Wordplay Album of the Year Nominees

Yes yes it is that time of the year when the cream of the crop gets formally judged. Having been on another planet for the majority of 2016 it means there is special pleasure for me being able to jump in and out of a hefty batch of dope projects. Going to line them up all here with no bias part from to say a massive big up to my Ipswich homie Booda French and large ups to Truffle Barons for keeping everything lively as part of the extended Granville famalam. Sorry not to see Bennydiction's excellent "Button Up" LP on the list but what can you do!? Check out the official listing, artist info  and get your vote in ASAP at Wordplay.... in the meantime check some of the shortlisted music right here.

Genesis Elijah Live, Jay Z "Open Letter" and Percy Filth New Banger ft Mylo Stone, Split Prophets & Serocee

Genesis Elijah brings his 'This is My Hustle' nationwide tour to London's 'Fat Gold Chain' an event not to be missed, especially due to the £100 open mic emcee competition that will be also taking place backed by an exciting new live band. More info from Fat Gold Chain FB Check out Genesis Elijah displaying why he is the 'Underground King' while you sign up, and if that wasn't enough check the GE Site for free goodness. Recent controversy piqued my interest as Jay Z's 'Open Letter' sent waves around the net. As hiphop is well known for its often dubious braggadocio, the fact that Jay Z has been welcomed at the White House makes Jigga's lines about chilling with Obama on the beach pretty poignant, if obviously false. His geopolitical views on China help put concerns in perspective, nice!

And finally, Brum Super Producer Percy Filth has been back at it and recruited Mylo Stone, Split Prophets and Serocee for an absolute bouncing riff led banger documenting the struggle alongside demonstrations in ill mic tearing, that classic UK sound. Buy it here.