Thru
15. Jason Miles (feat Herbie Mann) – Mr Magic
CD Three
1. Tortured Soul (feat N’Dea Davenport) – I Might Do Something Wrong
2. Incognito – Freedom To Love (Atjazz Remix)
3. Reel People (feat Darien) – Sure (Frankie Feliciano Classic Vocal Mix)
4. Sunburst Band (feat Diana Charlemagne) – Definition of Luv (Sean McCabe Remix)
5. Makoto (feat Christian Urich) – Girl I’m Running Back 2 U
6. Diplomats of Soul (feat Noel McKoy) – Someday We’ll All Be Free (Yam Who? Remix)
7. Cool Million (feat Kenny Thomas) – Without Your Love
8. Khari Cabral Simmons (feat Incognito) – How Can We Go Wrong?
9. James Taylor Quartet – Machine Gun
Download and stream the show in three parts below:
Closing Mic
Sean Rowlands:
Plaza “Midnight Ocean Rendezvous”
Cybil Thomas “Rescue Me”
Wizzard “Through The Eighties”
Flowchart “Ask The Boss (inst.)”
Funk Deluxe “Tender Lovin’”
Civil Attack “On The Phone”
Aleem “Fine Young Tender”
Glenn Jones “Love Intensity”
East Liberty Quarters “Point Of Return”
“Tied Up”
Cutty “Naughty Times”
DJ Spinna:
South Bronx “Big Throwdown”
Bozeman & Roberts “Working Mama”
Natasha King “AM FM”
Leprechaun “Reach Out (And Touch Some One)”
Nancy Martin “Can’t Believe”
Circle City Band “Magic”
Evans Pyramid “Drip Drop”
David Joseph “You Can’t Hide”
Minako “Town”
“Let’s Go Out Tonight”
Mike T “Do It Any Way You Wanna”
Eddie Henderson “Say You Will”
Sean Rowlands:
Prince “I Wanna Be Your Lover (Tim Zawada edit)”
Alpha I “Changes”
Patrice Rushen “Get Off”
Richie Family “I’ll Do My Best For You”
The Players Association “Turn The Music Up”
M’Tume “Give It On Up”
Chocolate Milk “Let’s Go All The Way”
Barbara Mason “Don’t I Ever Cross Your Mind”
Atmosfear “What Do We Do”
C Brand “Wired For Games”
Flight “Flying High”
Zync “This Is Where The Love Is”
Richie Family “Alright On The Night”
Gene Dunlap “Take My Love”
Roshell Anderson “Wild Dreams”
Bohannon “Wake Up”
Carl Smith “Come Back Lover”
DJ Spinna:
Peter Brown “They Only Come Out At Night”
Slyck “Love It Or (Beat The Bush)”
Kleeer “Taste The Music”
Eddie Kendricks “I Never Used To Dance”
The Real Thing “Feel The Force”
George Duke “I Want You For Myself”
Chain Reaction “Dance Freak”
High Fashion “Feeling Lucky Lately”
Neek The Exotic is back to break backs 'n necks, presenting true-to-life visions of the ghetto with an aggressive rhyme flow on his 2013 solo LP "Hustle Don't Stop". Neek The Exotic first stepped on the scene in 1992 with a dope verse on Main Source's classic joint "Fakin' The Funk" and continued dropping underground gems since then, always backed by Large Professor on the vocals and/or beats. The longtime-friends collaboration series was highlighted by their critically acclaimed and Fat Beats released album "Still On The Hustle". Neek The Exotic decided to step out of Large Pro's continuously following shadow and work on a release without any help from his extraordinary beat-making/rapping partner.
20 tracks strong, "Hustle Don't Stop" contains the underground smash hits "Get The City Warm" featuring Bumpy Knuckles & Satchel Page and "Real Deal Hip-Hop" feat. DJ JS-1. The album features production mainly handled by Confidence (of Rashad/Purpose & Confidence) and The Audible Doctor as well as Alterbeats, Tommy Tee, Ras Beats, The Arcitype, Big Malk, Weirdo (of Crazeology) and DJ Hachi. Guest appearances include Large Professor, O.C. (of D.I.T.C.), Bumpy Knuckles, Sadat X, DJ JS-1, B-1, Mikey D, Satchel Page, Mic Handz, Father D, and Mayhem Lauren.
Check out snippets from the album at iTunes, "Hustle Don't Stop" is also available at Undergroundhiphop.com.
Enjoy a moment from Neek The Exotic and Large Professor's history as a duo in a 1999 appearance on Bobbito's CMFamalam show. Neek and Large join associate Royal Flush to tear down the mic Queens style during he release of Neek's "Backs 'N Necks" EP. The freestyle begins around the 1.05.00 mark.
This moment is also special since it is the show where they first recognize and commemorate the recent passing of Big L. Enjoy this collectors item of New York Hip Hop! Other guests on this 4 hour episode include Prince Paul and Akrobatik.
Don't miss the "Comin' In Piles" EP as well, released on Ill Adrenaline Records with songs which are unavailable on "Hustle Don't Stop".
"From Tokyo’s Budokan to London’s famous Albert Hall to NYC’s Madison Square Garden – in his 38 year career, professional bassist Kevin Jenkins has played them all. Kevin is known for his amazing ability to harmoniously negotiate rhythm and melody flawlessly and in any format –rock, folk, blues, fusion. Kevin has expanded his horizons by writing his debut album with Tómas Doncker. "
Putting the vision of Jazz and Rock into a new context, Guy Harrison brings a swinging and pleasant rhythm of Jazz on his cover of Led Zeppelin's "No Quarter" and Dave Brubeck's "Take Five". This is definite relaxation music as Guy helps to relieve all tension with his smooth arrangement and performance on keys in blending these two compositions together for a sweet ride.
Get on the mind trip of Tensei as they combine pleasant and aggressive sounds to stimulate your imagination in the driving force of music of "Mr. Mansfield". Feel the powerful rhythm of drums which carry a mellow arrangement of keys for a composition which builds with intensity from beginning to end. Available as a free download via Soundcloud.
From Brooklyn to New York to the world, Liv Warfield's beautiful voice emerges from the inner city to express emotions of love and heartbreak on the soulful "Get Away". Bringing a soothing vibe of happiness to a subject which is painful, Liv flows heavenly of a guitar based groove to show the healing power of music.
Sticking to a simple formula of beats and rhymes laced with images identifiable with living the life of Hip Hop within the tri-boro, New York crew Natural Elements solidified a unique sound on the independent scene, one which is still praised by fans to this day. Take a trip back to the 90's in a collection of rare demos compiled by a die-hard N.E. fan, recorded from 89.9 stretch & bobbito show or the basement 90.1 or ill sounds 90.1.
Groove to the funky sounds as this quintet from Harlem New York City get down with high-paced rhythm and entertaining solos in the vein of Herbie Hancock & The Headhunters.
Welcome to New York where the kings be as envisioned through the 2013 bully-raps of Freddie Foxxx aka Bumpy Knuckles. This native New Yorker returns to treat all sub-par MCs like a step child, addressing low-level lyrics and those who talk out of the side of their mouth against the city. Wack rappers better "get away" where you here the og Bumpy Knucks come around!
Brooklyn Funk band Lettuce gets the crowd live on Bonnaroo Fest 2013 as they join a few special guests of Hip Hop and R&B for a Superjam of classic music. Enjoy this rare audio rip of the performance and check out a review by MTV.com:
"The Wu-Tang Clan's RZA, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Solange, Schoolboy Q and Chad Hugo of the Neptunes joined forces at the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival on Friday night for a "Superjam," showing off their skills as Boston band Lettuce, featuring a tight horn section, brought the funk.
Jazzy Jeff was sent out first to set the stage, deftly scratching James Brown's "Funky Drummer." Schoolboy Q then joined in with a shout-out to Saturday performer Nas, busting out the MC's "N.Y. State of Mind Pt. II." His own "There He Go" had fans waving their hands as they attempted to mimic his rhymes.
Chad Hugo showed off that distinctive Neptunes flair, spinning Birdman's "What Happened to That Boy."
RZA, who didn't grace the stage until an hour into the set, offered his group's "C.R.E.A.M." and ODB's "Shimmy Shimmy Ya," while Wu affiliate Redman made a surprise appearance with "Tonight's Da Night."
Of course, it wouldn't be a Superjam without a hefty helping of classics: Sugarhill Gang's "Apache (Jump On It)" was given new life, Solange beautifully crooned "Killing Me Softly," and the collective got a little sentimental, giving gratitude to the crowd before Sly & The Family Stone's "A Family Affair.""
Lettuce:
Nigel Hall - vocals, keys
Adam Deitch - drums
Neal Evans - keys
Erick "Jesus" Coomes - bass
Adam "Shmeeans" Smirnoff - guitar
Ryan Zoidis - saxophone
Eric Bloom - trumpet
James Casey - saxophone
Guests:
DJ Jazzy Jeff - turntables
?? - background vocals
?? - background vocals
Borahm Lee - keyboards
Schoolboy Q - MC
Chad Hugo - etc
RZA - MC
?The Reverend William Burk? - MC
Derek Vincent Smith (aka Pretty Lights) - bass
Solange Knowles - vocals
Ghostface Killah - MC
Redman - MC
Method Man - MC
Not bad for a 14 year old! Shawn Lov shows his potential as a determined producer/MC back in the year of 1991 with the self-defining EP "Witness The Strength". This youthful voice on the mic is a charming moment of Hip Hop's Golden Era to look back upon as Shawn demonstrates just how much a youngster can be intellectual and serious about the craft of Hip Hop. No dumbed-down gimmicks or trends here because their were virtually none at this point.
As the EP begins in '91, Shawn sounds a bit inexperienced as compared to the 5th to final tracks where the project begins to pick up steam as the young MC seems to come into his own identity with refined beats and rhymes recorded in 1992. Enjoy this cool flashback to the early work of an unsigned MC who shows his progression from first to last track.
About the EP:
"Witness the Strength" is a collection of songs mostly recorded in 1991, when Shawn was only 14 years old. Two years before Shawn started releasing albums in his official catalogue, he was busy honing his skills by recording projects and demos at Hot Spots studio (owned by Ed Livernoche- Shawn's father.) Hot spots was one of Trenton NJ's only options for recording Hip-Hop in the late eighties and early nineties. The production was mostly by Shawn, who made the beats on the studio's Akai MPC60ii, with several beat contributions from Fatha Ramzee. These songs came after Shawn had already experienced six years plus of perils shopping demos in the then infant Hip-Hop market. The strong songwriting in "Witness the Strength" is indicative of what is to come later in Shawn's recording career, and exhibits Shawn's sense of rejection from not only the rap industry, but both his black and white peers. The themes in these early recording will blossom over another 20 plus years and become the foundation for the Shawn Lov catalogue.
released 31 December 1991
Shawn Lov, Ed Livernoche, Fatha Ramzee, Sole Survivors
Feel a sense of courage and inner strength through the powerful sounds of Eric Montgomery as he creates music to prepare you for a "Brave New World". With a beautiful balance of smooth sounds and rhythm driven by arrangements which aim to stir the emotions, this album is an exciting journey of music which draws inspiration from some of the deepest human thoughts and emotions. Enjoy the ride of Eric as he provides an inspiring soundtrack of life through his approach to Jazz Fusion.
"This is an important project for me. I saw each of these songs as an attempt to break into something that was fresh, unusual and maybe even a bit precarious. My main focus was to stretch out as an artist, to build a new sound dimension that was beyond my norm. I have spent a great deal of time in the Smooth Jazz genre. And while that music has been good for me, I feel it is time to reach for something outside my comfort zone, hence the title, Brave New World.
One thing that guides me on these musical journeys is a sense of being true to who I am. I am not the same person I was ten or even twenty years ago. And I think my music should evolve with the wisdom, understanding and challenges that have come into my life. On this project I sometimes had to “yell” and at other times I “whispered”. But in all of these songs, I tried to tell the truth about what was in my mind and heart. I hope that you enjoy these songs as much as I do. And if you are a musician, I hope you are inspired to step beyond your musical neighborhood and reach for a new world that will inspire others.
May God bless you and thank you for listening."
- Eric Montgomery
released 10 August 2012
Eric uses the Nord Electro 2, Yamaha Motif ES, Korg M3 Expanded-Trinity Rack and Microkorg XL, Roland JV-1080 and JD-990 synthesizers.
Listen toward the end for their in-studio guest interview with a graf writer whom is a pioneer from the early 1970's era of Hip Hop culture. A great listen for both the die-hard knowledgable Hip Hop head and the beginner.
Producers enjoy an exclusive interview with Greg Savage, a sound designer who shares his skills and experience in his approach toward re-creating the drum sounds of J Dilla and Kev Brown. A breakdown of the techniques which he used is featured in the article, including gear and signal chain specifics. This interview is courtesy of Alkota Beats.
If your interested in the art of designing drums for Hip Hop, this is an insightful article. Download it free above from Scribd account and keep for your library!
When your done checking out the interview, listen to samples from Greg's drum kit "Boom Bap Phonetics 2", the follow up to the wildly popular Boom Bap Phonetics Drum Kit released by hiphopdrumsamples.com. With all original drum samples recorded live through multiple condenser mics, edited and designed using a classic MPC3000, Greg has created a drum kit the intent of providing the bang for your sound library. You have a total of 100 16-bit drum samples to choose from including Kicks, Snares, Breaks, Fills, Hi Hats, Bass and Loops.
Boom Bap Phonetics 2 What's different?
Added Spice: Drum Loops/Fills, (Clean/filtered versions)
Sampler's Dream: Kept it RAW for you to chop and filter
Over 100 Samples: Kicks, Snares, Breaks, Fills, Hi Hats, Bass, Loops
16 Bit
Compatibility: Logic X, Pro Tools, Cubase, Reason 7, Fl Studio, Digital Performer, All Hardware Samplers: Akai Mpc 3000, 2000Xl, 1000 Maschine
Recording Chain:
Live Drums → Microphones (Multiple Condensers/Dynamics) → Joe Meek Preamp → Mpc 3000/Sp303
Bonus: Select Stem Files, Multiple recording perspectives (Motown Style)
Evil Dee fills in for DJ Premier on Live From HeadQCourterz with a playlist of heat. Check your iTunes store or Undergroundhiphop.com for many of these new releases.
Ear-opening, melodic and expansive is one way to describe the Jazz-influenced sound of JBird. Get your knack snapping to this emerging producer's rhythm as he presents nearly 30 minutes of music from his beat catalog, ranging from old and brand new works. As you begin the mix, hear J spin what sounds like his earlier Dilla-influenced beats, eventually progressing into music from his current catalog which showcases a more polished and melodic approach which merges samples with his own live playing and beautiful arrangements.
Reminisce to the thumping Soul groove of Carleen's "Mama Said" and check her out on the 2012 compilation "Soul Lounge Sixth US Edition below". The talent featured is of a high caliber and provide beautiful sounds of R&B in a nice variety, holding their own aside the great Carleen Anderson with a vibe which is very inviting.
Enjoy a diverse approach toward mellow music as multi-instrumentalist Jerome Ball arranges soulful grooves to put you at ease, touching upon 80's R&B, TV Themes and Jazz Fusion sound. This cover of Quincy Jones' group The Brothers Johnson shows Jerome's talent for arranging tunes to take your blues away as he presents a pleasant combination guitar, keys and percussion.
The good vibes don't end there, listen below for more good music as Jerome does his thing in a variety of rhythm and moods, original tunes which are all reminiscent of an 80's vibe of R&B music.
Words from Jerome:
Basic track of The Brothers Johnson "So Won't You Stay", all instruments played by me. This song has been a favorite of mine for many years. Written by Harvey Mason and David Foster, this is a tribute to the fine musicians who played on the original basic track - Harvey Mason (drums), Louis "Thunder Thumbs" Johnson (bass), Larry "Mr. 335" Carlton (guitar), and David Foster (keyboards). Recorded using Addictive Drums with a tediously written midi track and custom drum set, bass (Music Man Stingray Classic 4 string), Fender American Standard Telecaster, and a 1979 Rhodes Suitcase with a Boss phase shifter pedal. I used a Line 6 POD HD on all the instruments except for the drums. More tweaking will be done soon. Audacity compressor was used to bring up the volume and "even out" the sound. Now that the basic track is done, vocals are up next. Eventually I'd like to add the synth overdubs, but for now I'll stay with the basic track.
Treat your ears to some Iron Bars as a few leading lyricists are joined by one of the greatest on a new song. Papoose, Justin Tyme, Savant aka Stanstro go bar for bar in an aggressive display of rhymes with the great Kool G Rap as the overseer on the chorus. As a song which introduces new MC talents, this one gets down to business with witty and entertaining flows designed to make Hip Hop heads take notice. First leak from Savant's "Initial Entry" mixtape.
Epidemic's "One Life" is the second single from their junior album "Somethin For Tha Listeners." It is considered by them to be the climax of the album and exhibits a raw, down to earth look into aspects of their lives such as loyalty, the pursuit of success and the trials of everyday life. DJ scratches performed by Dixie.
Epidemic is a Hip-Hop group comprised of two MC's: Hex One and Tek-nition. The two MC's, then teenagers, met during their early years of high-school. Plenty of food for thought by these guys when it comes to real-life situations delivered through slick lyricism and jazzy sample-based production.
Listen to snippets from "Somethin' For Tha Listeners" below at Undergroundhiphop.com.
Jeru shows his lyrical sword is sharp as ever as he entertains with slick flows, projecting his intellect through spiritual, universal, biological and scientific wordplay over the drums of Large Professor. Listen as this prophet from the borough of Brooklyn lets his mind spray with rhymes to generate heat and melt the booth.
Photography of Jeru by AFRICA IS THE FUTURE
There's nothing like Hip Hop to provide a valuable learning experiences of both the good times and everyday obstacles in life. "Best Worst Day" music video by Supastition from his critically acclaimed 2013 release, The Blackboard. Directed by Shamus Coneys; Produced by Dirty Art Club. 2013 Reform School Music
Now available on Bandcamp at supastition.bandcamp.com
Artist site: www.supastition.com
Merch: http//supastition.bigcartel.com
Twitter: @supastition_NC
Instagram: @supastition_NC
Facebook.com/Supastition
New York saxophonist eZra Brown brings "soul muzik-Muzik that forcez you 2 feel.... and not jus listen" in the moving work of Jazz music known as "The Journey". This great album finds eZra using his talent to bring a soulful and inviting vibe out of his instrument, one which is beautifully balanced by arrangements and a group of talented musicians who provide a range from upbeat dance, mellow ballads, smooth Jazz and Jazz-Rock fusion sounds. Sit back and allow your mind to absorb this expansive album as eZra leads the way to take your mind on a journey with his smooth approach on the sax.
"20th album to date for Keyboardist James Lloyd and drummer Curtis Harmon, the driving force behind this iconic band! IN THE MOMENT is another Dream smash!
They are known for mesmerizing and immersing sounds and will continue to make ground with their signature brand by way of a new release. Pieces Of A Dream is set to release their 20th album entitled “In The Moment” later in August on Shanachie Records.
Pieces Of A Dream the Philadelphia-based band, was formed in 1976 by bassist Cedric Napoleon, drummer Curtis Harmon and keyboardist James Lloyd. During the band’s inception, the trio was teenagers.
The group has gone on to score such hits as “Warm Weather”, “Peaceful Dreams” and “Tonight’s the Night.”
According to the band’s website, ” In 2001, Pieces Of A Dream signed with Heads Up International and celebrated their 25th anniversary with what was undoubtedly their best album in years, Acquainted with the Night. The group’s silver anniversary release featured guitarist Ronny Jordan, vocalist Maysa Leak, and saxophonists Gerald Albright and Kenny Blake.” Click here to learn more about Pieces Of A Dream and enjoy related video below!
Will you be adding “In The Moment” to your smooth jazz collection?"
- Review by Mix 95 Houston
Get down to the sounds of a hard working British Soul Band who's residency at the Playboy Club in London during 1968 resulted in this live album, produced by Phil Smith. "Live At The Playboy Club" 1968 Album by Ray King Soul Band is energetic Funk and Soul, featuring an exciting approach to covering a number of famous American tunes.
This one seems to be a sought-after collector's item in the world of vinyl! Download this album on mp3 at Bandcamp or purchase a copy on CD here at Amazon.
Line up: Ray King (vocals), Jim Lang (tenor), Ken Horton (baritone), Terry Leeman (organ), Paul Williams (guitar), Paul Slade (bass), Malcolm Jenkins (drums).
The Beatnuts talk about their plans as a group and run down a growing resume of production in the year of '94. This is a cool moment of summertime Hip Hop as the crew sit on a New York park bench and reflect upon their hard work and humble beginnings in going from working with Chi-Ali to handling a heap of production for Hip Hop greats.
Ego Trip #1 by Vega
Some more nostalgia from the early days of The Beatnuts' career: an article from Ego Trip which is available for a free download and a rugged-sounding remix of their late 90's single "Off The Books".
In Spring 2013, the Estate of James Yancey revived J Dilla’s Pay Jay Productions as a functioning imprint and announced its release of Dilla’s long lost vocal album, The Diary, with the first Pay Jay single “Anthem.”
“Diamonds & Ice” is the second single, a 7-track 12-inch EP. Now shipping from Rappcats. Available everywhere August 27.
A1 Diamonds (The Shining Pt. 1) (Prod. Nottz)
A2 Diamonds (The Shining Pt. 1) (alternate)
A3 Diamonds (The Shining Pt. 1) (instrumental)
B1 Ice (The Shining Pt. 2) (Prod. Madlib)
B2 Ice (The Shining Pt. 2) (Ruff Draft version)
B3 Ice (The Shining Pt. 2) (instrumental)
B4 The D (Prod. Madlib)
ON SALE: J DILLA – DIAMONDS & ICE 12-inch EP
This EP contains what might be the two best known tracks from The Diary – one leaked years ago in the form of a low-bit MP3, and another as a short-lived promotional single. These versions – both final and alternate mixes – come straight from mixed-down masters that Dilla himself created.
Long before his posthumous album The Shining (2006), J Dilla titled these two tracks “The Shining Pt. 1″ and “The Shining Pt. 2.” “Diamonds (The Shining Pt. 1)” was produced Nottz, and “Ice (The Shining Pt. 2)” was produced by Madlib, who Dilla would later collaborate with under the group name Jaylib. The Diamonds & Ice EP contains two markedly different versions of “Ice,” with one showing the musical direction Dilla would embark on after The Diary was shelved in 2002.
Rounding out this EP is a Madlib instrumental that J Dilla secured for the album but never turned into the final song, titled “The D.” We’ve included this beat as a hint of what could have been.
The Estate of James Yancey is administered by attorney Alex Borden and overseen by the Probate Court of the State of California on behalf of Yancey’s four heirs – his mother, Maureen “Madukes” Yancey, his brother John “Illa J” Yancey and his two daughters, Ja’Mya Yancey and Ty-monae Whitlow.
These two live musical tributes by Charlie Rosen and 1Eighty expand upon the pleasant and uplifting side of J Dilla's sound. "Dreamy" features a mix of heavenly flute and vibraphone against the rhythm of a live Dilla arrangement while "Dear Dilla" interprets Jay's funky Jazz-Hop sound into a live setting with nice Jazz improv as 1Eighty entertain and pay homage the late Detroit producer/MC.
The latest in a free compilation series by British label First Word reflects their unique taste and forward-thinking sensibilities for choosing emerging talent within Beats, Soul, Funk and Jazz. Enjoy the diversity of sound, from the dreamy sound of Tall Black Guy's "Floating" and "Framework's "Patience" to the upbeat Afro rhythms of The Fontanelles and smooth brass of The Riot Jazz Band.
"First Word Records was born in 2003 as a collaboration between promoter Aly Gillani and deejay Andy H. Frustrated by not seeing the music they love get the exposure it deserved, the duo decided that there was a gap that needed filling. As the year came to an end a group of musicians, deejays, designers, emcees and producers had come together to cook up the fresh new sound of “Two Syllables”, our debut compilation that was released in April 2004, preceded by a split 12″ from Homecut Directive (ft Corinne Bailey Rae) and Tommy Evans.
Since then, the label has grown to house numerous artists, including kidkanevil, 6ix Toys, French production duo Souleance, The Simonsound, DMC regular Mike-L & the funkiest horn section in the UK, The Haggis Horns. The sound of our output has developed as we have as individuals – the foundation is still the jazzy hip hop of our first releases, but encompasses everything we love in music. Today’s Mathematics’ live broken beat might seem worlds apart from the retro funk of The Haggis Horns and the seismic beats of kidkanevil, but to us the common thread that runs through it all is clear. All our music is truly modern soul music – conscious lyricism, tight beats and heavy basslines. This is music that’s equally at home in the clubs as it is leaking out of your late-night headphones. Like Duke Ellington said – “If it sounds good, it is good”."
Bringing sounds of happiness with each note, producer, lyricist and composer Paris Toon joins Tanya Tiet and Mothers Favorite Child for a vibe of soulful and inspiring music. Each song of Paris is very pleasant and feels like a unique moment in time as he uses Tanya's great voice to paint a beautiful picture of life with Neo-Soul music.
Written, Produced & Arranged by Paris Toon
"I Want My Money Back / This Letter" by Speak Low is a gem of heavy Funk music on Madrid-based label Lovemunk Records. These two songs from the 2013 album "Hands Up!" emphasize raw sound along with an energetic approach on instrumentation to get you moving, a taste of what you can find throughout the rest of the album as Hammond Funk, Jazz-Funk and Soul combine for an exciting journey.
On "Instrumentally AM & Shawn Lee Vol. 1" AM & Shawn Lee bring spaced-out Library instrumental Funk which reflects their musical sensibilities and talent for playing cosmic Funk, soundtracks and other rare grooves. A treat to the crate digger who would like to wet their appetite for an experimental and free-thinking style of music, AM & Shawn Lee approach the craft of Funk with diversity, imagination and passion.
Taking it back to the year of 1993 and a powerful phenomenon known as "gangsta rap", leading and influential artists of the era speak their mind about this emerging expression of Hip Hop. Words from Dr. Dre, Easy E, Onyx, Naughty By Nature, 2 Pac and others. This is the 1st part, check out the 2nd below which was uploaded at an earlier date.
Press release:
"As a member of the revered 60s/70s songwriting team Sultans Of Soul, Eddie Horan's songs have been recorded by the likes of The Jackson 5, Michael Jackson, and numerous other top recording artists. His compositions and lyrics are characterized by their ability to capture the essence of soul and funky disco with groovy melodies, soft, smooth vocals, and an overall warmth and breeziness that few other singer-songwriters have been able to mimic.
Now in 2013, HDM Records presents a definitive collection of Eddie Horan's works: I'm Gonna Speak Out. Combining old classics and previously unheard gems of Horan's catalogue, I'm Gonna Speak Out hops from mood to mood with funky cuts like "Who's Slipping Who Out The Back Door", sweet-talking crooning like "Losing You", and heartfelt balladry like "There's No One Else." For fans of Horan's brand of deep soul there's no skipping this one."
Brown Bag AllStars, Famoso, Spit Gemz & Rasheed Chappell bless the mic on a summer night episode of Halftime Radio while introducing their current and upcoming music. Spit Gemz can be found on Tony Touch's "The Piecemaker 3", Blaq Poet's "Looking For Trouble EP" and Nutso's "Behind These Bars". Famoso has his "Before Tha' Dope Comes" project on Hard Times Records and Rasheed Chappell's latest release is the "Respect Power" single with Yu Mamiya. Brown Bag Allstars have numerous projects including Audible Doctor's recent Summer Tape which you can find online.
Get into a mood of aggression at the hands of 4 producers who aim to incite feelings of rage and power within each of their beats. With neck-snapping rhythm and heavy drums as the backbone of these tracks, witness the darkside of Hip Hop sound as BigNoyd.Prod, Loudpakjerk, Red Charon & Shuko bang on your ear drum.
Get Butterflies inside with the sound of Burn Mills Ensemble as they draw inspiration from MJ to create a joyous Jazz groove. Original members Burn Mills and Larry Graham and Featuring James "Ajax" Baynard of the legendary Crown Heights Affair laying down smooth grooves utilizing the great production, song writing and musicianship of DJ White rock, 2005 BET new jazz artist of the year Marc cary, Ajax Baynard and Ulish booker.
"Butterflies" is a song by American recording artist Michael Jackson. It was written and composed by Andre Harris and Marsha Ambrosius, and produced by Jackson and Harris.
Daniel Crawford knows how to bring a strong dose of energy while keeping you on the edge of your seat with his energetic and soulful approach to songwriting. In his tribute to George Duke, Daniel does his thing in balancing power and serenity in a brilliant arrangement of Brazilian rhythm, piano and synth to take you on an exciting journey. The remake of "We Live In Brooklyn Baby" shows his knack for beautiful performances on the piano as the sound of keys highlight an authentic modern version of the Roy Ayers classic to convey a message about current society.
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