Dart’s 5 Most Played For The Week AKA I Fall Asleep With My Headphones On
By Dart | November 12, 2009
I’m back with another post to give you readers some insight as to what gets burn in my iTunes library. Keep in mind that I was swamped this week by promo CD’s (my mailman hates me now), links to beat tapes (Comcast hates me now) and writing my latest “25 More Producers…” list (you can hate me now) therefore my top 5 might be a tad surprising to most. Enough of this, let’s get to the point:
1. Mabanua-Piece In My Mind”
This track off Japanese musician/beatmaker Mabanua’s 2008 opus “Done Already” was easily the most played song in my iTunes this week. I believe I had it on repeat for a full stretch of 30 minutes once while I was writing some of my producer profiles. His profile ended up being the final one of my 25. If you haven’t heard this album yet FIND IT. You won’t be disappointed.
2. Jackhigh “Airspace”
Jackhigh’s “Interplanetary Thoughts” is another excellent instrumental album that just recently became available. I’m looking forward to the Jackhigh & Teebs collaboraion as well. It’s becoming more and more obvious that I’m a serious beathead, huh? The USB flash drives that litter my coffee table and the Firewire external USB drive I keep in close proximity to my laptop are testament to this fact.
3. Bei Bei & Shawn Lee “East”
This project was highly anticipated and it didn’t disappoint. I do wish that Bei Bei & Shawn Lee’s project were an LP instead of an EP but I’ll take what I can get for now. Most people I know gravitate to the Floating Points remix of the Georgia Anne Muldrow track but my jawn is far and away “East”. I’ve played this song a fair amount during my writing breaks.
4. Melanie Fiona “It Kills Me”
I’m reviewing Melanie Fiona’s new album “The Bridge” that dropped on November 10th tomorrow and this was the offering that spoke to me the most. I enjoyed the album overall but I’ve heard Amy Winehouse, Joss Stone, Solange Knowles, Raphael Saadiq and Candy Payne completely body the throwback sound in recent years so it’s just a good, solid overall effort to me. My full review will come this weekend via “What’s New In Dart’s iPod” as I may sleep for 12 hours when I finally do knock out sometime tonight.
5. Little Dragon “Runabout”
I wasn’t that enthused with Little Dragon changing their sound & aesthetic completely on “Machine Dream”. I usually put two songs on repeat when I do play this album, “Runabout” and “Swimming“. Other than those two jawns I typically don’t rewind anything, opting instead to play the debut album. This track edged out some other instrumentals and a couple of selections from the new Georgia Anne Muldrow & J.J. Brown albums. I just got the new Rakim album and I didn’t hear anything that would potentially make this list sad to say. Dammit!
One.
Topics: Uncategorized | 1 Comment »
“Most Played For The Week” (Eric’s Picks) Pt. I
By Eric C. | November 12, 2009
1. “The Park” (Blue Sky Black Death Remix)
One of the decade’s most consistent independent Hip Hop groups, Cunninlynguists have returned with the highly anticipated “Strange Journey: Volume 2″. The trio of Kno, Deacon and Natti already have an impressive resume with underground favorites such as “Southernunderground”, “Will Rap For Food”, “A Piece of Strange”,
and “Dirty Acres” and hot off the heals of “Strange Journey: Volume 1″, you might as well go right ahead and put another feather in the native Kentuckians. Although not quite as dope as “Volume 1″, this 2nd installment of “Strange Journey” still has the official “Bloggerhouse” stamp of approval as Cunnin’ once again fails to put out anything that’s remotely wack or lame.
Implementing the dopest usage of “Funky Worm” that I’ve ever heard, the production duo of Kingston & Young God aka Blue Sky Black Death succeeded in one thing this week…forcing me to dig even deeper into their production catalog. As you’ll soon read, this week’s “Most Played” reflects just how much I’ve been sleeping on this duo that simply doesn’t get the shine they deserve, from myself included.
2. “Away With Me” -Jean Grae & Blue Sky Black Death
Once again, I’ll admit, this last week I went on a “Blue Sky Black Death” downloading frenzy upon hearing the damage they did to “The Park” remix. I can even recall peeping the duo’s reworking of Jean Grae, “The Evil Jeanius”, but not being “blown away” after the first few listens, only to let it slide into the evil depths of my 160GB Ipod. However, I first noticed the instrumental for “Away With Me” on a Blue Sky Black Death “Indie Rock” album and recalled hearing it on “The Evil Jeanius”. Lemme just say this: no one could have mastered “Away With Me” quite the way that Jean did. If anyone follows Jean on Twitter, you can kinda’ sense that this chick isn’t really playing with a full deck, but it’s sexy as hell, especially when she slides into freak mode on this cut. Also, let it be known, that Jean will rip half of the emcee cats out there a new asshole..no diggedy!
3. “Blowing Up”-Jern Eye f. Roc C & Nightclubber Lang
Fueled by a slick Biggie vocal riff, “Blowin’ up like ya’ thought I would”, this DJ Vinroc-produced heater is sure to give you neck pains. This bouncy, bass-heavy, trunk-rattler is included on Jern Eye’s sophomore LP, “Vision” as a bonus track yet it remains the sickest cut on the album, birthed by possibly the least “known” producer on the album . While “Vision” is a pretty solid effort that features an impressive production roster, comprised on underground vets such as Jake One, Illmind, Keelay & Zaire, Jern Eye still hasn’t won me over just yet lyrically. However, for the beats alone, “Vision” is worth a listen…maybe even a purchase?
4. “I Hate To See You Go”-Chinch 33 & Damien Calculon
Prior to the download (click it’s FREE) of Chinch 33 & Damien Calculon’s “Surrender” EP…well, I really didn’t know what I was getting myself into or what I could expect from this EP. Also, what soon piqued my interest which further ensued to a listen, was their inclusion on the Digi Crates sampler that I posted last weekend. The EP is unique, without a doubt, I’m not sure how to really categorize the production style that is featured on “Surrender”. It’s like this-imagine semi-electronica/Hip Hop/Mobyish’ production with Primo’s numerous vocal samples he slices into hooks sprinkled amongst the tracks for good measure. “I Hate To See You Go” is a somewhat somber track that features an elegant yet whiny violin section that sets the mood perfectly for the highlight track of “Surrender”.
5. “Club Unknown-Epsilon Project f. Dex
Is it just me or has the “EP” officially returned?? I mean, it seems like there’s a “free EP” or another precursor to the actual full-length LP around every other corner. Thank goodness, that the majority of EP’s that have arrived this year have turned out for the better. Not one to veer off the beaten path, with the exception of “Freeloader” actually serving as a warm-up to another EP, Epsilon’s “Audacity Of Dope” , Oxnard’s Epsilon Project has me anxiously anticipated their new work which will feature production from the likes of Kev Brown, Oh No & DJ Vadim. One of my favs from “Freeloader” has gotta’ be “Club Unknown” as this track truly takes you for a trip down memory lane with it’s throwback yet effective production. Also, be sure to peep “Stage Five Clinger” & “That’s What You Need” (which, if your of the male species is required listening). Hell, peep the whole EP…it’s FREE damnit!!
Topics: Most Played For The Week | 1 Comment »
The Problem With Hip Hop….
By Eric C. | November 12, 2009
Just received this inbox “goodie”..and….ummm….yeah..this let the visuals guide you…..I’m speechless. Dude just said “fu*k it, I’m not gettin’ outta’ this Blazer”!! Oh yeah, Ski Beatz (Jay, Camp Lo, Original Flavor) got a track with this dude (?) as well..damn..
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DJ Eclipse – Rap Is Outta Control
By Travis | November 10, 2009
FILE NAME: RIOC PT.1 11-8-09.mp3
FILE SIZE: ~81.95 megabytes
DOWNLOAD LINK: http://www.zshare.net/audio/682567481a733515/
FILE NAME: RIOC PT.2 11-8-09.mp3
FILE SIZE: ~81.76 megabytes
“Rap Is Outta Control” 11-8-09 Playlist
1. King Magnetic & Reef The Lost Cauze “Hit Em Up” prod. by Astronote, cuts by DJ Kwestion
–
DJ Eclipse
(La Coka Nostra • Uncle Howie • Fat Beats • Rock Steady Crew)
“The Halftime Show” • 89.1 FM WNYU • Wednesday Nights • 10:30 PM – 1:00 AM
“Rap Is Outta Control” • Sirius XM Radio • Hip Hop Nation Channel • Sunday Nights • 10:00 PM – 12:00 AM
www.myspace.com/itsdjeclipse • www.facebook.com/itsdjeclipse • www.twitter.com/itsdjeclipse
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Diamond District – “Make It Clear (Remix)” / In The Ruff Instrumental Album Release
By Eric C. | November 10, 2009
To celebrate the release of the instrumental version of the already highly acclaimed debut album In The Ruff, DMV triumvirate Diamond District is proud to release the first of a small handful of remixes for the new project. The first one up is “Make It Clear” (Getcha Break On Remix) produced by SlimKat78, who also produced the track “Off The Late Night” from In The Ruff.
“Make It Clear” is definitely one of the more up-tempo tracks off the album, and SlimKat didn’t stray too far from that formula. When asked about the track and how he went about creating it Slim had this to say, “I was just going through the acapellas and trying to see if certain drum patterns I made would fit to the vocals… I started to play drum sounds out live for ‘Make It Clear’ and told myself I wanted to take the challenge and the rest was history.” The remix builds up from horns and thumping drums to a funky guitar lick with a steady bass line, carrying the energy from the original over to the remix. The first remix is here; stay tuned for new tracks that will be dropping soon.
With all of the recent praise and accolade that Diamond District has been receiving for In The Ruff, the group has decided to drop an instrumental version available in digital foramt. Oddisee’s production was nothing short of stellar on their debut album and the instrumental version will be a great way to vibe out to that D.C. boom-bap flavor that is In The Ruff. Buy link is below.
“Make It Clear” (Getcha Break On Remix): http://media.audibletreats.com/Diamond_District-Make_It_Clear-Slims_Getchabreakon_Remix.mp3
In The Ruff:
http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=333950536&s=143441
In The Ruff Instrumentals:
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/in-ruff-instrumentals/id332728107
“Who I Be” single:
http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=327515629&s=143441
“I Mean Business” single:
http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=327517072&s=143441
Topics: Let's Talk About.....(Review Series) | No Comments »
‘09 Was Yours, 2010 Is Mine (Ours): Bloggerhouse’s “Next 30″ (Eric’s Picks 6-10)
By Eric C. | November 10, 2009
6. Aarophat & Illastrate
The Album: Black Noise
With the exception of yU’s “Before Taxes, it’s safe to say that Aarophat & Illastrate’s “Black Noise” has been the most underrated album in Hip Hop in 2009. Hailing from Youngstown, Ohio, emcee Aarophat has made his presence felt on the scene working with Rasco of the Cali Agents. Rasco soon noticed the emcee’s confidence and potent delivery potent, inking Aarophat immediately. He soon sided with Pockets Linted/Fat Beats and later with Rawkus, yet it took “Black Noise” to really get us open to this prolific microphone controller.
Illastrate’s phenomenal qualities are always approaching newer levels as well, along with his knack for top-notch production, quality and style. Illastrate’s name now echos in the industry for his trademarked “dirty drums”, which can be heard on Akir’s “Legacy” as well as Dynas’, “The Apartment”. Illastrate’s has also served behind the boards are for Tiye Phoenix and Lords Of The Underground.
“Black Noise” is already being viewed as a “classic” underground LP amongst the masses. Both separately and jointly this duo has definitely proven themselves worthy of their rightful place on our “Next 30″. Aarophat and Illastrate have upped their ante for 2010, and because of this, their is no glass ceiling to what the future holds for this duo that are cut from the same cloth as Pete Rock & CL Smooth.
7. Apollo Brown
The Album(s): Skilled Trade & Make Do
Funny Story (not really): By now you’ve all heard, what I also consider to be the most stellar beat of the year, the second half of Finale’s “Arrival”, the opener from “A Pipe Dream…”. Being that the track was produced by two relative “unknowns” (at least to me), the first half of the track laced by V-Tech and the later half, by Apollo Brown, I hadn’t really done my homework to venture into the discography of the two. So, stop at a local kicks spot in Little Rock (Rock City Kicks) and I hear these tracks blaring through the speakers that are giving me a Craig Mack face, so damn funky they stink. Now, what’s booming isn’t just a typical “beat” cd, these tracks are playing more as songs which by now has really got my attention. So I ask the owner, “Corey, who in the hell is this playin”? while pointing up at the speakers. With his thick Arkansas accent Corey turns to me and replies: “Awww man, that’s Apollo Brown, some beat CD I downloaded last year”. Now, mind you, Corey’s musical taste has always been somewhat mind-blowing to me judging from his appearance. Of course, this is coming from the same dude that’s out shopping for WeSc & Triumvir in a 3-piece suit, so who am I to judge when I’m a walking contradiction? Needless to say, Apollo Brown was the first thing I entered in my Google “search” bar when I returned home.
Upon downloading “Skilled Trade”, I was very impressed with the first dozen or so cuts when I first heard the album. Then..BOOM! The angelic vocal sample that reeled me in on Finale’s “Arrival” (or “Depature” if you wanna’ get technical) blessed my eardrums with it’s mother, “Invisible”. Ahh, now it all comes to fruition, no wonder this sh*t is so dope, it’s from the same cat who blessed Finale! No joke, Apollo Brown’s got some serious beats!! Displaying a nice range of samples, flips and techniques on both “Skilled Trade” and his recent release, “Make Do” there’s no doubt that we’ll be hearing more from this Cleveland import by the way of Detroit City. Peep “Skilled Trade” HERE. “You’re Welcome! You’re ALL Welcome!!
8. Astronote
The Song: “Come On” (Astronote Remix)-Biggie f. Sadat X
Hailing from Paris, France, producer Astronote is quickly becoming one of the most respected new producers in Hip-Hop. The newest member of the A-Side Worldwide roster, Astronote is easily one of the most well rounded producers you’ll come across, with the ability to turn out top notch Hip-Hop, R&B, Funk, Soul & Pop tracks with or without samples. Having already built a resume that includes works with notable artists such as Talib Kweli, Buff1, Donwill of Tanya Morgan, Joell Ortiz, Guilty Simpson and Mayer Hawthorne, Astronote is poised to be one of the most notable producers in the game.
Astronote (producer of Now On’s “All You Ever Knew”) nailed it with his remix for the Biggie mixtape-favorite “Come On” (aka “C’mon Muthafu*kas). Capturing the true spirit of Biggie, Astronote ventured away from the futuristic/eclectro production found on Now On’s “Tomorrow Already” to truly take it back to the era when Bad Boy was runnin’ tings. Hell, the production on this joint (I think the original was recorded somewhere between 93′-94′…no later than 1995, I’m sure) even makes Sadat X come off as “rejuvenated”. Astronote’s reworking of some of Big’s “Greatest Hits”, has to go down as my favorite remix albums of all-time. If you haven’t peeped the best remix album on this side of Small Pro’s “Crooklyn Gangster”, slap yourself silly…Astronote captured the true essence of BK’s finest on “Bigger & Better”.
9. D. Black
The Album: Ali’ Yah
Fresh off of his appearance on Jake One’s “White Van Music”, Seattle MC D.Black delivered a fine sophomore project with “Ali’Yah”, released on Sportn’ Life/MYX Music Label. The album explored the soulful side of hip hop, with thought provoking lyricism atop hard hitting beats. Boasting production from the likes of Jake One, Vitamin D and B. Brown, Ali’Yah was somewhat of a departure from Black’s debut CD (2006, “Cause and Effect”). His confident flow added layers to the music, making the album seem like a veteran created it. Laced with a spiritual essence, “Ali’Yah” has the strength of a mass choir and will leave you feeling rejuvenated. The album inspired, and took you to a place that’s needed, to get through the tough and trying times we live in today. It’s a brilliant work that further confirmed that the Northwest is still one of the world’s hot beds for musical talent.
10. Huntor Prey
The Album: “Motion Sound Picture”
Well, it looks like Ohio has done it once again! One album that I consider my “go to” joint is Ill Poetic’s “The World Is Ours”, no matter what frame of mind I may seem to be in, this album seems to always give me the goosebumps with each passing listen. After listening to one of the most overlooked posse cuts of the last decade, Ill Po’s “As I See It” (f. Piakhan, Illogic and the gentleman to your left), I decided to check up on one of the track’s featured artists Huntor Prey a bit. Luckily, I peeped his MySpace and found a “warm-up” of sorts available as a free download. As a precursor to Huntor Prey’s forthcoming full-length LP, “Motion Sound Picture”, this promo EP has found itself amongst the “25 Most Played” songs on my IPod over the last month (and, I’m not talking about a particular cut either, I mean the WHOLE EP).
Raised in Toledo, Ohio, Huntor Prey follows a strong line of artists (producers and emcees) that have emerged from one of the most overlooked states in Hip Hop over the last few years. Produced entirely by the aforementioned Ill Poetic, this promo has me foaming at the mouth for the official release of “Motion Sound Picture” (Definition Music). One can only imagine that the album has to be up to par with Illogic’s “Diabolical Fun” (also produced by Ill Poetic), in terms of both lyrics and beats. For someone that lists influences that range from Island Soca Music to Nine Inch Nails all the way back to 80’s power chord classics, Huntor Prey is quite an eclectic character that packs a backpack full of potent lyricism intertwined with vivid imagery.
The track that has truly blown me away is the pulsating tones of “Eventually” (click to listen), which has recently served as my “get open” track for those mornings where I can barely drag my ass into the gym for 5 a.m. workouts. One listen to this Ill Poetic-laced gem and it’s easy to see why “Eventually” gets the blood flowin’ at a rapid pace. Plus, a lil’ hint of M.O.P. thrown into to spice up the hook never hurt matters much either, considering that the vocal sample originates from the folks responsible for “How About Some Hardcore”, “Stick To Ya’ Gunz” and “Ante Up”. However, after speaking with Ill Po recently, it is yet to be decided if “Eventually” or another stellar track from “Motion..”, “Cornerstore” (click to listen) will serve as the first single from Huntor’s debut. Whatever the case, there’s no denying that “Motion Sound Picture” is destined for success with Huntor Prey spittin’ verbal wizardry and the most slept-on producer in the game behind the boards. Grab the promo for “Motion Sound Picture” (free DL) HERE.
Topics: Bloggerhouse Next 30 | 4 Comments »
‘09 Was Yours, 2010 Is Mine (Ours): Bloggerhouse’s “Next 30″ (Eric’s Picks 1-5)
By Eric C. | November 8, 2009
1. yU (1/3 of Diamond District)
Album: “Before Taxes”
Simply stated, yU is THAT DUDE, with his debut “Before Taxes” it was easy to gravitate to his delivery and his voice, in particular on tracks like “Beats And Rhymes (From March 25th)” and the head-nodder supreme, the Oddisee-produced “Lunchin”. I mean, not even knowin’ dude and judging from his music, yU just seems like a real likable, down to earth cat that speaks truth from the heart. And while Diamond District pal Oddisee may have a very distinguishable and easily identifiable “twang” (for lack of better wording) with the way in which he spits, yU has that same Southern drawl in his voice that is even more pronounced, that meshes perfectly with traditional East-Coast boom-bap that took you back to 1993 on cuts like “Corners” (f. EyeQ) and the ridiculous flip of James Brown’s “Funky Drummer”, “InTheReign”. What also struck me as very impressive was that the majority of the project (”Before Taxes”) was actually produced by the 1978ers (yU & Slimkat78), but it also featured some guest production from Kev Brown, Oddisee & Bilal Salaam. Quite possibly my favorite new artist from 2009, this dude’s got it all, including a promising future. Also, if you haven’t heard Diamond District’s “In The Ruff” by now, you lose.
2. Finale
Album: “A Pipe Dream And A Promise”
By all accounts, one glance at the track listing, along with the notable producers involved, would make Finale’s solo debut, “A Pipe Dream And A Promise” a sure-fire classic, right? However, you know just as well as I do that we’ve seen it all before: up and coming emcee gets various co-signs (ahem, “throwaway” beats) from highly regarded beat makers and proceeds to drop a bullsh*t album filled with topics ranging from the newest Air Yeezy’s (Jesus, who in the hell would wear those out in public, really? Supras? same thing) to all his swag, cars, etc. Thankfully, Finale’s performance did not disappoint on his debut and in some instances (”Issues” & the Black Milk-produced “Motor Music”, which wasn’t one of the more notable beats I’ve heard from him as of late) his lyrical display outshined that of his producer’s performance behind the boards. CONSISTENT, Finale exemplifies the term as his flow doesn’t incorporate many hills and valleys within his no-nonsense, straight to the point delivery. Matter of fact, and I know this may be waaaay left-field here, but he actually sounds like a more lyrical 50 Cent on some of his tracks. Of course, we won’t hold that against Finale, as 50 could only dream of crafting an album half this dope and have as many years left in the game as this Detroit native does. Word on the street is that Finale and Oddisee have a lil’ sumthin’ up their sleeves in 2010, we shall see indeed!
3. tha Connection
Album: “Love Royale”
In ‘09 Tha Connection emerged with “Love Royale”, fresh off the heels of the duo’s phenomenal effort, 2008’s “Trapeze” (click to read W.T.R.’s take on the album) which was released on Domination Records. One of the strongest albums and biggest surprises of ‘08, “Trapeze” displayed a crazy chemistry between emcess SmooVth & Hus (think of a waaay more lyrical Group Home, but with production on the same level of consistency that DJ Premier blessed “Livin’ Proof” with) over eerie RZA-like production from a host of overseas talent (Vans Cal, whoever you are, hit a brotha’ up for an interview….your beats are AMAZING!!). Clocking in at 19 tracks deep, many could argue that albums as lengthy as “Trapeze” and “Love Royale” was quite risky, with most Hip Hop fans electing “quality” over “quantity”. However, tha Connection have mastered the art of “staying in the public eye”, releasing numerous efforts over the course of the last two years without supersaturation of B.S. material, dropping free releases on what seemed like a bi-monthly basis.
Take it to heart when I say “Love Royale” was LOADED with flair and originality. It’s a simple equation for success, really….ill beats and ill rhymes=a dope ass album! As I’ve always mentioned, tha Connection aren’t the most lyrically-potent duo that you’ll ever come across, but it’s their cadence and deliveries that have won me over from day one. Plus, you can’t help but respect the work ethic that SmooVth and Hus put in, persistence is a muhfuc*a’ I tell you!! I don’t just like the music that Hus and Smoovth craft, I fuc*ing LOVE it!! It’s hard to not to argue, that tha Connection isn’t my favorite group that’s poppin’ right about now as “Love Royale” flowed seamlessly from end to end. Still, considered “new jacks” to some, tha Connection will surely end up on your radar by the close of 2010.
4. “Thaione Davis”
Album: “Still Hear”
This is truly a travesty!! Thaione Davis’ “Still Hear” was sooo overlooked this year, that when I’ve posed the question “have you heard the Thaione Davis joint yet?”, many people look at me as if I have a dick protruding from my forehead. Released on the little-known Jericho Lounge Music labele and produced entirely by one of my favorite “under the radar” producers, Chi-Town’s Rashid Hadee (Little Brother, Chapter 13) , “Still Hear” offered us a vivid snapshot of the struggles that an independent may endure. Rashid handled complete production and provided an extremely soulful backdrop comprised of dense, sample-heavy melodies over sparse drumbeats. On the M-I-C, Thaione spit with the ease of a 10-year veteran in the game, who could give two shits about how many units he moves, as long as the album is looked upon as an “underground classic” one day. Quite honestly, Thaione’s “Still Hear” isn’t to far from “that one classic” you may have skipped over only to fall in love with a year later. “Still Hear” was packed to the rim with poignant content and relevant lyrics for these relevant times. A refreshing presentation of dope beats and rhymes full of integrity and conviction, this album was yet another page in Thaione’s catalog of quality music.
5. Dynas
Album: “The Apartment”
Hailing from South Florida, Dynas has been a creative force within the South Florida music community for years. Originating from New York City, Dynas is credited as a true master of ceremonies, able to rock a crowd of few to many. He has hosted and performed with the likes of A Tribe Called Quest, Nas, and Wu Tang Clan. Noted for his ability to visually depict urban tales with melodious harmonies. His artistry is head and shoulders above the normal Top 40 music landscape. Coming straight from the mouth of the ruler “Ain”t nobody got a style like he’s got, kid is ready” (Slick Rick- Def Jam), Dynas displayed flashes of brilliance on his BBE debut, “The Apartment”. Boasting an All-Star production line-up (Jazzy Jeff, DJ Jazzy Jeff, DJ Spinna, J Dilla, Khrysis and someone you’ll be seeing more of this week, Illastrate) that would make an aspiring emcee drool, this “Rawkus 50″ campaign alumni delivered a well-planned “official” debut that is sure to end up on more than a few “Top 10″ lists for 2009.
Topics: Bloggerhouse Next 30 | 3 Comments »
Digi Crates Promo Sampler
By Eric C. | November 8, 2009
Again…not one to post some of the B.S. we receive in the inbox, but this sampler is DOPE!! Featuring a host of some of the underground’s most promising cats (tha Connection, Rasco & Roc Marciano), along with some of the dopest “under the radar” producers, many of whom handled production on tha Connection’s last two albums (Baker, DJ Krypto, etc.) this sampler offers a brief glimpse of the Digi Crates roster. Also, if you’re somewhat like myself and are hesitant to download “free” sh*t anymore, peep the youtube video below and you be the judge.
Download the sampler HERE
Topics: Let's Talk About.....(Review Series) | No Comments »
The Good People-”About You”
By Eric C. | November 8, 2009
When I get random sh*t sent to our e-mail, I’m pretty selective about what I post, being that much of it is nonsense. However, the new single from the Good People (Saint & Emskee) is a good start to your Sunday morning, download and enjoy!- Eric
“Now available for free download is the latest single “About You” from The Good People (Emskee and Saint). “About You” is taken from The Good People’s latest release “Home Coming” that is now available on Domination Recordings.
Free Download: The Good People “About You” MP3
The Good People “Home Coming” now available at:
- iTunes
- Emusic
- Rhapsody
- Amazon.com
Topics: Let's Talk About.....(Review Series) | No Comments »
Dart Adams presents Tags, Throwups & Pieces: Another Extended Blogging Analogy
By Dart | November 7, 2009
In the world of graf writing as in the world of blogging there are different philosophies as how to go from being a toy to becoming All City or attaining the title of King. In graf you can bomb relentlessly with tags displaying your your unique handstyle, throwups to save time and when time and space are no issue a piece or a full production. In the past, in order to truly attain full King status you had to be able to do all the above. In blogging? Not so much. The ironic part is that when I was a writer I specialized in doing tags & throwups but I wasn’t gifted enough artistically to pull off full lush productions. I’m the complete opposite at blogging. This is as close to a quick post as I get.
The tag or sticker with a tag on it posted all over the place in graf is akin to posting up a pic/pics or an imbedded video on your blog with a couple of sentences to go along with it. You can do this multiple times daily and draw a gang of eyes to your site provided you get it up early enough and have people link to it. Difference being that if you’re a big enough site then everyone else will begin posting exactly what you just posted. Not possible in graf where you’re supposed to have your own individual style and not copy others…that kinda shit will get you fucked up if you ever get caught (in some cases even bodied).
Next comes the throw up. It’s a mini piece that doesn’t take much time or paint to do and in one night you can do a gang of them to get up whereas someone would spend all night and use up a gang of paint just to do one huge piece or full production. The throw up is analogous to posting up an mp3 or video along with a paragraph to describe or comment on it. A quick commentary on something that happened recently in pop culture along with a picture is the same way. You give the appearance of putting in serious work without doing the often time consuming research and writing that a full blog/piece would require. Some blogs post between 1-5 times a week and others can post between 25-50. It all depends on what you want to do or what style best fits you.
The piece/burner or full production usually requires scouting a time and location to execute, careful planning, a team to finish, a disgusting amount of paint of various colors and a sizable chunk of time not to mention serious physical exertion and supreme effort to pull off successfully. This is hailed as the standard of how to determine who is truly a King or not. You can bomb mercilessly with tags, stickers and throwups all over the place but if you can back that up with ill pieces to go along with them? Respect is undeniable. The blog equivalent are these long, well thought out pieces that people link to all over Twitter and others post a TL: DR on. That’s my personal chamber, hence me naming my blog Poisonous Paragraphs. While we all have different approaches to blogging we must remember that we’re all under to same umbrella and keep respect of the culture(s) at the forefront.
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