Anyway,
I've got a relative unknown (to the mainstream) for you.
His name is Donnis. His rhymes are smooth and he's got a great vibe to him. You can judge for yourself.
Britney Spears Feat. Donnis - Trouble (Remix) (sharebee)
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Donnis
So apparently the Charles Hamilton concert at PSU was ridiculous. If any of you want to write a review or want to throw some input in here about it, email it to me at brkaplan@indiana.edu. I'm interested in how good of a show Charles Hamilton puts on.
Anyway,
I've got a relative unknown (to the mainstream) for you.
His name is Donnis. His rhymes are smooth and he's got a great vibe to him. You can judge for yourself.
Britney Spears Feat. Donnis - Trouble (Remix) (sharebee)
Anyway,
I've got a relative unknown (to the mainstream) for you.
His name is Donnis. His rhymes are smooth and he's got a great vibe to him. You can judge for yourself.
Britney Spears Feat. Donnis - Trouble (Remix) (sharebee)
Friday, February 27, 2009
Charles Hamilton
Charles Hamilton – Pure Imagination
As anyone remotely interested in hip-hop can tell you, there has been a resurgence over the past year. Mixtape rappers are gaining increasing notoriety, and the freshman class has capitalized on this with new material as often as you can download it. By this point, most people have heard of Asher Roth, B.o.B., and Kid Cudi, but for me the artist which deserves the most respect is Charles Hamilton. He uses samples, some as fresh as Kanye’s 808s and Heartbreak, in a way different than most. Unafraid to sample anything, he uses these samples to set the tone of the song, which he tries to convey to listener. Obviously music has to sound good; otherwise, no one would listen to it. However, the similarities between Charles and other rappers’ goals stop there. He uses music as a true art form, to incite emotions in the listener. It’s not about making money, just good music. One of the hardest working musicians in the industry, he releases a mixtape of COMPLETELY NEW MATERIAL roughly once or twice a week. Seriously.
On to the track: most listeners recognize the sample in the opening from the beginning of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. He then takes over the persona of Willy Wonka, welcoming visitors to his factory. From there, there is a remixed sample of the song Pure Imagination from the movie using the high notes perfectly to fit in with the percussion. The first verse simply sets up the most relaxed and laid-back tone about his encounter with a female, nothing lewd, just about their child-like emotions. The chorus is a throwback to the original song, where his high pitched and somewhat nasally voice compliment the beat. Next, Charles goes fully into the Willy Wonka personality, describing his life in the factory while simultaneously integrating a story about his relationship in real life.
The last verse is by far my favorite in the song. He opens completely from the perspective of a lonely chocolate factory owner, forcing the listener to think about a common take on a well-known figure (Willy Wonka as a crazy candyman) in a completely different light (Willy Wonka unable to find romance in his lonely life as a hard working businessman). “Even when I got my homies in here, they only my peers, I need a girl to hold me in here”, raps Charles. The rest of the verse goes on to use wordplay to tell a story of Willy Wonka and Charles Hamilton at the same time in a truly visionary light.
Listen to more of this man. Everything he puts out has a message. To quote the artist, “When I sample, I'm not just doing it to sound good. I'm trying to tell a story. To convey an emotion. If I sampled it, there is a reason I sampled it. I believe that music is based on moments, and that there are some moments that people may have missed back in the day. They may have even missed it a year ago. When I sample, I'm giving the artist their respect, while simultaneously creating something new." A true artist.
Performing at Penn State in the Hub Friday night! Free concert! I will be going! Sorry about the length, but it's worth it.
-JR
As anyone remotely interested in hip-hop can tell you, there has been a resurgence over the past year. Mixtape rappers are gaining increasing notoriety, and the freshman class has capitalized on this with new material as often as you can download it. By this point, most people have heard of Asher Roth, B.o.B., and Kid Cudi, but for me the artist which deserves the most respect is Charles Hamilton. He uses samples, some as fresh as Kanye’s 808s and Heartbreak, in a way different than most. Unafraid to sample anything, he uses these samples to set the tone of the song, which he tries to convey to listener. Obviously music has to sound good; otherwise, no one would listen to it. However, the similarities between Charles and other rappers’ goals stop there. He uses music as a true art form, to incite emotions in the listener. It’s not about making money, just good music. One of the hardest working musicians in the industry, he releases a mixtape of COMPLETELY NEW MATERIAL roughly once or twice a week. Seriously.
On to the track: most listeners recognize the sample in the opening from the beginning of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. He then takes over the persona of Willy Wonka, welcoming visitors to his factory. From there, there is a remixed sample of the song Pure Imagination from the movie using the high notes perfectly to fit in with the percussion. The first verse simply sets up the most relaxed and laid-back tone about his encounter with a female, nothing lewd, just about their child-like emotions. The chorus is a throwback to the original song, where his high pitched and somewhat nasally voice compliment the beat. Next, Charles goes fully into the Willy Wonka personality, describing his life in the factory while simultaneously integrating a story about his relationship in real life.
The last verse is by far my favorite in the song. He opens completely from the perspective of a lonely chocolate factory owner, forcing the listener to think about a common take on a well-known figure (Willy Wonka as a crazy candyman) in a completely different light (Willy Wonka unable to find romance in his lonely life as a hard working businessman). “Even when I got my homies in here, they only my peers, I need a girl to hold me in here”, raps Charles. The rest of the verse goes on to use wordplay to tell a story of Willy Wonka and Charles Hamilton at the same time in a truly visionary light.
Listen to more of this man. Everything he puts out has a message. To quote the artist, “When I sample, I'm not just doing it to sound good. I'm trying to tell a story. To convey an emotion. If I sampled it, there is a reason I sampled it. I believe that music is based on moments, and that there are some moments that people may have missed back in the day. They may have even missed it a year ago. When I sample, I'm giving the artist their respect, while simultaneously creating something new." A true artist.
Performing at Penn State in the Hub Friday night! Free concert! I will be going! Sorry about the length, but it's worth it.
-JR
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Lil' Romeo
Got an old one for you. Remember Lil' Romeo? Maybe you don't know of him. He was born in '89, Masta P's son, and was a starter in the 2008-2009 basketball season, with a full athletic scholarship, at University of Southern California.
I think I like the pre-puberty version of him better though.
Lil' Romeo - I Don't Need a Girlfriend (sharebee)
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Asher Roth and Kid Cudi
Alright, one post before bed. It's not even an mp3 anyway.
You probably could guess what I'd be posting if I had to make one post before I catch some Z's.
Yup. More hip hop class of '09. Kid Cudi and Asher performing at the Famous Stars And Straps afterparty at Magic. Cudi absolutely kills it and Asher does his thing.
You probably could guess what I'd be posting if I had to make one post before I catch some Z's.
Yup. More hip hop class of '09. Kid Cudi and Asher performing at the Famous Stars And Straps afterparty at Magic. Cudi absolutely kills it and Asher does his thing.
Funny, I've already got a post named "Kid Cudi and Asher Roth." Hm....
'09 love baby, embrace the future.
'09 love baby, embrace the future.
Back in Action
I'll be back in full swing tomorrow. Or later today I should say. Thanks for hanging in there while I finished up pledging. Infinity free time now! Expect many a song and review.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Big L
Big L – Casualties of a Dice Game
In the last post, I introduced what a multi is. Senim Silla of Binary Star is not even in the same dimension as Big L when it comes to multis. This man is one of the original and best multi users yet. Big L, one of hip-hops best rappers, had his life cut short at age 27 in 1999 when he left his apartment and was mistaken for his older and money-owing brother by two gang members. This was right around the time Nas and Jay-Z were coming up, and had he not been shot down I'm positive he'd have a place today among those names, maybe even better. He has the ability to use punchlines to perfection in rap, eliciting a grin from even the most tight-lipped hip hop head. His storytelling is amazing, with songs like "The Heist" and, today's song, "Casualties of a Dice Game".
The beat begins with an ominous tone from a sharp note, which continues throughout most of the song, keeping the listener on edge which perfectly sets the mood of this song. Big L spins a mind-blowing tale about a day in Harlem, where he sees a dice game and chooses to play because he has nothing better to do. "The game was mad packed, mad cats pockets was fat/ they playin cee-loo, my dick gets hard when I see dough/ I bets nothin less than a G, yo, you know my sty-lo", raps Big L over the beat. He then goes on to explain in detail the crazy events that transpired after he won big in the dice game. From suspicious people from the game following him, to his boy letting him down for a girl, to a car chase, and a shootout, he keeps the listener entertained the entire time while still managing to spit ridiculous lyrics and multis. "I started blowin, they started blowin back, I'm goin all out/ I ain't holdin back, I been to jail once and I ain't goin back". No chorus, no break, Big L just sits you down and tells a story.
-JR
Big L – Casualties of a Dice Game (sharebee)
Friday, February 20, 2009
More Class of '09
Kid Cudi has released an incredibly artistic video of Day N Nite:
Chamillionaire spits a verse over Asher's "I Love College," it's the first decent verse I've heard over this song since it came out.
Asher Roth Feat. Chamillionaire - I Love College (mediafire)
Asher Roth Feat. Chamillionaire - I Love College (mediafire)
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
I love High School
Asher Roth loves college. Nero & J.Rocwell love high school.
Nero & J.Rocwell - I Love High School (mediafire)
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Binary Star
Binary Star – Reality Check
It doesn't get much more real in hip hop than Binary Star. This group comprised of One Be Lo aka One Man Army – Zak, holla – and Senim Silla came out with only one legit studio release. Why is that? Senim Silla was indicted for murder. The two even formed the rap group while in prison on charges of armed robbery. Senim Silla for the most part has faded into obscurity since this great duo album, but One Be Lo has continued on to have a pretty successful underground career. With rhymes as demonstrated on this track, it's a wonder he hasn't gained more notoriety.
The start of the track opens up with a sample introduction and some off-key piano with an edgy sound. Then as the piano fades, the beat comes in heavy with some higher pitched melodies. OneBeLo raps first, and spits a verse of straight lyricism. He lets the listener know that he knows the duo isn't a super pop group, and that he's completely comfortable with that. "Maybe you should grab a telescope to see my view just like astronomy/it ain't all about economy/ so the fact that all these wack emcees is makin G's don't bother me". He then goes on to give a great verse laced with tight similes and creative and funny wordplay. "Better believe this, most rappers can't achieve this/I'm bad to the bone but X-Rays can't even see this". One word describes this verse better than any other: smooth. Everything about it ties very well with the rest of the verse.
A multi is when there is more than one word that rhymes per line of beat, and Senim Silla exercises them to perfection is his verse. More often than not, artists that try to utilize this technique get the meaning of the song lost in the intricate web of multis they are trying to say in a song. While this doesn't quite exactly happen in this verse, Senim's flow lulls the listener into the zone where you are listening to the music and somewhat paying attention, but at the same time it sounds good enough with just the combination of the beat and the sound of his voice that it isn't important. If you do focus enough to make out the lyrics, they do not disappoint. "Mastermind crafty rhymes, I'll rip from drafty lines/ that chill spines like the Alpines, runnin up on Senim's nasty nines/ a close encounter of the worst kind".
This entire album is worth a listen. This group doesn't play around when it comes to making good music.
-JR
It doesn't get much more real in hip hop than Binary Star. This group comprised of One Be Lo aka One Man Army – Zak, holla – and Senim Silla came out with only one legit studio release. Why is that? Senim Silla was indicted for murder. The two even formed the rap group while in prison on charges of armed robbery. Senim Silla for the most part has faded into obscurity since this great duo album, but One Be Lo has continued on to have a pretty successful underground career. With rhymes as demonstrated on this track, it's a wonder he hasn't gained more notoriety.
The start of the track opens up with a sample introduction and some off-key piano with an edgy sound. Then as the piano fades, the beat comes in heavy with some higher pitched melodies. OneBeLo raps first, and spits a verse of straight lyricism. He lets the listener know that he knows the duo isn't a super pop group, and that he's completely comfortable with that. "Maybe you should grab a telescope to see my view just like astronomy/it ain't all about economy/ so the fact that all these wack emcees is makin G's don't bother me". He then goes on to give a great verse laced with tight similes and creative and funny wordplay. "Better believe this, most rappers can't achieve this/I'm bad to the bone but X-Rays can't even see this". One word describes this verse better than any other: smooth. Everything about it ties very well with the rest of the verse.
A multi is when there is more than one word that rhymes per line of beat, and Senim Silla exercises them to perfection is his verse. More often than not, artists that try to utilize this technique get the meaning of the song lost in the intricate web of multis they are trying to say in a song. While this doesn't quite exactly happen in this verse, Senim's flow lulls the listener into the zone where you are listening to the music and somewhat paying attention, but at the same time it sounds good enough with just the combination of the beat and the sound of his voice that it isn't important. If you do focus enough to make out the lyrics, they do not disappoint. "Mastermind crafty rhymes, I'll rip from drafty lines/ that chill spines like the Alpines, runnin up on Senim's nasty nines/ a close encounter of the worst kind".
This entire album is worth a listen. This group doesn't play around when it comes to making good music.
-JR
Friday, February 13, 2009
$$
Here's something pretty interesting....
Billboard's highest paid musicians of 2008, which I found on Pretty Much Amazing:
1. Madonna: $242,176,466
2. Bon Jovi: $157,177,766
3. Bruce Springsteen: $156,327,964
4. The Police: $109,976,894
5. Celine Dion: $99,171,237
6. Kenny Chesney: $90,823,990
7. Neil Diamond: $82,174,000
8. Rascall Flatts: $63,522,160
9. Jonas Brothers: $62,638,814
10. Coldplay: $62,175,555
11. The Eagles: $61,132,213
12. Lil Wayne: $57,441,334
13. AC/DC: $56,505,296
14. Michael Buble: $50,257,364
15. Miley Cyrus: $48,920,806
16. Taylor Swift: $45,588,730
17. Journey: $44,787,328
18. Billy Joel: $44,581,010
19. Mary J. Blige: $43,472,850
20. Kanye West: $42,552,402
Jonas Brothers over Lil' Wayne. Madonna making about 6 times more than Kanye West. AC/DC still pulling rank on this chart.
Surprising.
Billboard's highest paid musicians of 2008, which I found on Pretty Much Amazing:
1. Madonna: $242,176,466
2. Bon Jovi: $157,177,766
3. Bruce Springsteen: $156,327,964
4. The Police: $109,976,894
5. Celine Dion: $99,171,237
6. Kenny Chesney: $90,823,990
7. Neil Diamond: $82,174,000
8. Rascall Flatts: $63,522,160
9. Jonas Brothers: $62,638,814
10. Coldplay: $62,175,555
11. The Eagles: $61,132,213
12. Lil Wayne: $57,441,334
13. AC/DC: $56,505,296
14. Michael Buble: $50,257,364
15. Miley Cyrus: $48,920,806
16. Taylor Swift: $45,588,730
17. Journey: $44,787,328
18. Billy Joel: $44,581,010
19. Mary J. Blige: $43,472,850
20. Kanye West: $42,552,402
Jonas Brothers over Lil' Wayne. Madonna making about 6 times more than Kanye West. AC/DC still pulling rank on this chart.
Surprising.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Atmosphere
I'm sure some of you saw this one coming. Today's review will revolve around one of my semi-recently deemed favorite groups, Atmosphere. I'm sure JR would have gotten around to this one too.
Atmosphere - Sound is Vibration
Sound is Vibration features both Slug, the main MC of the group, and Spawn, who didn't stick with Atmosphere consistently. The song begins with a gentle sound of what sounds like a keyboard and harp, giving that smooth sound that Atmosphere is so good at using and manipulating. A few bars in, the bass hits in a consistent manner just as Slug begins his self-appraising lyrics, along with a touch of seriousness, "I've left more dead reputations than HIV can/ But for every killing there's a reason and it's not just MC's, man." It sounds like a very subtle criticism on how MCs get blamed for "influencing" violence and murders, kind of reminds me of something Eminem would agree with. Slug goes on to spit some stereotypically themed lyrics about how his crew would kill your crew, but what separates his rap from the stereotype is the lyricism, one line in particular that stuck out at me was "you can't cloud my vision cause you're see-through."
Spawn hops on right after the first verse to deliver a few rhymes, complementing Slug perfectly. Slug's lyrics later turn to himself and the group itself. Using lyrics that seem to be more from an interview than a rap, Slug explains that Atmosphere is "embellished with talent and the wisdom not abuse it/Blessed with insight, friends and influences," and the message just fits the mood of the song in every way, shape and form. It may not be the most lyrically meaningful song, but the flow of this song and the use of what lyrics were chosen were just right for the song.
Atmosphere - Sound is Vibration (Mediafire)
I'd also like to include my favorite Atmosphere song that I chose not to review, simply to avoid packing too much into one post. It's very similarly formatted to Sound is Vibration. The listener is greeted once again with smooth sounds, a strong bass kicking in after the first few bars, and an overall good feel to the song. This song will leave you feeling good. Get yourself involved in the song. Close your eyes and visualize the picture that Slug paints for us. This one has over 100 plays on my iTunes. Enjoy it.
Atmosphere - Sunshine (Mediafire)
Sound is Vibration features both Slug, the main MC of the group, and Spawn, who didn't stick with Atmosphere consistently. The song begins with a gentle sound of what sounds like a keyboard and harp, giving that smooth sound that Atmosphere is so good at using and manipulating. A few bars in, the bass hits in a consistent manner just as Slug begins his self-appraising lyrics, along with a touch of seriousness, "I've left more dead reputations than HIV can/ But for every killing there's a reason and it's not just MC's, man." It sounds like a very subtle criticism on how MCs get blamed for "influencing" violence and murders, kind of reminds me of something Eminem would agree with. Slug goes on to spit some stereotypically themed lyrics about how his crew would kill your crew, but what separates his rap from the stereotype is the lyricism, one line in particular that stuck out at me was "you can't cloud my vision cause you're see-through."
Spawn hops on right after the first verse to deliver a few rhymes, complementing Slug perfectly. Slug's lyrics later turn to himself and the group itself. Using lyrics that seem to be more from an interview than a rap, Slug explains that Atmosphere is "embellished with talent and the wisdom not abuse it/Blessed with insight, friends and influences," and the message just fits the mood of the song in every way, shape and form. It may not be the most lyrically meaningful song, but the flow of this song and the use of what lyrics were chosen were just right for the song.
Atmosphere - Sound is Vibration (Mediafire)
I'd also like to include my favorite Atmosphere song that I chose not to review, simply to avoid packing too much into one post. It's very similarly formatted to Sound is Vibration. The listener is greeted once again with smooth sounds, a strong bass kicking in after the first few bars, and an overall good feel to the song. This song will leave you feeling good. Get yourself involved in the song. Close your eyes and visualize the picture that Slug paints for us. This one has over 100 plays on my iTunes. Enjoy it.
Atmosphere - Sunshine (Mediafire)
Kid Cudi and Asher Roth
Two of the greatest rappers from the upcoming freshman rap class together, spitting some freestyle. Consider this a preview of faces of the future and remember you heard that here, way back when.
Oh, and while I have your attention, I'd like to point out Kid Cudi's Day N Nite has been getting consistent radio airplay lately here in February. Just thought I'd give you a "I Told You So," by noting that I posted Day N Nite on November 7th, 2008. So hey, now you know, I'm giving you some premium music before it hits mainstream. Al
Anyway, check out Asher and Cudi going at it.
Oh, and while I have your attention, I'd like to point out Kid Cudi's Day N Nite has been getting consistent radio airplay lately here in February. Just thought I'd give you a "I Told You So," by noting that I posted Day N Nite on November 7th, 2008. So hey, now you know, I'm giving you some premium music before it hits mainstream. Al
Anyway, check out Asher and Cudi going at it.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Wu Tang
Wu Tang Clan – Triumph
First to fully understand the context of this song, one must understand the period of time in which it was released. Rap music was on top of the world. Biggie was in his most popular and pop stage, releasing songs like Hypnotize. Glamour was a part of the genre, with no expense spared on music videos. Triumph is no exception. Directed by Brett Ratner, yes the same Brett Ratner that directed Rush Hour, the video is the epitome of the tip-top of hip-hop. When rap artists could drop millions on a video without breaking a sweat, or the bank. In troubling economic times like these, where such excessive spending is frowned upon, I think it's good to take a look back to a different time in rap music, a time where Rappers ruled the world, and could get away with anything.
This song, unbelievable as it may seem, was a single from the 1997 album Wu-Tang Forever. A single, as in it received radio time. A six minute song featuring nine different verses and no chorus was played in its entirety on the radio. The video opens with a faux news report featuring an introduction from Ol' Dirty Bastard. It then leads into one of the best verses that I've ever heard on a Wu-Tang song from a relative unknown, reminiscent of the verse dropped by AZ on Nas' 'Life's a Bitch'. Colorful and descriptive vocabulary mark this verse as 'Ridiculous'. "I bomb atomically, Socrates philosophies can't define how I be droppin these/ Mockeries, Lyrically perform armed robberies". And that's just how the song starts.
Each of the members of the Wu-Tang clan, with a featured verse by Cappadonna, comes in and drops a verse showcasing their individual styles, with the only notable break in the verbal assault coming in roughly the middle of the song, with Ol' Dirty yelling, "The Saga Continues, Wu-Tang, Wu-Tang". This to me is the perfect group song. Everyone brings their best, showcasing the diversity among the Clan, and the RZA does it double hard with a great verse (Program fat baselines, innovation/ getting drunk as fuck, I'm duckin five-year probation) and a hard beat, using the sample of a woman singing in the background at the perfect points in the song to set a different tone (U-God's "Olympic Torch Flaming, we burn so sweet/ the thrill of victory, the agony of defeat). This song truly is one of the high points in hip hop, and one of the best collaborative efforts in a song over the genre's entire history.
- JR
Monday, February 9, 2009
Sidenote
On a sidenote to all music,
as much as I wish I could track the internet traffic through this site, I can't. Not for free anyway. So I encourage anyone and everyone that likes the site, who comes to it frequently, who downloads the music, who likes my music, who likes the reviews, etc., to become a follower of the blog. The link to do so is in the top right. You just click "follow this blog." I love the support, but of course I'd like to know how many people even take interest in the site. I love and appreciate you guys. Heads up for another review from JR tomorrow.
-DJ BK
as much as I wish I could track the internet traffic through this site, I can't. Not for free anyway. So I encourage anyone and everyone that likes the site, who comes to it frequently, who downloads the music, who likes my music, who likes the reviews, etc., to become a follower of the blog. The link to do so is in the top right. You just click "follow this blog." I love the support, but of course I'd like to know how many people even take interest in the site. I love and appreciate you guys. Heads up for another review from JR tomorrow.
-DJ BK
Quickie
Some information on Asher Roth's first Major-Labe album "Asleep in the Bread Aisle" right here.
I Love College
Awesome news! Asher Roth has officially released a video for "I Love College."
I have yet to go to a party of this caliber. Fuck it, I still love college.
I found this one over at Illroots by the way. It's not the best mediaplayer, but youtube doesnt have it yet apparently. If the video on my page doesn't work for you, click here for one that should work.
And P.S. Note the frat letters by the way. Alpha, Sigma, Eta. Asshhhhh
And P.P.S. This edited version is pretty different than the original, especially the end.
And P.P.P.S. I really hope the "heeeeyyyy" on the chorus catches on, I've wanted it to for a while, but no one really seemed to know about it.
I have yet to go to a party of this caliber. Fuck it, I still love college.
I found this one over at Illroots by the way. It's not the best mediaplayer, but youtube doesnt have it yet apparently. If the video on my page doesn't work for you, click here for one that should work.
And P.S. Note the frat letters by the way. Alpha, Sigma, Eta. Asshhhhh
And P.P.S. This edited version is pretty different than the original, especially the end.
And P.P.P.S. I really hope the "heeeeyyyy" on the chorus catches on, I've wanted it to for a while, but no one really seemed to know about it.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Cyne
When you think about the word Rap what images come into your head? Radio songs, music that has mass appeal, abusing women, and drugs, gold chains and jewelry. You get the idea. The group Cyne disagrees with that notion completely. You've probably never heard of this group, and they're perfectly fine with that. Cyne raps in the way that is defined by the acronym R.A.P.: Rhythmically Accentuating Poetry. That's what the emcees that make up Cyne are, Poets.
Pronounced "Sign", the name Cyne itself is also an acronym, standing for Cultivate Your New Experience. As a group, Cyne is comprised of two emcees and two producers. Cise Star of Florida and Akin of West Africa joined together to drop imagery on the mic. Producers Spock and Enoch always combine a melody with a smooth rhythm to form a one of a kind sound.
Cyne – Running Water
The beat starts out simply with no percussion, building up, and by the time the drums come in this is a full, complex beat that is captivating. There is no silence, much like listening to the sounds of running water.
Cise Star comes in hard, reminiscing about how he used to be much worse off. "I used to let the stress get the best of me/empty liquor bottles litter the floor/ before was my enemy", and you can almost feel the pain he's conveying over the beat. Past traumas, things that have affected him, and how all of it is water under the bridge are tied together in this short, untraditional verse packed with complex wordplay. "A fallen angel/ flip the L and E to make it angle/ my mind ain't RIGHT because my mind aint STABLE, get it," and "Like Icarus becase I'm close to the sun". The last line is one of the most impactful lyrics I've heard listening to hip hop.
The next verse showcases Akin's talent in telling stories using only a few lines, while still managing to paint a reverberating picture in the listeners mind. He also sets himself apart from the mainstream even further in his verse, referring to Ja rather than God as though he were broadcasting his differences. He speaks about how obsessing to stay popular makes the act of enjoying life itself seem boring and not interesting, "Where vanity be so real that life's dormant". Akin also ties the beginning and end of his verse together beautifully by reusing the same lines to illustrate that it's the same thing that's happening, and uses the verse to paint the picture of differing circumstances.
I'm taking Creative Writing this semester. My teacher explained to me the difference between a simile (all too commonly referred to as a metaphor in hip hop (ex: Put the red dot on you like a Japan flag- and all Papoose actually) and an actual metaphor (ex: Heaven opened up its doors and I fell through a cloud). Don't get me wrong, similes are short, can be funny, and definitely require a little thinking. But a metaphor has the power of being interpreted by the listener, making it much more powerful. Cyne is one of the best groups at utilizing this, period. No doubt I'll cover them again in the future.
-JR
Cyne - Running Water (mediafire)
Pronounced "Sign", the name Cyne itself is also an acronym, standing for Cultivate Your New Experience. As a group, Cyne is comprised of two emcees and two producers. Cise Star of Florida and Akin of West Africa joined together to drop imagery on the mic. Producers Spock and Enoch always combine a melody with a smooth rhythm to form a one of a kind sound.
The beat starts out simply with no percussion, building up, and by the time the drums come in this is a full, complex beat that is captivating. There is no silence, much like listening to the sounds of running water.
Cise Star comes in hard, reminiscing about how he used to be much worse off. "I used to let the stress get the best of me/empty liquor bottles litter the floor/ before was my enemy", and you can almost feel the pain he's conveying over the beat. Past traumas, things that have affected him, and how all of it is water under the bridge are tied together in this short, untraditional verse packed with complex wordplay. "A fallen angel/ flip the L and E to make it angle/ my mind ain't RIGHT because my mind aint STABLE, get it," and "Like Icarus becase I'm close to the sun". The last line is one of the most impactful lyrics I've heard listening to hip hop.
The next verse showcases Akin's talent in telling stories using only a few lines, while still managing to paint a reverberating picture in the listeners mind. He also sets himself apart from the mainstream even further in his verse, referring to Ja rather than God as though he were broadcasting his differences. He speaks about how obsessing to stay popular makes the act of enjoying life itself seem boring and not interesting, "Where vanity be so real that life's dormant". Akin also ties the beginning and end of his verse together beautifully by reusing the same lines to illustrate that it's the same thing that's happening, and uses the verse to paint the picture of differing circumstances.
I'm taking Creative Writing this semester. My teacher explained to me the difference between a simile (all too commonly referred to as a metaphor in hip hop (ex: Put the red dot on you like a Japan flag- and all Papoose actually) and an actual metaphor (ex: Heaven opened up its doors and I fell through a cloud). Don't get me wrong, similes are short, can be funny, and definitely require a little thinking. But a metaphor has the power of being interpreted by the listener, making it much more powerful. Cyne is one of the best groups at utilizing this, period. No doubt I'll cover them again in the future.
-JR
Cyne - Running Water (mediafire)
I'm on a Boat
From the guys that brought you "Jizz in my Pants." The Lonely Island presents....
Rappers can be funny too! T-Pain's verse is actually kinda funny. Where you at Lil' Wayne and Akon?
Rappers can be funny too! T-Pain's verse is actually kinda funny. Where you at Lil' Wayne and Akon?
Friday, February 6, 2009
Classified
Chances are likely that you've never heard of the artist "Classified." How can someone who has teamed up with Royce Da 5'9" on multiple occasions, someone who has opened for Ludacris, Busta Rhymes, and The Game, and someone who's released 10 albums go so under the radar? It's easy, just don't start a career in America.
Luke Boyd, better know as Classified, grew up and went to high school in Nova Scotia. He started his career there, unsuccessfully putting out several albums. Finally getting some recognition with his 9th album, Trial and Error, Classified's popularity soared and brought him to where he is today. So the song in review...
Classified - Fall From Paradise
Fall From Paradise is an autobiographical song of Classified. It gives the feel that Classified is looking back and reminsicing on the ups and downs of his life; he takes the listener on this reminiscent journey with him.
Right off the bat, the all too familiar high pitched voice that has grown popular in America thanks to the likes of Kanye West (and others) pierces your ears. Soon the mood of the song is immediately developed when the beat comes in under the voice, an almost melancholy mood. The song legitimately makes me feel Classified's emotions. Sure, every rapper claims that they" went through all types of bullshit" just as Classified does.
The difference between those rappers and Classified?
"I'm a Canadian rap star, and kid I'm still broke. But I ain't work in years, and some think I'm famous/ While other people ask, when the hell I'm gonna make it"
It amazes me that artists from outside the U.S. don't get the recognition they deserve. That's a whole nother post though, because that's a lengthy rant and argument.
Anyway, Classified has a few songs that seem to look backwards, not uncommon amongst rappers. He delivers his "life story" with outstanding lyricism, but more importantly, Classified's views about how there's more to music than being famous is nothing less than incredibly respectable. Worth mentioning in this post would also be Classified's "No Mistakes." I'll throw the video in here for good measure. The second verse is noteable, as he shakes off all the glamour of "interviews and photoshoots" and concentrates on making good music.
Classified - Fall From Paradise (sharebee)
-DJ BK
Luke Boyd, better know as Classified, grew up and went to high school in Nova Scotia. He started his career there, unsuccessfully putting out several albums. Finally getting some recognition with his 9th album, Trial and Error, Classified's popularity soared and brought him to where he is today. So the song in review...
Classified - Fall From Paradise
Fall From Paradise is an autobiographical song of Classified. It gives the feel that Classified is looking back and reminsicing on the ups and downs of his life; he takes the listener on this reminiscent journey with him.
Right off the bat, the all too familiar high pitched voice that has grown popular in America thanks to the likes of Kanye West (and others) pierces your ears. Soon the mood of the song is immediately developed when the beat comes in under the voice, an almost melancholy mood. The song legitimately makes me feel Classified's emotions. Sure, every rapper claims that they" went through all types of bullshit" just as Classified does.
The difference between those rappers and Classified?
"I'm a Canadian rap star, and kid I'm still broke. But I ain't work in years, and some think I'm famous/ While other people ask, when the hell I'm gonna make it"
It amazes me that artists from outside the U.S. don't get the recognition they deserve. That's a whole nother post though, because that's a lengthy rant and argument.
Anyway, Classified has a few songs that seem to look backwards, not uncommon amongst rappers. He delivers his "life story" with outstanding lyricism, but more importantly, Classified's views about how there's more to music than being famous is nothing less than incredibly respectable. Worth mentioning in this post would also be Classified's "No Mistakes." I'll throw the video in here for good measure. The second verse is noteable, as he shakes off all the glamour of "interviews and photoshoots" and concentrates on making good music.
Classified - Fall From Paradise (sharebee)
-DJ BK
When I Rock
First off, I would like to thank DJ BK for extending me this opportunity. As anyone that knows me well can tell you: I like music. Rap music. Every facet of rap that you wouldn't typically hear on the radio. Enough about me, here's the first review.
Spectac – When I Rock (featuring production from 9th Wonder)
Spectac's first verse revolves mainly about how he is a talented rapper, and proves it through his creative wordplay and metaphors. "You know the fact is; Spec shoulda been signed/ metaphors got more kicks in 'em than Finish Line," being a colorful display of all three. He comments on his mass appeal to everyone across the country. This is not unfounded. It's almost impossible to not like this song. "Spectac, droppin you gifts just like it's Christmas/ really doesn't matter if you mister or misses".
9th Wonder chooses to open the second verse with a sample from a Biggie song before the lyrics. It's as though Spec wanted to make you think that it was Notorious himself about to come in with a hot line, but instead Spectac replaces Biggie with his own lyrics, which is symbolic when the song's subject matter is how great of a rapper you are. Spectac talks about what makes him a great rapper, and how he is in no way affiliated with the pop jewelry obsession. His lyrics stay relevant to a more realistic lifestyle which helps relating to him. "Them Platinum chains is so costin/ I'd rather spend it on my seedy ass knuckle head kids/ I do it so often".
The next verse Spectac transports the listener to his childhood in South Carolina. He also drops some witty wordplay, with one of the funniest lines that I have heard in a while in a truly original delivery. "I blow like the orca whale, tippin your scale/ plus I write jams like Howard I guarantee I Could-Sell", referencing both Dwight Howard and Howard Cosel, the former reporter. This track is full of great wordplay, with Spectac's imagery and 9th Wonder's on point production taking the listener into another world of hip hop.
And for those of you that don't like an overly long review, at least it's something to read while you listen to good music. Happy Thirsty Thursday everyone, enjoy your weekends.
-J.R.
Spectac - When I Rock (Produced by 9th Wonder) (sharebee)
When you first listen to this song undoubtedly the first thing to grab your attention is the beat. 9th Wonder is one of the most respected producers in the industry, and has worked with Jay-Z, The Game, Lloyd Banks, along with a lot of underground heads. He earned his reputation by giving his best on every track, and this is certainly no exception. The beat comes in with an introduction that leaves the listener with a clear image of 9th Wonder himself actually in front of a mixer, making the track (Think Lupe Fiasco's Sunshine).
Spectac's first verse revolves mainly about how he is a talented rapper, and proves it through his creative wordplay and metaphors. "You know the fact is; Spec shoulda been signed/ metaphors got more kicks in 'em than Finish Line," being a colorful display of all three. He comments on his mass appeal to everyone across the country. This is not unfounded. It's almost impossible to not like this song. "Spectac, droppin you gifts just like it's Christmas/ really doesn't matter if you mister or misses".
9th Wonder chooses to open the second verse with a sample from a Biggie song before the lyrics. It's as though Spec wanted to make you think that it was Notorious himself about to come in with a hot line, but instead Spectac replaces Biggie with his own lyrics, which is symbolic when the song's subject matter is how great of a rapper you are. Spectac talks about what makes him a great rapper, and how he is in no way affiliated with the pop jewelry obsession. His lyrics stay relevant to a more realistic lifestyle which helps relating to him. "Them Platinum chains is so costin/ I'd rather spend it on my seedy ass knuckle head kids/ I do it so often".
The next verse Spectac transports the listener to his childhood in South Carolina. He also drops some witty wordplay, with one of the funniest lines that I have heard in a while in a truly original delivery. "I blow like the orca whale, tippin your scale/ plus I write jams like Howard I guarantee I Could-Sell", referencing both Dwight Howard and Howard Cosel, the former reporter. This track is full of great wordplay, with Spectac's imagery and 9th Wonder's on point production taking the listener into another world of hip hop.
And for those of you that don't like an overly long review, at least it's something to read while you listen to good music. Happy Thirsty Thursday everyone, enjoy your weekends.
-J.R.
Spectac - When I Rock (Produced by 9th Wonder) (sharebee)
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Turning a New Leaf
Thanks to a suggestion from Joe Rogachevsky, it's time to bring this blog from just a delivery system of music to a place to find reviews, insight and breakdowns of the music being presented. Sure, some music is just a mindless remix that is fun and sounds good, but some music is made with an artistic approach in mind. That type of music delivers recognition, and some analysis perhaps as well.
You'll still be getting all the same music, but expect a little more detail and insight to go with each piece presented. I know you guys all love the mindless remixes and mashups, and of course those will still go up without hesitation, so don't worry about that. This will still be a place to find awesome music before it hits mainstream, but we may also be looking back on music you know already and providing some insight that you may not have thought about it until now.
I've been getting emails from producers, artists and DJs ever since I've started this blog. It's made me think that maybe this blog should be taken a little bit more seriously. Same flavor to it, just more extensive. I think you'll find yourself enjoying it.
Also, I'm going to be bringing on Joe as a writer to the blog as well. We're going to figure out something consistent, but for now, he'll be writing every now and then. Expect more consistent posts in the near future. Near everyday.
-DJ BK
You'll still be getting all the same music, but expect a little more detail and insight to go with each piece presented. I know you guys all love the mindless remixes and mashups, and of course those will still go up without hesitation, so don't worry about that. This will still be a place to find awesome music before it hits mainstream, but we may also be looking back on music you know already and providing some insight that you may not have thought about it until now.
I've been getting emails from producers, artists and DJs ever since I've started this blog. It's made me think that maybe this blog should be taken a little bit more seriously. Same flavor to it, just more extensive. I think you'll find yourself enjoying it.
Also, I'm going to be bringing on Joe as a writer to the blog as well. We're going to figure out something consistent, but for now, he'll be writing every now and then. Expect more consistent posts in the near future. Near everyday.
-DJ BK
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