SLE Soundscape

Adad - Slippin

2012-02-22T10:38:00.001-05:00

Last week, on the way out to get some Indian cuisine, this joint came bumping through the speakers. Slippin produced by Dibiase is the first single from All Natural Inc emcee, ADaD's upcoming mixtape "P.S. I'm Next."Schedule to drop next month, and sponsored by All Natural Inc, RubyHornet, & KevinNottingham - based on forward and thought provoking verses like this: "Until I realize what's important, and it ain't a pair of brand new jordans, or the handbag you've been sportin' - the insanity the youth absorbing, it's the bullshit you endorsing...) backed by hard hitting beats to match - one can only embrace this brother for being a speaker of truth.

Adad - Slippin (produced by Dibiase)

Laid Back Presents: SD & Jus One Sexy Beast Vol. 6

2012-02-14T22:01:00.001-05:00

Over two years now I've been waiting and just the other day I found the latest installment of the Sexy Beast series by Djs SD and Jus One. Sexy Beast Vol. 6 is back with the that ill dosage of new and old Nu-Soul, Hip Hop and Soul gems that make for pleasurable listening. This was just what I needed. These guys inspire me! Sorry, they didn't upload the mix for streaming, but ya man Mr. Wells gotcha covered. Respect to Laid Back, SD and Jus One for some great mixes.

SD and Jus One - Sexy Beast Vol. 6

Robert Glasper - Move Love ft King (TBG rmx)

2012-02-09T13:17:00.000-05:00

The date is drawing near (February 28th) for the release of the highly anticipated Black Radio by the Robert Glasper Experiment. I've heard about five tracks thus far and each one has confirmed for me how great this album is going to be once I get to experience the full disc. Currently, Robert Glasper and indabamusic are conducting a remix contest for the lead single "Move Love" ft King. I've heard several up to date - very dope ones at that, but the newest comes from non other than my dude, Tall Black Guy. With this remix, TBG blends elements of his singnature sound (bass heavy) along with some broken beat styled drums and some special effects to the vocals all perfectly arranged and executed easily bringing this remix to the forefront of the competition. I'm not quite sure how the winner will be selected; I didn't see anything regarding a voting process on the site. Whatever the case be, I wish all the best to TBG because I believe in his ability to create something magical. Listen below, and enjoy!

Robert Glasper - Move Love ft King (TBG rmx)

Yung B Da Producer - BaCk At iT

2012-02-03T16:58:00.001-05:00

New Jersey native, Yung B Da Producer continues to churn out joint after joint all leading up to his debut release, The Last Poet. His latest "BaCk At iT", a self-produced gem places Yung B behind the mic - straight spittin'. He drops a few jewels throughout, but pay close attention to the last few bars where he speaks on 1 of hip hops biggest stars. Some may say it's all talk - even jealousy at the highest, but too much talk has some validity to it and I'm a true believer of that. Continue to speak the truth and bless your listeners sun.

Yung B Da Producer - BaCk At iT

Esperanza Spalding - Black Gold ft Algebra Blesset (Video)

2012-02-02T22:45:00.000-05:00

A quick stroll through twitter and look what greatness I came across. "Black Gold" is the first single and official video from the 2011 Best New Artist Grammy Winner, Esperanza Spalding. Featuring Atlanta native, Algebra Blesset "Black Gold" explores the rich history of African culture and black pride. The two compliment each others voice so well, and as the first single this is a great look for Algebra as well. I love how the video begins, reminds me of how I am when talking to my two youngest. This is definitely an exciting time for Esperanza and for the many new fans she's welcomed since the Grammys. I'm looking forward to the upcoming album, Radio Music Society due out March 20th. I'd heard Q-tip produced the album, then I heard he did produce some tracks, but will they make it is another question. Let's hope they do. Either way, support it when it drops.

Bilal - Free (Tall Black Guy rmx)

2012-01-31T21:45:00.000-05:00

New music from Tall Black Guy is always a good thing. This time around, the super producer lays down a very different and interesting sound than what I've come to know from him. Slowing down the tempo and grudging out the sound - Bilal's "Free" gets a very alternative rework that both Bilal and producer, Nottz would be very proud of. This is just a taste of some new freshness to come, so keep watch for more. TBG is just getting warmed up for 2012.

Bilal - Free (TBG rmx)

yU - I Believe ft Duff

2012-01-16T10:31:00.001-05:00

"Today's a special day in remembrance of a man that resembled the spirit of a leader at a time where many just followed suit & went with the tide. Another example of how powerful the spoken word can be, changing the lives of many by something as simple as a thought; amplified by the tone of his voice. When I'm onstage, sometimes I think of Martin & Malcolm. I think of how they fueled their supporters with inspiration to push forward. I wrote "I Believe" at a time when I myself was going thru a lot, and was trying to fine tune my focus. Somehow after talking to my creator, & Charlie Ross (who lived in Okinawa, Japan at the time), I was given the music & this is what came from it." - yU

"I Believe" comes from 2011's, The Earn. An album highly worthy of your support. Available here.

yU - I Believe ft Duff

Robert Glasper Experiment - Ah Yeah ft Musiq Soulchild & Chrisette Michele

2012-01-07T00:47:00.001-05:00

I heard this yesterday via Kev Beadle's podcast and was instantly blown away. "Ah Yeah" is the first official single from pianist/producer, Robert Glasper's fifth album, Black Radio scheduled for a February 28th release. Featuring Musiq Soulchild and Chrisette Michele on vocals, this has only intensified the desire to purchase this album. Having heard two previous singles and peeping the track-list, I can go on early to say Black Radio probably will be album of the year for 2012. Pre-orders available now via amazon and itunes.

Tall Black Guy - Love To The World

2012-01-03T23:26:00.000-05:00

A new year without some new tunes is straight up wack! That's why producer Tall Black Guy's management made sure to hit me with one from his latest batch. As always, TBG cooks up another soulful dish for us to vibe out to. Rhythmic drums, lush keys, that signature bass line and a few ad-libs keeps the head in constant nod mode. This one's available come 1-24-12 on 7" LP, so if you're a vinyl collector or dj add this is one to your crates. Support it here.

Tall Black Guy - Love To The World

Gods'illa ft Maimouna Youssef - You Don't Have To Be A Star (Video)

2011-12-30T14:41:00.001-05:00

Yes, it's been a minute since I've posted something. It's that time leading up to and following the Christmas holiday that throws me off; so let's start back with this gem from brothers Acem, Truth & Powerful bka Godsilla. Featuring the captivating voice of Maimouna Youssef, this hip hop - party version of Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis Jr's, 1976 classic "You Don't Have To Be A Star" is just right to get the New Year party flowing in the right direction. I'll definitely be vibing to this joint for weeks to come. Be sure to check the album CPR BlendTape hosted by DJ Lo Down Loretta Brown (Erykah Badu) and peep the "You Don't Have To Be A Star" remix below featuring Bahamadia, Monie Love and MC Lyte.

Gods'illa - You Don't Have To Be A Star (rmx)

Bashiri Asad - Running On Empty/ I Am 1

2011-12-30T00:11:00.000-05:00

Over the past year plus some, I've become more acquainted with the warm and soulful sounds of Indianapolis native Bashiri Asad. The upbeat defining single, "I Am 1" brought him to my attention and caused me to seek out more. Since that time, I bought a few singles from his previous (I Am 1) and current project (The Space Between), but fell behind on posting anything about him. So let me say this, the brother is definitely one you need to have added to your collection. Bashiri reminds me of a young Luther Vandross! That's an automatic win for me. But Bashiri has great storytelling and song composition of his own that's well worth giving him your ear. I suggest you head on over to his bandcamp right now and idulge in some great soul music from an artist who's making moves toward becoming one of your favorites.

Bashiri Asad - Running On Empty

Bashiri Asad - I Am 1

Mecca:83 - Midnight Kids ft Kan Sano & Buscrates

2011-12-07T23:03:00.001-05:00

I won't brag and say how much you should be up on this cat, but based on what I heard via his bandcamp, Mecca:83 got something for beat heads like myself and others. His approach at beat making translates to a finely polished collective of instrumentals, some with vocal samples that clearly draw influences from producers, Peter Rock, Flying Lotus, JDilla, Large Pro and a host of others which soothe the soul as well as get your head bobbing. "Midnight Kids" is featured on his Life Sketches Vols. 1&2 (available now) as a bonus track, but as a thank you to all his supporters, he decided to release this one for free. Featuring the talents of Tokyo based producer/pianist Kan Sano and Pittsburgh's finest beat technician Buscrates 16-Bit Ensemble, this gem is sure to have you seeking more from M:83. Get your free download of the track here and follow him if you feel his work on twitter Solarsounds. Another dope album just added to my to get list.

Mecca:83 - Midnight Kids ft Kan Sano & Buscrates

Georgia Anne Muldrow - More & More ft. Bilal (Video)

2011-12-07T19:14:00.001-05:00

Georgia Ann Muldrow is one artist known for delivering a plethora of very different styles of music. Soul, jazz, hip-hop, electro, funk... you get the picture. She's super talented and blessed with the gifts of voice, songwriting, production, instrumentation and much more we have yet to see. The featured single, "More & More" ft. Bilal comes from her latest release, "Owed to Mama Rickie" which is now available everywhere. The song itself is straight up classic, and the message throughout the video is one of staying true to yourself & loving who you are. So many beautiful images of black and brown people rocking their naturals and just expressing their beauty and love of self and family. I sat watching with my five year old son and had him nodding his head and singing the hook after our second viewing. This album is next on my to get list. I suggest you do the same. Take your preference below and support good music.

Buy it at iTunes: http://bit.ly/rIqGcD
Buy it at Amazon: http://amzn.to/vyhgkb
Buy it at CDBaby: http://bit.ly/syl139
Buy it at FatBeats: http://bit.ly/w3iY7Z
Buy it at UGHH: http://bit.ly/sAHEbv
Buy it at Access: http://bit.ly/u9EuwS
Buy it at HMV: http://bit.ly/s24OFv
Buy it at Ebay: http://bit.ly/v9Gxa7
Buy it at Bestbuy: http://bit.ly/vhKoYa
Buy it at Dustygroove: http://bit.ly/vtWFCN
Buy it at Barnesandnoble: http://bit.ly/uregWM
Buy it at Animatedcartunes: http://bit.ly/rFslfH

Himal - Makin Moves ( Video)

2011-12-06T20:43:00.001-05:00

"Makin' Moves" is the debut and lead single from London based singer, Himal. Just last week I received an email notifying me to Himal, the video above and his forthcoming Ep, Soul Light /Soul Love. The track is produced by Kensaye, who brought us an amazing remix of Amy Winehouse's "Rehab." On "Makin' Moves," Kensaye composes a summery feel type track which compliments the easy going flow of Himal's vocals. As much as I like the track, I thought it was a bit long though and could've ended under four minutes (just my thoughts). Still and all, it's a solid first for Himal so I won't be to hard on him. Check out below another single that I came across from him and keep watch for the Ep in 2012. Get your free download of the single here.

Kaleem Taylor - Smooth Ep

2011-12-06T08:19:00.001-05:00

One of my new favorite voices on the scene is London's, Kaleem Taylor. After first being introduced via his classic track "Never", I was sure of his abilities to create something pretty nice for audio relief. And with a baritone so rich in soul, 20 year old Kaleem, delivers this five piece recording - Smooth Ep to wet the palates of his fans and new ones to come. Do not sleep on this kid! You can download the project for free here.

Kaleem Taylor - What Do I Do

Maimouna Youssef - I Got A Man (Video)

2011-12-04T10:16:00.001-05:00

Back in August, Maimouna Youssef dropped the lead single, "I Got A Man" from her well crafted debut album, The Blooming. With the visuals, Maimouna along with director, Brian "B Kyle" Atkins create a colorful backdrop for the song. I don't watch to many videos from start to finish, but this one definitely had me, and at over 6 mins long, that's saying a lot. Enjoy! Stream/purchase the album here.

TDR Presents: Opolopo Mutants

2011-11-19T13:05:00.001-05:00

Last year, I was introduced to powerhouse producer and Hungarian born musician, Opolopo. Strange name, yet a strong and simple definition meaning "Plenty" in Yoruban gives validity to the man's abilities behind the boards. For over a decade, his sound has played behind the works of various labels and artists, some I may have heard but would have to research for familiarity. Voltage Controlled Feelings (which is not his debut) released on Tokyo Dawn Records presented an array of funked out vibes in combination with a sonic blend of 80's inspired R&B, techno synths and future electronic sounds. Tracks like "Glide" "Take it Slow" and "Waiting" all had me moving and contorting my body in ways it hasn't done since I was a teen. Okay, I'm exaggerating, but seriously, I bounced and jerked my body uncontrollably to the rhythms as they blared from my speakers. Before now (Mutants), his full production on Amalia's Art Slave brought more attention to his diversity in the lab which churned out some gems for this album. Amalia, with her very passionate vocals and stylish groove worked wonderfully with Opolopo's new production course. I heard influences from Janet Jackson's - Rhythm Nation and Guy's - The Future (both classic albums) throughout the project.

Now on Mutants it's all about the remixes he has done. Scheduled for release on December 5th, the 14 track album is filled with some banging tunes. Taking on tracks which feature artists like Talib Kweli, Amalia, Colonel Red, Gregory Porter, Soulparlor and more, this one is a great introduction for those who aren't familiar and a true gift for those like myself who has heard one or two of these remixes, but doesn't own any - until now.

Lisa Preston aka LP - M.U.S.I.C (Opolopo rmx)

Yellowtail - Back to The Melody (Opolopo rmx)

Proh Mic - Rhythm for Days

2011-11-17T09:35:00.001-05:00

I spoke about Proh Mic in my post connected with the Hawthorne Headhunters, so it's only right I give shine to the man himself as he too has his album out in stores. Rhythm for Days is the official debut by emcee/producer Proh Mic. The West Seattle, Wa native has been putting in work for a few years now, and it's unfortunate that so many, myself included has just come to know of him. Right around late 2010 was when I got introduced to his vibe. Catch A Pisces, Cheesecake and Prohmita are three free albums I got put on to courtesy of BIFTK. Rawsome is another, which I don't have, but right now it's all about Rhythm For Days.

Released on Oct 25th via All Natural Inc, RFD took me on a musical journey back to the 80's while still finding current ground with original production, stellar song composition and a cast of superb indie talent. "Mothership" sets the tone of the album beginning with what sounds like an emergency bell, but is more of an activation sequence preparing listeners for the cosmic journey ahead. The multi-faceted Georgia Ann Muldrow is the first of several guest appearances. She sings a tale of lost knowledge ranging from black love, raising our children and cultivating our foods on "I Remember." Coultrain drops in on the funky club banger "Hit The Floor" The first of Proh Mics 80's renditions is "Don't Stop The Music" and "I Can't Wait" is the second - both easily placed me back in Brooklyn, NY jammin' on the block with my boom-box.

"Sleep In Girl" ft Tone Trezure, I'd have to say is my fave for now. Despite hearing it some time prior to the album's release, something about that deep bass-line groove and Trezure's distinctive voice will have me on repeat a few times. "Easy Luvin'" ft Paolo Jean is another winner with its soulful-samba feel.

Outside of handling the production, Proh also contributes his share of lyrics throughout, but shines so bright on "Optimistic." Really feelin' the positive outlook he has on this track, and to add more to keep one salivating, Proh closes out the track with this is Busta Rhymes sample that's just fire! He told me via twitter, he believes there's an extended version on the physical cd. Well, I'm gonna have to order one in due time.

As this is not a review, but merely a quick glance into a really dope album from a very talented brotha, I say to you, check this album out and support it. I read on one of my acquaintances FB page that it's our responsibility as music seekers and lovers to promote and share the news of really incredible artists when we come to know about them. I'm doing me part, now you do yours. Proh Mic - Rhythm For Days is available now via itunes , amazon, and for the physical which includes a separate instrumentals disc, you can get that here.

Proh Mic - Whatcha Gonna Do ft Jessica Neal

Proh Mic - Don't Stop The Music

Hawthorne Headhunters - Myriad of Now EP

2011-11-15T22:09:00.000-05:00

Groups breakup! It's just something that happens. Sometimes the answer is obvious (friction), while other times it's just simple differences that don't even matter. Well, St. Louis natives Black Spade and Coultrain, the two remaining members of Hawthorne Headhunters have no beef whatsoever with former members, MC Adad, I -Ced & Pro Mic. The desire to go solo was just imperative for the former three. Good for them. MC Adad is currently working on his solo while both I-Ced and Pro Mic have release dope debuts. Now Hawthorne Headhunters follow up and carry the name strong with their Myriad of Now Ep. This is just a glimpse of what's to come from the full length 14 track album due out next year. A combination of Electro, Funk, Jazz, and Soul music fused with free spirited lyrics. I'm a fan of both artists, so when I pressed play, I allowed the music to do what it do: ENGAGE!

Myriad of Now released last month, and I've had this since the 24th of then, but for those who are still sleeping or just not at all aware, peep two gems from the EP below. Groups like Hawthorne Headhunters in my opinion deserve to be a household name, but I do understand, some things are just not for everyone. But for those that feel their eclecticism, support them on itunes and stay tuned for more.

Hawthorne Headhunters - Teleport

Hawthorne Headhunters - No Crying Now, No Lyin' Down

Allen Stone - Unaware (Live Video)

2011-11-15T20:18:00.001-05:00

Heard this joint while listening to 22tracks and had to inquire about dude. Shocked to see who the singer was, but nonetheless Allen Stone has a soulful voice that can't be denied. I appreciate that fact that this is so organic - live from his mother's home and it plays just as beautiful as the recorded song itself. "Unaware" comes via his sophomore effort - Allen Stone. Some pretty nice tunes provided the preview on itunes. It's been added to my wish list. Check it out for self.

Dynasty - Forgive (Video)

2011-11-11T14:15:00.001-05:00

Queens-bred femcee Dynasty drops a truly emotional tale about her absentee father and the trickle down affect it has had on her life as a grown woman today. As a father of four and one who only knew his own through pictures, I feel Dynasty's hurt. At 39 years of age, I often reflect on how lessons in my life would've been delt with differently had my father been there. In the end though, the will to "Forgive" allows the freedom to let go of the pain and live for the joy that is there for us all to gain. "Forgive" comes from Dynasty's latest effort, The Love Ep which is available today. With production from Jinx, Tall Black Guy, O.p. Supa and more, this is the next phase to come from an emcee that remains to thrive despite all diversity. Please be sure to support The Love Ep, and thank you Dy for a beautiful song and Darryl Richardson for a well conceived video!

Tamara Wellons - Ah God (Songs For Janie Promo Video)

2011-11-09T21:19:00.001-05:00

Tamara Wellons is one of a few artists that has been making moves for a few years now, but I honestly just got into her early last year. I heard her song, "Like Rain" on some dj's mix and couldn't stop bouncing to the heart pumping house song. Her debut, "Life Is" is a great mix of dance, house, jazz and R&B vibes sprinkled with inspirational and uplifting lyrics. Her beautifully executed cover of Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit" is one that needs to be heard by the masses.

Three years later, the Ivor, Virginia native returns with her first single, "Ah God"off her long awaited Songs For Janie, due out next Tuesday (11-15-1). Tamara been hard at work creating this work of art and which happens to be inspired by the Zora Neale Hurston classic, "Their Eyes Were Watching God." "Ah God" begins with a quick tale of blinded love then breaks into a richly sung chorus of trusting ones intuition. To carry out that dream inside your heart and in to the world where it belongs. Sounds like a pleasant changing of musical lanes for Tamara, and I thus far personally accept.

Tamara Wellons - Ah God

Dirg Gerner - Rubies & Diamonds ft Fatima

2011-11-08T13:00:00.000-05:00

The artist known as Dirg Gerner remains somewhat of a mystery to me. I first came to know of him back in September of 2010. Tokyo Dawn Records put me on courtesy of their compilation, The Heart. With a voice able to seize your spirit with an ad-lib or the use of just a few words, Dirg Gerner is soon to become one of the Uk's most wanted artist. His forthcoming project, Preface EP, due out sometime soon will feature the likes of Rahel, Fatima and Olmino, and the sound will draw upon soul, jazz, latin, hip hop and more. Here's the first track - Rubies & Diamonds ft Fatima. Opening with an odd pogo spring sound then moving into an eerie vibe, the track takes on a slow bouncy groove allowing Fatima's soulful voice to shine just as well. Keep your ears and eyes open for Dirg Gerner's - Preface Ep.

Dirg Gerner - Rubies & Diamonds ft. Fatima

Jinx - New Growth (The Album)

2011-11-07T13:05:00.003-05:00

Last night at Crowbar, the 813 came out strong to represent & celebrate for one of their very own favorite & gifted artists - emcee/producer, Jinx. The release of his long awaited sophomore album, New Growth was a moment in hip hop that had to be witnessed. Accompanied by all the good and bad of the culture - squealing mics, smokey air space, b-boys and gay boys who love the music equally, old school funk and soul joints, mad scratching courtesy of a few hometown djs, the tight fit of the crowd and the feeling of being out in the park after dark made the night just right for the occasion. This was Jinx' time to shine as he unveiled the second coming of himself.

Sharing your flaws, achievements, struggles and overall soul isn't always received by the fickle fans of this music, but there's no increase to ones being when you remain in one lane. Sure you can have a couple dope beats, but what's left after that? Simply the beats! But there needs to be some substance as well to balance. Jinx provides that substance with New Growth and it is pure honesty from a humble young man who's very aware and informed of his surroundings.

The 16 track album produced by Jinx with the exception of two, featuring fellow Tampa artists, Dynasty, Mike Mass, Monica Delgado, Ron Marks and others touches heavily on the current state of the music via tv/radio programming (Robots), the beauty and ugly of female relations (Split Personality & Let Me Go) his dance vibe paying homage to the b-boys & b-girls (U) and various aspects of todays society on Reality Check. Jinx spits raw emotion into every track from commencement to close. A true sign of growth from his previous works and just a preview of what's to come from this continually aspiring artist.

I interviewed Jinx back in March where he spoke briefly about the album and his excitement for the world to hear it. After witnessing his performance last night, I can say he accomplished one tier by breaking ground once again at home. Now it's time to spread it out beyond the city. Physical copies are currently only available via mail order and the digital will soon be on his Bandcamp. Contact freeyourrhyme@gmail.com for your copy. Until then vibe to two gems from the album. Support the real!

Jinx - Official ft Dynasty

Jinx - My Advice ft J'Nelle

fLako - Broken Toy

2011-11-06T15:54:00.001-05:00

This is a big tune right here! "Broken Toy" from UK producer fLako is a funky Mardi Gras type joint filled with blaring horns, a marching band drum and some quirky additions to complete. This is just one of five ill tracks from his forthcoming ep, Carving Away The Clay due out on Project Mooncircle next Friday (11-11-11). My introduction to the abstract producer came mid last year after hearing his work on a few podcasts and online-radio shows I listen to. Dude is definitely an instant like or dislike depending on how out there you are with your musical taste. I absolutely love his vibe! There's no specific genre to place him in - just consider him eclectic art flowing through your speakers. Peep the track below, and if you like, make sure to support the ep when it drops. Pre-order available now on itunes.

fLako - Broken Toy