MP3: The Five One x Janelle Monae - It's Obvious

. Aug 17, 2009
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From Gowhere Hip Hop: "The Five One are back with a brand new RMX this Thursday called "It's Obvious". It's a very upbeat track where the colorful band get very lyrical, and do what they do best. As always they have really unique and powerful breakdowns throughtout mixing in melodic verses, hip hop, and even spoken word all in one record. "It's Obvious" talks about the obvious things that people don't see right in front of them, because they don't choose to self analyze themselves. Avoiding your problems will only make you unhappy in the long run as they'll hang over your head until they're dealt with, so it's important to take responsibility and really try to understand yourself and the situation you're in!"



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The Five One x Janelle Monae - It's Obvious

Video: Calvin Harris's Humanthesizer

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So Scotland's Calvin Harris has a project that dropped today in the UK, aptly titled Ready for the Weekend. I got a chance to listen to the project, and I must say that I was duly impressed, from beginning to end. The production creates a feel-good vibe but mixed in with the lyrics, what you have is a very complex project, detailing not only the emotion of good times but also pure, raw emotion (for instance, on such songs as "Worst Day"). I encourage you to stream the project somewhere and realize that this is a must-buy project. If that does not convince you, well, check out this ridiculous video below of the first human synthesizer.

MP3: David Dallas - Front to Back

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Another heavy banger from one of our favorites, who is originally from New Zealand. This is a new leak off his forthcoming album Something Awesome, which will be digitally available in the US after August 31st.


(c) Susan Weingartner

DOWNLOAD:

David Dallas - Front to Back



PREVIOUSLY: Video/MP3: David Dallas - Big Time

Exclusive Interview: 88-Keys

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As mentioned before, the Hangover Tour made its way through the nation's capitol earlier this month. We got to chop it up with Mr. Polo Dolo, Charles Misodi Njapa, also known as 88-Keys. While he may be new as a performing artist, he is no rookie to the hip hop industry, having worked over the years with the likes of Black Star, Scarface, Kanye West, Beanie Sigel, Musiq, Pharcyde, you name it! His production is well known, and the industry's stamp of approval runs deep, spanning over a decade. In this exclusive interview with 88-Keys, we spoke with the brain behind The Death of Adam, as he discusses his sound and influences, explains the concept behind Adam's identity, elaborates on his relationship with Kanye, among many other topics. Enjoy!

Video: G*Two - Sunrise

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DMV's own G*Two presents his video trailer for "Sunrise," the intro track to his new LP entitled Sun's Out, Guns Out. Be sure to get that project!



For more information about G*Two, be sure to visit his site.

Design: Water On The Go

. Aug 16, 2009
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I don’t think this design is too practical, but it’s cool nevertheless. The concept here is a durable water bottle that can be refilled at specific source water fountains. These fountains would contain a system to track how much water you use; vendors would then credit your account via a redeemable points system. On the surface it seems pretty cool; although, I’m not sure why this design is even necessary considering the fact that we already have public water fountains. One could argue that this design would eliminate the waste generated through the consumption of bottled water in vending machines. I still think it would be easier to carry your own bottle and refill at public water fountains for free. Vendors would have to make a large initial investment and hope that people actually latch on so that their overhead cost actually makes sense. Another problem I have with this design is the bottle size. I consume massive amounts of water each day and the bottles seen in the pictures do not appear to be much bigger than 12 ounces of water. Depending on the pricing scheme, this could be very expensive. All in all, I still think the concept behind it is pretty dope.









Source: Yanko Design

Video: Eternia & Moss – Road To Release Episode #10

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In Episode #10, Eternia introduces the viewers to the musicians she plays with: DJ Boo, Chesney Snow, & Colin Dean. They are joined on stage by Grammy-award winner Maya Azucena for their Encore. Pumpkinhead has to make up for missing E's set, and as usual E gets the official stamp of approval from a few "co-signs" at the end of the night... then tells 'em what she's really after...

In the upcoming months, eternia will release steady video & audio leaks leading up to the highly anticipated release of eternia & MoSS's debut album, "AT LAST". Follow them as they shop for a record deal, promote the album, and countdown to the release date. And you just never know what special guests may pop up... stay tuned!
"MEET the BAND" Eternia & MoSS - Road to Release: Ep#10 Ft. Pumpkinhead & Steele (Smif-N-Wessun)

MP3: Jaz-O ft. The Game “Gangsta’s Ride”

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This record was dope. Not only was the beat hot, but the Game and Jaz-O also laid down some crucial rapid-fire lyrics. My only complaint is that I wish the song was longer. I’m not going to get involved in all the drama surrounding Jay-Z, Jaz-O, and The Game, but this track definitely gets my stamp of approval.


Classic Video: Trends of Culture “Valley of the Skinz”

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This Harlem-based trio was “all the way live”. To this day, I can still listen to their self-titled album, “Trendz”, start to finish, without any real complaints. I don’t mean to rant (which probably means that I’m going to), but hip-hop albums used to be on a whole different plane “back in the day”. There was no prescribed formula for how the album was to be organized. Of course certain rhyme styles and patterns were employed, but in terms of subject matter, they were all over the map. One of my favorite songs from this album, aside from “Valley of the Skinz”, was “Off & On”. The beat was very ninetiesque featuring heavy kickdrums and a classic “Scenario” sample. Where are they now?



Video Information:
Artist: Trends of Culture (Nastee, M.O.L. and Grapevine)
Album: Trendz
Year: 1993

MP3: Tek ft. Richie Sosa “Tic Toc”

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Okay, so I will admit that I originally passed on this song after viewing the artwork and song title. Despite my initial hesitancy, I took and few minutes to listen to the record and was pleasantly surprised. First off, this “G-Mix” features the vocals of Tek (from Smiff-N-Wessun) and Richie Sosa over The Alchemist’s “Tick Tock” beat which was an original sample of Side Effect’s “The Loneliest Man in Town”. The original sample by Side Effect is one of my favorite old school jams. The beat is so mellow, yet the lyrics to the song are filled with so much conviction and meaning. Given my love for the original, I was slightly biased against this new version by Tek and Richie Sosa. Luckily the two managed to hold their own and produce a track that is well worth a download or at least a few spins. Apparently this track will appear on Tek’s “I Did It My Way” project which is a prelude to featured his 24K Smoke album.



DOWNLOAD:

"Tic Toc"

KRS-One & Buckshot Guest Appearance on “The Deal”

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I’m not really a big fan of the show “The Deal” because they usually feature a bunch of colorless artists and videos. It came as a huge surprise when I found out that Buckshot & KRS-One made an appearance to promote their new album, “Survival Skills”, which drops on September 15th. In this interview, KRS-One and Buckshot talk about the origin of their new project, artist longevity, and auto-tune. KRS-One also wraps it up with a freestyle. What do y’all think about this new project? I’m really just crossing my fingers and hoping for the best. I am a fan of the collaborations between Buckshot and 9th Wonder, but I was not really feeling the KRS-One and Marley Marl project. Nevertheless, I’m still going to pick this up when it drops.

Music Video: Nando. - Talk To Me

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The homie Dre over at District Fresh put together a nice, simple and clean music video for Nando. for his Marvin Gaye-influenced track "Talk to Me." Soulful rhythm on this joint and doubt lyrics. Dope cut off of his amazing mixtape Super Nike Nando which you need to cop if you haven't got it yet.

REVIEW/MIXTAPE: Phil Nash - Phil of the Future Pt. 2

. Aug 15, 2009
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REVIEW:
“Phil of the Future Vol. 2” is the name of the mixtape, but it's evident that Phil Nash is well aware of the legacy of classic hip hop from the early ’90s – perhaps not all too surprising given the fact that he’s DJ Jazzy Jeff’s protégé. Throughout the project, Nash provides countless bangers, true to hip hop form and impressively raw lyricism. Noticeable, as well, is the overall feel to the project, as he seamlessly transfers from song to song, all the while maintaining an incredible melodic balance of originality, precision, and vision.

His latest mixtape includes several cuts heavily influenced by the classic New York Tribe vibe. For example, “I Smell Smoke” (produced by Heartbeat the Producer) channels a soulful sample of Dionne Warwick’s “Walk on By” into a heart-wrenched testimony of struggle and inequality. “Heat Stop Working”, “Much More”, and “Gonna Want Me Back” offer a nostalgic feeling to the vintage days, a testament to the reason why NY became the Mecca of hip hop, as Detroit’s Nash flows with ease over the catchy jazzy trumpets. Equally impressive is his homage to the Queensbridge veteran Nas over the tracks “Nasty Nash” and “Nash is Like”, backed by the instantly-recognizable Premo beats. Lest we forget to recognize those who have paved the way, let’s point out the sampling of Big Daddy Kane’s “Ain’t No Half Steppin’” on Nash’s “Halfsteppin’”, a track full of sincere ambition and unbridled yet not-over-the-top egoism.

Aside from the lyrics, the production on this project is impeccable, full of classic yet classy sampling and smooth drum overlay. Easily, the most notable producer on the mixtape is the legendary DJ Jazzy Jeff who offers his services on two tracks. There are also several credible features with the VA MC Skillz, Sim City, and Phene, among others. However, don’t get it twisted: while the features are heavy and the production solid, Nash is not left in the shadows, as he commands every track with his presence and embeds each with his own unique style.

His goal is achieve mixtape of the year (and no doubt more!), and honestly the ambitious vision is not far-fetched. He is one who has much to offer and is getting only better. I have witnessed his steady progression ever since his first mixtape and several feature songs, most notably “Uptown Anthem” with Washington, DC artist “Marky” (Studio 43 / SRC / Universal Records) off the VH1 Honor Roll mixtape, which was how I first discovered him. In conclusion, with his dope flow and respect and knowledge of hip hop history, Phil Nash has a clear lane to make some heavy moves in the future. Perhaps that is why we know him as . . . Phil of the Future.



Interview: J-$crilla, Part 3

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In part 3 of this 4-part series, J-Scrilla describes his musical influences and when he first started collecting vinyls. He later discusses how he linked up with the Boot Camp Click and future projects he has in store, among other topics.



Be sure to catch the other parts of the interview.
Part 1:


Part 2:

Interview: Vimby - Bobby Ray on Backyard Sessions

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I always enjoy the videos that Vimby puts up. Their projects are always very clear cut and personal to the artist. This episode right here talks about the change of his name and shows some great one on one performance footage with dude singing.

MP3: Wale - My Sweetie

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Sweet sample on this track and there is definitely an African vibe on here. Where these leaks come from I don't know, but I'm always thrilled hear another Wale track. This smooth track will definitely be played in the whip.

MUSIC VIDEO: H.O.P.E. - Nightlife

. Aug 14, 2009
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This song is straight dope, LOVE that night feel for the track. The video is a simple night joint too. The remix was crazy with Mickey Factz & UNI. Check that below.


Music Video: Nelly - Let It Go (Lil Mama) (feat. Pharrell)

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Nelly is coming back with some heat from the Pharrell. Will this connection brew up success again? I dont know, but I definitely love the trumpets on this track. His flow on this track sounds wierd tho, this is not really Nelly's style. I'm used to the St. Louis casual flow, not this flow where he is trying to articulate every word he is saying....

MP3: Jackie Chain - Diamonds & Cadillacs

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I been a fan of Jackie Chain ever since that "Rollin" track I heard him do with Cudder. But, for real I never what of thought he looked the way he looks when I first heard the track. Dude is a like a half-asian Paul Wall and you know what....I mess with it. Spotted this on DCtoBC and the video for this song he hella ghetto so I didn't throw it up and I had to search a hell of a lot to not find a ghetto picture either. Dude needs a lil management and he'll be perfect, and I agree with Modi he needs a haircut.

Felix Da Housecat x Diddy present Lectro Black - Last Train To Paris Mixtape

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Diddy continues to break boundaries and is the official business guru. Here he comes trying to get into the electronica genre and I have to say "Lectro Black" is pretty dope at least for this track. It's definitely something I could hear banging in a club or driving to at night ready to go out. Check it:

DOWNLOAD: