Strictly Independant

We've Moved!

2010-06-10T18:11:00.000+01:00

You can find Strictly Independent with a new look and a new name HERE

See you there!

DJ Lok - Mystro; F.D.T Mini Mix

2010-06-09T19:06:00.002+01:00

Super DJ Extraordinaire DJ Lok (yes - that title is deserved; I've seen him in action!) drops this gem of a mini mix on us and proves his talent as a DJ by showing just how important timing is when mixing.

Lok gives us just long enough with each track to start nodding our heads then before we get too comfortable it's on to the next, leaving us wanting more and wondering whats next.

If you slept on Mystro's superb E.P - 'F.D.T' the first time round;

a) Shame on you
b) Get the full version HERE
C) Listen to DJ Lok's mini mix HERE and get the express version.

You can follow Mystro on twitter HERE
Likewise with DJ Lok HERE

Electric Wizards & Dusty Scientists

2010-06-06T13:08:00.005+01:00

Your favourite beatmakers over at CrateKings.com (including yours truly) decided to get together and bring you 25 instrumental gems for your listening pleasure.

The work on display really is phenomenal and no matter what you would use instrumentals for; whether your an MC looking for something to spit on for your next mixtape, a DJ looking for some loops to scratch over - you need this. It's free so why not download it for the sheer hell of it?

Put together and conceptualised by a superb beatmaker and bass player extraordinare Matty Melks A.K.A The Crate Worm. You can see more of his beatmaking on his YouTube channel HERE (I highly recommend you subscribe)

Spread the word - the best of the best of the BEST is right HERE

Subtronik - Recalibration Log Files Volume 1

2010-05-17T21:48:00.004+01:00

Recalibration Log Files Volume 1 is a mixtape from Toronto-bred, hip hop instrumental artist SubTronik. The 7 track, free download contains remixes and beat breaks hand crafted with love by the Gundam themed producer in her studio appropriately called "White Base."

"I usually don't make beats for emcees, I find they are too busy to rhyme on, but I really wanted to complete the vibe and showcase my work."

The mixtape is laced with a variety of sounds compiled in an old school, abstract manner, while still maintaining a true hip hop core and pays homage to a few of SubTronik's favorite bread and butter drum breaks. The best way I can describe Subtronik's sound is if Q-Tip went 50 years into the future, spent a year making beats, came back and made an album for MF Doom. It's mainly the little snippets of cartoon sounds and vocal soundbites that remind me of a Doom album which in turn draws comparisons to Madlib as the whole mixtape had a Madvillainy type feel to it for me; most notably on track number 5 - a remix of GangStarr's 'Just to Get A Rep.

"I'm not really trying to go back to the 90's although it is most definitely my favourite era of hip hop. I'm just trying to make my own sound, borrowing from the whole vibe and soul of past eras but still adding my own personal touch; My feelings and where I'm at currently."

It also features verses from Mic Geronimo, INI, Pete Rock, Guru of Gangstarr, Crooklyn Dodgers and SubTronik's bandmate Seiko Romansu (the two come together to form the group "Lover's Anonymous").

The mixtape is available for free download at Subtronik's BandCamp page You can also follow SubTronik's blog HERE and stay up to date on the progress of the Lovers Anonymous album.

"It's going to be a pretty cool album. A lot of instrumental tracks with Seiko rhyming every so often where it fits. Nothing forced. We have the ideas pretty much done and we are waiting to see if we will be accepted for a community arts grant. Hopefully we get it, that way we can get some better equipment and really make a solid product. If the grant doesn't come through, we will still release it, but it will take a bit longer as we will then be upgrading White Base out of our own pockets."

Suspect Packages Live - Friday 14th May

2010-05-09T12:33:00.000+01:00

Delusionists will be supporting Phi-Life Cypher at Vibe Bar, Brick Lane next Friday the 14th of May from 8pm - 1am.

With their new album and the first official release from the Delusionist's label 'Beats Laying About' (The Prolusion Plus) just released - now would be a good time to get yourself down to Brick Lane next week and see what all the fuss is about. Strictly Independant will be there in person (I'll be the one handing out beat CD's - come and say hello) If you need convincing, see the reviews of Delusionists first album The Prolusion HERE and the review of Prolusion Plus HERE.

Delusionists - The Prolusion Plus

2010-05-04T20:37:00.000+01:00

Delusionists are back; gracing us with a revisted version of their earlier release 'The Prolusion.'

Prolusion Plus features tracks from the original Prolusion as well as several additional tracks and remixes raising the track count from 7 to a meaty 12. Also featured is Some guest production from the likes of Kelakovski, Jon phonics, Ed Strong and the man responsible for this years fastest banned mixtape (Wu Vs Beatles) Tea Sea Records founder Tom Caruana.

'Pro-Plus' opens with an alternate version of 'Who's That,' the intro track present on the first offering of The Prolusion. A chopped up vibe to the beat and a slightly darker sound with a nice bassline give the track a whole other feel - a proper remix.

The first new addition is 'Digital Connects' produced by Jon Phonics, and the production here is ON. POINT. Some computery type shimmering blips and a stuttering drum track provide a perfect back drop for Mr. Black to name drop a who's who of UK Hip-Hop blogs (including yours truly - Cheers Ben!)

'Trunk Rattle' gets a well deserved second feature on Pro-Plus although I'm slightly disappointed to see that it's not the star studded remix that NEEDS to get done. Nonetheless the track is still one of my favourites of recent times and gets my head nodding everytime.

'The Low' is another new addition which was featured earlier this year on Certified Banger's 'On The Radar Vol.5.' It acts as Black's homage to his home town of Lowestoft. Citing mainly the negative aspects of the town Ben surrenders that he 'Appreciates the high's but I love the Low.' The beat is solemn with some nice keys and a haunting vocal sample pitched up to perfect effect.

Noteworthy lyrics include;

"I was a small town boy with them big city pipe dreams

The only kid in class who didn't wear tight jeans

And when I was busy thinking up rhyme schemes

You was on them petty crime scenes nickin' ice creams."

Yet another new addition next with the Kelakovski submission '12 Letters.' Everything about this track smacks HARD. With some lo fi digital chords that had me thinking I'd just reached the final level on Castlevania, a hook that sounds like Stephen Hawking was an uncredited collaborator and the kind bassline and drum track that snaps necks - whats not to like?

"Work" is a lovely instrumental track with some 93' sounding drums and a very nice set of string samples that serves to break up the repertoire nicely.

"Movement" is another supremely well crafted track produced by Delusionists mainstay Slim Pickens. The sample here is complimented by some hard drums and nice wordplay from Ben like;

"You could masturbate until your phallus aches

And still wouldn't come as hard as this - it wont happen mate"

'Game of Soldiers' reprises it's role on Pro-Plus and it's worth mentioning that you should look out for this track to appear on my upcoming remix project which also features...

...Supa lyrical Excursion. Featured here is the Tom Caruana remix which is odd (in a good way) jerky (in a good way) and unlike anything I've heard before (DEFINITELY a good thing) once again, the remix gives a whole other perspective on the track which in my eyes is the stamp of approval for a good remix.

I've tried not to say too much about The Prolusion Plus, firstly because I've already reviewed the tracks from the first Prolusion HERE! Secondly because I want you to get it yourself and make your own minds up and thirdly because I know you'll love it regardless of what I think. Certified Banger are quoted as having said "“Are Delusionists the mystery saviours of real Hip Hop from the UK? It's a very strong possibility.” To say I agree with that statement is putting it lightly.

Buy it from ITUNES or direct from the The Delusionists WEBSITE

Mystro - SB.TV F64

2010-02-14T14:50:00.000Z

Check the below video for your latest Mystro fix. Dude is KILLIN it right now, he makes it look easy. Massive bars...

HypeDog Presents - The HeadSpace MixTape Volume 1

2010-02-09T23:17:00.000Z

The Headspace mixtape series is a collaboration of minds between the Basement Sessions podcasts and online Hip Hop community and the Hip Hop Hype Dog blog alongside UK Hip Hop Mixtapes.

The idea of Headspace was to create a project that mixes well known names with up and coming talent. All of the artists involved represent the positive and united UK Hip Hop scene that both Basement Sessions and Hype Dog are working towards.

In addition, the mixtape was also created to celebrate one year of the Basement Sessions podcasts. the first show being an interview with London based Dj Venom on the 5th February 2009. So one year on, February 2010 sees the show going from strength to strength, with incredible collaborations building all the time, most importantly with Hip Hop Hype Dog, one of the most important UK Hip Hop blogs to date.

Basement Sessions and Hype Dog are also lucky enough to be supported by Soap Box, a unique and incredibly talented design team and clothing company based in Birmingham, UK. All of the artwork for Headspace are designed courtesy of Soap Box. Please be sure to check them out and look out for future collaborations and new clothing lines coming in 2010.

Here's the tracklisting so you know what you're letting yourself in for;

01. JVF Clique - Headspace Intro
02. K.I.N.E.T.I.K. - It Ain't Hard To See f. Jamieson
03. Asaviour & IQ - No Days Off f. Sir Smurf Lil (Akira Kiteshi Remix) (Headspace Exclusive)
04. Fallacy - Rap folly 2 f.Aggi Dukes
05. Lowkey - I'm Back (Dyson Remix)
06. Stig Of The Dump - Braindead f. RA The Rugged Man (Jehst Remix)
07. Skandal - Gluttony (Headspace Exclusive)
08. d.C. & Pennjamin- Fast Cars (Headspace Exclusive) DONE
09. Ben Black of The Delusionists - Supa Lyrical Excursion pt.2
10. Remus - Brap Brap f. Farma G
11. Brotherman & DJ Flipz - Born in the Ghetto
12. Yarah Bravo - Freedom Fighters
13. DJ IQ & Joker Starr - Sunshine
14. Oliver Sudden - C.C. for Life (Headspace Exclusive)
15. Tactical Thinking f. 3 Amigos, Jay Madden & Mic Dyson - Stampede (Lord Balrog Remix) (Headspace Exclusive)
16. Norrin Radd - Do You Understand f. Booda French (Mixed by Cross Bone T)
17. Juice Aleem - Hologram (Si Beggs Lost In The Hologram Mix) (Headspace Exclusive)
18. Obba Supa - Wet Dreams Over Nightmares (Headspace Exclusive)
19. Alphabetix - Slug Life f. Verbal Contact (Produced by Fidgit, mixed by Vice) (Headspace Exclusive)
20. Prose - Go On... (Headspace Exclusive)
21. JVF Clique - Flow Nutters (Headspace Exclusive)
22. Figment - Floor By Floor
23. Ty - Don't Cry (Headspace Exclusive)
24. London Zoo - Piece of Mind (Jed Mix) (Headspace Exclusive)
25. Jack Flash - Harass The City (Headspace Exclusive)
26. Chima Anya - KOS (remix) (Cuts by DJ Slipdisc) (Headspace Exclusive)
27. Redbeard - Sick On My Jumpa f. Sonny Jim & Kosyne (Wizard Remix) (Headspace Exclusive)
28. Blacksmith & Jagos - Edge of Breakthrough (Headspace Exclusive)
29. Mystro - Maintain (Produced by Earth Hip Hop)
30. Genesis Elijah - I'm Doin It
30. Skuff & Inja - Sunnicide
31. Just Muz - Soulful Stuff

Get the 32 track Mixtape in two parts HERE and HERE

Check out the following links of interest too;

BASEMENT SESSIONS PODCASTS
BASEMENT SESSIONS BLOG
HIP HOP HYPE DOG
UK HIP HOP MIXTAPES
SOAP BOX CLOTHING

HypeDog Presents - Obba Supa VS Billy Paul (Promo Video)

2010-01-31T14:56:00.001Z

Check this promo video for an upcoming 10 Track remix ziptape from Obba Supa sampling records from American soul singer Billy Paul. The ziptape will be available for download from fellow blog Hypedog so keep em' on ya radar.

#SecretRemixProject tracklisting

2010-01-28T17:20:00.002Z

You may remember some time ago i posted an advert of sorts on here calling for all UK Hip-Hop artists to send me their accapellas for a remix project i was planning on doing. Or, if you follow me on Twitter you will have seen me posting updates on the progress of the album with the hash tag #SecretRemixProject. Anyway, the following is a final list of artists and their remixed tracks that will feature. Its not a tracklist as such as they may not feature in this order but this is what you can expect once it drops.

Jai - I Rep
Stig of The Dump (ft R.A The Rugged Man) - Braindead
Delusionists - Game of Soldiers
Asaviour - The Aim
Klashnekoff - All I Got
Blokeyman - Recycled Rhymes
Delusionists - Supa Lyrical Excursion
Seedy Ron - Waitin'
Lost Souls - Everyman
Boiler Room Collective - Seven
Lewis Parker - Rise
Mystro - Banishment
30,000 Bastards - Microphone Mussolini

Not long now until it will be finished and ready for download. I'm keeping the 'secret' element a secret for a little while longer and will probably reveal the actual concept of the album when it drops. There's no real reason why i'm deciding to keep it secret for now, just that I think it leaves a little incentive for people to follow the progress.

I'd like to thank all the artists mentioned above in advance too for trusting me with their accapellas and helping me do this when i've barely even met most of them and none of them have heard of me. Special thanks especially to Mr Ben Black of The Delusionists as he's pretty much been the co-producer of this by providing some much needed advice throughout!

Further special thanks to Short Term The Crate Worm who is playing bass on all the tracks. This man is incredible with the bass and has added an entirely new dimension to all the tracks - you'll all be very impressed when you hear it.

Thanks to everyone on Twitter who has shown support too.

So, the next update will probably include a link for you to download this thing i've been going on about for the last few months.

Peace!

Kensaye - Introspective

2010-01-27T18:44:00.000Z

Kensaye is a Hip-Hop/Soul Producer from the U.K. He is currently working with two groups - 9dots and K.I Project aswell as Archa, Mensa and Speech Debelle. His music has been played on Westside Radio and Mystic FM, has featured in Hip Hop Connection Magazine, The Mercedes-Benz Mix Tape 27 and BET awards UK Cypher.

He's taken the time out from the above mentioned projects to bring us 'Introspective,' a 25 track, head first introduction to the inimitable style that defines Kensaye. There's a wealth of variety for the listener, from the soulful vocals and synth stabs of "What Can I Do" to "Send You An Invite" which to my ears is reminiscent of Thriller era Michael Jackson.

One thing that stood out with all the tracks was the sheer energy that every single beat exudes. It's pretty much impossible to listen to this beat cd without getting hyped. The instrumentation is done very well, all synth sounds and samples used merge victoriously creating modern, monstrous anthems. The mix is very clean resulting in the kicks bumpin nice and firm but crisp and on tracks like "On The Couch" the percussion is panned just right creating an excellent sense of space in the headphones. To me, the mix is extremely important on instrumental projects as there's no lyrics or vocals to distract the listener - every kick, snare, hat, bongo, cymbal, synth, bass and sample has to be knockin just right or personally I switch off. Maybe not intentionally but subconsciously it's difficult to pay attention when someone has clearly not put 100% into their craft. This was completely the opposite with Kensaye - the perfect arrangement and mix had me listening more intenently than ever and the little vocal snippets of artists like Jay-Z, Eminem and Busta Rhymes had the same effect. One thing I ALWAYS criticise with BeatTapes is the length of the beats because often I find producers get too over indulgent and put out cd's 30 tracks deep with each track clocking it at well over 2 minutes but Kensaye has stuck to my preferred method of keeping each track short, sweet and to the point. The vocal samples in "I Want To Say" come in at the perfect points of the beat which is very nice. Consisting of a nice gated rising and falling synth, some keys and vocals in the background and simplistic drums. It's at this point I usually pick my favourite but i honestly can't! I think it's 'Paranoid'...then again, could be 'My Provider' or "Balance" which is very minimalistic but has such a great atmosphere to it - very Dilla sounding. Lose You is another favourite. Some rolling guitar strumming, sparse vocals and some beautiful piano playing the drops at the perfect moment all convolute effortlessly. "All About The Moon" is a favourite too - I did not expect that horn to come in!

I was extremely impressed by every single track on this and if I remember correctly I think Kensaye said this was his 1st Beat CD. If so you can triple my level of Impressed! A beat CD is a surprisingly difficult thing to put together. Most producers and beatmakers by nature are very particular, have a great attention to detail and would all describe themselves as perfectionists. If these are all your personality traits and you are trying to put together seamingly unrelated instrumentals to create something you can call a finished product, a 'whole' then already it becomes something very difficult and to pull it off as well, as professionally and as damn fuckin' heavy as Kensaye has here is a massive achievement in my eyes.

I'm sure I don't need to say much more?

Get it for FREE HERE where you'll find links to download it from RapidShare, MegaUpload and DepositFiles.

You can catch Kensaye on Twitter HERE
Or on MySpace HERE

Yelé Haiti

2010-01-17T14:03:00.000Z

The world's first black-led republic and the first Caribbean state to achieve independence, Haiti's pride has been dented by decades of poverty, environmental degradation, violence, instability and dictatorship which have left it as the poorest nation in the Americas. And now Haiti is on the verge of collapse

Yelé is a nonprofit organization founded in 2005. The purpose of the organization has been, from its inception, to restore pride and hope to the Haitian people through projects that will allow citizens to ultimately help themselves, such as the creation of scholarships, support for the arts, food distribution and emergency relief.

Yelé reacted immediately to the earthquake in Haiti which struck on January 2010, the teams were responding to the crisis within hours of the earthquake, which has claimed tens of thousands of lives and devastated swathes of the capital of Port-au-Prince. Assessments on the ground to identify urgent needs and co-ordinate responses are taking place with preparations for more aid to be delivered to the poorest country in the western hemisphere ongoing.

Yelé used their experience gained in years of working in Haiti after the earthquake in Port au Prince, the team have specific responsibility for caring for the many traumatised earthquake survivors.

Yelé has launched an emergency appeal for victims of the Haiti earthquake. Thousands of people are already feared dead and many more are believed to be critically injured. Countless are thought to be homeless.The quake, measuring 7.0 on the Richter scale, struck 15km southwest of the capital Port-au-Prince just before 5pm local time, and was shortly followed by two strong aftershocks of 5.9 and 5.5.
Launching the appeal, Wyclef Jean, the founder, said:

“Haiti today faced a natural disaster of unprecedented proportion, an earthquake unlike anything the country has ever experienced.

The magnitude 7.0 earthquake – and several very strong aftershocks – struck only 10 miles from Port-au-Prince.

I cannot stress enough what a human disaster this is, and idle hands will only make this tragedy worse. The over 2 million people in Port-au-Prince tonight face catastrophe alone. We must act now.

Many people have already reached out to see what they can do right now. We are asking those interested to please visit Yele.org and click on DONATE.

The internet has become a more and more important resource for the charity - both with regard to communication with projects around the world, but also with internet fundraising. Yelè launched its Haiti appeal on internet immediately after the earthquake struck the country and have already raised one million dollars but Haiti is on the verge of collapse. Yelé need an enormous help now.

To make a donation to Yelé visit www.yele.org

Dyson - The Personal Statement

2010-01-15T09:08:00.000Z

After the short intro, The Personal Statement opens with a remix of "I'm Back" by Lowkey. The track is fast moving an energetic and is by far the best use of AC/DC's Back In Black being sampled I've ever heard. The track is a shining example of a good remix in that it sounds like it could be the original.

Personal Statement moves on to "Ohh!" featuring Bess and a nice vocal sample (I'm sure you can guess what the sample says from the song title!) The track knocks hard and Bess manages to create a catchy hook with just 'Ohh' as a concept! Although the track bangs, it's pretty slow in comparison to the first track and this works well here, showing versatility early on and switching the style up to keep the listener interested.

The style is switched furthermore and pushed more laid back next on a reggae vibe for "Testify" featuring Nutty P. I was very much surprised here because ordinarily this vibe really isn't my thing but 'Testify' is one of my favourites on the album and it's always nice to be surprised! P comes with some very nice bars such as:
"No lie, gotta give praises to most high, that's the kinetic energy flowing from every friend and enemy open your eye and see the light - you will eventually."

I think my favourite has to be "Do What You Gotta Do" with a catchy and soulful hook and verses courtesy of The Peoples Army. The track is basically 4 minutes of sickness. Nuff said!

"Whisper" comes in at a close second for my favourite. The beat is extremely simple - just some nice rolling piano keys and some jazzy, shuffly drums. Lyrics by Brotherman are perfectly suited to the beat which ordinarily you would expect to lose interest in but it's done too well here between Dyson and Brotherman - a perfect union of beat and MC.

We're back with Bess and Brotherman again next with "My Life" sampling elements of "Everybody Loves The Sunshine" by Roy Ayers, a classic track which Dyson flips wonderfully, looping some nice vocals and dropping the "My life, My life, My life, My life" section every so often to break the beat up.

"Take It Slow" is a nice track to finish with, nice and mellow with some smooth vocals bringing the beat in as The People's Army drop some verses on that great mystery of the universe (women) over some nice saxophone's and simplistic drums. Like I said - this is an ideal track to close the album with and really insures that there's something for everyone.

The Personal Statement is definitely up there as one of the best projects I've heard recently. Dyson shows a good ear for sampling and drum programming aswell as fantastic versatility and overall a nice clean, professional mix. The artists involved have been matched up to suitable beats perfectly and help to create an impressive piece of work that you will want to listen to more than once.

'The Personal Statement' is available free from any of the following download links;

RAPIDSHARE
MEGAUPLOAD
MEDIAFIRE
ZSHARE

You can follow Dyson on Twitter HERE

Dam-Funk Interview

2010-01-10T15:36:00.000Z

Before you get excited, I didn't get to interview Dam-Funk. I found this video on the SpineTV website (home of 'Mystro Investigates.)

I especially like how he talks about remembering the feeling of a particular day or moment to help inspire him to make music.

Mystro - 2009 UK Rap Up (Produced by Black Einstein) - Official Video

2010-01-09T17:08:00.000Z

The official video to the earlier featured 2009 UK Rap-Up by Mystro (produced by Black Einstein) is now available for your viewing pleasure. (See below)

This man is kind of amazing me at the moment! Not only is he everywhere at once, giving interviews left right and centre but he gives us The F.D.T EP and follows it up with an amazing end of the year tribute in the form of the 09 Rap Up AND finds time to shoot a video to accompany it!?

Mys - you gonna have no nose left if you keep it to the grindstone much longer!

EDIT: - A little thank you note from Mr. Mys Diggi himself;

Thank you so much for supporting this track. I honestly didn't expect it to make as much noise as it has & can't thank you enough for helping to make it happen. It's very humbling.

Happy newy years in case i haven't said it already and trust - there's a lot more to come!!

This is just the "Tip of The Mysberg" MUTHA LUVAZ!!

E. Daney

2010-01-09T10:45:00.000Z

E. Daney is an unsigned artist from Harlem, NY. There's two tracks of his on offer for you today;

"Turn It Up" has a nice beat of some synth chords, piano keys that come in and some pretty simplistic drum programming which works well with the rest of the track. I have to say that honestly this type of track usually isn't my thing but I was feeling this one. It reminded me a little of Jay-Z's "What We Talkin' Bout?" from The Blueprint 3 and i think this track would work well in the same way, placed at the start of an album.

"Hoodlife" is more downbeat but manages to hit just as hard with a nice catchy hook as E. Daney speaks about his motivation over a beat of piano keys, some strings and once again - pretty simple drum patterns which is a good move here in my opinion as it allows for the verses to take centre stage. My only criticism of this track is that it's perhaps a touch too long weighing in at 4:10 but that doesn't take anything away from the quality of the track which in terms of audio quality, lyrics and music, is very high.

I was very impressed by both tracks and hope to hear more from E. Daney in the near future.

Get "Turn It Up" HERE
Get "Hood Life" HERE
Add E. Daney on MySpace HERE
Follow E. Daney on Twitter HERE

Mystro - 2009 UK Rap Up (Produced by Black Einstein)

2009-12-29T23:06:00.000Z

The main man; Mys Diggi returns - before the dust has settled on his much tweeted about recent offering - The F.D.T EP - with more for our already spoiled ears in the form of one track, 7 minutes long - summing up 2009's events - good, bad and ugly. The track is produced by Black Einstein who does a terrific job with the beat that perfectly suites the tracks concept.

Mys manages to fit in references to everything in the list below;

Dizzee Rascal
Dappy of N-Dubz & his appearance on Never Mind The Buzzcocks
LaRoux
Tinchy Stryder
George Michael
X-Factor
England Qualifying for The World Cup & Thierry Henri's handball incident against Ireland
Tinchy Stryder missing out on a MOBO
I'm A Celebrity; Get Me Out Of Here
Sabrina Washington
Peter Andre and Katie Price
MySpace FaceBook and Twitter
Chipmunk
The recession and the governments large pay outs to save UK banks
Jamelia and Maxwell D
The Sugababes
Speech DeBelle
Take That
Jedward
Bashy
Reggie Yates
Tiny Tempah
Professor Green
Noel Clarke
Taio Cruz
Estelle
Mutya Buena
Big Brother
Derek B
Mista Jam
Shortee Blitz
Sarah Love
David Haye
Leona Lewis
Amir Khan
Charlie Sloth
SBTV
DJ Gone
Diversity
Flawless
Mister Hudson
Dynamo
M.I.A
Amy Winehouse
Alexandra Burke
Jay Sean
Industry Hater
Snow in February
JLS
Craig David
Sway
Westwood
Michael Jackson
Susan Boyle

It's everything you would expect from Mystro - clever, witty, funny and damn impressive; the perfect end to the year.

Don't take my word for it though.

I'm told that the MP3 is on it's way - i'll update this post with the link as soon as i know more.

For now, you can listen to the track on YouTube HERE

You can follow Mystro on Twitter HERE Black Einstein too; HERE

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T09:42:00.000Z

Merry Christmas everyone!

Thanks to everyone who visited the blog this year, everyone who sent me stuff to post and everyone who's shown support either through Twitter or just word of mouth. Thanks also to the excellent blogs like BEATS LAYING ABOUT, CERTIFIED BANGER, the forum of beat makers and producers over at CRATE KINGS, HHC DIGITAL, BRITISH HIP HOP.CO.UK and anyone else who has helped me out this year, especially anyone who has sent me accapellas for the remix project i'm working on.

The blog has come along massively since i started it as what was originally just supposed to be a way for me to get some free music!

Keep it up and here's to another year of independant goodness!

Slickmouth - A Travelling Star

2009-12-24T13:54:00.000Z

SlickMouth set the international Hip-Hop world alight with his brilliant single ‘I Made It’ which recieved great support on a specialist radio campaign, and positive meetings with labels in New York. He was also a finalist in the BBC 2009 performing arts fund, and has amassed a large following from shows in london(Supporting Jagged edge) , Sweden (Along side Kano) ,belgium, and the USA.

Check out the video interview below for some more info from SlickMouth himself.

This twenty one track mixtape is anything but. With an overall fresh sound - lots of bright synths and clean, crisp drums - Slickmouth is clearly confident enough to be able to release this kind of effort and label it a mixtape. My favourite aspect of 'Travelling Star' is that the beats are quite mainstream and accessible but it's refreshing to hear an MC like Slickmouth over them.

"Warning" sees Slickmouth send...well...a warning to lesser MC's in the game. The beat is a banger, sampling Ten Wheel Drive's "Ain't Gonna Happen" but flipping it in a different enough way to Jay-Z's "1-900 Hustler." "The Takeover" got my head nodding once the drums dropped and the track is something I could imagine hearing in clubs, as well as 'Around The World" which features excellent vocals on the hook by "Naye Forsythe." When "How Many" dropped i have to admit i was a little unsure how the track would pan out, but when it hits 0:11 it all comes together. The track is a little reminiscent of "Swagger Like Us" which could be seen as a good or a bad thing depending on your preference. Even so - I liked it. Slickmouth gets a little deeper on "Cool vs Cool" which is probably my favourite track on the Mixtape. The falling strings that drop in and out over the plucky harpsichord notes is haunting and fits the subject matter perfectly as Slick takes on the persona of a bully and a drug dealer in verse one. "Homecoming" is another banger of a beat with Slick displaying a switch up of flow to spit nice and quick over this one. "Uninspired" utitlises a pretty simple vocal sample - "Sometimes I feel so uninspired" and keeps it simple all the way through with nothing but some piano keys, drums and bass accompanying Slick speaking on feeling uninspired which is a subject I'm sure all of us have som knowledge on.

A Travelling Star is an assuring promise of what is hopefully to come from Slickmouth - well thought out, well executed and well made music.

Get A Travelling Star HERE
Add Slickmouth on MySpace HERE
Follow Slickmouth on Twitter HERE

Mystro - F.D.T EP

2009-12-07T21:10:00.000Z

Yes yes! MysDiggi A.K.A Mystro, mutha luvaz! One of the U.K's finest and definitely one of my favourites is releasing the 'F.D.T EP' on December 14th this year on Don't Bizznizz.

For those unaware;

The E.P opens with 'The Truth,' starting off with some looped keys which gradually evolve to include some nice horn hits that give a nice sense of progression to the tracks. Mys spits effortlessly over this one with couplets that seem to go on forever! And just when you thought the track couldn't get better, the hook drops which i guarantee you'll find yourself humming/whistling/singing to yourself at a later date. HE AINT LYIN! (you'll get it when you hear it!)

The first of 3 skits which are nicely spaced out on the E.P comes in next with Mystro skipping through radio stations until he comes across 'F.D.T Radio' hosted by a familiar sounding chap! The characters that crop up in the skits such as Stelios; CEO of 'SqueezyJet' and Giles Freeman are mad funny and instead of being filler for when the artist has run out of ideas - the skits serve their intended purpose of injecting some humour (of which Mystro has a tremendous sense of) and providing a narrative for the listener to follow. This, along with the variety of sounds, samples and topics displayed make the E.P seem very mature and far more accomplished when compared to other so called 'efforts' by emcee's who wouldn't even know what E.P stands for!

'Banishment' is my favourite. The beat (HEAVY!) drops and Mystro comes in with "I'll smack you in ya teeth, jack you for ya sneaks, put some shackles on ya feet and then drag you through the streeeet!" And you know it's a banger. I always hate when people call things an 'instant classic' as the word 'classic,' by definition is something that has been "judged over a period of time to be of the highest quality and outstanding of it's kind." Meaning that it has to have existed for a significant period of time before it can be judged in comparison with anything of it's kind. That being said (rant over) 'Banishment' really is an instant classic. Something that i can easily see being played in years to come which really says something about the quality of work being put out by Mys since a track like this is on an E.P. Once again, a VERY catchy hook on this one. RUN HIM OUT THE HOOOUUSE!

Things get darker now with some church bells leading the beat for 'Live & U Learn' as Mys spins yarns for us about a racially confused boy called Jack, a two faced girl called Jo and pregnant Jenny among others. There's a nice mix of humour and subject matter contrasted well with the beat which is kept pretty minimal for Mystro's lyrics to take centre stage.

It's back to pure bars next on 'Thorish' which is a monstrous beat consisting of some hard drums and rapid fire keys before the beat breaks for some horn stabs that reminded me of the Dragnet theme tune. Again, Mystro continues with rhyming couplets long after most would have run out of places to take it!

"Maintain" is a very close contender for my favourite track. Not only as the beat is BEAUTIFUL but the subject matter is something i've always tried to get across in tracks myself but it's done here perfectly. The first time i listened to it, i found myself nodding along to it agreeing with Mystro's descriptions of us independant artists with an actual LOVE and respect for Hip-Hop as a culture.

Just read the lyrics from the second verse...

"Shout out's to the rapper who loves to maintain...

Though he's up all night,
creating bombs that make you wanna turn it up more high,
and he don't really wanna fuss or fight,
just touch more mics and make sure that every one's all right
and keep the future stayin much more bright - with no stressin
but the few that make enough doors slide just won't let him
still he's treating it like a profession,
knowing doors soon will open up wider - no question,
time for no restin - just putting in work
foot in the dirt - all good if it hurts, could have been worse,
he cant fret since the rookie has learnt,
to never treat his last step as if it should have been first,
shoes in the mud but always moving above,
using his mind to keep him shining more than jewellery does
and like the last man standing in a pool full of blood,
claim the task as handled cos he'll do what he does to maintain." *
*(apologies to Mys if I got some of the lyrics wrong!)

Like I said - couldn't have said it better myself.

"Aquarius" brings the mood down as the E.P comes to a close; not down in a negative sense, just more relaxed with some nice rhodes chords and a strolling bassline as Mys drops nice verses touching on alot of social issues from weapons of mass destruction, to 911, underpaid NHS workers and the legitimacy of medication. It's another solid track among several and closes as we go into the final skit before 'The Urge' drops.

"I'm not a killer but i do get the urge!" As Mystro runs through alot of life's problems that we all have to just deal with day to day; it's easy to identify with the feeling of 'getting the urge'. The beat is nice and aggressive which obviously fits the mood perfectly and is an interesting choice to finish the E.P off but as you end up wanting more as soon as it fades out; it was a good choice.

Keep in mind that you will constantly have to remind yourself that this is an E.P - it really is that good. Every track would sound perfectly at home on a full length album. Not only that but Mystro is able to captivate attention here with no other artists featuring on tracks for support. For those key reasons and for all the reasons listed above - this is music you need to hear. I know there are people out there that want good British Hip hop - it was the reason i set up this blog.

Well, i have good news. Good British Hip-Hop exists. And it's name is Mystro.

The F.D.T. E.P will be available from all major digital stores from December 14th 2009 on Don't Bizznizz.

You can follow Mystro on Twitter HERE
Add him on MySpace HERE
Watch his videos on YouTube HERE
Check out the Natural Born Spittaz blog HERE
and become a fan of Mystro on FaceBook HERE

Consider yourself invited...

2009-11-30T09:25:00.000Z

Attention all UK MC's...

I am currently putting together a remix project featuring UK MC's over beats made by me sampling a band whom i will not mention until it's finished.

Think 'The Grey Album' but instead of Jay-Z there will be lots of different artists and instead of The Beatles it's...a different band.

Currently signed up are Ben Black of The Delusionists, recently featured & amazingly sick female MC Jai, Wordsmith, Genesis Elijah, Mystro, Asaviour and a few others that aren't confirmed yet.

If you would like to be a part of this, e-mail me as many acapellas of you as you want with the BPM of the original track and i'll let you know if you'll be featured, as well as bring you into the loop with a few more details about the project.

As i said - unfortunately, this applies to just UK MC's but if you're not from the UK and you play an instrument, you know what your doing with mixing tracks down or you have something else that you think you could bring to the table - get at me still. I want this to be a hugely collaborative effort and hopefully we'll all get some new fans out of it.

Please send all acapellas to mashupfigment@hotmail.co.uk

Delusionists Interview

2009-11-29T21:00:00.000Z

I can't take the credit for this interview as i didn't conduct it but you should read it all the same. It was featured on the rather excellent hip hop blog Certified Banger. you may remember me posting their EP - 'The Prolusion' in May. If you missed it, Check it out HERE. It's THE SHIT.

Certified Banger: Can you tell us your necessary background details so we can build on basics for the rest of the interview? For example: who you are, projects you have worked on, people you have worked with.

Ben Black: Ben Black aka Beanz aka that rapper/producer out of Delusionists. We dropped our debut EP 'The Prolusion' earlier this year, which was a strictly in-house production. Off the strength of that we're starting to link with some other heads so we've got a few remixes and collabos bubbling beneath the surface... Some of it has come off the back of being on On The Radar 4 so big up to Certified Banger for that!

CB: What are your current or upcoming projects? ie albums, singles, tours, guest spots…

BB: At the moment we're still pushing 'The Prolusion'. We're pressing hard copies of it and trying to get 'em in people's hands at shows and when we're out and about. There'll be a few bonus cuts on there too - remixes and a couple of other things we've been working on lately, like 'The Movement' which we dropped a couple of weeks back. Oh, and a remix of 'Parallel Worldz'.

The album is also well and truly in the works and I'm enjoying writing it and piecing it all together. I've produced all of our stuff myself so far but I'm taking a bit of a backseat this time and my boy Slim Pickens (UK All Day) has stepped up to handle a lot of the beats. He did The Movement and it instantly just seemed to fit, so we're using that as the blueprint for the way forward. We're also trying to hook up a few suprise collabos for the project, which should get people excited if it comes to fruition...

CB: How would you describe your sound? Is there any one track that would best define your style?

BB: Difficult to say, man! 'The Prolusion' was all about finding our sound really so you'll find a mix of styles on there. Fast, slow, happy, sad, clever, ignorant... It kind of shows the full repetoire of what we could do at the time.

I suppose 'The Evil' sums us up best though, because it deals with two sides of a coin. It's like a message to females saying "Look, I am a twat, I will do twattish things. But I KNOW I'm a twat and I intend to change'. A lot of hip hop deals with the first part, in that it puts a spotlight on the negative behaviour but doesn't always acheive a balance by showing the other side. I suppose we're coming from a similar angle to someone like Common - he's said some pretty ignorant s**t in his time, particularly in his early career, but it's always tempered with the conscious, insightful stuff. Some people would say that's contradictory but humans aren't one dimensional, so music should reflect that.

But yeah, you'll hear a lot of cocky, bragging stuff from us because that's what we enjoy, but you might just hear some deeper stuff if you listen close enough. I like the type of Hip Hop where you won't necessarily pick up on things until you've had a few listens, so we try to make stuff that has a little something beneath the surface.

CB: Who have been your biggest musical influences and which Hip Hop artists have inspired you? Which are your favourite albums? What music were you brought up on?

BB: I was chatting about this to DBF (fellow Delusionists MC) the other day and we agreed that pound-for-pound Jay-Z has probably been our biggest influence over the years. Can't say I'm too impressed with BP3 though...

Other than him, I'd say De La, Tribe, DOOM and Jehst have all been massive influences at various points in my development as an emcee. De La and Tribe because they showed that you don't have to be "hard" to make proper Hip Hop. DOOM because I love the way he just seems to be having a laugh without being a corny punchline rapper. And Billy Brimstone because he's consistently proved that a Brit can be up there with the best in the world, and that gives you belief!

I could write a huge list of my favourite albums but the ones that spring to mind? 'The Score', 'ATLiens', 'The Chronic', 'Midnight Marauders' and more recently Q-tips' 'The Renaissance'. And now I feel bad because I've left out loads of classic albums... '36 Chambers'! Oh, and just to avoid being a complete cliche, 'Illmatic' probably isn't in my top ten.

CB: What is your earliest memory of anything Hip Hop related? First rap track heard? First time you rapped?

BB: My earliest Hip Hop memory was my brother playing 'The Show' in the mid-80s. Inspector Gadget was my s**t at the time and when I heard that theme music mixed with that beat I was hooked from then on. I've got to thank my big bro really, for letting me watch them breakdancing movies with him and letting me 'borrow' his Eric B and Rakim records. Yep, I've still got 'em and no, you ain't gettin' 'em back!

I did fanny about with poetry for a bit but I wrote my 1st rap when I was about 10. It was for a school project about tbe Tudors. Henry VIII was the original gangsta! "F**k a pimp slap, cut that bitch's head off!" Me and a few others performed it to the class and when i realised that I could get away with doing that instead of proper work there was no stopping me. Our next one was about Ancient Egypt and I've been writing gradually less educational rhymes ever since.

CB: Where are you from? Can you tell us a bit more about the Hip Hop scene there?

BB: Well, I've lived in West London for the last few years but I was brought up in Lowestoft (Google it). There wasn't any sort of Hip Hop scene, other than a few of us who used to play basketball and listen to whatever The Source told us to. It was good though because it made me go out and seek Hip Hop culture and allowed me to have a fairly unique take on it without being influenced by friends or whoever saying this or that is what i should be into. I didn't really feel that peer pressure to be into any acts in particular, because nobody else really had a f**king clue about Hip Hop. I think you also value stuff more if it's hard to come by, y'know? Which is probably what's up with things at the moment - you don't even have to walk to the shop to get an album now, let alone pay for it! I can remember saving up for weeks just so I could go and get the Dogg Pound album when it eventually came out in the local record shop (about a year after it was released).

CB: What about the Hip Hop scene in general, UK or worldwide – where do you think it’s headed? Are things good/bad? What are your current philosophical thoughts on the current trends in rap music?

BB: Arrrgghhh! The current trends... Well, there is a lot of shit out there. That's my philosophical insight! But nah, there's always been rubbish out there, it's just that now the rubbish is getting some exposure. I'm a bit suspicious of big name DJs getting behind acts that have their ads all over telly and the internet, like "You really like that? Really!?!". Maybe I'm just being cynical but it's a bit strange that you want to co-sign something with a big marketing budget but you don't say f**k all about something of real quality like 'The A-loop Theory'. That's not supporting the scene, it's damaging it by making the general public think "oh, so this is what British Hip Hop sounds like...".

But I've gotta say, although it hurts to see hip hop bastardised and repackaged to suit the teeny boppers you can't be that mad. I can't lie, I liked Kriss Kross and MC Hammer as a kid - who didn't? As long as there's some balance I think Hip Hop will be okay, but if Gang Starr came back sampling 2 Unlimited I'd be worried. What's reassuring is that hip hop will always rebel against itself. For example, there's a lot of people trying to 'Push the boundaries' production wise and neglecting the lyrics a bit. But I think there's a lot of fans who just want to hear some no-nonsense music and entertaining lyrics, which hopefully is where we come in.

CB: What process do you go through when writing a track? Do you start with a beat, a concept, a lyric that you thought of in the shower? What happens next?

BB: It's any and all of those things! Quite often i'll just hear a word or phrase and think "I've never heard that on a record" and I'll think of something that rhymes with it and take it from there. That's one way to stay original I suppose. More concept-heavy songs can take ages to write though. Sometimes a beat conjures a certain emotion and you want to do it justice so you have to choose your words carefully. I've just started writing to other people's beats and that's much easier coz you're not thinking 'That bassline's a bit muffled" or whatever. You can just concentrate on the lyrics and let the producer take the blame if people don't like the beat!

CB: Where do you hope to see yourself in 5 years, 10 years time? Is it an achievable goal?

BB: I want to be in a position where we can put out music from ourselves and others and have a fanbase that trust us to consistently put out strong product. If I can sort out the business side of things so i can do my bit for the artform and support my family, i'll be happy. I know it's gonna be a long, hard road but If I didn't think it was achievable I wouldn't bother.

CB: Any last words?

BB: Yeah, I haven't had a chance to do the whole cliched shout out thing yet so... Big up all the people that have got behind Delusionists so far; Certified Banger (obviously), Disorda, HHC, HipHopHypeDog and all the bloggers, DJs and heads who have let us know we're doing something right.

Also, shout out to the crew - DBF, Chantelle, Zombie Killer, PITMO, Mr Baker, Slim Pickens and King Hektah. Oh, and go cop 'The Prolusion' and keep in touch on Facebook or Twitter and check out the blog, Beats Laying About - it's not exactly Certified Banger but we do our thing!

Organix - GET INVOLVED!!!

2009-11-25T20:36:00.000Z

How it Works:

1) They provide a beat

2) They set topic for you to write 16 bars to.. (Topics so far have been 'Summer Holidays' Where Ya From?' 'The Wilderness' 'Punchlines' 'Pet Hates' 'Halloween' etc.)

3) You get roughly two weeks to write and record your bars and get them back to them.

4) They will mix them all together, and put a fitting video behind them, showing who is curretly spitting, and all other relevant info. Video Footage of yourself doin your thing is also very welcome and will be used in the vid.

When they first started off they had Just 8 people on the first episode, now with the word getting out the record has been 16 people, resulting in a two part video.

In their own words;

"We have already worked with 35 + rappers and beatmakers and are looking to carry on expanding, believing that this is beneficial to the movement. We do it purely out of the love for doing it (often means a lot of late nights and sacrificing free time but hey!) I Hope to see some new faces on this one, we are currently half way towards the deadline for Organix Part 10 - The Movement. Be sure to check the myspace for more info."

Bottom line is, they are always looking for for fresh heads to get involved

Check out www.myspace.com/organixhiphop (some vids are up there for you to see)

All other vids can be found on youtube (search for organix hip hop) or subscribe to the user 'simplesamples'

All updates can also be found on www.organix.ukhhf.co.uk (official Organix forum)

HHC Digital 005

2009-11-18T22:26:00.000Z

Available now for free download, HHC Digital 005 is headed up by Rakim. Inside, the god emcee talks about Dr Dre’s studio antics, his first meetings with Nas and Jay-Z, Large Professor’s sample game, the day KRS-One put the blame for gangsta rap on him, the original 50 Cent and Killer Ben, the legend of The Rooftop, plus details the exact price of a pair of Timberland boots with Louis Vuitton patches from Dapper Dan back in the ’80s!

Elsewhere in the issue, Brother Ali talks about his independent streak, Esoteric looks back on the time he almost recorded a track with Eminem, Partners In Kryme go back in the vault for some Turtle power, we big up the Home Grown UK hip-hop exhibition, plus spotlight essential new albums and free MP3s from BlakRoc, Souls Of Mischief, Shafiq, Ralph Rip Shit and more.

Get it HERE

Beat Makers

2009-11-12T18:42:00.000Z

Beat Makers is a documentary "that takes a look at the never-ending hustle of young producers trying to make it in the intensely competitive music business. The film taps into trackmasters at various stages of their careers, as they struggle to make (and keep) a name for themselves.It's a cool window into the birth of the beats that get our heads bobbing.” – Bside.com

"We want to make people aware of this documentary, that it is out there and available, however, we don’t have the kind of funding to finance a traditional marketing blitz. We hope that indie film sites will take the time to consider and review a true indie film.” - Producer; Eddie Singleton.

Directed by Laron Austin whose short film “B.A.M.” won audience awards and other accolades in 2008 on the festival circuit, the film covers an unhearalded segment of the Hip-Hop community - the independant, unsigned beatmakers who are doing what they love with the hope of one day being paid for the privilege.

The film opens by introducing us to several producers by name, who break down their names, how long they've been making beats for and these sequences really illustrate just how many of us do what we do.

The film then splits into several chapters that deal with topics such as equipment, ideas & concepts, inspiration and their opinions on sampling to name a few and at 1 hour 32 minutes in length - there's alot of ground covered.

The section where the beatmakers list their various equipment is my favourite. It could really change alot of peoples perceptions of what makes a beatmaker as i've seen alot of conversations along the lines of "if you don't own a ____ then you aint hip hop" and most of the time it's the MPC. But, here's a list of SOME of the equipment used by the beatmakers featured;

Fruity Loops
MPC
Logic
ASR10
Korg Triton
SP1200
Ableton Live
MPD16
Technics SL1200
Yamaha Motif
Reason
Recycle

The best thing about the documentary is the sheer scope of topics covered and questions answered. i also felt it they spent a rather equal amount of time speaking with each beatmaker which i imagine can often be difficult to monitor with a project like this.

It's a must for established BeatMakers and newcomers looking for an insight into the working lives of like minded individuals.

You can watch the video below in full screen at a higher resolution at YouTube

Melodiq - Straight From The Soul (Beats by Terem)

2009-10-27T18:30:00.000Z

Straight From The Soul features Enz, Nelace, Kohndo, Stacy Vickroy, Dj Atom, Elodie Rama, and Just Brea (of Deep Rooted) and is available now at Melodiq.com and Amazon and is coming soon to Itunes and Rapsody, or River City if your in Japan.

Before we get to my thoughts on the album, check out the preview below;

You may also recognise the following track which resulted from a beatmaking video by Hocus Pocus producer 20syl*

*Please note that this track is not featured on this album.

The first track after the intro 'This Is What We Do' opens with some rising and falling horns before the drums and bass drop along with melodiqs voice;

"Un-phased by any competition that presents itself."

It is this sentiment that you should keep in mind while listening to the album because the style that comes across is relaxed, comfortable and effortless. I couldn't imagine hearing any of this album on the radio - not because it's bad, contrarily because it is good and as we all know - good music just doesn't get played on radio! Melodiq's voice sits on Terem's beats perfectly and on 'Worldwide" it's refreshing to hear some international flavour in the form of French MC Kohndo, staying fully true to his roots by spitting the entire verse in French (personally i love French hip-hop, even if i can't understand a f*cking word of it!) The beat is one of my favourites on the album - some really nice flutes, strings and bass.

"The Overseers Ft Nelace" is easily my overall favourite on the album, a really nicely flowing loop of a sample and the flow exhibited by Melodiq and guest MC Nelace is perfect with some nice lyrics like;

"Me, Melodiq and Terem, look at the hole that we tear em' - they got guns, they got power; still we don't even fear em - why? We got heart all the way from the start, so if they breakin ya heart we gotta take em apart."

Possibly my only criticism would be the choice of sample for "Brand New" - in my opinion, a Stylistics track that shouldn't be sampled. But that being said - Terem flipped it in a way that is much better than i would have expected prior to hearing it and it's a nice concept track with some beautiful vocals from Elodie Rama.

That aside - there is nothing i can fault with this album. Take my word for it - you need this in your life.

Head to Melodiq's website to buy the full album from Itunes, Amazon or Rhapsody.

In the meantime, feel free to download one of the following tracks as a freebie courtesy of Melodiq and Terem being such nice chaps!

This Is What We Do

Searching (ft Just Brea)

Soul Patrol (ft Enz)

The Overseers (ft Nelace)

Jai - On My Jais, The Prelude

2009-10-11T17:37:00.000+01:00

On My Jais - The Prelude is a 14 track precursor to Jai's upcoming album, too good to be called a mixtape though.

From South West London, Jai insists that it was her inquisitive nature and challenging childhood that brought about her passion for hip hop, as well as an evident love for a wide range of music.

"I grew up listening to anything from Tracy Chapman to The Pogues to Bob Marley, I loved it all!"

She began writing at a young age, moving on from poetry to rhymes, culminating in her participating in ciphers at the Deal Real record shop in London. The respect she gained from here led to her presenting her own show on Invincible Radio called 'The Sicka Selektion,' showing that her talents can stretch even further.

After an intro type track to start with, Stop, look Listen - sampling a version of the well known Diana Ross and Marvin Gaye track of the same name sees Jai on fine form - the flow is on point, lyrics are nice and it's a perfect way to introduce this young lady's obvious talent.

The only thing putting this in the mixtape category as opposed to it being an album - as it could easily be, in terms of content and quality. is that there are a few used beats here, most notably track 7 - "Brother From Another" which uses Jay-Z's "Soon You'll Understand" beat. As i said though, content wise - this could be an album track, the lyrics go deep such as -

"4 days in ICU, 4 angels surround you/ lost your fight and you rejected life - tell me why?"

Track number 4 - "Movin" shows Jai's versatility as she switches up the flow over a quicker beat - a good idea on Jai's part to put this track on the first half of the album and keep listener's guessing for what's to come.

Track 11 had me laughing - "Swagger Jacker skit" takin the piss out of Lil' Wayne which is always welcome on my speakers!

i'm looking forward to seeing what Jai does in the future - will be keeping my eyes and ears sharp for when the album drops but i was very, very impressed with 'The Prelude,' with such a lack of promising talent in hip hop at the moment, and new artists that are actually deserving of hype and attention - it's really refreshing to hear something to get excited about, and not to sound sexist but even more so when it's a female MC! Not only that, but she's reppin' U.K. What more do i need to say?

You can buy 'On My Jai's' from ITunes and i strongly suggest you do. At £8 it's more than worth it.

For info, bookings, media appointments and other enquiries, please contact flyfirlproductions@live.co.uk

J.R - “Get Gully” / “Major League”

2009-09-22T18:49:00.000+01:00

London based recording artist J.R will be releasing a series of exclusive material, and hints over an upcoming project in the forthcoming weeks. To kick-start the campaign, the double single “Get Gully” / “Major League” is available for free download with immediate effect.

J.R is currently signed to “Class A Entertainment”, which has been the breeding ground for various musicians over the past couple of years. Unquestionably the label’s most prolific artist, J.R has been identified as an upcoming talent amongst the ears of Wandsworth, and interest has been growing from the likes of radio, and online publications.

“Get Gully” / “Major League” is the brand-new double sided single which will showcase J.R’s commercial viability, along with his tongue for lyricism. After spending months of fine-tuning his style, J.R has not only written and recorded the singles, but entirely produced the track as well. It’s clear to see why the nineteen-year old artist is clearly talented.

J.R’s previous mixtape “A Stroke of Genius” was well received amongst critiques, and was hosted on various websites including Hip-HopKings.Com. With countless downloads and physical copies distributed around South West London, fans have been itching for new material, which is promised to be J.R’s best work to date.

Get Gully
Major League

Catch J.R on MySpace HERE

Jay-Z at The Roundhouse Camden - 17.09.09

2009-09-19T18:08:00.000+01:00

See below for some pictures and a video i took of Jay live back in September;

Jadakiss live at the 02 + Skinnyman, Stig, Alias, Lakeside and more!

2009-09-01T21:47:00.000+01:00

On Tuesday 22nd September, see the legendary U.S. Hip Hop star LIVE, supported by none other than Skinnyman, Stig, Syntax, Alias, Lakeside & Darnel Swallow, Clement Marfo and the front liners, Makeida and KHY

Hosted by The Hott2Deff Squad of 89.1FM Big City Radio - Birmingham.

Tickets are available now from TicketMaster priced from £25 upwards and there is a £5 discount available for all tickets purchased before September 11th

Milkman - Apollo 2

2009-08-30T21:05:00.001+01:00

Volume two of Apollo from beatmaker Milkman is up for download today. You can get volum one HERE.

Volume two kicks off with a smooth intro and a 'Life's a Bitch' remix which is extra nice. 'Blunted' featuring Selph Concious is excellent work. I can't say i've heard the original but the beat on this one fits perfect.

Alot of the work showcased here by Milkman is the right side of simplistic, it's nice and smooth, easy to listen to and follow and above all - is very good. Some nice chops exhibited, good sample choices and nice quality mix.

It's good that he's decided to mix up the format a little and include remix's as well as straight instrumentals, i feel that alot of beatmakers tend to get bogged down in making beat tapes 30 minutes long with just instrumental tracks - it's nice to see a switch up, especially one where the quality of each type of track is just as good.

'Have You' is very nice, really smooth and flows well - easy to listen to all day.

'So High' is a top class track featuring 'JayP' who spits a nice verse effortlessly. The beat and MC fit well together.

I'm struggling for things to write here as 'Apollo 2' is simply a very good BeatTape - solid work, a good follow up to volume one proving that Milkman is capable and focused.

Worth getting basically. HERE

Not dead yet

2009-08-12T08:45:00.000+01:00

Hey everybody. Just a quick post to assure everyone that the blog is still very much alive. Please continue to send your material to mashupfigment@hotmail.co.uk i plan to start posting regularly once again just as soon as i have something to post (thats where you come in) peace!

Delusionists - The Prolusion

2009-05-20T18:57:00.000+01:00

The Prolusion is a rather impressive, 7 track EP by The Delusionists.

"Trunk Rattle" is a wicked track, possibly my favourite, with a nice bassline and a rather catchy vocal sample which 'Ben Black' spits effortlessly on, displaying a wonderful flow and some nice lyrics ("you know the ones who was laughin freely when i told em i rapped, man that scarred me deeply/ but look at your life now - far from peachy, cos your so Primark, I'm so Maharishi//") The thing i like about 'Trunk Rattle' is that Black manages to create a rather accesible, probably radio friendly banger with lyrics of substance and worth - a more than difficult task amongst today's 'music.' Included at the end of the track is a funny voicemail message left by 'Patricia' from number 14, the apartment below Ben (whether it's real or not, i'm not sure - hope so) asking him to "turn his music off because it's 5 past 1." I love a good skit.

"Super Lyrical Excursion part 2" is 2 minutes of solid lyrical ability. It's not that the technique used is particularly extraordinary, it's a pretty basic flow but it's perfect. The words bounce along the beat comfortably, easy to follow and enjoyable - resulting in some notable quotes such as - "give me a mic and a crate of Corona and i'll give you something heavier than Kerry Catona."

"The Evil" is super laid back and easy. Vaguely on the subject of girls, sex and cheating but touching on other issues ranging from irresponsible fathers, making money, The Evil sounds like a generalisation of a majority of men and what women should look out for - wise words, basically. Aided by some lovely female vocals as Ben touches on some well known situations and habits i'm sure alot of blokes will recognise - "That's why we leave you at home, and got a load of numbers that we wont delete from our phone/ just in case we get an evening alone - we can call Lisa from the other week, if we're in need of a bone."

"Game Of Soldiers" finishes the EP off nicely. Wicked bassline and some nice string and vocal samples. A quicker flow gives a great sounding contrast to the sedated beat. It's a swift journey through a selection of life's commonly encountered problems with the general consensus in how to deal with them being - "fuck it."

After listening to this E.P, Mr Ben Black and The Delusionists go right up there on my U.K favourites list.

All i can say is if he wants to collab with me, or is ever in need of a beat - get at me.

Get the album HERE

Visit the home of The Delusionists, the fledgling but expanding 'Beats Laying About' blog HERE

DaVinChe - Riding For Love

2009-05-18T19:42:00.000+01:00

To keep you all entertained until I post the review of The Delusionists album; 'The Prolusion' in the next few days, I thought I'd post the new video from Urban Music Award winner DaVinChe. The man behind Kano’s ‘Brown Eyes’ and ‘PS & QS’ – Tinchy Strider’s ‘Something About Your Smile’ and ‘Breathe.’ Tinie Tempah’s ‘Tears’ and Sadie Ama's Take You Away.’ DaVinChe is one of my favourite UK producers, P's and Q's is still a banger so it's good to hear from him again.

The video features Clea and Bashy and the single is released on the 8th June, or you can get it a day earlier on digital release.

Catch DaVinChe on MySpace HERE

Figment - Floor By Floor

2009-05-09T16:12:00.001+01:00

I've posted this before but i consider the original post to be somewhat of an 'advanced release.'

This time around, i've trimmed up the start and finish points of the tracks, made sure that all the info tags were right and got some good artwork done.

For those that don't know - the album is my first, written and produced by me and featuring some excellent Essex talent. Please do download it, feel free to leave comments or e-mail me your opinion and by all means - post it on your blogs/forums.

Get it HERE

Undercurrent - Crisis Talks Mixtape.

2009-05-03T13:41:00.000+01:00

On offer today is the wonderfully heavy 'Crisis Talks' mixtape by UnderCurrent. Plenty of dope beats, featuring production from Undercurrents own Baron Samedi.

1. Push My Product *
2. Like Us (feat. Sonnyjim & 777)
3. Godless
4. Bare Wimmin'
5. Denz
6. Rear View
7. Kick In The Door
8. Brothers Grimm*
9. Killing Spree (feat. Logan)
10. Hold U Down
11. Knocked Up
12. Chamber Zero (feat. Jabbathakut)*
13. Up In Smoke*
14. Gamblers Anonymous **
15. Paratroopers (feat. Grit Grammar)
16. Dark Marvel Part II
17. We Got...
18. Big Shots

* - produced by Baron Samedi
** - produced by Mr Libel

Get it HERE

Also check out UnderCurrents up and running website HERE

The Best of Poor Righteous Teachers

2009-04-13T19:45:00.000+01:00

Further to last weeks post regarding the news of the tragic death of Hip-Hop legend Tony D, DJ Books brings us The Best Of Poor Righteous Teachers.

1. Ghetto Intro
2. Miss Ghetto
3. Easy Star
4. Strictly Mash'ion (thief-mix)
5. Rock dis Funky Joint
6. Self-styled Wisdom
7. Nobody Move
8. The Very First Time (unreleased)
9. Word iz Life
10. Shakiyla (1st verse)
11. Shakiyla jrh (thief-mix)
12. Speaking Upon A Blackman
13. Each one, Teach one
14. Conscious style ft KRS ONE(verse 1)
15. Conscious Style (verse 2 & 3)
16. Allies ft Fugees
17. Culture Freestyle
18. Wise freestyle ft Ralph Mcdaniels
19. Holy Intellect (remix)
20. Butt Naked Booty Bless
21. Word is Bond (b-side)
22. Wicked Everytime
23. Freedom or Death
24. Time to Say Peace
25. Wise Interview
26. The Nations Anthem

Get it HERE

Nemesis and Arrogance Ft Jelluzz and Starry Dayz

2009-04-13T19:30:00.000+01:00

The North London Hip Hop duo NEMESIS & ARROGANCE have been working hard for some time now releasing their debut album last year and underground smash single ‘Change Your Heart’ ft Skinnyman.

With the unquestionable quality of their latest offering 'Da Real Sho,' they stand to start seeing some of that hard work pay off.

This radio-show-themed project, spawned from their popular radio show of the same name and features a breathtaking list of talent including: BASHY, WRETCH 32, SKINNYMAN, SINCERE, FLIRTA D, FAITH SFX, MR TI2BS, MR DRASTICK, SUPAR NOVAR, JELLUZZ, NUTTY P, SUGA DZL, LAZY HABITS, MARK HENRY, BIG BEN and many more...

The first single taken from Da Real Sho, is this massive - Live From The Capital - Featuring fellow north Londoner Jelluzz and Starry Dayz. Da Real Sho is out on the 1st June 2009 on Real Records.

2009-04-12T22:50:00.000+01:00

Hip Hop Connection, better known as HHC is a monthly hip-hop magazine and the longest running monthly periodical devoted entirely to hip hop culture. It was once described by Chuck D as 'The best magazine in the world.' So they must be doing something right. Right?

This post is just a quick one to spread the word that their first ever digital issue will launch on April the 15th at www.hhcdigital.net (add that to your favourites).

Expect the usual album reviews, columns and irreverant shenanigans as well as -

DOOM
Willie Isz
Charles Hamiton
Ghost
Dante Ross
MoBonix
Speech Debelle
Lil Wayne
The Cool Kids' jeans
Delegates Of Culture
Wordsmith
Thunderheist
Mr Lif
Toddla T

R.I.P Tony D aka Anthony Depula aka Harvee Wallbangar

2009-04-05T12:33:00.000+01:00

Taken from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_D

Tony D, born Anthony Depula, was a US American Hip-Hop DJ and musician from Trenton, New Jersey, USA. He was the first artist to have a record released on Mark Rae's burgeoning British Grand Central Records independent record label (then called Gone Clear Records).
His other albums were released on Cha-Ching Records and 4th & B'way Records, and had been a part of the group Crusaders For Real Hip Hop, who released an album on Profile Records.

Tony D's early records were sampled by artists including Naughty by Nature for the hit "O.P.P.", and by Heavy D, without permission. All cases were settled out of court.

He had also worked as a producer for DJ Muggs, The Outsidaz,yz, Poor Righteous Teachers, Young Zee, King Sun, Blvd Mosse, and Pace Won.
He was last reported to be working on a band project called The WBs.

Apart from Tony D., Depula was also known professionally under the names Harvee Wallbangar and Grand Pubha Tony D.

Depula died on April 5, 2009 after being involved in a car accident near his home in Hamilton, New Jersey. He was reported to be 42 years old, making the year of his birth to be either 1966 or 1967. An investigation of the accident is pending.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
From Grand Centrals Website

Weighing in at 16 stone of Italian American heritage Tony Depula a.k.a Tony D is a man who has left an indelible mark across the history of the hip-hop beat, wrestling his way round some classic LPs from Poor Righteous Teachers (acting as producer on classics like Shaqila) - to his own Pound for Pound release on Grand Central.
Tony has always kept his productions tight and full. The hard drums and bass generated courtesy of his EMU SP1200 drum machine have been laced with some classic raps courtesy of YZ, Lo-key and some amazing vocals from Veba and Spikey T. Tony caught the hip-hop bug in 1985 travelling up to the Bronx from his Trenton, New Jersey base and buying drum machines from a producer who had moved on to drug dealing. It was not long before Tony was making classic beats some which were subsequently robbed by the likes of Naughty by Nature and Heavy d; all cases which were settled out of court.
Responsible for Grand Centrals first release and first artist solo album, (Pound For Pound back in 1997)he hooked up with Grand Central when Mark stumbled across Tony D's Central J. Parlay EP'in a N.Y. basement.

From Grand Centrals Website

-----------------------------------------------------------------------
My Thoughts

Tony D was one of my favorite producers since i first heard his beats on the Poor Righteous Teachers and YZ albums in the late 80's and early 90's and then on his solo album 'Droppin' Funky Verses' then his work with the 'Crusaders For Real Hip-Hop'

The above album (Droppin)was filled with snappy drums and samples that would make new comers from todays scene sit up and listen, plus his lyrics were on point and direct...for example from the album track 'Stop Racism'

Get it right, y'all, my family had to organize
Comin' over on a boat, you see, they had to realize
that they were one, yes, in a nation of so many
nationalities of people, knowledge we had plenty
As an equal, but still some considered us an outcast
Names like guinea and wop is what was used in the past
to describe us, nonetheless we kept our head up
Knowin' in the future we shall all drink from the same cup
Unity is what I'm strivin' for, G, so let it be
Ebony and ivory in our community in harmony
Livin' perfectly together as a whole
from the bottom of South Africa to the North Pole
When I look at a human you can say I'm color-blind
Cause I see them with my eyes but I judge 'em with my mind"

Plus his diss track at 3rd Bass are underground classics!
Check out his Production credits HERE

Enuff chat, check out some of his work and let his talent live on...

Tony D I Salute You!
Rest In Peace

Crowstick - Tales Of A Warped Mind

2009-04-04T11:25:00.000+01:00

I first heard of Crowstick on the Gorden Bennett records promo i reviewed in July last year, on the track 'Killer Bee' which incidently features on this E.P too.

'Demons In My Head' is the E.P opener - a dark, gritty track about paranoia, angst and inner conflict. The beat is very heavy with a bassline and drum track reminiscent of artists like Wu-Tang, early Eminem and Dr Dre. The high pitched sound in the background of the track adds to the tense atmosphere and sense of worry. Flow and lyrics are all on point and CrowStick sits very comfortably on the track, and the E.P in general in fact.

Excellent sample chopping of some blues on 'Gritty Pervert;' similar to Iron Bridge, Phonetics and Ron Compost, with such lines like - "i'm a sick fuck, i fantasise pickin you up - taping your mouth shut, and then i dump you in the back of my truck." The juxtaposition of what is quite a cheery sounding beat with such dark lyrics gives a good feel of unease - similar to 'the ear scene' in Reservoir Dogs.

An excellent offering from an obviously talented, emerging artist.

Get it HERE

DJ Gone - Sin City Mixtape Launch Night

2009-04-01T18:56:00.000+01:00

DJ Gone is hosting the launch party for his latest mixtape 'Sin City' at East London's Cargo this Saturday the 4th of April, Kung Fu are also set to bring the ruckus along with;

Taskforce
M9
Charlie Sloth
Ramson Badbones
Jargon
Harry Love
T.B
Big Deal
Teef
Speech Debelle [Big Dada]
Sarah Love

Plus a special performance from the legendary Skinnyman.

You can download a dope freestyle from DJ Gone, Reveal & Jargon Live on Kiss with MK & Shortee Blitz March '09 HERE

Get your tickets for the evening from Ticket Web HERE

And you can buy a copy of the new mixtape, priced at £9.99 from Suspect Packages HERE

* Cargo Bar is at 83 Rivington Street, London, EC2A 3AY‎ - nearest tube station is Old Street.

D-Nice 'Start Of The Summer'

2009-03-30T11:52:00.000+01:00

The suns out there's a smell of BBQ in the air the sound of kids having fun and in the distance from all angles is music coming out of peoples houses and everyone is loving the day...but their choice of music isn't as ear friendly as mine! Its not pleasing to everyone at their swaray! You need a perfect balance of beats and songs in the back ground...something people can nod to, hum to, dance to, relax to and relate to.

Well your in luck, The DJ/Emcee/Producer/Legend that is D-Nice has saved your day!

Hes a craftsman at his art and lets you lovely people download his mixes for FREE!

On the 'Start Of The Summer' mix set there wasn't a track listing so i scribbled down the ones i recognized so please add to the list the ones i missed.

Download it from his site (link below) and check out his other mixes, you wont be disappointed!

Prince - Hot Thing, The Time - Get It Up, Quincy Jones - Ai No Corrida, Stevie Wonder - Another Star, Chaka Khan - I Feel For You, The Intruders - I Don't Wanna Lose Your Love, Yellow Magic Orchestra - Firecracker, Prince - Controversy, D-Train - You're The One For Me, Kashif - I Just Gotta Have You, Alicia Myers - Say Say Say

Download it direct from HERE

2 Hungry Brothers - My Crew's All THINNER!

2009-03-30T11:05:00.000+01:00

Its a official, the 2 Hungry Brothers have leaped into the race for best producers and are overtaking the former front runners.
Their choice of breaks/beats are so pleasing to an old boy like me because they've come with fresh ingredients, stuck to traditional recipes and cooked up something meaty with loads of flavor...
On this mix 'My Crews All Thinner' they've rounded up some of the best emcees and blended them with some of the rawest and very familiar breaks.
Such artists like Substantial, Reef the Lost Cauze, P.CASSO, Homeboy Sandman to name a few.
Personal favorites for me are Substantial – King Strut (Amazing emcee and should be MASSIVE) K Gaines – Rum Raisin, Homeboy Sandman – Parallel Perpendicular (such a sick flow) arrh fuck it, i like them all!

Go to their myspace (link below) to order their new album 'Table Manners' featuring C-Rayz Walz, Pumpkinhead, Substantial, Shabaam Sahdeeq, Skyzoo, Many Styles (if you haven't checked Many Styles yet then you need to get your arses in gear...the mans an animal) plus theres loads more first class artists.
PS: while your at there myspace look at their blogs and download the 'Best of 2 Hungry Bros Vol.1' to get more tasty treats of their talent on the production!

1. 8thw1 – Walk Tall
2. Substantial – King Strut
3. Mickey Factz – Move On Up
4. Fresh Daily + $trictlyBusine$$ - Bed-Stuy Bullet Dodge
5. Senor Kaos – Wandering Soul
6. 8thw1 – The Expose’
7. Critical – Holy Are You
8. Reef the Lost Cauze – Ripped By Loud Metal Explosions
9. 8thw1 – Executive Lounge
10. P.CASSO – Second Wind
11. Little Vic – Black Night
12. 8thw1 – Harlem Hindu
13. Daniel Joseph – Holy Thursday
14. Nikkobya Bisou – Le Machete’
15. Gary Bartz – Celestial Blues
16. 8thw1 – Small Crib
17. Von Pea – Foodstamps
18. K Gaines – Rum Raisin
19. 8thw1 & Leon Haywood – I Wanna Do Something Freaky To You
20. Mazzi – SOUL Propulsion
21. Homeboy Sandman – Parallel Perpendicular
22. 10 Wheel Drive – Ain’t Gonna Happen
23. Willie Colon - Te Conozco

Download it HERE
Hit 'em up on their myspace HERE

CalatrilloZ

2009-03-29T16:36:00.000+01:00

CalatrilloZ is the name of a Circus Family, protagonist of a tale created by the Brazilian Luciano (vocals), who, after many years of singing Classic Opera, decided to create a new musical project. Bizarre enough, instead of starting from writing songs, he created a story that could inspire his music. His tale brought him to write songs mixing gothic, rock, jazz, theatrical opera and circus vibes.

The first track of theirs that i listened to on the groups MySpace was 'My Show My Gold,' and i was very impressed. This is easily something that could (and should) be played on the radio - very catchy and well formed/written and constructed. The vocals have a wonderfully theatric sound, as does the piano throughout - which contrast perfectly with the guitars and i love the circus organ segment that comes in just before an excellent little piano solo.

Despite the title, 'Dying Love Sonata' is an upbeat track, with a carnival, almost marching band sound to it until it switches about halfway through and gains a little speed just before dying out and slowing down again to a haunting ballad, and then going back to the carnival, marching band rythm. This is a busy and varied track to say the least, but definitely in a good way - giving the feel that each changin part of the track is a change in the story, like acts of a play.

I loved everything i heard. To me, Calatrilloz sound like a mix of the best bits of Queen, Tenacious D, and Andrew Lloyd Webber! The band has a very professional sound and the theatrical element i mentioned earlier is something i have always wanted to see the return of in Rock music and Calatrilloz are carrying the flag.

It's safe to say that they have a new fan and they have some live shows coming up at the following venues;

26 Apr 2009 20:00 - Tommy Flynn's London and South East
5 May 2009 20:00 - The Rythm Factory London and South East
9 May 2009 20:00 - Custard Factory Birmingham
14 May 2009 20:00 - Dark Mill Festival London, London and South East (Private Night V.I.P Only)
26 May 2009 20:00 - The Good Ship London and South East

Judging by the following verdict of one of their live shows, it looks like they are definitely worth a look!

"Their performances on stage are as theatrical as their music –replete with makeup , masks, gothic attire and two back-up singers who perform in fishnets and corsets."
Friday 13th of March 2009 - www.fattalent.blogspot.com

If that doesn't do it for you, check out the video below of them performing The Marionettes Poem and Dying Love Sonata;

In case you missed the link at the start of the post, you can find CatrilloZ on MySpace HERE.

fLako - The First Spaceshit on The Moon

2009-03-27T19:44:00.000Z

This is by far the best piece of instrumental work i have ever heard.

Clocking in at just under 50 minutes and consisting of 30 beats - it seems that fLako agrees with my point of view that less is most definitely more as a majority of the beats are in the 1 - 2 minute range, with only 2 tracks entering 3 minute territory.

It is one of the shorter offerings, track number 2 - 'Hump' that stood out as my favourite, and one that i could bump forever with it's minimal 'wha-wha' organ sound and perfect drums bouncing over a simple bass line guaranteed to snap necks.

With so many reasons to like the whole BeatTape, it's hard to pick one defining feature that justifies me giving it the 'best ever' title, but i'll try.

Diversity and variety.
In my eyes, very few producers today have it. fLako demonstrates a tremendous amount of the stuff over the course of the beattape, with Accordians on 'Shake It Harder,' harps on 'Lullaby,' and flutes on 'The up Wind.' This is, not just in terms of which type of beats they are or which type of mood they induce - but the drum sounds and patterns used, the instruments and arrangements in place.

Many beatmakers start off either making sample based stuff or creating original compositions with a variety of synths and virtual instruments and for many a time will come when they decide to crossover and blend the two. fLako is so good at converging samples and original instrumentation that i don't even know which parts are sampled (if any) and which are not.

'Welcome' is another favourite of mine with the rising and falling choir voices and a nice, gritty bass lead. The drums are perfect, i especially like the snapy, echoey rimshot on the snares.

There are elements of other producers, most notably J Dilla in alot of the bass and drum work; 'Yea Yea Yea Yea' in particular, which rolls along effortlessly. I love the drums work on 'Lullaby,' and the track in general is stunning with wonderful, Dorothy Ashby style harps and odd drum kicks that sound out of sync but work so well together. Mostly however, fLako has a style that is all his own, having created what many beatmakers strive to produce - a perfect representation of their work and approach to beatmaking. 'The First Spaceshit on The Moon' is perfect in every sense of the word - and stands as a blueprint for all beat tapes to follow. Take note!!!

Download it for free HERE

Add fLako on MySpace HERE

DJ Revolution Presents “Malcolm + Martin: Movement Music” Mixtape

2009-03-23T13:24:00.001Z

Up-and-coming duo Malcolm + Martin have teamed up with DJ Revolution, to bring listeners their latest street album.

Download this if you wanna hear 2 of the illest new
cats from the west coast spittin' fire over classic
breaks. Givin' new meaning to timeless music, injecting
intelligence, fun and positivity into your ear holes. you know...
what hip hop is supposed to do.

PLEASE NOTE : THIS IS PROPER HIP HOP! NO BLING BLING HERE

. Malcolm + Martin - What The Hell Happened to you?
2. Malcolm + Martin - A New Day-Skull Snaps
3. Malcolm + Martin - Status Quo-Saul Williams on the wake up show
4. Malcolm + Martin - Rock Bed-J. Trombey
5. Malcolm + Martin - Its my thing-James Coffey
6. Malcolm + Martin - Do Your thing-Malcolm & Martin
7. Malcolm + Martin - Hihache-Lafayette Afro Rock Band
8. Malcolm + Martin - Do What you Gotta dp-Eddie Drennon & B.B.S. limited
9. Malcolm + Martin - Welcome to the Movement-Malcolm + MArtin
10. Malcolm + Martin - Lunchtyme Cyphers-Malcolm + Martin
11. Malcolm + Martin - Making Tracks-Night Train
12. Malcolm + Martin - Sample Culture-Saul Williams on the wake up show
13. Malcolm + Martin - Talking loud-James Brown
14. Malcolm + Martin - Sayin’Nothing-Malcolm + Martin
15. Malcolm + Martin - Hollywood Swingin’-Kool + The Gang
16. Malcolm + Martin - Jungle Boogie-Kool + The Gang
17. Malcolm + Martin - Let the Drums Speak-Fat Back Band
18. Malcolm + Martin - Word to the Drum-Malcolm + Martin
19. Malcolm + Martin - Mind Power-James Brown
20. Malcolm + Martin - Funk for the Folks-The Soul Searchers
21. Malcolm + Martin - Melting Pot-Booker T + The MG’s
22. Malcolm + Martin - Another Victory-Malcolm + MArtin
23. Malcolm + Martin - Make my Funk-Parliment Funkadelic
24. Malcolm + Martin - Feel the Funk-Ceasar Frazier
25. Malcolm + Martin - The Ka$H-Malcolm + MArtin
26. Malcolm + Martin - Misleading Words-Saul Williams on the wake up show
27. Malcolm + Martin - Against the Wall-Malcolm + MArtin
28. Malcolm + Martin - Great Nation-Bambu
29. Malcolm + Martin - Kissed my baby-The Meters
30. Malcolm + Martin - Time Machine-Styliztik Jones/Randy Pie
31. Malcolm + Martin - Win or Lose-Malcolm + Martin
32. Malcolm + Martin - Ghetto funk-Duralcha
33. Malcolm + Martin - Sista Big Butt-Malcolm + Martin
34. Malcolm + Martin - Gotta be Funky-Monk Higgins
35. Malcolm + Martin - Hung Up-Salt

The brand new Malcolm + Martin: Movement Music mixtape is available for free download at the link below.

HERE

grab it...re-post it...enjoy it.

Blaq Ink and Chip FU - Stop Playing

2009-03-23T10:46:00.000Z

Chip Fu = Emcee (A Master of Ceremonies or MC (emcee), sometimes called a compère or an MJ for "microphone jockey," is the host of an official public or private staged event or other performance. The MC usually presents performers, speaks to the audience, and generally keeps the event moving. An MC may also tell jokes or anecdotes, use rhyming presentation style and otherwise interact with and be included in and be some part of the performance...or a person who can rip the mic/stage and leave a dent on the ears and memories of all who hear them)

Chip Fu has been around for years and has earned his place in my top 5 emcees of all time but he should mentioned in everyone's list, purely for his flow alone. But hes not a one trick pony, his lyrics can be funny/clever/deep and every other aspect you can think of....plus the man can sing!
Its all seems so effortless.

Formly of the Fu-Schnickens where with fellow emcees Moc Fu and Poc fu they brought something new to the table, they brought fun and humor plus serious and deep songs all topped off with a twist of Reggae/Ragga.

This free download is a taster in preparation for the new album M.A.A.T.H
Stop Playing is 26 tracks deep of tunes that Chip Fu appeared on plus some exclusives and freestyles...and it also includes Chip Fu version of the MASSIVE Collie Budz tune 'Love Mi Sensi'
There's heaps of truly head nodding tunes with other artists popping up here and there i.e Phife Dog, Del tha Funkee Homosapien, Pete Rock, Heavy D, Renee from Zhane plus more.

Enuff chat ... just download it and play it loud!!

Grab it HERE

Add Chip Fu on myspace HERE

Let him know where you saw it to!! ('',)

Rainah - Loose (Remix) Ft Goldenchyl, Produced by Dwayne Shippy

2009-03-21T10:49:00.000Z

Download the track HERE

Rainah's MySpace HERE

Subscribe to Rainah's YouTube channel HERE

Amede and The Soundsmith - Overwhelmed

2009-03-19T19:27:00.000Z

Amede (AM-EDDIE) is the voice, The Soundsmith is the composer, together they are Amede and The Soundsmith and they return to Strictly Independant with another instrumental single entitled 'Overwhelmed.'

The track opens with some sparse notes eventually accompanied by some gritty kicks and snares until some bright strings come in, followed by some nice bass notes - undercutting and complimenting the higher points of the beat and adding some movement.

The mood of the track is quite uneasy and tense with a heavy atmosphere which seems to come from the strings but the bass sound keeps it in the electric soul genre and the change ups in the drums along with the introduction of some extra percussion sounds later on insure that the track stays interesting and fresh throughout.

Moving from gradually adding sounds to gradually removing them until it is left with just some distorted notes to finish the beat is a perfect way of letting the sounds 'warm down' and keeps a good sense of progress.

The track is another well thought out and well executed piece of music and is a perfect addition to Amede and The Soundsmith's growing arsenal of thought provoking music. A must have for fans of the genre and artists, and a fine choice for newcomers to get started on. This comes highly recommended.

Download the single for free HERE

Visit Amede and The Soundsmith's website HERE

Add them on MySpace HERE

Beit Nun & IllSkilz - Colours

2009-03-16T20:43:00.000Z

Beit Nun is a 23 year old MC based in Macclesfield, UK. IllSkilz is a Dutch producer, and is fastly making waves in Holland with his instantly recogniseable sound.

The artists themselves describe Colours as;

"a brief look at the world through the eyes of a man who for the first time, feels both content and complete. Beit Nun reveals all to the listener, as he describes his new-found happiness through love, friendship, purpose, ambition and destiny. This refreshingly positive extended player certainly owes itself to the distinctive production talents of IllSkilz who debuts himself on this release, and undeniably makes himself known, with his consistant, yet unpredictable soulful mix of samples and compositions, drifting under a barrage of heavy hitting drums and daring synths."

Colours opens with 'Rainbows' featuring some on point cuts from Jabba Tha Kut and setting a rather laid back mood for the next track 'A Good Year' which showcases guest emcees Suicyde, Old Owl, JND & Chris L as well as previously featured artists 777, Dan Bull and Joe Gutta. Each emcee sits well on the beat; Dan Bull in particular exhibiting a nice comfortable flow.

'As It Is' has an introspective feel to it over what sounds like a nice Gil Scott Heron sample and keeps the tone mellow.

'Summertime' grabbed my attention with a well crafted beat that has done the often difficult task of combining samples and synth work to set a perfect backdrop for a track about...well, summertime.

'The Music' is probably my favourite track - with a lovely flute sample chopped to perfection, laced with some nice drums that make it flow wonderfully. Beit's delivery is effortless and the track really shines.

One thing i really like about the album is that the longest track, 'A Good Year' is 4:35 and is the only track to hit the 4 minute mark. All the other tracks are kept well within the 2-3 minute range and it results in a much more coherent track listing with real substance and thought to it. All the guest emcees do their job, IllSkillz does more than what is requires with the beats and Beit Nun ties it all together with superb flow and conscious lyrics - possibly my favourite British Emcee, North of London at the moment.

Tracklisting;

01. Rainbows
02. A Good Year (Feat. Dan Bull, Suicyde, 777, Joe Gutta, Old Owl, JND & Chris L)
03. Painting The Town Red
04. As It Is
05. Chromatics
06. Summertime
07. The Music
08. Leave Me Here (Feat. 777)
09. In Black And White

All Lyrics Written By Beit Nun (Except Guest Verses)
All Tracks Produced By IllSkilz
All Tracks Mixed & Arranged By Beit Nun
Cuts On Track 1 By Jabba Tha Kut
Cuts On Track 5 by SDSK
Guitar On Track 9 By Dan Bull
All Tracks Mastered By OJB
Cover Artwork By Megy Mey & 211 Graphics

Get the album HERE
Add Beit Nun on MySpace

Princess Nyah ft. Coldsteps - Frontline (Live)

2009-03-04T18:58:00.000Z

Check out the video below of Princess Nyah performing 'Frontline ft. Coldsteps' Live at the Frontline launch party.

See the following interview with Princess Nyah from Flavour Magazine -

You originally started out as a rapper when you were making a name for yourself with G-fam. How did you turn your hand to singing and song-writing?

Well song-writing has always been part of what I do even when rapping. I wrote my own lyrics so writing was always a part of me! The singing came with time after singing a few hook’s on the G*Fam album I became more confident as a vocalist.

Tell us a bit about your musical background and influences?

I grew up with 80’s pop and revival music, so Janet Jackson and Paula Abdul are some of my earliest influences. However when I started buying my own music as a teenager I had a real passion for rap and followed Lil Kim very closely as well as rap greats such as Jay-Z and Nas, so my influence’s are varied.

Your current single Frontline is proving to be a huge success on the club scene. Do you feel you’ve found your niche within the funky house genre?

I don’t think it’s a niche, I just think Funky house is relevant in the music scene at the moment and it’s what people wanna hear when they are out! I think I just gave birth to something that fitted in with the current scene.

Do you feel you are an all rounded musical artist and why?

To me all rounded means that you can do a bit of everything; I write my own songs and have influence at the production stage. I self manage and look after myself as an artist, from my image, to rehearsals to collaborations. So yeah I would say I am an all rounded musical artist!

Your debut single Frontline has proved a popular dance-floor filler on the party islands. Are you surprised at the success it’s had over there?

I think that it proved well on the party islands as it was a new track, and with the club scene momentum is everything. New material especially from a new artist takes time to sink in, so I still think there is room for Frontline to do even better this summer than it did last.

How do you feel about the support you’ve had back home from Radio stations and Clubs?

Support is everything, I had Marcus Ramsey a key DJ on the underground back Frontline from the beginning without him I wouldn’t have been able to meet all the other DJ’s that are a huge support. That’s underground and over ground. The UK scene is very supportive and are willing to assist the project where they can.

ILL Blu produced the track Frontline with you. How did this collaboration come about?

Ill Blu are made up of DEF1 and J-Reel. J-Reel produced all the G-Fam album and DEF1 was a key member in the group. So working together wasn’t new, it was just us messing around doing something different. Frontline was the first ever funky track we done!

Are you signed to record label at the moment?

I’m independent at the moment! No signings to any majors. Frontline is gonna be released under Nuevo Records which is our own label.

What projects do you have coming up and what can we expect from you in 2009?

I have a remix out featuring cold steps a really big MC on the funky scene, and I have nearly finished my album so the second single will be pushed out in march just after the release of Frontline.

Words By Daina Anderson
Photography by Saira Awan

Princess Nyah's website HERE
To be added to her mailing list, E-Mail to - dj@princessnyah.com

Virus Syndicate - 'For The Music.'

2009-02-28T15:24:00.000Z

Brand new Virus Syndicate video for a track called ‘For The Music’ ft David Lewis taken from the first in the series of Breakout E.P’s. This; the first is called The Mosquito E.P and will be landing on their own CONTAGIOUS MUSIC label.

Virus Syndicate return to the Contagious imprint with a reggae fused dubstep anthem, featuring fellow Mancunian toaster and underground music/club promoter, David Lewis.

Contagious Music was founded by DJ/producer, MRK1 (Formerly Mark One), one of the leading heads in the ever evolving dubstep scene and combined with his heavy electro, grime, hip hop and jungle influences, his sound provides a super-sonic platform for lyrically astounding MCs like JSD, Goldfinger & Nika D. Together they make up Virus Syndicate.

Hailing from Manchester, Virus Syndicate’s raw urban bass-heavy sound leans towards many genres, and with their hard edged beats and lyrical intelligence, as well as a hotly anticipated second album for Planet Mu, the Virus are fast being tipped to become the next major UK break through act.

Piano stabs and melody kick off ‘For The Music’ with a warm vocal from Mr Lewis that gently toasts the trademark MRK1 beat. Cue the Virus MCs JSD, Nika D and Goldfinger cutting in and out of each other at warp speed, laid over a walloping LFO bassline and the track moves into what we love most about Virus Syndicate. Testosterone fuelled lyrics smash the track home with a vocal delivery that’s second to none. A track surely to be played across dubstep, grime and hip hop clubs alike.

From satire to irony, humour to sincere, gangster to political commentary, Virus Syndicate offer an interesting perspective on life and a much-needed breath of fresh air for the urban/dance crossover fans.

MySpace HERE

Figment

2009-02-26T18:37:00.000Z

First of all, this website has nothing to do with me.

Figment is a website for music fans who have no musical talent but are fascinated by the dream of being in a band. In short, it is an online fantasy band site where you can create your own band, release albums and rise up the charts. The whole catch though is there's no music...thus the tag line "All Bands, No Music."

The website's creater Eric says;

"I started Figment because I am a big music geek myself and I was looking for a creative outlet that involved my love of music, but wouldn't involve me torturing my friends, loved ones and careless passerby's with my lame attempts at writing songs. Little did I know how many of us are out there. At this point, we actually feel as if we're doing the real music industry a favor by reducing the number of terrible bands that might send them a demo, and in some cases we've actually inspired people to start their own bands...although we can't promise they're any good."

Figment has users from all over the world creating bands, some are funny and some are serious, but all of them are fake! Take a minute to check them out and maybe try your hand at it.

Find the website HERE

1000+ Visits!

2009-02-26T11:41:00.002Z

Yep.

Thanks everyone - keep em' comin!

777 - Septimal Vol.1

2009-02-25T19:14:00.000Z

777 is an up and coming emcee from Telford, West Midlands - UK. As a former member of The Round Table and Non-Thespian (Dealmaker Records) and current member of newly formed hip hop duo Amass Hegemony with Beit Nun (Innit Records), 777 is a familiar voice across the East and West Midlands. Keen to kick off his own discography, 777 brings you Septmial Volume 1...

Displaying an immaculate flow with self confessed 'rapid rhyme schemes' over 17 well crafted tracks - 777 is a wordy-wordsmith with lots of ability.

'Swordz' is a banger and guest MC Baron Samedi absolutely kills it over a doper than dope beat courtesy of Wizard.

Wizard contributes another winner of a beat on 'Syllable Spitter.' The spiralling, harsh string sample and head nodding drums create an uneasy atmosphere; perfect for 777 to flip rhyme after rhyme with impeccable timing.

'The Double Up' is another favourite of mine - the samples in the beat are nicely chopped and the track features previously posted British track smasher Dan Bull. The beat keeps an interesting balance between some soulful sampled vocals, some fast paced drums and classic UK flow.

An excellent effort and one to watch out for.

Production credits go to - Zaheer, Bare Beats, Samedi Beats, Redmaster, Esyoube and Wizard aswell as 777 himself.

Guests include - Beit Nun, Joe Kobi, Baron Samedi, Redmaster, Esyoube (Text Offenders), SonnyJim, Scottish emcee Respeck-BA and US veteran Labal-S.

Tracklisting:

1) Intro: Sevenius
2) Ahead Of The Game ft Berserk
3) Standouts ft SonnyJim
4) Swordz ft Baron Samedi
5) The Man
6) Masked
7) Syllable Spitter
8) Keep Me Awake
9) Britain
10) Under A Rock ft Beit Nun, Joe Kobi
11) 5 Dimensions ft Labal-S
12) Who Is It ft Respek-BA
13) Versus Sub ft Esyoube
14) The Double Up ft Dan Bull
15) Introducing... ft Beit Nun
16) Revelations ft Redmaster
17) Keep Me Awake Bare Beats Remix

Order a CD from 777's MySpace HERE
Or buy a digital download HERE

Js.One - The Joy Inside

2009-02-23T21:36:00.000Z

'The Joy Inside' opens up with a really nice intro, reminiscent of MF Dooms beat work and flows suprisingly well without any hi-hats, fading out nicely to lead into track number two.

'Touch The Sky' has some excellent strings and drums to compliment perfectly with some really warm hats that sound to me like they've been downsampled(?) to around 9-10 bits giving a lovely wonderfully crunchy sound.

The whole E.P has a nice feel to it, like a cross between MF Doom, MadLib and Stevie Wonder and it sticks to my personal rule of keeping projects like this short and sweet. All the samples used sound from the same era and as a result - gel really well and make the track transitions seamless.

Well worth the DOWNLOAD

Well worth the BLOG

and well worth checking out other material by Js. One HERE and HERE.

*Please note that the above image is not the cover art for 'The Joy Inside.'

Twitter

2009-02-22T10:25:00.000Z

You can follow Strictly Independant on Twitter. I'll be posting updates on when there's new stuff on the blog, along with anything else i think you should know!

My Twitter is - http://twitter.com/CharSmar

Join it!

Blu(e) - HerFavoriteColo(u)r.

2009-02-17T18:09:00.000Z

My album of the year so far! Its cheered me up in the shit weather and i cant wait to play it at the BBQ in the summer...it feels like 1992 again.

His use of samples have excited me like the first time i heard J dilla, Ayatollah, Primo, Hi-Tek, Ali Shaheed Muhammad and Prince Paul.

Trust...Blu(e) is the savior of Hip Hop

01_Love
02_Amnesia
03_Since
04_Morning
05_Melo
06_Wind(terludeOne)
07_When(terludeTwo)
08_Silent
09_Pardon
10_Vanity
11_Beggars'/BlackGold
12_Celln'Ls
13_Untiled(LovedU)2
14_Peace

Grab the gold HERE
Blu's myspace HERE

The Doctors Orders 27 - UK Kings Special

2009-02-17T17:21:00.000Z

The Doctor’s Orders 27
UK KINGS SPECIAL

9pm-3am Friday 6th March 2009
@ Herbal 10-14 Kingsland Rd, London E1

With:
Skinnyman Live
DJ Nonames & Orifice Vulgatron (Foreign Beggars / Dubstep Set)
Spin Doctor (The Doctor’s Orders),
Harry Love (Extended Playerz)
Chris Read (The Diary Vol 1.5 Launch Party)
Patchwork Pirates & DJ Odin

£5 in advance or £10 on the door

Advance tickets available from ticketweb.co.uk / 0844-477-1000
TicketWeb

As the place to be for underground Hip-Hop from both sides of the pond The Doctor’s Orders has become the not to miss event of the month and for March we are bringing things back home with a UK Kings special featuring the very best talent our home shores have to offer in one room dedicated to Hip-Hop and one to Dubstep. With live performances and DJ sets from a wealth of home grown talent this is sure to be another Kingsland Road block.

Skinnyman is the most naturally gifted MC to have ever come out of the UK and will follow the likes of Frank & Dank, Sadat X, Louis Logic, Jehst & more onto The Doctor’s Orders stage. With incisive lyrics that are equally political as they are witty Skinnyman lays waste to any audience he comes into contact with and this will be no exception. The freestyle don has promised brand new unheard material ready to perform for the first time so this is sure to be another energetic live show the likes of which only the Mud Fam can put down.

As ever a highlight of room 1’s line up will be Spin Doctor’s set that as ever will explore all aspects of Hip-Hop mixed in the party fashion of which he is the master. Joining him on the decks is one of the UK’s most prolific and respected producers Harry Love. Having first met Spin Doctor when he was standing on a box to reach the decks at a West London house party Harry has perfected both DJ and studio styles that have seen him rock shows around the world and produce bangers for every UK MC worth mentioning. His club sets are an exciting mix of the new and old beats mixed to perfection that will leave the fun loving regulars begging for more!

Chris Read kicked off his career in Hip-Hop by promoting his Substance night in Birmingham for 12 years. Since moving to London he was one of the first DJs on the then brand new 1xtra and more recently has made waves with his incredible “The Diary” mixtapes. Tonight we celebrate the release of Vol 1.5 of this incredible series of mixes that trace Hip-Hop through a chronological mix of tracks that have fans including mixtape master DJ Yoda, The Herbaliser, Andy Smith & more. These mixes have to be heard to be believed so do not miss this chance of a sneak preview.

At The Doctor’s Orders we always aim to provide a suitable alternative to the Hip-Hop in room one with a selection of DJs and music that is sure to appeal to our regulars as well as bring new heads to London’s No.1 Hip-Hop party. Having had night dedicated to Reggae, Disco, original breaks & Jungle tonight we have a Dubstep dream team. The Foreign Beggars are adept at mastering all aspects of their trade. Having started producing and performing straight Hip-Hop they have successfully moved onto grime and are now making huge waves in Dubstep scene. DJ Nonames & MC Orifice Vulgatron will be treating us to one of these sets that have seen them establish such a following. They will be joined by the Patchwork Pirates who, although best know for their dedication to Hip-Hop and bass, will be digging deep into their Dubstep crates for this exclusive set. Holding the whole thing together upstairs is DJ Odin an unsung hero of the scene that will be taking no prisoners as he has ‘em swinging from the rafters!

Tekneek - Explicit Knowledge

2009-02-17T17:11:00.000Z

Word Perfect's professional spitman has given us his blessing to put his most recent album up for grabs...for nowt!

For those that don't know Tekneek is (and has been) one of the UK's most talented emcees for a number of years now, hes popped up on a few classic posse cuts over the years but his solo albums are beyond brilliant.
His word play/ punchlines/ metaphors and concepts are a force to be reckoned with...

On'Explicit Knowledge' hes rounded up a superb cast of wordsmiths and beat bashers including: MrG, Jibbarish, Backlash, Razio, Social Leppers, Dirty Verbals, Gambit and the rest of the Wordperfect battalion.

Cop it now and let us know what you think!

Track List:
1. Explicit Intro
2. Heavyweight
3. Verbal Assault
4. The Human Masters
5. Never Again
6. Loose Cannons
7. Sick Scripts
8. Deep Sound Abyss
9. Vicious Circle
10. Punishment
11. Only The Good Die Young
12. I'm Gonna Fuck You Up!
13. Wicked
14. In The Limelight
15. War Of The Gods
16. Dirty Dozen
17. The Last Shot

Download it HERE

Check His Myspace HERE

Yorkshire Launch Party

2009-02-13T19:53:00.000Z

Mainly for our visitors from the U S of A (unless your currently on holiday in the fine state of Texas)

On the 21st March 2009, Timeless Music Project and Chocolate Fireguard Records present the FIRST EVER Yorkshire music showcase at SXSW - The British Music Embassy, Latitude 30, 512 San Jacinto Blvd, Austin, Texas. From 12.00 - 3.00 you can see live performances from the following acts -

Wild Beasts - A 4 piece from Leeds, England, debut album ‘Limbo, Panto’ was released to critical acclaim in the UK and USA on Domino. The song titles alone, Vigil For A Fuddy Duddy, Woebegone Wanderers, Cheerio Chaps, give notice you are entering a highly original environment. One listen will leave you confounded and enchanted
- www.wild-beasts.co.uk

Paul Marshall - Since signing to Bella Union, Paul Marshall has appeared on Guy Garvey’s radio show, filmed a session for MTV2 and toured with Bat For Lashes and Jose Gonzalez. Currently recording for his debut 2009 release, Paul will appear at SXSW whilst following up his festival appearances at Bestival, Wireless, End of the Road and Green Man in 2008
- www.myspace.com/paulmarshallyeah

Talk To Angels - They're loud, impassioned, dramatic and barely legal! Run through with big ideas, these guys will give you a live set that will make your hair stand on end. Expect an A & R fest at every performance. Born at the studios that launched Kaiser Chiefs, Embrace and Pigeon Detectives, Talk To Angels return to Austin, the scene
of their historic Obama election night show
- www.myspace.com/talktoangels

Rolo Tomassi - Hassle Records newest signings, Rolo Tomassi are a fresh-faced bunch straight from the Steel City, playing some of the most frenetic, insane and jaw-dropping tunes around. Combining elements of punk, hardcore, post-rock, electronica, jazz and full on metal, it's an aural assault, but of the hippest, knowing kind, and in frontwoman Eva, they posess the most natural star to emerge from the UK underground in years. Forming in 2005, the band self-released their first demo, and followed this up by a self-titled EP; their debut LP 'Hysterics' was released in September 2008 on Hassle
- www.myspace.com/rolotomassi

Sky Larkin - Sky Larkin's ascent has been rapid and invigorating. The trio's pair of pre-album singles 'Fossil, I' and 'Beeline' have swelled interest and love in the band, prior to the release of their debut album, The Golden Spike. Signed to mighty indie Wichita (bloc party, etc) 2009 looks bright
- www.weareskylarkin.com

"Timeless Music Project," who will be hosting the evening have been delivering projects aimed at drawing attention to and supporting Yorkshire's talented music industry. Established in 2004 by singer and record label owner Pat Fulgoni, projects include regional showcase CDs, events, festivals, campaigning and conferences. New for 2009 and thanks to Yorkshire Forward funding, Timeless Music Project made the case for and is organising the first ever live Yorkshire Music Showcase event at SXSW Music Conference, Texas on Saturday 21st March (12-3). It will take place at the British Music Embassy venue - just before the slot traditionally held by Liverpool Sound City. Yorkshire will now also be a regional partner in the British Music Stand at the Austin Convention Centre (again for the very first time)

So why is this so important? SXSW is regarded by many as the most important US based Music Conference relevant to British Music exports - responsible for breaking acts including Amy Winehouse. Along with this year’s Timeless Music Project regional CD sampler “Independent Sounds of Yorkshire and the Humber” which will also help to profile some of the best homegrown talent, the Yorkshire showcase will add considerable worth to UKT&I's forthcoming SXSW Trades Mission for Yorkshire based creative businesses, which along with Sensoria Festival, this vibrant Social Enterprise has been helping to develop.

So, if you're in the area - pay a visit.

TimelessMusicProject.com

ChocolateFireGuardRecords.com

H1P - ArtArea (BeatTape)

2009-02-08T10:50:00.000Z

Today's free download is brought to you by H1P - a Croatian (yea, we get em from all over) beatmaker whom i came into contact with through Crate Kings.

The intro that starts of the BeatTape is lovely. I know, only Nans and teachers say 'lovely' but that is the best word to describe it. Atmospheric and rich; Lots of spacey, echoey strings and some well arranged drums that work well as part of an intro as they don't crowd the rest of the track. All of this helps to set up the rest of the tape.

Throughout, the overall mood is quite sullen an laidback with a varied mix of synths and samples, basses and strings.

'My Angel' is a favoutire of mine, it's hard to tell what the sample is as it's been ran through some kind of flanger or gater which gives the track a really interesting sound. my only criticism of this track is that when you have a sample arranged as nicely as this one is, you need to bring the drums and they could use some work on one or two tracks.

Overall - some lovely beats, a sterling show of what H1P is capable of and certainly worth getting.

Get it HERE

Check out H1P on SoundClick HERE

Apologies

2009-02-07T16:00:00.000Z

I know i haven't posted anything in a while, just to let everyone know that i am still active in the land of blog and i plan to post something this evening. My apologies to everyone on the waiting list.

Stay tuned...

Get Involved...

2009-01-28T18:40:00.000Z

I made the decision today to 'expand the blogs horizons' (if blogs have horizons(?))

So what does this mean?

It means that i no longer want the blog to be about just music, but more about independant creativity as a movement and a culture.

At the moment, the blog is a bit one sided (albeit - due to my initial idea of what i wanted the blog to be) towards Hip-Hop, but i want to take this oppurtunity to remind everyone that it is for all genres of music.

I want this to be a place where unknown, non famous, unheard of but talented people can share their work and gain some helpful constructive criticism, a little bit of exposure (I'm not sure exactly how many - if any - people regularly read the blog) and hopefully a new fan or two.

Going back to what i said about 'independant creativity.' This basically means anything. Any form of creativity that you have made a conscious decision to do. This could be -

Art
Film making
Acting
Writing
Poetry

Obviously, i wouldn't necessarily be able to review things that came under these areas but i would certainly offer my opinion and post your work.

I plan to do alot more networking (a much more sophisticated way of saying i'm going to get people to put my link on their website) in the near future to get a bit more traffic. I had a thought on the way home from work tonight that i might get some stickers printed up in white with just the blog address on it and just start slapping them on the inside of tube trains.

Sidebar - A nifty marketing tip for you if you work in the city or travel on trains or buses to/from work. Pick up the nearest free newspaper (Metro/London Paper/London Lite) and in every and any free space you can find - write your MySpace/website/blog address. I've been doing this for the last 3 months - mainly out of habit and a few weeks ago i actually had some people add me on MySpace who said they'd got the URL from my newspaper scrawlings!

So - if you're an Emcee, BeatMaker, Producer, Instrumentalist, DJ, Singer, Band, Photographer, Artist (of any kind) FilmMaker, Writer, Actor/Actress, Comedian -

Drop me an e-mail - what have you got to lose?

Milkman - Apollo

2009-01-26T20:56:00.000Z

Milkman is a beatmaker from California who was brought to my attention on the excellent (and frequently mentioned) CrateKings website/forum.

his debut BeatTape 'Apollo' is a nice mix of instrumental work and remix's which help to break up the structure of the tracklisting and throw a bit of variety in there. I was mainly impressed by the work on offer here as the description given by Milkman that Apollo is "basically the first beats I've made since I got the MPC in August."

For just under 6 months of what must have been a pretty big learning curve for a newcomer to the wonderful ways of the mighty MPC - the work displayed is exceptional.

The overall style could be described as 'back to basics,' but there is nothing basic about each and every beat as all sound like they've been carefully crafted with each kick, hat and snare matched perfectly to the varied and well chopped samples.

Stand out tracks for me are 'Theme' which had me nodding like the Churchill Dog! (only UK headz should get that reference, for everyone elses benefit - ENLIGHTENMENT)

The Shimmy Shimmy Ya remix was crazy and dare i say it - on par with the original.

'Kick The Truth' was a collaborative effort with another CrateKings regular 'GrimeShine' - the result is sublime, so smooth.

Finally - a One Love remix that is as beautiful as it is banging.

Start to finish, 'Apollo' is a sterling piece of work and hopefully an indication of what we can expect form Milkman in the future.

Download it HERE

Add MilkMan on MySpace HERE

Or, come and visit MilkMan, GrimeShine and Me at CrateKings

Celtic Underground Session 3

2009-01-23T10:28:00.000Z

Volume 3 already!! Jee4ce has rounded up some the finest tracks from the Celtic underground scene and put together another master piece.

One of the main things that stands out (for me) in Hip Hop from these shores is the regional accents, its something we (as UK Hip Hop listeners) should embrace and be proud off because it separates us from the rest of the world, plus most of these artists are from the 'sticks' and they are so fucking hungry for the culture that it keeps that raw element that Hip Hop is build on.

Theres a whole heap of names you will/should know i.e. Respek BA, Ralph Rip Shit, Dubbledge, Loki, Jee4ce, Evil Residents, Hoax MC, Terawrizt, etc etc

Its a banger..Its full of heavy beats...Its filled to the brim with talent...Its FREE!!

Check out Jee4ce myspace for links for the other artists HERE

Celtic Underground Session 3 Mixed by Jee4ce

Free Download. Hiphop from Ireland, Scotland and Wales

01. Capital 1212 ft. Mikey Krummins - Shootin Stars (Scotland)
02. Terawrizt ft. Jambo - End Of Dayz (Ireland)
03. Qred ft. Joe Blow 4dee and Skamma - Lunar Burn (Wales)
04. Respek BA - OH (Scotland)
05. Jee4ce - On The Rise (N.Ireland)
06. Ralph Rip Shit ft. Dubbledge - Kiss The Guns (Wales)
07. Evil Residents - Demonic Soldiers (Scotland)
08. Rubberbandits - Pure Awkward (Ireland)
09. Sweet And Tender Hooligans - I Have Seen (Wales)
10. Intox ft. Jonnyboy - Take Me Back (Ireland)
11. Skribbo ft. Loki - Heavyweights (Scotland)
12. Nugget - Loser (Ireland)
13. MasterSystem - Its Time (Scotland)
14. Werd & Deeko - Mad World (Scotland)
15. Cullo - Who Am I (Ireland)
16. Dave Gunn - Under The Forgotton Page (Scotland)
17. Lineage ft. Maverick Sabre - Cambia Tu Fortuna Remix (Ireland)
18. Hoax MC - Rhymin Son (Wales)
19. Holmes - HipHoperation (Scotland)

Download or stream as one track
HERE

Download with tracks separated
HERE

PS: That's not the real cover for it (as you can see how unprofessional it looks)
i stole it from another site and added the title!

Figment/Mash-Up Productions Beat Sampler 0.3 - Abstract

2009-01-22T13:15:00.000Z

The latest edition of my series of beat samplers.

Part three - Abstract, is a (small) collection of instrumentals i made using some experimental techniques, and just having fun.

Download it HERE

Skillit - Talk Of The Town

2009-01-19T18:15:00.001Z

To start with - this album is DOPE.

Beginning nicely with 'I'm Badder Than You,'' with a nice catchy, sing along beat and plenty of punchlines, it's a sign of things to come as the whole album has a very 'feel good' element to it which is a nice change as it's common for alot of independant albums to get bogged down with too much 'real talk' but Skillit manages to keep a good balance.

The albums title track 'Talk Of The Town' is probably my favourite, the beat has some nice xylophone samples over a nice bassline and some layered strings. Again, filled to the brim with slick punchlines and perfect flow to fit the beat with lines like - ''make some decent music, i would say your shit but nature beat me to it.''

"Tag Team" is another one of my favourites. Produced by Capital B (who also produced 3 other tracks on the album) who has managed to combine some real laid back jazzy horn samples and a sinister sounding bassline. Pyro features on the track and the two emcees mix well together, especially on the hook -

"Skillit and Pyro, hittin you with tight flows
blowing up like nitro, you'll see when time grows
pyro and skillit, we rhyme and we kill it
and shine in our lyrics, don't abide by the gimmicks."

Good stuff.

Production credits go to Capital B, Cable, K-Nite 13 and Loudmouth
Features guests - Pyro, K-Nite, Loudmouth and Mentalist.

Get the album HERE
Check Skillit out on MySpace HERE

Dialektiks - Intelligent Design

2009-01-16T22:42:00.001Z

Dialektiks are a UK Hip Hop duo based in Edinburgh, comprised of Rapper Newspeak and DJ/Producer Decksterous.

"We try to capture the old school sound of the hip-hop we love, but put a modern twist on it".

'Intelligent Design' is a solid effort with all involved showing that they're more than comfortable on the beat - flow is switched up consistantly and there's a nice variety of topics and themes being spoken on, but it's only let down is the sound quality. I try not to let mixing and mastering play a part in my opinion of an artists work but in this case it is difficult to hear some of the lyrics in places. That being said, i enjoyed 'Intelligent Design.' It got my head nodding, got me rewinding - and etched the name 'Dialektiks' firmly into my subconscious. What more could one want from a free album?

Get it HERE

Check out the MySpace HERE

*EDIT - You can check out an interview with Dialektiks over at the Certified bangers Blog (link in the 'Places of Interest' section to your left). Check the interview HERE.

Jay-Z/Mash-Up Productions - Prohibition Gangster

2009-01-10T21:35:00.000Z

As promised,

If you didn't see the post just after Christmas, -

"I know i'm VERY late with an American Gangster remix, but i hate doing shit when everyone else is doing it.

The idea behind the project is basically American Gangster remixed with new beats sampling 40's jazz and with a more old school gangster feel."

I only remixed a handful of tracks; those that i felt needed to be redone.

Tracklisting;

Intro
Pray
American Dreamin'
Blue Magic
Success
Party Life
Ignorant Shit
Fallin'

You can download it free (of course) HERE

Dan Bull - Safe

2009-01-08T16:40:00.000Z

Dan Bull is a hip hop musician from the UK.

Musician really is the best way to describe him as the album see's him dabble in acoustic guitar, drum programming, rapping and singing, this is not a man to be confined by genres.

'Safe' is a concept album that tells the story of a young man who attempts suicide during a global thermonuclear holocaust and awakens in a new, ambiguous nirvana. Along the way, Dan Bull covers such topics as summer sunshine, friendship, love and loss, alienation, politics, death, religion, suicide and insanity.

Described as ''The Streets meets Morrisey'' Dan covers a wide range of topics throughout the album with a competent flow that is easy to follow but impressive nonetheless, over music that ranges from dramatic orchestral strings on 'My Catharsis' to upbeat guitar melodies and vocals on ''Cut'' where the arrangement switches from this upbeat moment of Dan realising love to a more reflective rap section where the newfound love seems to fall apart. I was impressed at the attention to detail, especially at moments like this where such effort was put in to make the music and words follow eachother and alter the mood.

"Misfit" is a dark, introspective track which sees Dan pondering his place in the world over a simplistic drum track and equally simplistic but haunting melody.

"Afterlife" was another stand out track for me where Dan effortlessly describes the processes of Algamortis and Rigormortis with the foundation message of ashes to ashes, dusk to dusk.

Overall - dark and relentless, at times 'Safe' can be hard going but lighter tracks like 'Summer' elevate the mood. I would recommend this album to anyone bored of the usual music marketed at the moment - hip hop or otherwise and i would definitely be interested in hearing anything else Dan Bull comes out with in the future.

So if you're curious to hear what talent sounds like, or if you want to provide your ipod wth a welcome change;

Download the album HERE

More info on Dan can be found on the Freshnut website

Check him out on MySpace HERE

Kid Konnect - The Epic

2009-01-04T20:37:00.000Z

Beatmaker 'Kid Konnect' has just finished his first beat tape "The Epic'' and let me just start off by saying well done, because For a first effort, it's a good lesson to beatmakers looking to do the same. Konnect has kept it short and sweet, blessing us with only 5 beats - not enough to give too much away and just enough to leave us wanting more.

It's hard to define 'The Epic' or confine it to any one genre of instrumental. All you need to know is that it bumps from the outset. The fact that a beat tape consisting of only 5 beats can have this effect as it's so diverse - is another acheivement in itself.

01. "My Lord" - I knew this was my favourite before i heard any of the others. A great way to start the beat tape off, with a banger of a beat. The samples chopped really nicely and has contrasts between really hard hitting sections and some nice jazzy George Benson style guitar bits in there too. First class beatmaking right here.

02. "I'm Sure" - So nice. The sample is so nice and the drums fit perfectly over it. Impressive that a beat this smooth can follow one so hard and still be just as hot.

03. "Knocks" - switches it up a little here with something more synth sounding. This one probably won't be for everyone but it's a good piece of Hip-Hop all the same and nice as a change of pace.

04. "Never Hear" - starts with some really nice vocals and kicks in to yet another banger. Drums are nice and tight and the bass compliments everything perfectly. I recognise the sample as it's from quite a recent track (i think) but i would never have thought of flipping it like this. Perfect.

05. "Smoker's Delight" - another smooth joint (excuse the pun) which i could honestly loop forever. The bassline is perfect with a westcoast feel to it.

If you're an emcee looking for a beatmaker to get at, download it.

If you're a fellow beatmaker/producer/dj/whatever - download it and take notes.

If your neither of these. Download it.

Get it HERE

2008-12-28T15:12:00.000Z

"Prohibition Gangster."

Yea, i know i'm VERY late with an American Gangster remix, but i hate doing shit when everyone else is doing it.

The idea behind the project is basically American Gangster remixed with new beats sampling 40's jazz and with a more old school gangster feel.

I was going to remix the whole album but i've since changed my mind and decided just to do the tracks i really like. (I already cut out Nas' verse on Success)

So, yea. Just to let you know what's droppin soon.

Merry Freakin' Christmas!

2008-12-25T10:55:00.000Z

Merry Christmas everyone, the blog hasn't really been going long enough for me to say 'thanks for the support' e.t.c but i will anyway. Thanks to anyone who has spread the word of Strictly Independant, to everyone who has sent me stuff and to anyone who has since added a link here to their own blog/website. Here's to another year of independant goodness!

The Earlier Escapades Of Willo Wispa

2008-12-21T16:47:00.000Z

An early christmas present for you all. As a warm up for the Wot's Willo On!?!' LP, scheduled for release in early 2009; associated minds provide us with a much needed Wispa fix.

'The Earlier Escapades' is a great introduction to Willo's flow and style for those who are not familiar, and a reminder for those who are.

As one fourth of London's supergroup 'The Colony' alongside Sir Smurf Lil', Conspicuous The Coroner and Grimlok, Willo has formed his legendary rep over the years featuring on various acclaimed and sold out vinyl releases, as well as killer cameos on a few notable mixtapes.

Associated Minds have been digging around other peoples archives to pull out the roughs and rares of tracks that kinda deserved to get out there more - but are either sold out on vinyl or seemingly lost on peoples dead equipment. They describe The Earlier Escapades as 'tip of the iceberg stuff' but it gives the world the start of the experience that is listening to Willo Wispa.

Track Listing -

01. Mars To The Manor
02. Rider Music Freestyle (Featuring Cobane and Ophkea)
03. Cark
04. What Kind Of Girls
05. Razor Blades (Evil Ed Switchblade Remix) feat. Sir Smurf Lil, Ophkea, Dirty Kitchen & Conspicuous
06. Real Eyes Dub
07. Exalibah Dubstate
08. 2 Pounds
09. I Wanna

Get it HERE

Figment - Floor By Floor

2008-12-08T21:17:00.001Z

So...FINALLY i get around to posting my album.

I finished it a few months ago but it took a long while to get to the point where i could say 'finished.'

It's 13 tracks, i made all the beats and wrote all the verses.

Featuring other local artists - Blokey Chinners and Skrabl.

Tracklisting -

1. Floor By Floor
2. Rumours And Lies Ft. Blokey
3. Trapped
4. It's All Over (Casanova)
5. To Be A Star Ft. Chinners
6. The 21
7. Love And Marriage Ft. Blokey and Tik-A-Tek
8. Grind
9. S.H.E Loves Me
10. Malice Ft. Skrabl
11. All About You
12. How You Living Ft. RTS
13. The 21 (Alternate Version)

Give it a download, give it a listen.

Get it HERE

***If you were having trouble downloading the album from this link - please try again as i have re upped it to a different server now***

Certified Banger Presents: On The Radar

2008-12-06T08:16:00.000Z

Certified Banger, a blog (almost) dedicated to the art of Hip Hop in the UK proudly presents this 21 track compilation of some up-and-coming artists and their music. Taking in many different angles of UK Hip Hop 'On The Radar' attempts to bring some new music to your ears, all for the princely sum of nothing.

It features 'never heard befores,' 'heard before but hard to get hold ofs' and tracks already available on the respective artists own pieces of work. With 21 tracks, you're bound to find something you like, and for free, you can't go much wrong by downloading it and giving it at least one virtual spin.

Once you've heard it, be sure to check out www.certifiedbanger.blogspot.com for more features on, and free downloads from the artists involved. Check the 'comments' section in the song tags for the artists website addresses and give them a shout. Drop Certified Banger a line at certifiedbanger@gmail.com and let them know how you feel about this (wonderful) release.

Why are you still reading? Start clicking. HERE would be a good place to start. Still reading? Click HERE instead then.

Track Listing -

1. Queens English - Mind The Rap (produced by Skinnista aka Nu Balance)
2. Safron - Nightbreed remix ft. Kyza, Jehst & Klashnekoff
3. emceeKillah - The Guns of Britain (produced by Zoutr)
4. B'tol & Jagos - Finish This (Rassclat Rappers) ft. Da Herbalis of FDB
5. JVF Clique - Those Dudes (produced by Pappa Doc)
6. Spee 69 - Lemonade (produced by Jay Large)
7. Grimlok - Magic (produced by Shears)
8. Revilo - Mr. No Names
9. TLG - Let Me Be ft. Reggiimental, Ras Supa, Biggaman,S.C, Joe Gutta & Rukus
10. Skillit - Talk of the Town (produced by Cable)
11. Conman - Streets Unsafe (freestyle)
12. Loudmouth - Real Talk (produced by Loudmouth)
13. Manny Moscow - You Can't Tempt Me ft. Shepherd
14. Size8 - Watchin Me (freestyle)
15. Skandal - Venom (produced by Chemo)
16. Truth - Been a Long Time (produced by Prolifik)
17. Late - The Villain Man (freestyle)
18. Antmysta - Taste of Ink (produced by Shadowville)
19. Beit Nun - The Music (produced by Illskilz)
20. Reps - Spit ft. Jid Sames (produced by OSTR)
bonus track: Uncle Dicky - Neighbourhood Star remix ft. Witchdoctor Wise

Add Certified Banger on MySpace

Lowkey - In My Lifetime (Featuring Wretch32)

2008-11-26T19:22:00.000Z

In My Lifetime is the first official single off Lowkey's new LP Dear Listener and features Wretch 32 of The Movement.

The track is produced by Quincey Tones one of the UK's most prominent Hip Hop producers, best known for his recent collaborations with US underground mainstays EMC (Masta Ace, Wordsworth etc…) and internet hit Ma Money feat L'il Wayne, Talib Kweli and Royce Da 5'9.

Lowkey and Wretch 32 are widely regarded as two of the UK's most gifted lyricists so sit back, relax and enjoy them telling you about their lifetimes and look out for the video coming at you sooner thank you think!

Also check out Wretch 32's current single Be Cool and his new album Wretchrospective.

Get the track HERE

His first official album, 'Dear Listener' is an extremely honest and distinctly fresh project, laden with world class production from SCRAM JONES (MARIAH CAREY / G UNIT), STYALZ FUEGO (CHAMILLIONAIRE / BUSTA RHYMES), Q-TONES (LIL WAYNE) and more. Lowkey's unique charisma acts as the saccharinely sweet delivery for the powerful, political messages that are delivered within many of the songs on the album. From the captivating story of 'Relatives' to the banging reggae tinged 'Tell Me Why', 'Dear Listener' is sure to be a late addition to be a classic. The incredible 'Revolution' hints at the collaborations to come, with an entirely beatboxed instrumental from FAITH SFX and guest vocals from JON McCLURE of REVEREND AND THE MAKERS.

You can buy the album 'Dear Listener' HERE

Keep your eyes peeled Lowkey's involvement in a supergroup band project named MONGREL. With Lowkey as the lead emcee, the band also includes members of the ARCTIC MONKEYS, BABYSHAMBLES and REVEREND AND THE MAKERS.

Chops - Chops Derby

2008-11-23T13:37:00.000Z

Buy the 12" at Fat City Record Shop or Picadilly Records

MySpace HERE

Snappa and Savage

2008-11-16T09:38:00.000Z

Snappa and Savage are two MC’s from the UK, hailing from one of the roughest areas of Huddersfield, West Yorkshire called Deighton.

There is no full product as such on offer here today, i.e. - an album/single/ep but i do have the link to ehir myspace, which should definitely be checked out.

They have attracted interest from several record companies and Savage has appeared on a track with ‘Natural One’ of the Troubleneck Brother’s from New York. Snappa has appeared on several tracks produced by L.A. based producers, although these tracks have yet to be released. They have appeared on a compilation album that was sold across Europe, USA and Japan. They have also featured on one of the biggest radio stations in Europe, BBC Radio 1 Unsigned and Pulse rated radio station broadcasting several of their songs on Sky satellite TV throughout Europe, one of which made tune of the week, they also featured in their exclusive section called hot trax where they pick the best 5 songs reviewed that week from all artists worldwide from all genre's.

Savage Says “Musical integrity means more to us than pound notes, people forget that we have to live with the music we put out, not just for that moment but forever. We don’t try to do the style of music that is trendy now because as soon as you try to mimic today’s music, you are already working on yesterdays”.

Snappa comments “In the past, people close to us tried to be helpful and tell us what type of tracks we should be making. We sometimes took that advice on board and although people liked those tracks, we were disappointed with ourselves, we felt unfulfilled and it just wasn’t us. Looking back it actually helped us because that was our learning curve. Everybody goes through that. Now, we only make tracks that we would like to hear, no compromise, hopefully there are people out there who feel the same as we do and can appreciate what we do for our own style. We can’t be like anybody else we only know how to be like us”.

As i said, there's no full product for me to review but the myspace is worth a look. I suggest you add them and keep your eyes peeled for anything they do.

Myspace HERE

Figment/Mash - Up Productions = Jay-z; The Motown Album

2008-10-30T22:27:00.000Z

This post is one of my own projects which i did around the time that the internet was flooded with American Gangster mash ups and i decided to do a Black Album mash up since the onslaught of those had died down.

I sampled all tracks from the classic Motown label to create new beats for Jay's Black Album acapellas.

Semantik, administrator for the excellent website Crate Kings had this to say

"With all the American Gangster remix albums popping up lately; we tend to forget about all the previous joints that Hov blessed us with. Figment of Mash-Up Productions drops a gem on us with the release of The Motown Album, which combines Jay’s Black Album with classics such as “If I Were Your Woman”, “Neither One of Us”, and “Love Hangover.” It’s no doubt that the Figment was successfully able to take a handful of Motown joints and provide just enough grit to what I originally considered to originally be a lackluster and overproduced release. I have to admit that I was surprisingly impressed with his attention to detail, especially with the restyled organ sample featured in the remake of “Public Service Announcement."

Download it HERE

Amede & The Soundsmith - The Underground

2008-10-26T21:16:00.000Z

The Underground is a new free digital release from London pair Amede and The Soundsmith described by the duo themselves as "a new phase of their musical journey pulling away from the soulful vocals for a while and exploring their unhealthy addiction to beats!"

Inspired by The London Underground system, and intended to give a sense of progression and journey into the future - it does just that with a mix of breakbeat style drums, a nice low bassline and some ghostly key chords which break up the digital sound nicely.

I found it a welcome change to see a group brave enough to release an instrumental single, but the track is good enough and as an insrumental in a musical world currently governed by pop parafenalia and one hit wonders it does well to hold the listeners attention for the whole 3 minutes and 44 seconds. From the minute i pressed play the edgy drum loop and sub bassline had me nodding my head and i could easily imagine an artist like Roots Manuva or Kano on it which displays a tremendous example of versatility, echoed again by the "about us" section on the website "We just want to make good music, whether it's short raw beats, vocal based, down-tempo, or hip hop soul."

In conclusion, the track is a heavy beat sure to break up the monotony of the tired contents of ones Ipod and get heads noddin straight away. I'm eager to hear more from Amede and The Soundsmith in the future and i highly recommend you download anything this pair offer - particularly as this one is FREE!

Download it at - www.amedethesoundsmith.co.uk/theunderground
MySpace at - www.myspace.com/amedethesoundsmith
Website at - www.amedethesoundsmith.co.uk

Evil Ed & Conspicuous "The get Together"

2008-10-14T17:05:00.000+01:00

The dynamic duo that are Evil Ed & Conspicuous have blessed us with a the new album "The get Together" and let me be the first to start the standing ovation. Its what UK Hip Hop needs at this time...pure fire! Ed's is one of the most consistent producers for 15 years now and never lets the listener down when their looking for a proper Hip Hop beat. And Conspicuous spits the rawest like a bulimic after eating sushi.
With top notch guest spots from a fine aray of talent from all over the UK.
I really hope this doesnt get slept on like some of the other classics out over the last few years.
Check out the track BBQ and the youtube vids for a little taster of what i feel has just moved into the top ten UK albums of all time.

Check the track listing:

Evil Ed & Conspicuos "The get Together" (Ottomanelf Music):

1.81's Favourite Son
2. BBQ feat. Seanie T, Doc Brown, Konny Kon, T-Bear, Broke N English (vuts by K-Delight)
3. Marvelous feat. Ric Branson & Grimlok
4. Don't Worry
5. Big Headed feat. Willo Wispa, Mudmouth & Apollo (cuts by Evil Ed)
6. The Get Together
7. Ill-Out feat. Shabaam Sahdeeq, Jehst, Swave Sevah, Dubbledge & L.I.F.E. Long (cuts by Eddie Skratch)
8. Where Did We Go Wrong (skit)
9. You & Me (Never Could Happen)
10. Time After Time feat. Cobane, Shameless & Sir Smurf Lil
11. Sinister (synth by AH Fly)
12. The Night feat. Willo Wispa, Iceman & Yung Blud
13. Forgive & Forget feat. Cal-I
14. Outro (Goodbye)
15. BBQ (remix)

Taster tune BBQ - Grab it HERE
evil ed & conspicuous feat. willo wispa 'the night'

evil ed & conspicuous feat. cobane 'time after time'

Dr Syntax 'N' Elemental are The Menagerie – Wild Kingdom

2008-09-10T18:25:00.000+01:00

Tom Caruana, Dr Syntax, Elemental and Nick Maxwell are The Menagerie and they want you to have and enjoy their acclaimed and fun packed debut album 'Wild Kingdom'from 2005.
The supa crew was made up of 3 emcees, 2 producers and a deejay..all head and shoulders abover most.
Please trust me on this...its one of the most solid albums i've ever heard!

Grab it for free HERE

Theres more freebies from Elementals myspace HERE

And Check out 'The Menagerie' HERE

Ozmosis - Wizard of Oz mixtape

2008-09-07T13:46:00.000+01:00

For those who were having issues downloading from the original link in the previous post, here's the new link - Click here to download 'The Wizard of Oz' mixtape by Ozmosis

Ozmosis - The Wizard of Oz mixtape

2008-09-03T19:28:00.000+01:00

Here's something new from UK emcee "Ozmosis," entitled - 'The Wizard of Oz mixtape.'

I first heard of Ozmosis a little while ago when he hit me up on Myspace for a beat (which features on this mixtape for the track 'We Get Em') and i was impressed by tracks on his MySpace - 'Imagine (the dreamer)' which sampled the John Lennon classic, and his remix to The Arctic Monkey's track - 'You Look Good On The Dancefloor.'

The mixtape does what it's supposed to. it's a dope mix of tracks over original and previously featured beats from the likes of Fort Minor, DJ Premier and..erm Blur and The Arctic Monkeys. In my eyes - a good mixtape shows an emcees versatility, adaptability and ability to shine on any type of beat, and Ozmosis does just that. Rhyming over The Arctic Monkey's 'you look good on the dancefloor' is enjoyable to listen to and a few pace changing bars over 'Zorba The Greek' are a small stroke of genius.The overall theme of the mixtape is well done and the short soundbytes from the movie throughout help to string each track together.

As i said - this does what it's supposed to, and it does it very well - it shows Ozmosis' lyrical capability and that he's comfortable on a wide assortment of beats.

My advice to you is to download it first - HERE

Then add Ozmosis on MySpace HERE

Video for 'Imagine (The Dreamer)' -

Gunshot - Mind Of A Razor (REMIX)

2008-08-14T18:51:00.000+01:00

A personal favorite of mine..a tune i use to put on my walkman and do my badman bounce down the road to...TURN IT UP!

Check out this video: Mind Of A Razor (Video)

Hidden Identity ( Evil Ed ) - Blunted Bumpkin Buskers

2008-08-14T15:45:00.000+01:00

Back in 93/94 i heard a tune played on Kiss FM that made me nod my head like the Churchill dog and smirk like chesser cat on lsd...it twas a tune by a group i had never heard of called Hidden Identity, i was hooked and needed to hear more.
Lets let Evil Ed tell you more...

As I was involved in this E.P. as one half of Hidden Identity (DJ & Producer) alongside MC Mistima I thought I'd add a few notes about the record...

This is the 2nd EP on the Pure Rudeness label. The first I don't even have a copy of anymore, but it featured MC Undercover from Hackney and Handsworth's MP Rawality (a female MC).

The Hidden identity E.P. was recorded and mixed in a few days back in 1993 in a studio in Oswestry where the Pure Rudeness label honcho Tee used to work. Me and Mistima had made very loose demo versions of the tracks and we had all our samples and cuts ready, Mistima brought his rhyme books and just pieced various lyrics together there and then in the mic booth.

It was fun getting Mistima to do the back-up's, there's one scream he did that me and Tee made him do around 20 times until he got it how we wanted.

It says on the label 'Produced by Tee' although I did the production, if you can call it that. Apart from 'Pure Rudeness' all the samples are jacked from other records. Pure Rudeness is my first proper production on wax ie. an original sample over a drum loop. We also used a sound bite from 'Made In Britain' as the intro to that track. Skinny man used the same film for vocal skits on his LP more recently.

I also rap on this track and regret that now as even though I was never the best MC out there I had really bad flu when we did it and it sounded very poor.

Tee engineered the tracks with me live. We sat for hours at the mixing desk experimenting with EQ & Efx and every time we made a mistake ie. forgot to drop the beat out or add delay we'd have to go back to the top of the track.

Before the vinyl was out the tracks "Big Hed 4 Da Dred" & "Return Ov Da Red Eye" were played by DJ 279 on Choice and Max & Dave on Kiss FM. They played it off a cassette tape every week for months before the vinyl was out and it eventually dropped on wax around May 1994.

This is a UK Hip Hop classic...

Tracklisting:
A1 Return Of Da Red Eye
A2 Big Head 4 Da Dread
B1 Pure Rudeness
B2 I Tink Were In Trubble

Get it Here (rapidshare link)
Or
Here (sendspace link)

Gatsby The Great - Falling Up

2008-07-23T18:34:00.000+01:00

Gatsby The Great is a writer/director/emcee from South Jersey.

This album is incredible.

Although it sounds more like a collection of songs, more of a mixtape than an album - the lyrical quality and consistency of the rhymes alone prevent it from being labelled something as plain as a 'mixtape.'

Right from the intro, it's clear that Gatsby is a very talented and hungry emcee, spitting one verse over a head nodding beat that sounds like a hip hop version of Lawrence Of Arabia.

Although some of the beats, samples, or drum sounds sounded familiar it really is the lyrical precision and attention to detail which shine through especially on the title track 'Falling Up,' which also happens to be one of the albums best, in respect to both the beat and lyrics. The track is basically a list of contradictions, but done in a very clever way that has you rewinding every bar to double check.

Another thing i liked about the album was the variety of hip hop on display. A nice old school feel on 'The Rythm' with a catchy hook, pure underground ferocity on the Intro, and a more mainstream accessible track in the form of 'Feelin Good.'

'Falling Up,' definitely deserves a good couple of listens through and Gatsby desrves a Myspace add, so i suggest that if you don't have the album or you don't have Gatsby as a friend on Myspace, you solve both of those problems here and now -

Get the album HERE

Add Gatsby HERE

Gordon Bennet Records - Promo Mixtape

2008-07-15T18:36:00.000+01:00

Gordon Bennett Records is an independent label based in East Anglia, in The U.K specialising in Hip Hop & Electronic music. The label was created in mid 2007, and as stated on the lables Myspace - "has been influenced by many labels & artists from the days when, not just Hip Hop but all music was striving, to today where Hip Hop is supposedly "dead." Many still push to keep music alive, others do not. GBR wishes to help bring it back & reignite the positive energy and provide lots of different sounds from different artists. With a positive yet comical outlook we hope to release some great music from some exceptional artists, with future plans to branch out to some other genres of music."

Up for download in todays post is the labels 12 track Promotional Mixtape, featuring tracks from resident artists -

Crow Stick, Raptilian, Purple Turkey, The Lounge Lizard, Chuck Dangerfield and Diagnostik.

Standout track for me is 'Take The Sun Away' by Diagnostik, a more than ample lyricist over a head nodding beat with a dope bassline and a free flowing hook.

Overall, the beats and general collection of tracks featured fuse nicely and yet are different enough to play to the label of 'mixtape.'

Instrumental tracks courtesy of Lounge Lizard break up vocal tracks nicely and leaves the listener waiting for what's coming next.

An impressive album showcasing this labels blatant talent, can't wait to hear more.

Get it HERE

Gordon Bennett Website

Gordon Bennett Myspace

Mi5 - Jargon, Prince Valiant and Dilligence

2008-07-02T23:38:00.000+01:00

Mi5 are a team of professional spitmen made up of Jargon, Prince Valiant and Diligence.
All 3 emcees bring some of the best punchlines to the table...its criminal that their not bigger then they are.

Jargon is one half of Natural Born Spittaz alongside Mystro and when their tunes drop it gonna cause waves in the world of Hip Hop! I can honestly say i haven't been this excited about a groups LP since ... i don't even know when.
The first time i saw Prince Valiant was freestyling at Deal Real Records (the original one) and he SMASHED IT!!
Alas i've never met Dilligence and cant even find a picture of him!

But for now check out the 3 tracks from Mi5 Zshare link HERE

Massive shout to Jargon for blessing us with these tunes.

Jargons Myspace for more exclusives HERE

PLUS - Check out Max Thief featuring MI5 - 'Grimey'

PLUS - Prince Valiant Freestyle

London Posse - Live Like The Other Half Do (Live on MTV)

2008-06-28T16:38:00.000+01:00

Oh my giddy aunt, this tune sums up my summer back in 1989 / 1990.
The tune still makes me nod me head and do that silly screw face grin.
From the plunky piano to Bionic chirping a little snigger laugh or hiccup on the first verse.

I chat to newbies who say they love UK Hip Hop but have never heard of London Posse - Hijack - Gunshot - Mc Mell'o before...shame on you.

Live and Learn.

DEAD RESIDENTS AND OPTIMAS PRIME 'BOOGALOO'

2008-06-26T22:45:00.000+01:00

Whoop I Forgot to add this video to the Junior Disprol post...

Its the video for their banger tune 'BOOGALOO' from the Drop ep...directed by Ryan Andrews and it stands head and shoulders above most that i've seen!

We aim to add a video a day from a UK artist, maybe a old classic or a brand spanking new one.

If you've got any recommendations give us a shout.

But for now TURN UP YOUR SPEAKERS!!!

Firepower - Gunshot, Task Force, Bury Crew, Jhest and Evil Ed

2008-06-25T21:14:00.000+01:00

Yet another rare posse cut this time from Disorda's Uk Hustlers Vol 6.
The story goes like this....i was over Mercury's (from Gunshot) house just for a chin wag with the rest of the Gunshot crew and i slipped in a cassette that Evil Ed had sent to me and this beat came on and stopped Mercury mid speech and asked 'Who's this?' i told him about Ed and how he had produced one of my favorite EPs (Blunted Bumpkin Buskers) in 1993, and while telling him Alkaline and Barry Blue both came in and asked the same question...they all wanted the beat! So i gave Mercury Eds number and he phoned him and Ed thought it was me on a wind up. Anyhoo they spoke a few more times and decided that they were gonna use it for the UK Hustlers tape for Disorda.
Then the idea to ask Task Force to jump on it too came up and they blessed it and added the Bury Crews Nocturnal for good measure!
When ED came down to record it he brought along a young man called Jehst, the only time i had heard of Jehst at that time was from a verse he had done on a tape for DJ Supra. I said to the Gunshot boys that they should get him on the track and because hes the bollox and they said ok and Jehst wrote the verse there and then and SMASHED IT!

Its still one on my favorite verses in Hip Hop!

And to top of the final track Farma got his son ( called Man Cub at the time) on the intro.

This tune will make you nod your head like a whore with parkinsons.

DOWNLOAD IT HERE

Junior Disprol & Evil Ed - Junq Waffle

2008-06-24T23:12:00.000+01:00

Evil Ed, Junior Disprol, Jehst, Skelaton and Alkaline

Back in 1999 - 2000 in a flat in East London 5 true school Hip Hop artists got their heads together and (in my eyes and ears) made one of the best posse cuts to come out of the UK scene.

The beats were molded by Evil Ed and the lyrics crafted by Junior Disprol ( Dead Residents ) Alkaline ( Gunshot ) Jehst and Skelaton.

Only released on 7" vinyl and limited to only a few hundred...it was recorded in true low budget style with the mic being attacted to a clothes horse with a home made pop shield and put in the hall way for better sound, the over dubs were done in the living room with me holding the mic up in the circle of emcees!

Twas a good day.

Grab it HERE

Also give props to the artists : Junior Diprol myspace
Evil Ed myspace
Alkaline myspace
Jehst myspace
Skelaton via Designer Anoraks myspace

Dj Pager The Running Man Vol 2

2008-06-24T18:22:00.000+01:00

Dj Pager hits us with another banger of a mix cd, part 2 of the Running Man collection is full to the brim with 100% full phat tunes and exclusives.
Check the line up then download this mofo then please leave feedback.

DJ PAGER THE RUNNING MAN MIX VOL: 2
Tracklisting:
1. RUNNING MAN INTRO
2. JIBBARISH – DO OUR THING *
3. STRANGE FRUIT PROJECT – MILK EM (Remix Instr)/ JAY DEE & PHAT KAT – GAME OVER (Acapella)
4. THE ROOTS – GET BUSY 5. KASHMERE – WHAT WOULD HAPPEN?
6. DJ PAGER FEAT: DJ TERROR – LIVE AND DIRECT
7. SKYZOO, COPYWRITE & PACEWON – INSIDE OUT
8. DJ SPINNA – GOAT (Instr)
9. BUSTA RYHMES – DILLAGENCE
10. TERMINOLOGY, ROYCE DA 5’9, CROOKED I, AKROBATIK & CONSEQUENCE – THE INDUSTRY (Remix)
11. BLACK MILK – SOUND OF THE CITY (Instr)
12. IRONBRIDGE – THE MISSION *
13. MR G – CHECK ONE TWO *
14. RZA FEAT: INSPECTAH DEK – YOU CAN’T STOP ME NOW
15. BIG BOI, RAEKWON & ANDRE 3000 – ROYAL FLUSH
16. J-LIVE FEAT: ODDISEE & POSDNOUS – THE UPGRADE
17. ILL-SON – BIGGA (Instr)/ AKROBATIK FEAT: TALIB KWELI – PUT YA STAMP ON IT (Acapella)
18. LMNO & KEV BROWN – THE CAUSE
19. VERB T & FLIPTRIX – ALTERNATE TAKES
20. JEHST & MICALL PARKNSON – THE MISSION

* Tracks 2, 12 and 13 Produced by DJ Pager

Download it HERE

Check out the Major Pager HERE

Evil Ed - The Enthusiast

2008-06-23T19:14:00.000+01:00

Evil Ed is a producer, originally from Huddersfield in the U.K. Ed became interested in being a Hip Hop/scratch DJ in 1984 and started making Hip Hop tracks in 1985.

'The Enthusiast,' released in 2004 is flawless. The tracklisting reads like a who's who of the best of British Hip-Hop, with such names as Yungun, Jehst, Asaviour, Kyza, Tommy Evans, Microdisiacs and loads more.

The beats (all of which are made by Ed, who lends his scratching to a few tracks also) flow nicely, each one leading to the next smoothly and none sounding out of place - this really is a perfect album. Everyone involved has certainly done their job, from Ed's well structured and emotive beat for the Microdisiacs track ''Great Expectations,'' to Doc Browns reminiscing of days passed on ''Think Back,'' and The Colony's catchy hook on ''Branded.''

A fine example of a more than valid reason why British Hip-Hop should be out there, marketed, promoted and sold more, because this is music that people need to hear.

TRACKLIST -

01 - Intro (The Enthusiast) Ft. Eddie Scratch
02 - The Ed Zone Ft. Jehst
03 - Nico Suave Ft. Yungun aka Essa
04 - Warm Things Up (skit)
05 - A New Way Of Thinking Ft. Ricochet
06 - Black Stallions Ft. Kyza
07 - Sweeney Todd Ft. Ah Fly (Skit)
08 - Branded Ft. The Colony
09 - The Cavalry Ft. Tommy Evans, Ricochet, Yungun, Jibbarish, Doc Brown and D.Ablo
10 - Alive (Skit)
11 - Have You 4Gotten Ft. Lost Souls
12 - Captains Of... Ft. A-Love
13 - The Audio Obstacle Course Ft. Eddie Scratch and DJ Index
14 - Raw Spuds Ft. Probe Mantis and Junior Disprol
15 - Playin The Game Ft. Asavious
16 - Experts Ft. Mr Thing
17 - Think Back Ft. Doc Brown
18 - Lesson (Skit)
19 - Life's A Struggle Ft. Mic Assassin and Tommy Evans

Get it HERE

Iron Bridge - Toilet Humour

2008-06-16T18:45:00.000+01:00

This album is by far my favourite album to come out of Essex and more importantly the UK.
That may sound like a strong statement, and i may be slightly biased towards Essex hip hop, but after a listen to 'Toilet Humour' i'm pretty sure you will share my view.

Produced mainly by fellow South East native, and regular Iron Bridge collaborator Ill-Son, and featuring DJ Pager, 'Ron Compost', Headzache, Tekneek, Blokey, and Shain Caw, The beats are like nothing else you've heard, the lyrics nasty and the concepts dope.

Download it HERE
Add Iron Bridge on MYSPACE

VIDEO FOR ''GET UP''

* Apologies for the poor scan of the album cover..i have no excuse, just - sorry.

Metabeats

2008-06-12T21:24:00.000+01:00

Metabeats is a hip hop producer, (and an ill one at that) based in the unlikely hip hop stronghold of Cardiff, whose debut album Metaphysical is already being named as one of the hip hop albums of the year.

When asked how and when he got into production during an interview with Celtic Hip Hop, he had this to say -

''The production side of things woulda been around the start of the millennium. i had been djing for a while before that and wanted to get on the other side of the speakers...I had a broad musical upbringing as far as the music I was listening to is concerned.''

You can check out more of Metabeats on his Myspace page HERE

And, judging by the following quotes, you definitely need to stop by HERE and buy the album.

UKHH said - "a better name would've been “The Best EP”, as frankly this spanks other extended players until they’re redder than a sunburned arse."

Big Cheese Magazine said - “Metaphysical is a deep plunge into a creative pool that sees organic sounding drums and horn samples weave their way around stellar rhymes … (that) seep out of the speakers like syrup, a treat for the ears.”

Till you head over to your nearest audio product outlet, watch these videos...bitches.

''LIVE AND LET LIVE'' -

''FUCK WITH ME'' -