Collectors Item - Music, Art & Life

Video: "Boon Documented" The Life & Music Of Boonie Mayfield (Trailer)

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 18:27:00 +0000

This is a sound of production which definitely stands out to me and others who have praised his YouTube presentations of soulful productions and tutorials. "Boon Documented" is the trailer to the upcoming webisode series following the musical process, studio sessions, career development, life and friendships of producer Boonie Mayfield a/k/a Boon Doc. This looks like a view into the life of an emerging producer like that which Hip Hop has not yet seen. New shows will be updated on the 15th of every month and the debut pilot episode will release on 2.15.12.

Kool G Rap - "Road To The Riches" 1993 Performance & 2012 Interview with Necro

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 18:24:00 +0000

Witness a defining figure of how Hip Hop views the streets as Kool G Rap performs his classic single "Road To The Riches" live in 1993. His verses on this song set the tone for many others which would follow that spoke upon the paper chase, the inner workings of the underworld and mafioso imagery incorporated to the context of Hip Hop.

Moving forward to 2012, Kool G Rap joins one of his students, underground veteran MC/producer Necro for a 2 hour takeover of Conspiracy Worldwide Radio as "The Godfathers". This sounds like a radio episode which will be very enjoyable and insightful for years to come as two talents of Hip Hop combine to express their views on the past and future of the culture and artform, give an overview of their heavyweight discographies and speak about their anticipated collaboration album.

Download/Stream - Kool G Rap & Necro - The Godfathers CWR Takeover

DJ Skeme Richards Presents - The Sound of Film Pt. 5 Schifrin-Budd Play Shaw Bros

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 17:39:00 +0000

DJ Skeme Richards of Hot Peas and Butta is back with another installment to the Sound of Film series with the current being dedicated to the classic 42nd Street Shaw Brothers Kung Fu films and two of the greatest composers of all time, Lalo Schifrin and Roy Budd for this cinematic adventure titled Schifrin & Budd play Shaw. In true Hot Peas and Butta fashion, Skeme Richards reworks dialog from some of his favorite flix and rearranges them to his favorite film scores which gives it a totally new feel from both angles.

Sit back, relax, grab your popcorn and enjoy this cinematic adventure.

Audio: DJ JS-1 Hip Hop Set on Rap is Outta Control Radio 1/29/12

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:22:00 +0000

This Jan. 29th, 2012 mix on Sirius/Xm's "Hip Hop Nation" "Rap Is Outta Control" radio features the turntable skills and a quality selection of current Hip Hop artists by DJ JS1. In the tradition of this show which is normally hosted by DJ Eclipse and Torae, JS1 picks from a new generation of music with the highest scrutiny to compile a mix which should satisfy your ear for the classic sound of the East Coast. Here are JS1's words about this episode of "Rap Is Outta Control" radio:

"I went through a lot of the newer hiphop and tried to pick songs that i personally liked or appreciate. Nowadays since EVERYONE makes music, there is tons of demos to listen to, mixed in with actual artist and albums. I only play what i like and don't support some of the nonsense that has infiltrated "underground" hiphop. There is tons of dudes imitating other rappers, tons of producers imitating other producers, etc.. That's not what hiphop is all about. So on this show i did my best to rock what i thought was worthy or notable. There is lots of newer MCees and still several veterans in the game bringing you good music. When doing a "mix" show, i don't like playing whole songs, afterall it is a "mix" show. If you like any of these tracks, you can go buy them on itunes or support by buying the CD from sites like ughh.com and fatbeats.com. I'd like to thank Dj Eclipse for doing a show like this with little reward. It's hard work and you have to deal with several people who complain and harass you, like me. lol. I hope you enjoy this new mix, and hope you support some of these new artists like Soul Khan, Homeboy Sandman, Rasheed Chappell, Blacastan, etc... I chose this picture for the cover, simply because "rap IS outta control..."

"Some things in life are out of your control, you can make it a party or a tragedy..."

Download DJ JS-1 on Rap Is Outta Control 1/29/12

The tracklist of DJ JS-1 on Rap is Outta Control 1/29/12 shows that the veterans are holding it down with dope music as well as new, emerging voices:

1- RIOC intro w Kool G Rap & AG
2- Rasheed Chappell - Break Loose w Dj Scratch
3- Gee Dubs - I Dont Care
4-Evidence - Late for the Sky
5-Rah BoomBap- Gem Star
6-Rasheed Chappell - I Know
7-Maffew Ragazino - Short Yellow Bus Theory
8--Punchline & Fokis - Enemy of the State
9-Torae - You Ready?
10-Showbiz & AG - Show & A
11-Blacastan - Blac Magic
12-Common - Raw (How U Like It)
13-Timbo King - Tombstone
14-PH - King Latifah
15-Torae - That Raw
16-Nas & Dj Premier - Re_Generation
17-DJ JS-1 & KRS - Despair
18-Hassaan Mackey & Apollo Brown - Volume
19-Meyhem Lauren - Queens
20-Homeboy Sandman - Canned Goods
21-Cunninlynguists - Stars Shine Bright
22-Evidence - Fame
23-Showbiz & AG - Bronx Shit
24-BDP (KRS) - Tote Gunz
25-Fashawn - Generation F
26-Bumpy Knuckles & Premier - We are at War
27-Grand Puba & Hell Razah - Writings on the Wall
28-JoJo Pellegrino - Only One
29-Natural Elements - Done
30-Neek the Exotic & Large Pro - Still on the Hustle
31-Reef the Lost Cauze & Snowgoons - Big Shots
32-Soul Khan - Ra's Al Ghul
33-Styles P - Children
34-Dj Doom feat Blacastan - U Just Mad
35-Dj Skizz feat Timeless Truth & Nutso - Santo Remedio
36-The Funk League feat Diamond D - The Boogie Down Bombers
37-DJ JS-1 feat Blacastan - Hold Ya Breath
38-Koncept - Watch the Sky Fall
39-Dj Doom feat KrumbSnatcha - Rookies
40-Edo G - Fast Lane
41-The Regiment & Bodega Brovas - The Show Must Go On
42-La Coka Nostra - Malverde Market
43-Truth feat JS-1 - The Greatest Force
45-Erick Sermon - Way Out
46-MOP & Snowgoons - Anyone Can Get It
47-Royce Da 5'9" - Second Place
48-Rah BoomBap feat Kool Sphere - NYC Agenda
49-Truth feat Sean P - New Type Sumthin'
50-J-Live - Authentic
51-Punchline & Dj SoulClap - I Go On

"L Corleone" by Big L, Available Feb 14th 2012. Listen To Snippets

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:28:00 +0000

The name of Harlem's finest Big L continues to live on through this compilation of independent and unreleased recordings entitled "L Corleone", available Feb 14th 2012 on Flamboyant Music Group. This project gives new shine to L's post-"Lifestylez" music when he worked towards building a name for himself in the industry along with his crew 8 Iz Enuff. If you have been digging for vinyl and mixtape over the last decade you may have heard the majority of these songs, but for those still discovering the catalog of Big L this is definitely a good purchase.

Audio: Syl Johnson Interviews on The Sidebar #22

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:39:00 +0000

The Sidebar #22 presents the musical journey of Soul legend Syl Johnson as he discusses his current ventures in bridging generations between "old-school Soul" by collaborating with younger, contemporary artists in addition to reflecting upon his career from beginning to present. O-Dub aka Oliver Wang goes in-depth about discussing Syl's unique sound, recording techniques and influences, including how one of his famous songs "Different Strokes" came to be. This interview outlines Syl's journey from past to present from his early days playing with Blues musicians before moving into Soul and graduating towards working with greats such as Sly Stone and Willie Mitchell. Nowadays, he continues to record music and tour and collaborates with like-minded emerging musicians such as Breakestra and his daughter Syleena Johnson who appreciate the classic sound of Soul.

Overall, it is clear that the root of Syl's music is based upon strong emotions and thoughts of life, as well as a unique and enthusiastic personality which you will hear in this January 2012 audio interview.

Listen to The Sidebar #22: Syl Johnson

Music used in the podcast (all available on The Complete Mythology unless *otherwise indicated*)

Sockin’ Soul Power
*Mellow-D: Love Makes a Woman
*Vicci Martinez: Anyway the Wind Blows
*Syleena Johnson: Is It Because I’m Black?
Teardrops
I Resign From Your Love
Come On, Sock It To Me
Different Strokes
*Kanye West and Jay-Z: The Joy
Dresses Too Short
Is It Because I’m Black? Concrete Reservation
*Syl Johnson: Bout To Make Me Leave My Home (on The Complete Syl Johnson on Hi Records) Boogie Down Productions: Criminal Minded
Wu-Tang Clan: Shame on a Nuh
Try Me

Rhymageddon - "Vaccine" feat. John Robinson

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:26:00 +0000

&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://rhymageddon.bandcamp.com/track/vaccine-feat-john-robinson"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Vaccine feat John Robinson by Rhymageddon&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;
Rhymageddon and John Robinson provide the vaccine to wackness in 2012 with a show of visual and conceptual lyricism. "Vaccine" produced by Divine Drummah seeks to provide the antidote to poisonous vocab through the intellectual approach of two talented Jersey MCs.

Robert Glasper Experiment - "Move Love" Ft. King (Needle x Sivey Remix)

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:19:00 +0000

Needle x Sivey take advantage of the remix competition for jazz musician Robert Glasper's new track "Move Love" by adding their musical touch to "Move Love". The production duo provide their take on Glasper's direction of futuristic Jazz-influenced Neo Soul by providing beautiful sounds which enhance King's vocals and build with energy.

Moka Only & Chief - "Mess Around" (Luman Chilld Remix)

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 18:02:00 +0000

Enjoy the Jazz-influenced sounds of "Best Around" remixed by Swiss multi-instrumentalist, composer, producer and remixer Luman Child. Luman creates an upbeat vibe with his remix which is drenched in Rhodes keys and driven by a funky bass guitar groove.

soundcloud.com/lumanchild

Audio: Davey D Interviews Pioneers & Emerging Figures Of Hip Hop

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:35:00 +0000

In January 2012 Davey D has blessed YouTube with a collection of his interviews with notable figures in Hip Hop, speaking with pioneers such as Kool Herc, Afrika Bambaataa, Prince Whipper Whip and The Crash Crew, to Golden Era greats such as Ice-T and newer artists who are currently on their path to greatness such as Jean Grae and Killer Mike. With 7 hours in total time, this is a great collection of insight into the minds of people who represent Hip Hop to the fullest with inspiring stories and thought-provoking opinions to share.

Video: Too Deep - "Track 01"

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 18:31:00 +0000

Too Deep releases his video for "Track 01" from the 2011 project "The Hippie Hoodlum". The visuals for this video add depth to Too Deep's skillful delivery while displaying the raw essence and artform of Hip Hop based in the street environment from which the culture originates. If you look forward to hearing more of Too Deep's skills, listen to the rest of "The Hippie Hoodlum" here at bandcamp.

Shateish - "Im Leavin' (dedicated to Etta James) prod. by Nottz

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 17:13:00 +0000

This short but powerful dedication to the late singer Etta James by Shateish shows the beauty of music and art is the influence which one era can leave upon another. Shateish takes where her contemporary influence as a Soul vocalist Etta James left off in singing with deep emotion about the trails of a woman dealing with love.

Edo G, Encyclopedia Brown & Shawn Boyd - "Master of Ceremony" (prod. by Diaz Millenia)

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:16:00 +0000

I believe this is one of the lyrical standouts from BeatKnock'Az free project. On "Master of Ceremony" Edo G, Encyclopedia Brown & Shawn Boyd go all out with creative thought and skill on the mic to show their example of an MC in 2011 and beyond. Some posse cuts of today tend to have a feel where you can easily differentiate them from the classic ones of the 90's. However, this song actually feels like it could have come out on one of Edo's albums back in the early to mid 90's in my opinion, which I believe is a good thing.

Download "Unified" by BeatKnock'Az here if you haven't already got it.

Audio: Masta Ace Discusses The Industry, "Disposable Arts" & "MA Doom: Son of Yvonne"

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 03:00:00 +0000

Masta Ace takes a look back through his journey of ups and downs of the industry up towards his present state as an independent label owner of M3 records for a look at an inspirational artistic career. On this episode of Brooklyn Bodega Radio, Ace and the host discuss a number of thoughts related to artistic development and independence such as carving your own path to success in the industry, being aware of change and recognizing talent. The discussion is thoughtful as both seem to be on the same level of awareness towards trends and the direction of Hip Hop. The issue of Shan and Marley's beef is addressed as Ace reflects on the early days of The Juice Crew plus their upcoming 2012 European tour.

Prepare for the collaboration album of Masta Ace and MF Doom entitled "MA Doom: Son of Yvonne" which Ace gives a sneak peek of on this radio episode. Ace is also taking time to celebrate the anniversary of "Disposable Arts" with a new project which you should look out for.

Prince Paul Presents: Boogie Down Productions - "Drug Dealer" (Demo Mix)

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 20:27:00 +0000

Prince Paul releases another gem from the vaults, the demo mix of "Drug Dealer" by Boogie Down Productions which features a rough mixdown plus a different drum sample and drops. This is one of the more deeply written and socially insightful songs off BDP's "Sex and Violence" LP where KRS suggests solutions to the drug dealers of society to take a look at themselves in order to turn a negative into a positive. I can definitely relate to the messages kicked from growing up in the 80 and 90's drug-plagued community of Harlem, New York. Enjoy this Prince Paul production from the archives.

Video: Akai MPC Renaissance: A Closer Look From NAMM & Where To Purchase

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 19:11:00 +0000

In 2012, Akai presents the latest in their esteemed legacy of midi production centers, the Akai MPC Renaissance. This is the world's first MPC designed for integration with a Mac or PC desktop computer, one of the main design features which separates this one from the classics. The ability to seamlessly create a workflow between an MPC and desktop computer has been highly anticipated for awhile, now with the Renaissance that vision has finally become a reality. This new union between Akai's legendary hardware design and the flexibility of a computer and software gives producers a whole new set of options in the process of music-making while maintaining the good old features of the MPC legacy. In essence, this latest innovation from Akai combines the familiar workflow layout, features and sonic characteristics of classic MPCs with modern features that aim to please both dedicated fans and new users of the MPC. Roger Linn's innovative ideas and design have been updated based on receiving input from dozens of working producers who seek the essence of the MPC combined with more flexibility in it's use. “No other tool on the planet has all the things producers demand with the industry-leading feel that they expect from Akai Pro,” says Dan Gill, the Product Manager at Akai Professional. “MPC Renaissance the most advanced and powerful MPC ever produced, yet it retains a link to beloved MPCs of the past.”

Let's take a look at the hardware design of the Renaissance. The 16 pads now feature backlighting on each pad, this seems to be a growing trend for drum pad design in the new millennium and Akai has added this feature to add a contemporary look to their legendary design. Traditional MPC functions such as the 16 Q-Link controllers and Note-Repeat button are borrowed from the previous series of MPCs and are integrated in this new design. An array of useful controls are within your reach on the surface of the MPC for assignment to the internal functions, providing quick access and control over any software parameters in real time. The LCD screen looks better than ever and thankfully so due to the array of functionality you have within the Renaissance of programming sequences, effects and MIDI data. The new screen provides clear vision over your work at all times through the brightly backlit and adjustable design. However, you need not rely on just the LCD screen any longer, this MPC provides connectivity to your desktop computer for a larger view of your workspace. For people who like having the familiarity of most DAW or sequencer controls on hand to use at moments notice like faders for ADSR, this MPC comes with it's own set of transport controls. For creating external audio, MIDI and computer connections, this machine comes equipped with enough inputs and outputs for any studio environment. The built-in 2-port USB hub features four MIDI outputs and two 5-pin MIDI inputs for controlling external hardware via the Renaissance controllers. The audio in/out section boasts a stereo 1/4 inch output, stereo assignable 1/4 inch mix-out, S/PDIF in and out, switchable phono/line-in and phantom-powered dual-balanced XLR combo inputs.

For those who may be wondering about the type of sound which you will receiving coming out of this new MPC, Akai has gone the extra length to internalize the original audio converters from the classic 60 and 3000 models inside the new Renaissance. This feature allows you to choose ‘Vintage Mode’ which gives you the analog punch and lo-fi grit based on the circuitry which is sought after in older MPCs. Choose from three settings: MPC3000, MPC60 and Other on the front panel to effect your sounds. This will be a useful option especially for users who enjoy a particular color to their sounds upon output which is unique to classic MPCs. Just hit a button on the front panel and you will receive the warm low-end tonal characteristics of the MPC3000 or 12-bit sound of the MPC60 coming from your speakers!

The built-in features of the Renaissance are powerful and designed to merge the functionality between standard MPC use and the flexibility of a desktop computer. However, the use of software is available only when you decide you need really it. Otherwise the MPC Renaissance features the essential design and sound users have always loved since the inception of the 60 in the 80's. You have the choice to work from the LCD screen for sequencing, creating songs, editing, auditioning and programming sounds in addition to sampling directly into the Renaissance to chop up sounds from vinyl. If you have programs, sequences, sounds and songs saved from earlier versions of the MPC, you have the option of importing all of your work, thanks to the software package included with the Renaissance. This MPC also has the ability to handle 8 pad banks instead of the previous 4 of earlier models, giving you access to audition more sounds from the pads.

Once you decide upon using computer with your new MPC Renaissance the palette for music making expands instantly. Gain access to the high-end features of a DAW while retaining the feel of a drum machine through access to plug-ins from the MPC software in addition to the ability for exporting program, sequence and sound data to a larger computer hard disk. If you feel like sequencing and editing on the computer as your preferred workflow, feel free to trigger your sounds from the pads and expand upon your ideas by using the features of the DAW.

The legendary layout, unique sound and workflow of Roger Linn's classic MPC series is merged with the power of today's computer for a union of unprecedented production capabilities. As the perfect hardware/software production center, MPC Renaissance proves to be the tool of choice for producers, beat makes and musicians looking for the best of both worlds in the vintage feel of an MPC combined with the powerful options of computer-based, digital audio workstations.

Purchase your MPC Renaissance today by ordering online at Best Buy

Osaka Monaurail - "Supershine #9" & "Signed Sealed Delivered, I'm Yours"

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 13:24:00 +0000

These 2008 instrumental covers of Stevie Wonder's "Signed Sealed Delivered, I'm Yours" and "Supershine #9" from "Gordon's War" soundtrack by Japanese band Osaka Monaurail are so nice I thought I'd bring them back in 2012 for those who truly appreciate this authentic Soul sound. After 17 years together, Osaka Monaurail are recognized as "Japan's premier Funk band" and are actively touring and recording music.

The original version of "Supershine #9" by Sister Goose and The Ducklings was sampled by BDP for their 1992 single "We In There" and features some outstanding vocals, while "Signed Sealed Delivered, I'm Yours" is recognized by many as an all-time Soul classic.

Hamburg, Germany label Our Label Records is dedicated to re-introducing 70's Funk through 7' releases by contemporary bands. Listen to more music from Osaka Monoaurail and their label roster here at soundcloud.

http://www.facebook.com/osakamonaurail

"Up In The Sky" (Too High ReEdit) by Tall Black Guy

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 01:20:00 +0000

Enjoy the sounds of Tall Black Guy as he transforms the music of Stevie Wonder into a bouncing Hip Hop groove. As a producer and manipulator of samples, he creatively reworks sounds to retain the essence of the original song as well as stand as a new memorable work of music. Fans of the original Stevie song will be happy to hear the singers voice as it flows throughout this instrumental by Tall Black Guy.

"La Jupe Volante" by Kind & Kinky Zoo

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:09:00 +0000

Enjoy the Fast-paced Funk sounds of "La Jupe Volante" by Kind & Kinky Zoo. Groove sauvage !{ Wild groove } is the way Kind & Kinky Zoo like to describe their sound and this new single makes no exception to the rule. This Swiss band brings dirty Garage-toned bass guitar and funk drumming combined with flutes for a sound which is reminiscent of 70's Euro Pop or cinema music.

soundcloud.com/kindkinkyzoo

"Battering Ram" by Creative Juices Music All-Stars

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 23:57:00 +0000

<p>&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://soundowl.com/track/2nmq/-16-battering-ram-cjm-allstars"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Download 16. Battering Ram - CJM Allstars&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;</p>
"Battering Ram" by CJM All-Stars is a fierce posse cut featuring Swave Sevah, CF, I Am Many, Jise, Alucard, Dontique, Respect Tha God, Critical and Nems). Plenty of memorable punch lines, metaphors and rapid flows as each MC presents himself as a lyrical threat in the style of New York underground Hip Hop.

"Battering Ram" is from Creative Juices Music Sampler Vol. 2 which is available for free download, grab the compilation here.

Preview Sounds From AWAR & Vanderslice - "The Winning Team" EP feat. Has Lo

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 18:40:00 +0000

Live and direct from his home studio, Vanderslice premieres some of his new production sounds hot off the press. In 2012, he prepares to release the project: Awar & Vanderslice "The Winning Team" EP feat. Has Lo. As you can tell, Vanderslice brings darkness and intensity in his beats which seems to be the signature sound of the production duo he and Stu Bangas form together as "Brutal Music". He prides himself in creating a variety of beats which are sample-less this time around, as you will hear in the preview.

"Soul Heaven Is Getting Mighty Crowded!" a Mix by The Stepfather Of Soul

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 18:19:00 +0000

"Get Down With The Stepfather Of Soul" radio pays tribute to important Soul musicians who have passed on in late 2011/early 2012, most notably Etta James, Johnny Otis, Jimmy Castor, Howard Tate, J. Blackfoot, Lee "Shot" Williams, Dobie Gray and Hubert Sumlin. All of these artists and more are featured in this special episode.

Download/Stream - Soul Heaven Is Getting Mighty Crowded! a Mix by The Stepfather Of Soul

1. Etta James - You Got It
2. Howard Tate - I'm Your Servant
3. The Johnny Otis Show - Keep the Faith (Pt. 2)
4. Jimmy Castor - Ham Hocks Espanol
5. Johnny Otis - Sulfur 8 Radio Ad
6. Howlin' Wolf - Moving
7. James Ellis - Ain't Gonna Cry No More
8. Hal Hardy - Tears of Joy
9. Larry & The Accommodations - Love Is the Answer
10. Floyd Morris & Company - Bouncing Around
11. Bettye Swann - I Think I'm Falling in Love
12. The Soul Children - Move Over
13. "The New Johnny Otis Show" Radio Ad
14. Johnny Otis - She's All Right
15. Etta James - Seven Day Fool
16. Dobie Gray - River Deep, Mountain High
17. Lee "Shot" Williams - I Hurt Myself
18. Howard Tate - That's What Happens
19. Little Royal - Talking About Trouble
20. The Soul Children - Hearsay
21. Maury Wills - "Vote for Johnny Otis" Radio Ad
22. Bettye LaVette - Hey Love
23. Etta James - My Man Is Together
24. Howard Tate - Pride
25. E. Rodney Jones & Friends - Soul Heaven (instrumental)

J Prince Interviews With NPR for 25 Years Of Rap-A-Lot Records

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 16:17:00 +0000

When we're talking about hardcore Hip Hop music from The South, the classic output of Rap-A-Lot definitely should be considered for their authenticity in presenting visuals to represent the sights and sounds of the streets through music. Rap-A-Lot Records founder J Prince celebrates 25 years of the legendary southern rap label with a text interview for NPR radio which includes audio clips of celebrated Rap-A-Lot tunes from Scarface, UGK, Geto Boys, Bun-B, Z-Ro and others.

Read the interview here at NPR

Knowledge Nick - "The Flow" feat. Royal T Top MC

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 15:54:00 +0000

<p>&amp;lt;a href="http://knowledgenick.bandcamp.com/track/the-flow-feat-royal-t-topmc-2"&amp;gt;The Flow feat Royal T TopMC by Knowledge Nick&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt;</p>

Over a smooth, jazzy piano groove Knowledge Nick and Royal T Top MC focus on one of the most important crafts as an MC through an entertaining display of lyricism. Not only is the wordplay impressive but their "flow" is evident throughout as each MC plays off the rhythm of the instrumental. An understated song overall in comparison to many of today's big-sounding productions, but that is the beauty of "The Flow" by Knowledge Nick and Royal T Top MC. The loop, scratch-chorus and display of mic skills is Hip Hop in it's basic form.

"The Flow" is from Knowledge Nick's 2011 album "The Transcribed Sentiment", listen to the rest of it here at bandcamp.

BURNTmd (feat. Phil The Agony) - "GTDMIB: Phil Mad Burnt Anthem" (prod. by Madlib)

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 15:04:00 +0000

A straight-forward and brief microphone assault over the raw sound of Madlib production, BURNTmd and Phil The Agony present "GTDMIB: Phil Mad Burnt Anthem" an unreleased track from Madlib's "In Search of Stoney Jackson" LP. Around the time that Strong Arm Steady & Madlib were working on In Search of Stoney Jackson, the Brooklyn-bred, VT transplant BURNTmd and Phil The Agony recorded to a few Madlib beats were luckily never used for the LP. "GTDMIB: The 'Phil Mad Burnt Anthem" is the first of a few recovered sessions that we unleash to the internets.

This leak in particular will be featured on BURNTmd's forthcoming and long awaited mixtape, The Green Invasion which is rumored to also have another Madlib produced track featuring the one and only S-N-double-O-P D-O-double-Gizee (that's Snoop Dogg for the Izzle-itterate). Before the good doctor liberates the invasion, stay tuned for his Not So Black & White ep which will feature older, unreleased material in addition to some new strains. Download another track by BURNTmd from "The Green Invasion" feat. Planet Asia here.