If you haven't heard of Prose before, chances are you missed out on one of the best British albums from last year. The duo's "Force Of Habit" LP was a nod to the old school, blending heavy beats with creative and thoughtful lyricism. Prose, aka Steady & Efeks, are now back in the limelight with their new track "Real Talk", taken from their forthcoming album "The Dark Side Of The Boom". Once again, their combination of tight delivery and polished production work to great effect. What makes "Real Talk" even better is that it's on offer as a free download. Need I say more..?
If you're feeling it, make sure you take a trip to http://boombap.bandcamp.com/ to get yourself a copy, catch up with their back catalogue and more importantly, pre-order their new album. It's bound to be something special!
Taken from his recently released "Guiness & Blackcurrent EP", Mikill Pane has dropped a video for "Read My Lips". I'm not really feeling the chorus on this but Pane's humorous narrative rightfully takes it's place as the main attraction. The accompanying video is equally as entertaining and would surely have Jim Henson turning in his grave.
Having spent a few years up in Sheffield whilst scraping together a degree, I tried to immerse myself into as much of the local scene as possible. It took a little while to sift through Grime and more predominantly Bassline, yet I gradually discovered there's a pretty good pool of potential 'Up North'. This has rapidly expanded over the past couple of years and there's now a wealth of music that needs to be heard. Enter from stage right, "WYCypher" (the WY standing for West Yorkshire). Billed as a weekly link up of MCs from around the area, it's 100% straight off the cuff and hip hop at it's rawest best. Featuring the likes of Jack Flash, Lunar C, Matter & Chief Wigs to name but a few, it's a great opportunity to catch a bunch of talented (albeit ever so slightly inebriated) artists spilling their Northern drawl over a whole host of head-bopping productions. Punchlines galore, it's refreshing to see a collective taking it back to the essence of the scene whilst remaining relevant to the genre's progression. Appreciate...
Take one of the country's finest producers. Add to that one of UK's most talented wordsmiths and stick them into the studio together. The outcome is simple; progress. Or to be more precise, you end up with the soon to be released "Progression" album from Wizard and Huddersfield inhabitant Jack Flash. Taken from the afore mentioned project is "Four Letter F Word". Over a laid back and soulful Wizard production, Jack Flash drops lyrical gems built upon an extremely clever concept. Based upon the title, the way the track twists was completely unexpected but sheer genius at the same time. Just hit play and you'll soon discover what I'm talking about! Enjoy...
I know I've already given you this track but Sway's now dropped the video for what I'm guessing is the lead single off of his forthcoming album, "The Deliverance". As videos fair, it's not exactly the most creative but it's a contagious track and I'm sure it signals a return to prominence for Mr. Safo.
In anticipation of the start of "Top Boy" on Channel 4 (next Monday at 10pm), Charlie Sloth and Chantelle Fiddy have put together a mixtape to showcase some of the finest talent that the UK (particularly the grime scene) has to offer. Listen to the mix below and if you're feeling it, make sure you hit the download button.
Tracklisting G Frsh ft Tania & Bluey Robinson - Do It Pepstar - Out The Dark Mic Righteous - Breverin Squeeks ft Benny Banks & Hipman Junky - I'll Be The Man Cerose - Ready Anytime Blade Brown ft Taymah - Fed Up Young Mad B ft Squeeks, Joe Black, Benny Banks & Don Strapzy - Watchin' Me Lioness ft J Warner - Make It Through ZDot ft Scrufizzer, RIO, Warlock & Shifty - Gangster Ghetts - Artillery Mic Righteous - Don't Leave Me Russo ft Dot Rotten - Bad Tonight Samson, Strapzy, Ghetts, English Frank & DVS - The Handsome Hustler Benny Banks - Don't Bank On It Giggs ft Kano - Dem Man Dru Blue - Get Up Squeeks ft Chany - How We Do Calibar - Calibunga Bartoven - Above The Law Oh My! Vs OGZ - Run This Town (Dream Remix)
A couple of months ago Channel 4 went from the bedroom to the boardroom, going behind the scenes of SB.TV. Due to it's success, they've now converted it into a mini-series that is aired every Saturday morning on T4. The show premiered this morning and just as with the original, it's an eye-opening journey in the meteoric rise of Jamal Edwards and his SB.TV empire. The next episode airs at 10:50am next Saturday (29th October) and if you missed today's episode, catch up right here!
Having been a massive fan of Dynamo since he released his "Concrete Playground" DVD a few years ago (which has now unfortunately disappeared from my collection - he's a true magician!), I was pleased to see that his talent and perseverance was rewarded with his own series earlier this year. Yesterday saw the DVD release of "Magician Impossible", which follows Dynamo around the world as he showcases his phenomenal magic to members of the public alongside a whole host of celebrities. The reactions of his audience are almost as entertaining as the sheer mind-blowing nature of some of the tricks he performs and I can guarantee that he will, as DJ IQ perfectly captures it, leave you "fully, fully baffed"! I don't want to spoil too much but the video below is a little example of the madness that occurs at the hands of Dynamo. If you like what you see, follow the link at the bottom and get yourself a copy a.s.a.p!!
Just a quick one here folks. Taken from his critically acclaimed 'debut' album, Ed Sheeran's dropped a video for his latest single, "Lego House". Starring everyone's favourite ginger wizard Rupert Grint, the video is somewhat quirky to say the least and the twist towards the middle was pretty unexpected! Anyways, the original version is the first video and the second is the Jake Gosling remix featuring P. Money (I know I've already posted it but the track's brilliant and this time around it's much better quality!). The "Lego House EP" is due for release on 13th November.
When GlobalFaction shoot a video, you can pretty much guarantee that you're in for an aural blessing before you even listen to the track. This time around, the music is provided by Big Cakes and guest Rainmayqah in the form of "Children Of The Stars". It's a soulful production with some deep and thoughtful lyricism, accompanied by a brilliantly edited video. Kick back and enjoy...
Another brilliant battle from the team behind Don't Flop. This time around its the semi-final of the 'Times Change' tournament, with Tony D squaring off against Im for a place in the final. There's a fair few of quotables on offer, my personal favourite being Tony D's "I'm a on level higher than Hitler's gas bill". Controversial to say the least but lyrical genius at the same time. I won't ruin the result, so make sure you check the battle below.
Fresh from the guys at SB.TV comes this eye-opening interview with Plan B. The man behind one of last year's biggest albums talks Lucozade, breaking America, The Sweeney, Ill Manors and the recent riots. There's some interesting stuff here people, have a gander!
Always one for upping the levels, the ever talented Wizard is back with his latest beat tape. Eloquently entitled "Dutty Gash Face Music" ("because that is the face you will pull whilst listening"), this is 20 tracks of pure unadulterated filthy goodness. Whether you're an aspiring MC or simply appreciate tight production, "DGFM" caters for one and all. Wizard's left it open for you to donate to the cause or slyly appreciate it free of charge. Either way, this is a musical trip in which you need to partake. Have a little listen below (pay special attention to "Big Bamboo", it's a banger) and if you like what you hear, hit up http://wizardbeats.bandcamp.com/ for "DGFM" and some of Wizard's back catalogue and if you're on twitter, follow the man himself - @WizardBeats.
Following on from his London Eye freestyle, Kano's released some new material for you to download free of charge! This time round, he's put his own twist on Common's "Blue Sky". The beat's a cracker and Kano's on fine form delivering some brilliant punchlines with the usual energy and attitude you would expect from Mr. Robinson. Check the track and if you like, download that ish!!!
When I began running ideas through my head last night about the best way to start this piece, I completely drew a blank. Fast forward to this morning and within 30 seconds of downloading and playing the opening track of "Soundtrack To The Struggle", Lowkey said everything that's needed; "It's been a long time coming. Too Long. Too Long".
Although not quite as delayed as Dr Dre's fable "Detox" album (which will now allegedly drop on 5/12/11), Lowkey's latest album has elapsed a string of potential release dates stretching back as far as February last year. However "STTS" is now upon us and is everything you would expect from Lowkey; powerful, potent, political, personal and as many other alliteratives you want to throw into the mix.
Despite being a massive fan, my main apprehension pre-release was the fact that there were 8 or 9 videos in online circulation for tracks supposedly part of the album and that due to it's delay, we weren't exactly getting a compilation of 'new' material from Lowkey. However, when the tracklisting came to light a few weeks back, it was refreshing to see that "STTS" would include a massive 26 tracks. You can't knock the hustle!
Die hard fans will always appreciate new material but those new to him may find his latest project take a little hard to warm to. Lowkey has always been an educated and opinionated individual but of late his social commentary has been incredibly politically driven and is always outspoken on the likes of the supposed 'war on terror', Palestine, Iraq, Afghanistan etc. Personally music, and Hip Hop especially, has always been about freedom of speech and expression. Far too often, artists neglect the fact that they have the power to educate the listener or at least expand their mental horizons. I'll be the first to admit that half of the names/ places Lowkey mentions throughout the album are unknown to me but have led me to do a little background research to appreciate the music more. Therefore whilst some might struggle with the heavy political undercurrent throughout, I'm all for self-progression and opening my eyes a little bit wider.
Ultimately, this is the much anticipated album from one of the most talented lyricists around right now. Due to the content of his music, Lowkey's never likely to appeal to the mainstream but the fact that (at the time of posting this) "Soundtrack To The Struggle" is sitting at number 8 on the iTunes album chart only goes to show the reputation he's developed. It goes without saying that you should head straight to iTunes right now and get yourself a copy.
As part of the 'Revolutions In Sound' music event, Kano put on a small hour long show within one of the pods. This culminated in a freestyle that finds K.A at his best; witty, entertaining, relaxed and lyrically gifted. Check out the freestyle below.
RapperTag are back with the third installment of their UK series. After being tagged in by Ramson Badbonez, Tony D confidently steps into the limelight. Despite a barrage of brilliant bars from the Poisonous Poet, there is always a build in anticipation towards the closing lines as the metaphorical baton gets passed on. Tony D's choice is a great one in my opinion and to drop a little hint, artist number 4 is a guaranteed "riddim killa"! If that clue isn't obvious enough, make sure you check the video to discover the next MCs identity.
"Thrilling, raw, frightening, sad, hopeful and surprisingly funny by turn, this original drama is an honest and gripping rendition of inner-city urban drug and gang culture. Top Boy looks at the heart of life in a world we think we know but rarely see or understand."
Channel 4 seems to be the home for new, 'urban dramas'. Their latest addition, the four part mini series "Top Boy", features the likes of Ashley Walters, Kano and Scorcher amongst its cast. Set within the fictional 'Summerhouse Estate' in London, the story follows the lives of it's inhabitants and the grip the underworld has upon it's residents. Check out the teaser trailer below and visit http://www.channel4.com/programmes/top-boy/episode-guide/series-1/episode-1 for more information.
Co-signed by the likes of Professor Green, JME & Rizzle Kicks, "Don't Flop" is rapidly building a reputation as one of the leading names in the UK battle scene. Throw into the mix upcoming events over the next few weeks that include names like Jack Flash, Verb T, Joker Starr &Tony D and you quickly draw to the conclusion that "Don't Flop" is most definitely in the ascendancy. The latest installment pitting Lunar C against Micky Worthless projects the battle scene in its element; two brilliant MC's in a painfully funny duel. Whilst often crude and down-right disgusting, it's a portrait of lyrical genius and mutual respect for each other and the scene in it's own right. Make sure you check battle below and take time to visit http://dontflop.com/ for more info and future bouts.
So I've had a little heads up on this and gave you a review a few weeks back but finally the release is upon us. Stylah's dropped "Crash Course 2" so as you've already heard my feelings' on it, all that's left to share is go cop that s**t!
The middle of August saw some of the biggest names in street art descend upon Nelson Street in the heart of Bristol city centre. As part of a new international street art event, "See No Evil". The area has always been a bit of an eyesore with old, run down buildings and championed by the local council, Nelson Street has now become a tourist attraction in it's own right. Armed with my camera, I hopped on the train to check it all out. The first thing that took me by surprise was the sheer size of the project; not only the amount of work on display but many of the murals are easily four or five stories high. With Banksy being one of it's most famous residents, Bristol has long been considered the home of street art in the UK and this addition will only help to boost the area's legacy. If you live locally or plan to visit anytime soon, make sure you go and check out Nelson Street. I can guarantee you won't regret it. For further information, visit http://www.seenoevilbristol.co.uk/
It's safe to say that SB.TV are raising the levels. Swiftly following on from Mic Righetous' effort, they're back with the latest F64 in the shape of Tinchy Stryder and his Ruff Sqwad cohort, Slix. Personally, I think the tag-team delivery is a little awkward at times and nowhere near their normal standards but each drop some witty one liners. See what you think.
I've been rating Mic Righteous ever since I caught him on Lowkey's "Dear Listener". He's a talented artist; a blend of energy and aggressive delivery whilst retaining content and context to his bars. His latest addition SB.TV's F64 franchise is a prime example of what Mic Righteous is all about. If you like what you hear, make sure you follow the link at the bottom and download his "Yob Culture" mixtape, it's quality music and doesn't cost a penny. Perfect!
Brrap! Just a quick one really but I've managed to get a work placement with Venue magazine in the new year. I'm more than slightly excited about this as this could be the first step to the future so yeah, check out http://www.venue.co.uk/ to find out what it's all about.
When Stylah & Lowkey end up on a track together, you're always guaranteed something special. Taken from Stylah's forthcoming "Crash Course 2", the two MCs re-work Common's track of the same title and address the importance of respecting the finer form. Heartfelt as ever, this is Stylah & Lowkey at their best.
Having started down under, the Rappertag series has landed in the UK. The premise is thus; gone are the days where artists/ MCs gather and freestyle so the cypher has turned digital. The artists drop their bars and at the end, decide who they want to carry on the lyricism. Mystro kicked off the British series and called for Ramson Badbonez, who in turn requested Poisonous Poet Tony D to get involved. Based around such a clever concept, this could be the platform for many an unheard or underrated lyricist to raise their profile. I'll post the additions to the series but in the meantime, check the first two videos below or visit http://www.rappertag.co.uk/
D Double E, P. Money and Professor Green dropping lyrical gems over an infectious True Tiger production should be more than enough to hog the limelight. However, throw one of the biggest names in Hip Hop into the mix and suddenly it becomes a pivotal moment in the progression of the grime scene. Following in the footsteps of Diddy with his "Hello, Good Morning" remix, Snoop Dogg jumps on one of my favourite tracks from D Double E's "Bluku Bluku EP" and helps to elevate the scene's status both here and potentially, across the pond. If this helps to open doors for future collaborations, then perhaps Grime and underground British music can gain the credibility it truly deserves.
When Roots Manuva drops an album, it is always a bit of a 'marmite moment' to me. The likes of "Brand New Second Hand" and "Run Come Save Me" instantly became favourites of mine whereas to certain extents "Slime & Reason" and more recently his Wrong Tom collaboration "Duppy Writer", never really grew on me. Apprehensions aside, coupled with a host of positive reviews from the musical fraternity, I decided that it was an investment that needed to happen. From the opening track "First Growth" (the first video below), it quickly became clear that "4everevolution" would quickly inhabit the 'love it' category. It carries the Rodney Smith trademarks; eccentric lyricism and dub-laced instrumentation but seems to have an extra edge over his previous releases. Several reviews have commented on the potential commercial viability that this album and I genuinely tend to agree with this. Tracks like the Toddla T produced "Watch Me Dance" and "Beyond This World" could easily be on the radio playlists and if anyone deserves mainstream appreciation, it's this stalwart of the UK music scene.
"K.A & Sway. Game Over. Blow The Whistle" apparently! Following the earlier post, Sway's now dropped a 'remix' featuring Kano. To be perfectly honest, the track's pretty much the same as the original with Kano making a very brief cameo in the middle. Nothing desperately worth mentioning but it's here for your appreciation all the same!
Now whilst Beats & Pieces is normally UK orientated, at the end of the day it's all about bringing you guys good music. Therefore, when I discovered Dilated Peoples member Evidence dropped a new solo project, I had to investigate. Ev never fails to impress, and "Cats & Dogs" is no exception. Featuring a stellar guest cast that includes the likes of Raekwon, Lil' Fame, Prodigy, Aloe Blacc and fellow DP associate Rakaa, "Cats & Dogs" is 17 tracks of musical diversity and definitely under-rated lyrical prowess. One of my personal highlights takes form in the brilliantly edited video below; the DJ Premier produced "You". With Premo on the beat is practically guaranteed to be a banger and Evidence fully does the soulful production justice. Make sure you visit http://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/cats-dogs/id462952476 and check this project out, it's Hip Hop in it's element.
It's the return of Dcypha!! Despite a few little rumbles from the camp, it's been far too long since I've heard anything from Mr Sway DaSafo. However, with his third album-proper, "The Deliverance", around the corner, Little Derek has graced us with his superb new effort, "Still Speedin'". Carrying an anthemic atmosphere and a recycling Black Box's "Ride On Time" for the hook, it seems like Sway is definitely upping the levels in preparation for "The Deliverance". If the rest of his upcoming project is anywhere near this standard, it looks set to be some of his finest work to date.
Due to a continually dodgy Internet connection and personal issues, I've had a little hiatus. So let's kick things off with a couple of remixes from man of the minute, Ed Sheeran. First up, is the epic True Tiger re-working of the track that thrust Ed into the limelight, "You Need Me, I Don't Need You". Featuring Dot Rotten & Scrufizzer, the duo adopt a tag-team approach in order to stamp over the track with such energy and lyrical athleticism that I dare you to resist pressing re-play as soon as the beat ends. This is by far the most played track on my iTunes right now, I can't get enough of it! Released for a limited period as part of the "Thank You EP" free download, you might still be able to find it online. I guarantee you won't regret it!
Following closely behind is P. Money's adaptation of "Lego House". It's another retrospective affair; think "Family" part 2, with P at his emotional and heartfelt best.
