Deadly Hunta - Talk Out Loud

Just boppin around to classic 'Food and Water' track thought I'd check out some more Deadly Hunta...this video is incredible! Check more from his myspace.

Looking for a new lyrical hero? Try Jester Jacobs

Not familiar with arms and shanks? Jester Jay (seen here eating pussy!) aint either but takes the piss like armatige shanks. Mental Disorder is a highly entertaining lyrical tour de force combining a razor sharp wit with honest observations and wicked punchlines...and just having the balls to stick 'A dyslexic man walks into a bra' gets an automatic thumbs up. Throughout the album J keeps dropping the sort of quotables I kick myself for not having put together properly. The cinematic, often high tempo beats provide a great backdrop to Jesters flows, that are of such a calibre that the more biographic moments (had your Nokia stolen ever?) of clarity hit home hard. 'Lost Mines' is a tragicly heavy joint, check it and see if you relate...oh yeah, finally,of course can't forget the piss soaked suburban shoot out of anthem 'Blap' is reason alone to check this. Its all produced up lovely and the Michael Douglas clips from 'Falling Down' set the whole thing off a treat. Check Organised Mess for a free download or to buy and support the movement! Quality.

Behind the Beat

Just copped this lovingly created photo book by Raph, documenting the home studios of some of the Hip Hop elite's home studios. Some great shots of the cribs and equipment of some of the best, and is worth a look (check ya local library folks!) just to see the Beano covered walls of Farma G's setup. Also you get a dope Limited Edition Mix CD with some heavy cuts of remixed bangers.

Snaps could getchya Snatched!

Looks like clampdowns in the 'War on Terror' are resulting in it becoming illegal to take photo's of police constables or the military, apparantly with a possible 10 year sentence. As someone who has experience of being illegally manhandled by the police and also appreciate a free society where all elements can be scrutinised by the other, this doesn't bode well. Other than that, I like taking photos of trains being bombed (with paint of course)does that mean I'm gathering terrorist info? I think not. Click here to sign the 10 Downing Street petition against these laws.

Chima in outstandingly arrogant form!

Check this Devon produced (although dodgily mixed!)banger and the most emotive Mario story I've ever seen! Boh

Blee - The Black Lion Chronicles

This is a real nice free mixtape of London based artist, Blee, released by Cross Seas Entertainment and distributed via a legal torrent.
Its good to see some positive lyrics mixed with a street swagger and some more club friendly beats than UK dudes are usually to allie themselves with, but the lyrical content is not diluted at all as evidenced with "Revolution Eyes" and the freshly honest "Goodnight", with a thoughtfull and necessary breakdown of race politics and language on "The Black Review". Self belief is obviously not in short supply on this mixtape, along with solid words of advice...as Blee himself says "Gather wisdom, use your wisdom to gather wealth and let your wealth be surpassed by your virtue"
Bleeworld

New Bangers coming soon! Watch this space

Sounds of Teejuana

If you like your listening to be a bit eclectic you can't go wrong with this Tom Carruna and Teej collaboration. Quality crafted beats and samples are arranged to complement the highly cerebral verbals of Teej. Occasionally leaving the head a bit sore and the requirement of having a dictionary as a neccesary prop to listening to this album might be a bit off putting but its well worth the effort...plus the festival reminiscing of Glastonbury and The Divinity of Femininity standout as excellent examples of what can be done with this ol' hip ish! Go here to get it (you may need to sign up, go on do it!)

Oh Dear

What the hell is the point of listening to Britney Spears nowadays? I mean I've never been a fan anyways but at least you used to hear a human voice whilst checking out an attractive female...nowadays she aint looking all that and you can't rate the music at all as you might as well have a computer shouting at you.

You might guess I'm currently at my girlfriends house so I'm not really allowed to blast my new Ill Bill album out at current volume so am forced to watch Lilly Allen carp on to that C4 Music bird about how cool she and the Kings of Leon are...anyways I did bang the Coka Nostra man's "The Hour of Reprisal" all the way down the A12 from Ipswich to Watford and it bangs like a satellitte sized caribbean steel drum fused with Slash. Also got Sean Price's Monkey Bars through the post the other day...although its got a few dope tracks these these were the ones already prominent on youtube so a bit of a dissapointment as an album...never mind the dude is still dope! Anyways if your reading this and havent got the Ill Bill joint go get it right now, I have a feeling its going to be going into heavy rotation in my system over the next few months.

DJ Daredevil

Like your 90's hip hop, those classic braggaocio flows, neck snapping beats and the whole lot flipped together with some dope scratches and juggles? Click here for DJ Daredevil;s (a 3x world DJ finalist) tight mix. You can also check his blogspot for future mixes.

I challenge anyone not to get a grin on watching this!

Scholarman - Meeting with Andre Kostelantez

I've posted up Scholarman videos here before, an instituition of dope beats and rhymes. This generous mic devourer has produced an innovative EP crafting beats from elements of music from classical composer Andre Kostelantez and delivering trademark feel good, thought provoking and intelligent flows. The match is perfect and as a free download available Here it's also well worth checking out Scholarman's other material.

Ramson Badbones deserving the hype non lyrical fools!

Right Here Right now...one of the heaviest spitting talents to grip mic for a long time coupled with the late great J Dilla's finest beats, absolutely no excuses to get this downloaded and bumped right now. Also look out for his new mixtape and anything else you can get ya grubby little hands on. Props once again to Aiden for heads up on this.

Asher Roth reflecting Hip Hop

I can't help but feel a pang of jealousy writing about this nice MC, pretty much because so muc of his story correlates with mine; of course I've never met Steve Rifkind or chewed the fat with Jay Z but that's beside the point...he's a nicely mannered young kid bought up on traditional hip hop values and represents himself in honestly in his music. Checking Semtex's great interview prompted me to post something about him, but it was my ear to the streets James in Brum who put me onto this kid a good 4-5 months ago. Anyways, check his jokes collage remake of the Roc Boys video.

Sean Price 'Mess You Made'

The video for this had me chuckling, but its also a dope track featuring Block McCloud with Sean reflecting on the less glamourous life or rap when bills aren't being paid and shit generally goes wrong...nicely human! Now go and check more of his stuff to see the true lyrical beast he is, especially alongside Rock with that rediculoussly baritone voice.

Immortal Technique breaks it down

Immortal Technique speaking to Aljazeera TV pretty much sums up what I learnt studying politics for 4 years at uni...and embodies the Vocalsword philosophy, have a look.

There goes the neighbourhood! Unfriendly Neighbours send house prices plummeting!

The Starvin' Artist Movement hold it down for the Midlands on this heavy release from Unfriendly Neighbours (Joe Gutta and Biggaman) with dense lyrics packed with plenty of rewind quotables that make you hit the roof like Spiderpig, these fellows got skills as demonstrated on Just Spit! with an assist from everdope Sonny Jim. Its good to hear a variety of subjects covered from dealing with rediculous celebrity culture, scandelous women, dodgy one night stands, getting totally mashed and to more serious issues of addiction, every day maintaining and being dependable. The production from U.N., 2nd Suzpect, Kroscene and Sneakthief knocks throughout, and 'Looks Could Kill' has a mad funky skank bassline that got me bubblin' round the room! Also Lynne Riley's vocals sound perfect on 'Beg, Steal or Borrow'...go get this illness right here And while your waiting on your download sit back to enjoy the Unfriendly Neighbours featuring Regiimental, produced by big dawg 2nd Suzpect

P.S. If your lovin this make sure you check Rusty Jukebox for more goodies.

UK Runnings ensure the Revolution will be digitized

My Amp is currently blazing up at volume 10 to the Kyza joint that busts in early on this wicked free download (Get it now!) from them propa hustlers Late and Triksta. The set boasts a solid list of respected up and comers and established names from Genesis Elijah and TB to Big Cakes, Iron Braydz and Jyager. Big up HHB Radio.com and the whole Wolftown fam for another slice of goodness.

Zion I Mixtape Free Download

Zion I bless you with a dope mixtape of classic beats re-licked with Zumbi and Amplive straight spittin' head nod fodder...more wierd (wierd for me, but in reality its just more musical!) on side B but good for you flouresenct rockin hipsters who are apparently out there...I live in Ipswich so aint really sure if these kids actually exist! Check this link for DL and a more in depth run down from them Okay Player cats.

Guns of Britain

Dealmaker records have offered up a treat...click here for free download of emceeKilla's remake of the Clash classic 'Guns of Brixton'...this tune knocks heavy and well in the spirit of the original version, go check it. PS This cut is also available on the Certified Banger Under the Rader Vol 1, where I first heard the tune, go cop that as well for more classic british attitude.

Neo Nazi's in the U.S. Military

The hip hop community and intelligent people everywhere have been celebrating the new Obama administration, but the shadow of racism still lurks...I was intrigued to read the following article by Jody Ray Bennett who writes for ISN Security, an independent service following international affairs. Read here It documents some of the alarming infiltrations that right wing extremists and neo-nazi's have made into the U.S. military...just another thing to consider when us Brits hide under the US umbrella op peacekeeper, stay alert people!

Blaq Poet and Preemo

After being bombarded with a load of tinny high hats and wack raps about clothes, followed by the dissapointing find that the new Royce 5'9 joint was a pile of shit, I thought rugged rap had been killed forever...lucky DJ Premier would never let that happen! And Poet...he's a lovely guy haha gully.

Freestyle Madness

Ever fancied a bit of a cypher session but no emcees about? Shiiit thats how I got my name, go check this rediculous site out, you can rap, battle, freestyle whatever live on line with a bunch of knucklehead clowns from the US! I just went on there, a couple of cool spitters and bare jokes with some girl going on about her nocturnal activities...some scandalous ass shit!

New Main Ingredient Show

Check the links for another fat show from hardest worker in hip hop award nominee DJ Cro...just heard the Jibbering Records him and crew put a lot of effort into has closed, damn shame for real music as I know the spot was a great place for people to connect. Head over to http://www.mainingredientradio.blogspot.com/ to download the latest show with a great guest mix from Roy Roast Beef, and keep up with the ever impressive hip hop adventures of Cro.

New Skinnyman & Deadly Hunta

Check this, the ever hectic and relevant Skinnyman hooks up with Deadly Hunta for a wicked man hook over Shown N Prove produced track taken from the 'Food for the Brain' project. Skinnyman is a hugely influential figure putting in mad work for more than a few years, if you haven't already cop this and the classic 'Council Estate of Mind'.

Big L Remembered

As most of the hip hop world was wrapped up with the legend of J Dilla and celebrating his legacy, I just wanted to put a note in on the late great Big L who was fataly killed 10 years ago this sunday. Although Dilla was very influential on both a production and flow tip, there are few lyricists who have had such an impact on emcees as Big L. Just listen to the radio freestyle with him and Jaz Z; Jay is blatently trying to bite L's flow and swagger and can't quite match it. The complex flow delivery and authentic street tales made L a true legend. According to fellow DITC member Lord Finnesse, L would sit and craft his verses meticulously for hours on end...apparently Ebonics took him about 2 months to write. A master of the hip hop craft he should be celebrated and mourned just as much as heroes such as Dilla.

UK Rap Assassain Stalks MIA

From Certified Banger Vol 2 - Looks like someone needed to match Chimas lyrics with the shit he be talking! Lovely :)

Q-Tip and J. Period Drop Free Mixtape 'The [Abstract] Best'‏

Rapper/producer and former Tribe Called Quest front man Q-Tip is celebrated on a new mixtape produced in collaboration with DJ Period. Titled The [Abstract] Best, J. Period's latest mixtape is a combination of tracks from Q-Tip's deep catalog, as well as remixes, interviews and new tracks from a list of popular MC's, who pay homage to the Queens, New York rap star. Busta Rhymes, De La Soul, Skillz, Talib Kweli, Prince Paul, Consequence, Pharoahe Monch, Black Thought, ?uestlove, Black Sheep, Kid Cudi, Blu and others. Q-Tip's latest solo album The Renaissance is in stores now.

Props to allhiphop.com on the heads up for this, go get ya mixtape here.

Certified Bangers

Props to Certified Banger for putting together another set of exclusive UK spittingness...volume one was heavy and there is more of the same with this set; check the elder generation dissing 'Respect your elders'(Kate Krusaders ft Remus), straight up banger 'Coming for the Game' (Jut ft Jay Madden Chris L and Assa)and Chima Anya's return to form as a straight up beast with 'All I wanna do', so funny nearly crashed the whip on the way to work! Brrrraap! Go cop both complimentary volumes from Certified Banger Go on, do it now!....ps Gouki P's Jabberwocky sampling 'Mimsey Grove' is a fine example of two elongated fingers flipping a hip hop salute to snooty english teachers!

Ice T and CL Smooth flashback

Just bumping the Golden Age mixtape from the Spin Doctor (available from Certified Banger blog) and a CL verse just popped out, a bit about putting wack rappers on a boat and letting it sink...the dude is mad smooth dropping science, punchlines and real stuff for days. He always seems to be presented in Pete Rock's shadow so thought I'd large him up for a moment!

Another golden age banger I just revisited while driving down the rain invested slow infested tarmac of the A12 was Ice T's Home Invasion set; the album cover and concept of injecting black rage into suburban white kids could have used me as a model haha! A shame the movement Ice was adovocating has been so squashed by the corporate machine...listening to this today it sounds fresh; the foul language of today is present (but done much better - check the "If you are offended by words like bitch, ho, shit, fuck...take the tape out now, this is not a pop album") unfortunately the acidic social and political content is sadly missing from most of todays music.

Mr Wrong, true filth pedaller

Depraved, disgusting, sick...descriptions most people might would'nt be happy to have directed towards them. Mr Wrong (aka Lee Scott) and his gang (the likes of Children of the Damned and Antiheroes) I'm sure would lap up such tags and then urinate on them. With this release you need to forget any sense of deceny and just submit yourself to an ear battering that, through the grime, expletives and nastyness showcases a huge amount of warped talent and humour. Despite the themes of shouting at Bizzies, nicking sweets from corners, and abusing as many people as possible the ideas do rub shoulders with the personification of paranoia, giving Mr Wrong a more rounded and philisopical character than initial impressions suggest. Extremelly dark and not for the faint hearted, this is proper dope, unabashed and uncensored hip hop! Apparently these are selling out like hot cakes so get over to the myspace and order your copy soon.

Crisis Talks Mixtape

Undercurrent comprise the spitting duo of Baron Samedi and Lixx; two accomplished lyricists who are putting out their latest mixtape "Crisis Talks" for free from
Undercurrentuk or Download Here I like the creativity and concept led ideas of many of these tracks; "Chamber Zero" is a superb Wu Tang tribute featuring JabbathaKut and Brothers Grimm take you down some suitably twisted metaphorical alleys, darkly mixing references to Avon Barksdale with Goldilocks and the three bears. Although the sex and power themes of Big Shots and Bare Wimmin, even if satirical still didn't appeal to me but there are many more joints that made me grin, or impressed such as the great story line that unwinds in Gamblers Anonymous. The whole set is choc full of quotables and power spitting. And its free so go cop it! If you get a chance also dig out Baron's "The Formula" 12" for the awe-inspiring "Unamerican Psycho"...wicked tune!

Neck snapped and Eyes ruined

Got a double bill of stuff to hurt you today! Check the super slammin Good Life from Mr Live; a great concoction of guitar loop head nod and hype Jurrassic 5 good time flows, thanks to the boy Rishi for the linkup; good lookin bro...

Now for the eye strain! DJ Nifty put me on to this, everyone's favourite wacko Mel Gibson seems to have completely lost the plot and turned his film Apocolypto into a massive game of Where's Wally! Search the clip for Wally; its well worth it (try around 9 seconds in)bloody rediculous!

Solocypher & DJ Nifty Present "Unstabilized" Album

Drum N Bass producer DJ Nifty has focused his talents to concoct a stew of banging hip hop beats for Solocypher to bring his random mix of beer, politics, introspection, philosophy and general stoopidness to the table. Listen with an open mind and open bottle of wine!
INCLUDES THE SMASH HIT DRUNKEN CROONER ANTHEM 'BEER'D UP'!!!
Now for absolutely free, all you lovely people you can download this ill collaboration from...Here
it's in a zip file, any problems let me know!

It's all 10's for 777 "Septimal"

Yo!…Yeah that’s what the feck I said to myself as my head began boppin’ out fresh to this niceness. "Septimal" is one for those lyrical fiends who love nothing else but zoning out to many many syllables and twist up punchlines. Not that this is the extent of 777’s style, its just he’s pretty damn good at it; plus the appearance of Baron Samedi is well welcome early into the set on heavy ‘Swordz’.

Quotables over classic head nod beats come lovely in the ubercynical “The Man” with delicacies such as “God is an evil free speaking beast of a comedy genius” getting the cerebral wired in. ‘Masked’ is a furious chest beater attacking haters, emcees and anyone with any slight doubt as to treb’s status. The deluge of verbal assault does however calm down, and the album benefits greatly from the more reflective cuts of ‘Keep me Awake’ and moving into the brilliant parody of ‘Britain’. Honestly this should replace the national anthem so we can all go foxhunting in a Kappa tops! Justly disgusted, the lampooning strikes a rawer cord describing a scenario of the Home Office explaining to Dr Kelly's kids why their Dad's dead...I'm glad at least someone else hasn't forgotton about that travesty.

Septimal is a solid 17 tracks and is packed full of various styles, features from a who's who of underground UK spitters (Beit Nun, Joe Kobi, Baron Samedi, Redmaster, Esyoube, SonnyJim, Respeck-BA and Labal-S) and a variety of heavy beats from the likes of Zaheer, Bare Beats, Samedi, Redmaster, Esyoube and Wizard. A definitely solid set, make an effort to check for this. http://www.myspace.com/777uk

Tales from the Legend

If you've been off the UK hip hop rader for a minute I'm just dropping a reminder to check the Tales from the Legend show with DJ Excalibah on Pyro Radio. The guy is a proper UK soldier and still rocking hard after some bullshit with 1xtra, so show support. Pyro radio is pretty live in general with loads of Hip hop, Grime, DnB, House, Reggae and loads of other good stuff.

Tales from the Legend

Many people have kept in touch but I had to slap myself for forgetting about true UK Hip Hop grinder Excalibah...his Tales from the Legend is still going strong even after the bullshit over at 1xtra - He's now blasting from www.pyroradio.com. Shows are available to stream whether Scally's on or offline so no excuses! This site is well worth checking for a whole heap of goodstuff including Grime, Dubstep, House, Breaks, D&B and loads of hip hop...chyeaah!

Orwellian Form 696

A while ago I was asked to join a Facebook group against form '696'...intrigued, I started reading about this and found it was basically a form the Met Police have been getting venue promotors to fill in to give exhasustive details of the performers including addresses, styles of music to be played and expected ethnicity to attend...basically racial profiling and a massive infringement on freedoms and small scale live music. Anyway I wanted to see the form my self but couldnt see it on the web site...in journo mode I contacted the Met but got no response! Luckily someone at the Guardian had a bit more clout than me and are able to follow the story...and even though the blatent racial profiling has been removed it still looks like the man is gonna try shut the kids up...go check the rest! http://www.guardian.co.uk/culture/2009/jan/21/police-form-696-garage-music

LouisDen Beat Cypher

I've heard so much good stuff about this night and I'm trying to save me pennies so I can get back to my hip hop home, Brum! ive heard stuff from loads of these guys and trust me they all tight as hell! Go check if you can...

Beit Nun & Illskilz - Colours

If your looking for some of that real life homegrown hip hop you won't go far wrong with Beit Nun and Ill Skils upcoming release "Colours". Taking a break from the often gloomy and pessimistic themes often found in rap, Colours literally provides a bright spectrum of colours through feel good lyrics, some dope good head nod beats courtesy of Dutchman Ill Skills and an unabashed celebration of locality with Beit Nun's broad Macclesfield accent. Standouts for me are posse cut (bring more back!) "A Good Year" and the uplifting "The Music"; its already available to download and physical copies will be available on the 26th of this month. Hit up
www.myspace.com/mrbeitnun for more info.

Women in Hip Hop

Legendary Public Enemy front man and activist Chuck D has set a 2009 resolution to rectify the marginalized representation of females in Hip-Hop culture. A swept aside issue in recent years, Chuck D argues that the lack of prominent women in Hip-Hop is causing the culture to move backward and devalue many of the progressive strides made by female pioneers in the 80s and 90s. “In ‘09, my fighting the power is for women in Hip-Hop, especially groups, producers, songwriters, and label heads. There are very, very few all women rap groups. Less than we had 25 years ago. I feel it is the next revolution in this 'same dude, same idea, same voice genre.’ I personally feel that the lack of groups on the male side has hurt, as well as production teams for the sake of soloists, across the board.” (Taken from Allhiphop.com)

I couldn't agree more and reminded me of a dope emcee I heard a while back from Detroit, Invincible. (http://www.myspace.com/invincilana.) Ever since I heard Bahamadia I've been a great fan of the diverse skill and introspection the girls bring to the table, more of the same please!

Get to know Redbeard

Just clocked the friendly guys over at EatGood Records are giving away a nice slice of promo material from the one like Redbeard...I aint had a chance to check it yet but am posting it straight up cos 'Beard always delivers with the quality. I've been lucky to cypher with him a few times in Brum and he's always kickin some true life, twist up ya noggin type spits! Go check this! http://sharebee.com/d1fc7e77

Poem for Palestine

Today I joined thousands (an estimate of 100,000; although the BBC reported 20k, a figure that even my poor maths brain finds rediculous judging by the density of the protesters over a very large area) of citizens including Muslims, Jews and Christians in a peaceful protest against the Israeli war in Palestine. It was a very emotional event, and I was sad to hear of clashes between protesters and police later this afternoon after I had left. This did not come as much of a suprise however, as the Police had set up security railings around the streets in such a way that a bottleneck effect was bound to happen. Thousands of protesters squeezed into a small area surrounded by riot helmet clad police will inevitably raise tension.

Trying not to dwell on the negative, it was great to see so many men women and children of different background uniting for a common cause. Representatives from Palastine and Jewish organisations made passionate pleas for a halt to the violence, Annie Lennox spoke and Michael Rosen read a poem from the perspective of a child growing up in Gaza. As the protest set off, the ever concious Lowkey performed his poem for Palestine, which you can check below from where he performed it an earlier rally.

Sharpen your pencil fool, its Scholarman

One good thing I've heard to have come from the current economic downturn is the 50 Cents forthcoming reality show has been axed - don't worry Fiddy, I'm sure Ja Rule will still give you a job as an extra in a video! So will the coming fiscal difficulties finally make people take a more cynical view of mainstream pop and propaganda shamelessly promoting cash grabbing materialsm? Probably not, but the real hip hop shit is certainly going to sound more appealing. Check Scholarman for a prime example.

Its Dan Bull!

Originality, Innovation, Realness - phrases often bandied around by hip hoppers of all walks; Dan Bull proves he is the possessor of all three with his quite stunning 'Safe' album. His verses possess a refreshing honesty that, although it may not be appreciated by all, provides a much needed alternative voice. The musicality of the set is brilliant; fantastic use of guitars, melodies,rhythyms and superb sound layering complements Dan's varied styles - his ability to not just rap but really atune to the music reminds me of an indied out, slightly fragile Roots Manuva.

The album isn't a barrel of laughs, but then it's theme (attempting suicide during a thermonuclear holocaust) doesn't suggest it would be. Dan's introspection can sometimes feel overwhelming, but it is this that makes the album so authentic and is well tempered as an underlying strain of hope and beauty can be found teased out by the vibrant rhythms and soundscapes. 'Misfit' is typically brilliant ode to the loner exasperated by the banality of life which slams into the excellent uptempo disillusionment of 'Thistopia', also 'My Catharsis' puts more advice into 3 minutes than a library of self help manuals; whilst After life showcases cleverly brutal and dextrous flow. Definitely something different; people interested in creativity and all genres of music will be well impressed by the magnificently crafted 'Safe'.

No excuses not to investigate this; you can download the entire album right here: http://www.megaupload.com/?d=HMMBYOTZ For more info and to buy the high quality version on CD check www.myspace.com/DanBull

Fresh Formula - Check The Kemistry

The man behind the boards of the excellently atmospheric "Two Cities" album is also one third of "The Kemistry" alongside beautifully soulfull singer Kemi and hard hitting emcee Smokey. Check two of their latest videos right here; smoothed out goodness of 'Mascot' and nice uptempo lyrical lashings over a Hammer Horror video with "The Core"...for more go peruse www/myspace.com/thekemistrymusic...

Anti-War Coalition and Palestinian Hip Hop

Today a Palestinian School with UN affiliation was the target of attack from Israel, killing at least 30 people and injuring 50 plus. Surley the world must wake up and stop these horrific attacks on civilians. Check the video below putting some of the conditions into lyrics, and if your able join the march in London this saturday, detailed below. Nevermind religion, this is about basic humanity.


SECOND GAZA NATIONAL EMERGENCY DEMONSTRATION
STOP THE MASSACRE NOW: ISRAEL OUT OF GAZA

SATURDAY 10 JANUARY ASSEMBLE HYDE 12.30 PM
MARCH TO ISRAELI EMBASSY, LONDON W8
Organised by Palestine Solidarity Campaign, Stop the War Coalition, British Muslim Initiative, Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament and many other organisations.

Termanology J Dilla Tribute

Had to stick this up as soon as I heard it! Props to Mr FX; Remember Hip hop rebels show every monday from 10 at www.ruffradio.co.uk

Chester P live in Ipswich

For those who don't already know, Chester P is one of the UK's premier emcees and as one half of the legendary Taskforce has released some of the finest quality, imaginative, dark, uplifting music I've ever heard (Butterfly Concerto anyone?) And The Chessmonsters solo joint "From the Ashes" is bad; So it's damn fine work the fellas of Rapsploitation have done by bringing him to Suffolk; if you're anywhere in East Anglia, get yo ass on down to:
RAPSPLOITATION SESSIONS 2nd BIRTHDAY
February 12th 2009 @ The Swan 8pm - 12:30am,Over 18s
DJ's - Jimmy Green, Paulo, Muddle: Hosted by Ill Inspired
PERFORMING LIVE:
CHESTER P (Taskforce)
w/ INJA (Delegates of Culture) & DJ Louis Slipperz (Ten Pound Bag Mixtapes)
Plus Support from:
TRUTH (http://www.myspace.com/reggierhythm)
Set to be a banger! All this for only 3.50..........you lucky swines.
For more info on the brothers McBane and a far better blog than this(!) check out:http://musicfromthecorner.blogspot.com

Sonny Jim Sets Bar for Mix CD Standards

If you want real evidence of the abundence of talent in the UK scene, look no further than the latest 'Trading Standards' set from the Brummie bomber, aka the sharpest chisel in the toolbox. Sonny provides a stage for a multitude of talented emcees to spit bars over an impressive array of beats, complimenting his own talents to great effect. Standouts of the set come in the form of The God Complex; Cappo and Jehst prove their legendary status while Jim certainly aint out his depth. The ante is upped with the uptempo goodness of "Stack P's" with Orifice Vulgatron and English spitting bars at breakneck speed.

The Trading Standards CD shows Sonnyjim spitting rediculous punchlines that I have had the privilidge of hearing him spitting live and off the cuff at various jams around Brum. The energy and skill he and partner in rhyme Kosyne bring to the table is evidence of the sheer dedication to and love of grassroots hip hop culture that he represents. This approach enables quality product such as this and previous release the Sole Trader EP to represent quality street music through bringing a combination of excellent production with next level lyricism, wit and vigour.

An everyman approach is exhibited with the magnificent "Balancing Act" where Sonny and fellow Brum heavyweights Redbeard and Jimmy Davis wax philosopically about the trials and tribulations of balancing artistic goals with everyday grinding, a definite one to zone out to. The Lunar Society provides a rugged picture of Brum that the original members would probably be shocked to hear with SK, Malik and Eyebs providing a tour to parts that your regular tourguides would piss thier boxers visiting...

There's a load more treats that I've neglected; but rather than read about 'em all, go show some support, cop the Mix CD, grab ya poison and check it!
www.dentedrecords.com
http://www.myspace.com/sonnyjim01
http://www.eatgoodrecords.com
But shiiit, while your waiting for postie to deliver your copy, check Jehst and Sonny ripping it down Down Under!

Protect Ya Neck! Its Mr Shaodow!

This dude doesnt just talk the talk; a martial arts expert and lyrical wordsmith the kid is nice over any beat he chooses to rip into. Couple this with a dude who has rediculous work ethic and knack for having fresh videos is second to none and you can tell theres some quality. I saw him live a few months ago and he ripped it down; Check the 'Grime' single here, a track that has drawn attention through Channel U and Choice FM spins.

Mr Shaodow is an emcee not afraid to rock over a wide variety of beats produced by Offkey, and its good to know that part of the mission statement is to encourage "MC's to stop taking the easy route when it comes to their music as it ends up hurting their art." In terms of creativity these guys are on point and its well worth checking http://www.myspace.com/mrshaodow for more gems. I'll leave you with this one though - what would you do when you see "A Black man coming"?

Kano - Layer Cake

This is one of my favourite tracks ever from a mixtape; the film was incredible, making a household name of Danial Craig. Then Kano comes along and brutalises the track with hypnotic sample and the classic line "Im in the industry man. In Eng-a-land, where I'll never sell more than an indy band" unfortunatly too true!

So Solid Crew

To be honest I never really checked for So Solid back in the day but just stumbled across this and it made me realise preconceptions were wrong; as they invariably are...was checkin some new Asher D recently; boy got rhymes for days!

I hate Jeremy Clarkeson

Yo this is some bullshit; its friday night and I'm stuck at home...I was going to watch the old favourite Have I Got News For You but ol' Daddio decides his hatred for Clarkeson runs so deep no body in the house is gonna watch it! Now I hate that smug basterd as well but come on! Anyways Im like...shiiiit what shall I do with myself; started working on some album artwork but then remembered Im wack at all that so I decided to enjoy some Richard Pryor and Eddie Murphy...check this shit! (Literally!)

Nine - Whatcha Want

Now this is what I call that old boom bap, classic hip hop shit! Been a big fan of Nine for ages, but his stuff's mad hard to get hold of! If anyone knows where I can grab some get at me!

Gangsta Rap is a Fraud!

Sabac Red talks real sense with "Commitment". Ill Bill creates a powerfull plea to his uncle to clean up his heroin addiction with a brilliant animated video, plus Saigon speaks some wise words about the influence of Hip Hop on the next generation.

Big Boi recieves award from Dr. Cornel West

As a long time fan of OutKast, a group whose vision and creativity has influenced me and many others, it was great to stmble over this clip of Big Boi recieving the 2008 Renaissence Award. Dr West is an incredibly eloquent and cerebral intellectual; as demonstrated briefly here - whose work on race, religion and culture have been influential accross America and the world...also, any film buffs may be impressed that he was a central force in the development of the "Matrix" storylines and played a cameo in the last two films...

360 Got all your Ska Funk Punk Reggae and Rock needs sorted!

I've just been reliably informed that immensely talented and very friendly 360 folk have got there website up and running...go check www.360.uk.com for the goodness; including the video for "Not Staying" an amazing slice of acustic vocals! Who says I'm only interested in hip hop!!? Although I do have extra love for the guys after a fair few jamming sessions where they tolerated my mashed up freestlye stylings; love shows love innit!

Baby J, Baron and Biggie

Just a day after I cancelled my cinema pass, (I'm getting sick of cloned CGI/Infant comedy bullshit on repeat whilst the Baader Meinhof complex and Waltz with Bashir aint shown) I find out that a film about Biggie; 'Notorious' is coming out in Feburary, then a 2 part film about general badman Che around the same time....Ah well at least it gives me an excuse to miss Giant Kung Fu Adorable Squid 57!

Anyhow, check this Baby J banger taken from his latest set "Baby Food" featuring Million Dan, another quality slice from the midlands Man, Ive been a fan since his mixtape featuring 50 different emcees rapping over his beats, always about the lyrics!....


And if that wasn't enough for you, check Baron Von Alias here showing that UK heads can produce some nice stuff without taking themselves too seriously! Nice one.

The Lost Generation Interview

If you don't know already, you need to get to know the work of TLG, a collective from Birmingham whose consistently quality output has won them respect and appreciation from a growing fan base. Heavily grounded in reality, able to showcase great examples of penmanship, production and cutting skills TLG provide essential listening and evidence that there are still uncompromising, truthful voices out there. Check it!

Safe boys, hope your good, just before we start can you layout the basic outline of the TLG crew cos I know you boys run fairly deep….
Well as far as the music goes TLG consists of myself (Devas),Luke, Eyebs, Konn, Mikee Lazy and Essar.

TLG are well respected around the midlands scene; what sort of promotional work have you had to do to get to this sort of level?

Devas: Well our first release was a DVD showcasing local talents from around Brum, that was like an introduction to the scene for us-putting our faces out there and making links with other artists in the city. As far as promotional work goes we've had to let the music do the talking. We don't have money to invest in PR/marketing etc, so when we came to release our mixtape we pressed up 3k cd's ourself in my living room and gave them out for free.That was our promotion.

Your tunes reflect a typical state of mind of regular guys living in fairly desolate urban conditions. How far has your environment and personal experiences affected what you rhyme about?

Devas: My environment is probably the main reason why I rap.For me personally I don't really rap about things for the sake of it if you know what i mean.I talk about things that I see going on, both in my life and the lives of people around me.

Leading from that, you are very critical of the current political

 establishment. What for you are your major concerns with this government and what would you envision as an alternative?

Devas: haha How long we got?I've got alot of negative views on the way this country is run, number one probably being the amount of tax payers money spent on illegal wars. As far as an alternative goes tho, I don't know, I'm not a politician.


Mikee Lazy: I think the major problems with this goverment is that they have told too many lies .They took us to a war when they didnt need too ,and look at what has happened there. They need to get to the root of the major problems and issues we have in our culture and tackle them before they get out of hand ... There are so many people suffering and living hard lives when this doesnt need to happen . We need a "peoples goverment" , a leader who we can all relate to.
Luke: I'd like to see a transparant government. A real democracy.

The tracks you choose to rap on provide perfect backdrops to your themes. Tell us a bit more about the production side of things and how a beat goes from sitting in the lab to becoming a heavyweight track on a mix cd or album….

Eyebs: Sometimes when your makin the beat and your zoned out
, its like you can allready see the scene or the track, i can imagine how how them mans are going to spit it.Sometimes though its just about finding the right beat for something thats already been written, and when you hear it you just know.

Mikee Lazy: The whole of The lost generation are sick producers and everyone brings there own flavour. Its all about digging for the right sample and creating some magic by putting your own twist on that original piece of music.

Konn: The thing is with 4 producers in the camp, theres new beats coming in every other day it. Alot of the time there’s no real set plan to how beats get laced. We stay spotaneous!

…and for the emcees, what sort of processes do you go through when writing lyrics? I know I’m always impressed by the craft that goes into them, especially when revolving round a particular concept…

Devas: It depends, I write lyrics anywhere and everywhere, i write in my phone and mostly late at nite.Sometimes we will sit in the lab together, come up with a concept, write it there and then and lace it straight away but most times theres not enough hours in the day to work like that.

Luke:Yeah sometimes we might agree on a concept, then take the beat away to write and do it the next week.Sometimes we might end up not doin it for months but sometimes it takes that long to be in the right mindstate to write it.

You bring a load of good vibes and energy to your live shows. How much time do you spend practicing your routines and making sure the show goes down well?

Devas: Ha.I gotta be honest, we don't practice our sets at all.90% of the time we don't know what tunes we are doing untill an hour before, we'll burn a cd of the set and listen to it in the car on the way...

What is your view of the music industry at the moment, and in particular the hip hop scene – do you think the public’s perception will always generally be either negative or misinformed?
Devas: I think it'll be a hardjob to change it.I'm also not sure if the public's perception is misinformed.Granted they may not know the genre in depth but it's not really like their feelings on it aren't justified.Most of the Hip Hop heard on mainstream radio and alot of the underground is undoubtetdly spreading a negative message that arguably has a detrimental effect on the youth.That combined with the powers of Murdochs media machine leave people's minds imprinted with this negative image of the culture and really it is hard to blame them.They don't understand it.The state of the music industires a differnet story though,I probably ain't the best man to answer that.

Eyebs: Hip Hop might be viewed negatively but it hasn't stopped it from becoming one of the biggest selling genres in the world.Hip Hop is Pop so obviously not everyone sees it negatively.

Mikee Lazy: I think to the average person when they think of hip hop they associate with rappers like 50cent,who lets be honest,aint given out the most positive attitude and is hardly a role model to our younger generation.
The music scene on a whole has changed massively in the past few years with the rise of mp3 and demise of vinyl /cd. Alot of people are downloading illegally so record sales have dipped massively. This has had a crazy effect where by artists/groups are giving music away free or having to get music out so quickly that people have the option of buying it legally straight away in the hope this will discourage illegal downloading. Im not sure what the music scene will be like in 5 years but i hope that The lost generation are still contributing towards it.

How important do you think it is for artists to be socially aware or conscious?

Devas: To me it is not just important for an artist to be socially aware, it is important for everyone.
If we are not aware of our society then how are we expected to integrate into it and live as a community?

What new projects are you currently working on and what are your ambitions for the future?

We've been working on our album over the past year or so, set to be released at the beginning of '09. It features guest spots from I.R.S, Ras Supa, Sonny Jim & Kosyne, Reggiimental & more,with production from Eyebs, Kelakovski, Konn, Lazy, Essar, Archimage and Doc Mini.Thats coming out as a joint venture between Rusty Jukebox & Eat Good Records so keep em peeled!!! We're ft on a Rusty Jukebox Compilation and an Eat Good compilation both due in the new year. Also Mikee Lazy' will be droppin an EP ft:Sonny Jim, Kyza, Dubbledge +more...
Our ambition for the future is just to release music that people enjoy.

An ambition already achieved I reckon! Check www.myspace.com/thelostgen to keep up with the latest good stuff from TLG.

Barack Obama becomes President

The world watched and waited expectedly, and I felt waves of relief as I sat glued to the TV in Ipswich at 3.30 this morning with my Dad. The hope that Americans might finally see some way out of the shambolic past 8 years and that Obama could become president was slowly realised as more and more swing states became democratic, in the true sense of the word. This has been a great and historic day and I sincerly hope that the sort of grassroots, community activism that helped propel the Senetor to his forthcoming new post will help to engage a generation around the world. I sincerly hope that Obama will be able to deliver as much as he has promised, but I already think he has given the world a chink of optimism...let's hope the 'change' agenda fully applies to foreign policy as much as domestic concerns...Its a good day!

Breakthrough - Latest GTA goodness

Gotta say big Brrrrap to them GTA boys once again! Check out the dope video for the live tune "Breakthrough", another great production from the land of dons and scholars. Look closely and you might even catch a glimpse of your favourite rapping blogmeister!

Flobots - No Handlebars

If you haven't heard this tune yet I strongly advise you to check the video below. One of the few times that mainstream media actually promote music that has some sort of relevence and political content. Mind you, my happiness of this was pissed on a bit after reading Youtube posts and hearing of listeners attitudes to the song..."ooh its so dark and political, I don't like it" "I liked the song before I watched the video and realized what it was about"...no wonder lyricists so often resort to chattin' about lolipops, money and biatches when this is the sort of response inteligence provokes! Even my friend wrote the song off with "ah I dont really like that sort of thing, you know it reminds me of beign young listening to Linkin Park"...mind you, he loves Mika.


This is the first video created for the song, I reckon its more powerfull than the subsequent one they made when they got signed to Universal, but that one is also good, go check it here...http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AuK2A1ZqoWs

Modulok & Bare Beats - Two Cities

One of the things I have always loved about hip hop is its ability to pull you into a parallel world that presents you with elements of your own with a distorted, edgy flavour. The visual and aural world created on Two Cities is a perfect example of what I'm on about. An array of beautifully produced music lays out a lush platform from which canadian emcee Modulok delivers intense flows that city dwellers around the world can relate to. The format of intricate yet alternatingly jazzy and punchy beats, accompanied by straight up visual, cerebral rapping is perfectly finished with some great scratching from Jabba the Kut. Standouts for me were the manifesto like 'Intro' over some dope beat boxing takes it back to what makes Hip Hop such a vital phenomenom. 'Trouble' is a lively posse cut, showing dope skills from Modulok and gritty british guests Perry Scaramanga, Karl Sereousz and Smokey with a great cut up of a Jehst sample on the hook. The album is full of dope quotables and observations, and its good to know your not the only one who likes drinking "A pint of Guiness with a shot of whiskey in it". The haunting 'City' provides great paranoid headphone fodder for those late night excursions along train tracks looking for dope pieces; however the standout track for me is 'Origin' a beautifully crafted piece of music documenting a poignoint biography of Modulok, I had that shit on repeat about 8 times when I first heard it. The cover art is intriguing and fascinating; the only real complaint would be a lack of detail in the liner notes, one of the side elements that bring an album to life. That aside, this album demonstrates an immense creativity, heart and dedication to hip hop, self expression and life. Go cop it! www.bare-records.co.uk www.redantsmusic.com www.myspace.com/modulokandbeats

P.S. If you want a taste of what's good these kind people present a free mini-album available to download from the myspace page, go support.

Q Bert @ Scratch Club

Check one two for all you Hip Hop fiends; if your anywhere near the Midlands on Saturday the 13th, make sure you get yo asses down to the Rainbow Warehouse in Digbeth, Brum to get down to the legendary sounds of the worlds greatest turntablist - Q Bert! Supported by a great selection of Scratch Club regulars, the night promises to be a proper treat! For tickets check 
https://www.theticketsellers.co.uk/buy_tickets/events/?id=10004602 and http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=18220983470&ref=ts for more information! 

Mr FX Bad Boy Show

Evening Ladies and Gents (or Nifty, my only known reader!) Just a note to give props to my man Mr FX bustin' out the tunes on his weekly broadcast every Monday from 10 till midnight on http://www.ruffradio.co.uk/, playing an eclectic mix of goodness, just heard the DnB remix of Adele's hometown so you know its BIG! Keep it locked to ruffradio also if your a junglist souljah cause they be streamin' that shit 24/7 - Word!

GTA the Oxford sure shots

I have to say props to Chima for inviting me down to Oxford to make a cameo appearence during the video shoot for the slamming single "The Way". It was a great evening showcasing some wicked production from a local outfit, dancers and of course the ever energetic and enigmatic duo of Chima and Ineff. Check the photo to see if you can spot yours truly looking thugged out then check the video for more GTA goodness.

Classic Material

If you think the state of hip hop is fairly poor at the moment, you could try digging around as there is some very dope stuff about, its just hard to find. I picked up Truth and Jimmy Green's "Rapsploitation Sessions" excellent mix cd the other day and trust me its been in constant rotation, a great example of high calibre UK spitters. There's loads of great stuff from Sonnyjim, Kosyne and Kashmere circulating so watch out for that. Broadsheet's favourite poster boy Roots Manuva is supposedly on usual top form with a new LP so keep ya head up and ya ears open.

If that's not going to sate your appetite, I recommend heading to your local library and searching out "Classic Material - A guide to Hip Hop Albums" edited by Oliver Wang. It's a great guide to some timeless albums that will either have you pulling out dusty favourites or scrambling around amazon to find that dope shit to get your love of hip hop reinvigorated! Go cop dat.

Scratch Club Residence!

New Freshness every month! Props to Tom the big man for keeping it always superdope!

US Rap Blog with nice DLs

Just found this site, looks pretty gangsta for all you knuckleheads! Got a Jadakiss mixtape that looks intersting for DL...

http://beantothebay.blogspot.com/2008/04/jadakiss-al-qaeda-jada.html

Vocalswords A Reflective Review

So I don't forget in my old age, I'm using this page to document the origins and history of Vocalswords, and more specifically the role of Solocypher... not the most riviting of stories but someone might be interested!

1998-2001
Started rhyming with ADK (Now DJ Nifty), DJ Flare & Archer, founded the Vocalswords Collective. Made first EP/Demo 'First Daze' over commercial beats with a mixer and MiniDisc player! Took part in first emcee competition @ Ipswich Town Hall...lost to a bunch of Garage heads as it was starting to be the most influential style and would lead into the stomping movement that was to become known as Grime.

2002-2006

Studying in Birmingham joined Dominion Beats (Kid Anime, Chima, Swain, Ade the Mad African and Toshi) recording some crazy underground flavour joints! Featured on a couple of songs from Chima Anya's "Time Destroys All" E.P. Appeared on the Dominion Beats radio show on Burn FM. Helped with setting up the infamous 'Fat Gold Chain' hip hop and battle night as part of the Beatz and Pieces crew alongside Serious, Eliza, DJ Menthol and many hardworking others.


2005

Heard on 1xtra in an accapella competition to meet Common. Got through despite Rodney P not understanding a line about the River Seine! Went to London for an emcee masterclass with Rodney P, Skitz and Common

Released home produced debut album "Citizen Framed" featuring Chima Anya (GTA), Kid Anime (Dominion Beats), Serious, Concept, the vocals of Kaf & Eliza with beats from DJ Nifty, JBC, Nasty and Taharka

Performed at Cotswold Bamboo festival and Drop Beats Not Bombs in the Medicine Bar, Birmingham...can currently be founded ciphering at Fat Gold Chain, Soul Thump and the UK Rising around Birmingham City!

2006
A fairly quiet year in hip hop terms as real life has got in the way more than I would have liked! I am doing a PGCE training to be a primary school teacher which is knackering and has meant a lower rap profile.

I did manage to host the Festivale Fight against Aids Festival in the summer, hosted a couple of fat gold chains, freestyled at Fat Gold Chain and Soulthump, did a show @ Birmingham uni with Chima and appeared on Newstyle FM's DJ Cro Main Ingredient Show freestyling with the likes of Kosyne, Juice Aleem, GTA and I'm Hal....all great fun and an honour!

I havn't had a recording set up at all this year so output has been very low; Santa should be bringing me some gear soon though so watch out for some raw ish in the 07....Ive got bare rhymes backed up, a major collaboration set with DJ Nifty planned and should be also making an appearance on a track with Hedphoniks....Hustlin fo sho!! Laters

Mix Tapes and Band Battles

For all you mix and mash up fiends, check www.b00mb0x.org (use numerals!) for a huge catalogue of free mixes for your delight...I'm listening to some Mr Wyse stuff at the moment and need to check out what else is there but judging by titles there looks to be something to satisfy any mood!

Treasure Beckoning Cats update...unfortunately we came in as runners up in the Battle of the Bands down at Bar 41 to some thrash metallers who played the same song over and over for half an hour...a bit unfortunate but as is usual with most vocal related sets the microphones were pretty dodgy so people couldnt hear the lyrics...same old shit as usual! On the plus side though some members of The Anomolies liked our sound so we might be doing some support sets for them...watch this space!