Phil Ade "Deadlines" [2011]

New single from Phil Ade just received some visual treatment. Check it out...

Big K.R.I.T. (Last King 2: God's Machine (Mixtape)) [2011]

Not as good as Big K.R.I.T.'s last release, but it is a mixtape and that is sometimes to be expected. Nonetheless, here are a few that stood out:

2. The Big Payback (Prod. by Big K.R.I.T.)


6. Pimps (Remix) Feat. 2 Chainz & Bun B


8. Fulla Shit Feat. Yelawolf & RITTZ [SKIP THROUGH THE CHORUS]


22. Rotating Valets (DJ Breakem Off Mix) Feat. Wiz Khalifa & Bun B

Kendrick Lamar (Section.80) [2011]

People are all about this album. Now I'm not saying the man isn't talented (even though his style is a little different), I just would like to have heard an album with better beats because his flow can be ridiculous if the beat allows it! Just listen to his potential... he reminds me of an angry Kanye West but with a quicker tongue.

2. Hol' Up


3. A.D.H.D [Official Music Video]


12. Rigamortis


14. Blow My High (Members Only)


16. HiiiPower [Official Music Video]

Madlib (Shades of Blue) [2003]

Apparently I have never posted anything from Madlib on this blog, or anything by his other monikers: Mind Altering Demented Lessons In Beats, Quasimoto, or one half of the duo of Madvillain. So here, this is one of his earlier releases in which he teams up with Blue Note Records to remix a set of old jazz records. I absolutely love this style of music and having not listened to it for so long, I forgot how great it really was. The addition of a few hip-hop elements into classic jazz is always a good idea. Definitely check this out if you haven't before:

3. Distant Land


4. Mystic Bounce


7. Please Set Me At Ease (Hip Hop Mix)

Kids These Days "Clear Eyes" [2011]

Just came across this brand new Kids These Days single. It is alright, super mellow...

Clear Eyes (Prod. by Blended Babies)

Dom Kennedy (From the Westside With Love II (Mixtape)) [2011]

Haven't listened to any track but New Jeeps...

13. New Jeeps ft. Asher Roth & Mikey Rocks (Prod. by Chuck Inglish)

Rockie Fresh & Casey Veggies "Duckin N Dodgin" [2011]

Here's a new single from Rockie Fresh & Casey Veggies, neither of which I know anything about. The beat is dank, but the lyrics could certainly be better.

Duckin N Dodgin

LCD Soundsystem (This is Happening) [2010]

This is the best LCD Soundsystem full-length album ever released, and Dance Yrself Clean is the jam!

1. Dance Yrself Clean

LCD Soundsystem (Sound of Silver) [2007]

This is my favorite LCD Soundsystem track and it is off of Sound of Silver, which wasn't their best album weirdly enough.

5. Someone Great

LCD Soundsystem "45:33" [2006]

If you've never heard LCD Soundsystem, you've certainly been in the dark. Now may be too late to start becoming a fan (as they recently broke up), but they're still amazing and their music deserves to be posted. Here is a 45 minute 58 second long track composed by James Murphy (the group's creator) as part of a promotional Nike run mix entitled "45:33" and don't be surprised if you get lost in it. The only way for me to provide links to it is in parts and there are no links available to the last 20 minutes of the song...sorry.

Part 1 (Ignore the youtube titles, they're wrong)


Part 2 (Ignore the youtube titles, they're wrong)


Part 3 (Ignore the youtube titles, they're wrong)

G-Eazy (The Endless Summer (Mixtape)) [2011]

I've been listening to G-Eazy's music for a while now but haven't posted anything because none of his tracks are ever really 5 stars. However, he just put out this mixtape together with some of his better attempts at music. The problem with his music is that he sometimes comes across as childish or it sounds like he is trying to make his voice raspier than it really is. Beats are nice though...

3. Runaround Sue


5. Make-Up Sex


7. All I Could Do (Sample from LCD Soundsystem's Dance Yourself Clean)


8. Waspy


10. Run ft. Team Robot

Jay-Z & Kanye West (Watch The Throne) [2011]

Definitely better than Jay-Z and Kanye West's last albums. Take a listen...

3. Niggas in Paris


5. Gotta Have It


7. That's My Bitch


9. Who Gon' Stop Me


10. Murder to Excellence

B.o.B aka Bobby Ray "High Life" [2011]

New single from Bobby Ray on his asian adventures...

High Life

Coughee Brothaz (Fresh Brew) [2011]

In 2007, Devin the Dude (Devin Copeland) launched his own record label, Coughee Brothaz Music, which allowed him the ability to release independent music. The Coughee Brothaz travel around on tour with him and are basically his backup sound, as well as a promotional label to launch the careers of other artists, groups, and producers. Check out some of the more well crafted tracks from their 3rd studio album Fresh Brew:

2. Blunts and Pens


3. Got Bills to Pay


8. Who Got That Funk? (Sorry No Link Available)

14. I Love Gettin Stoned

Honors English "Flying High ft. Lupe Fiasco & TL Cross" [2011]

So this dude got lucky and made an OK beat THEN copped a semi-dope verse from Lupe. This track doesn't have a home yet, but I'll let you know when the album/mixtape comes out. According to English, “This song emanates from the emotions found in the horns. The mood of the instruments seems to elevate me to a higher place every time they reach my ears. At once smooth and triumphant, this record is a mantra for achievement and inspiration and the core of why I make music.” I didn't really feel that way, but you can be the judge...

Flying High ft. Lupe Fiasco & TL Cross (Prod. by Needlz)

GLC "Get Paper Stack Change ft. Cory Mo" [2011]

Here's a fresh leak of a yet to be released mixtape from GLC and producers Blended Babies called Cathedral. This track has an old school vibe to it, which is nice to kickback to.

Get Paper Stack Change ft. Cory Mo

Foster The People (Torches) [2011]

Normally I wouldn't post anything from an Indie Pop Band, but "Pumped Up Kicks" is stuck in my head so I felt it was only fitting that it get stuck in your head too. Though I don't know much about this band I do know this is their first studio album.

1. Helena Beat


2. Pumped Up Kicks

DJ Day (Way Out Of Living (Mixtape)) [2011]

If you like music that oozes talent and musical ability, then you will love this chill-out mix by DJ Day. I don't even know what else to say, it's that good.

Free Download from DJ Day

Or Just Listen To It Here

Tracklist (Great source for new artists):
1. Lord Echo – Sword Cane
2. Javelin – Tell Me What It Will Be
3. Cro Magnon – The Boxer
4. The Eliminators – Loving Explosion
5. Major Ernie – Pon Di Girls (Bird Peterson Remix)
6. Ray Camacho & The Teardrops – Si Si Puede (LOA Remix)
7. Toni Tornado - Podes Crer Amizade
8. A Bossa Eletrica – Sob a Luz Do Sol
9. Fudge Fingas – Getting Together
10. Linear Movement – Way Out of Living
11. Lee Perry – Jungle Lion
12. The Bees – Got to Let Go
13. La Tromba - Calaba Calabao
14. The Hackney Colliery Band – Africa
15. Super 3 – Standing on the Top (DJ Day edit)
16. Charanga 76 – Good Times
17. Logg - I Know You Will (JM After-Session M&M Mix)
18. Darryl Douglas Inc.- Holding On
19. Levek – Look On the Bright Side

Kids These Days (Hard Times (EP)) [2010]

This could be the best unsigned, live band I've ever heard. Hailing from Chicago, Kids These Days have been blowing away audiences at smaller venues like Reggie’s, Hideout and Subterranean with their very unique sound. "With three horns, a rapper, a blues-rock trio and a female singer, K.T.D. blends a wide range of influences -- hip-hop, jazz, soul, blues, and classic rock -- into a unique, fresh sound that breaks boundaries while honoring America’s musical heritage."
The members (all trained musicians and all in their teens) consist of Vic Mensa (rapper), Macie Stewart (female lead and background vocals), Liam Cunningham (guitar and male lead vocals), Lane Beckstrom (bass), Greg Landfair (drums), Nico Segal (trumpet), J.P. Floyd (trombone), and Rajiv Halim (saxophone).

Checkout these tracks from this EP:

1. Hard Times (Sorry No Link Available)

2. Darling


3. Summerscent


4. My Days


5. Be (A Night In Tunisia) (Live Version)


6. Walking Down The Line (Sorry No Link Available)

Phil Ade (The Letterman (Mixtape)) [2010]

More from Phil, an older mixtape this time...

1. The Letter


3. Unusual

Chiddy Bang (Peanut Butter And Swelly (Mixtape)) [2011]

Members: Chiddy & Xaphoon Jones (Producer)
Though I'm still awaiting their studio album release, this mixtape with all the rejects will do for now. Chiddy takes the opportunity to make many references to his new Guinness World Record for "the longest freestyle rap". I just finished my first run through and here are the tracks I'd listen to a second time, which is more than I can say for most mixtapes these days.

1. Cameras


4. Too Much Soul


6. Guinness Flow


7. I Can't Stop (Freestyle)


8. Jacuzzi / Lost In The Vapors


9. High As The Ceiling (ft. eLDee The Don)


13. Nobody Has It Down

Phil Ade (Starting on JV (Mixtape)) [2009]

Here is Phil Ade's debut mixtape. You can tell there is room for improvement, but he is steering in the right direction...

2. Disco Flow


4. Going Off

Phil Ade (#PhilAdeFriday) [2011]

Genre: Hip Hop / Lyrical
Check out this up and coming hip hop artist from DC with a laid-back flow. He has been putting out a track every Friday (in other words this is not a studio album or a mixtape) to keep his fans interested and in the loop. These beats may not be originals but Phil's lyrics have their moments or at least I think so...

1. This Feelin' (Freestyle)


2. Phillin 'Em


3. Break Me Off


5. After Party (Freestyle)


6. Never Left (Guess Who's Back Freestyle)


7. Watchu Want Phil (prod. by Sunny Norway)

OutKast (Big Boi and Dre Present...OutKast) [2001]

I do realize that 2001 was a long time ago, but I haven't posted any OutKast on this blog yet so shut up and listen. While there are other good tracks on this greatest hits compilation, I've only posted the one that received little to no radio play (possibly the best one as well)...

2. Funkin' Around

Xaphoon Jones (The Xaphoon Jones (Mixtape) Vol. 1) [2009]

Now I'm not a big mash-up fan but I know how many people out there love Chiddy Bang. So I'm posting some of the more noticeable tracks from Xaphoon's first mash-up mixtape for everyone to experience. By the way Xaphoon Jones is Chiddy Bang's producer...

2. You Need (Mashup: Clipse & Led Zepplin)


4. Testify (Mashup: Radiohead & Kanye West)


13. I Wanna Know Now (Mashup: Bob Marley & MGMT)

Devin The Dude (To Tha X-Treme) [2004]

Skipped over this track off this less than perfect Devin album. Just put it back into rotation...

14. The Funk ft. Eightball

Jazz Spastiks (12 Bit Spit) [2010]

Members: Coco D & Mr Manyana
Just discovered this Scottish hip hop duo that has an old school tribe kind of a feel. I believe this is their debut album but it seems like these guys have been making music for a while...

2. Penpusha ft. Selph Conscious


4. Yes, Yes ft. Rebels to the Grain (Sorry No Link)

8. Unkutfresh ft. Rebels to the Grain


13. Buzzin ft. Wes Restless & The Primeridian

Star Slinger (Volume 1) [2010]

Here is a dope, beat tape from Manchester producer Star Slinger. Other than the intro I can't say anything really grabbed me but you can decide for yourself...

1. Mornin'

Damu The Fudgemunk & Buff1 (Limited Edition 7" Vinyl) [2011]

I've always loved Damu's production and now that he's teamed up with Buff1 for a more on-point flow, I had to hit you guys with this 2 track vinyl...there is only one link though...

Truly Get Yours & When the Winter Comes

TM Juke (Forward) [2006]

Yeah so I just kinda skipped through this album (not because I don't like TM, I'm just short on time) but I definitely felt intrigued by this one...

4. Bee's On Mars (Sorry No Link)

Common "Follow Me" [Unreleased]

Not much more than a week ago Common hit us with this previously unreleased record which was produced by another well-respected Chicagoan Kanye West. Might as well add this one to the collection...

Chiddy Bang (The Swelly Life REJECTS) [2011]

For those of you that can't wait for Chiddy Bang's new album "The Swelly Life" to drop...here are two web-released tracks that did not make the cut. Listen to them, don't worry its not a waste of time just because they are rejects.

Rebel


Baby Roulette ft. Train

Big K.R.I.T. (Return of 4Eva (Mixtape)) [2011]

Now Big K.R.I.T. has been making some noise lately and getting his name out there in the music world. Some have been comparing his style to UGK, which is understandable when you hear "R4 Theme Song". This mixtape leaves a little to be desired towards the later half, but I'd say Big K.R.I.T. has the right idea.

3. R4 Theme Song


4. Dreamin'


5. Rotation

6. My Sub

Asher Roth & Nottz (The Rawth (EP)) [2011]

So I know that Asher Roth thinks he is cooler than he actually is and I have no clue who Nottz is, but I can't seem to get this track outta my head. It could be because the beat is catchy, the lyrics ring true, there isn't a lot of good music being made right now, or the video is kinda dope.

2. Gotta Get Up ft. D.A. of Chester French

Theophilus London (Lovers Holiday (EP)) [2011]

Alright so I've been listening to this dude's music for a while now and haven't really liked anything he's done. Maybe its because Mr. London is too adventurous for me, but I do like the production on this track off his most recent EP.

3. Girls Girls $

Xaphoon Jones (The Xaphoon Jones Mixtape Volume 2) [2011]

Just grabbed this mixtape from producer Xaphoon Jones (the non-rhyming half of Chiddy Bang) and immediately had to post the ones that caught my attention on my first run through.

2. Lights Out (prod. by Xaphoon Jones)


3. The Good Life ft. Kanye West & T Pain (Xaphoon Jones Remix)


4. One Step Ahead ft. Aretha Franklin (Empire State Riddim)


10. Apple Juice Break Pt. 2 Ft. Gerald Walker


11. The Jackson Pit (A Mashup of Passion Pit & The Jackson 5)

Man Mantis (Sea Ambulance (EP)) [2011]

Though this post may not be to the average hip-hop listener's liking, I definitely think this Madison, Wisconsin producer deserves some recognition. In Madison he is a major presence in their local music scene and you can see why when you listen to this track off of his 2011 release Sea Ambulance (EP).

1. Sea Ambulance

Chip Tha Ripper (Gift Raps (Mixtape)) [2011]

I'm not impressed with this mixtape really, but I do like this particular track because of the tweak video. I'm sure you will too...

2. Light One Up

TM Juke (Maps From The Wilderness) [2003]

Genre: Electronica / Hip-Hop / Soul
Here is a 2003 release from this dope artist out of Brighton, UK. His music is basically a downtempo trip-hop and I thoroughly enjoy it.

1. Knee Deep ft. Alice Russell & Jim Oxborough


2. Just for a Day (Sunday)


5. Playground Games

The Foreign Exchange (Connected) [2004]

Members: Phonte & Nicolay (Producer)
This is the one and only Foreign Exchange album that I like. Nicolay's production is top notch on this album. Notable artists that appear on this album include Von Pea, Big Pooh, Phonte, Oddisee, Kenn Starr, Critically Acclaimed, and Darien Brockington.

2. Von Sees ft. Von Pea


4. Hustle Hustle ft. Critically Acclaimed


5. Let's Move ft. Big Pooh


6. Nic's Groove ft. Big Pooh


10. The Answer ft. Oddisee, Sean Boog & Kenn Starr


12. Happiness ft. Big Pooh

B-Lones "My Hometown" [2010]

Not sure if lyrically this video deserves to be up here, but I'm posting it anyways because the beat is dope (it has an Adele sample in it that I've heard remixed many times), the MC is apparently from Evanston (My Hometown), and the video is shot right outside Evanston Township High School.

Exile & DJ Day "D Train Routine" [2009]

I wish I was in Amsterdam jamming to a live performance by Exile and DJ Day. Exile is always fresh and DJ Day ain't bad either.

Alphabethead "Shakuhatchi Hyperglide" [2010]

Check out this tweak, live performance by this relatively unknown DJ i just came across. Alphabethead sure knows how to use them turntables!

Mello Music Group (Helpless Dreamer) [2010]

Producers: Oddisee & Apollo Brown
Vocals: Diamond District (Oddisee, yU & X-O), Finale, Kenn Starr, Stik Figa, Tranqill, & Has-Lo.
I just got this album and after a few more listens may post more tracks, but there is one that definitely stands out from the rest. And of course my man Oddisee is on the beats and rhymes this time...

5. Different Now ft. Toine (prod. by Oddisee)

Chris Brown "Look At Me Now ft. Busta Rhymes & Lil' Wayne" [2011]

I can pretty much guarantee that this is the only Chris Brown track you will ever see up on here. The beat is nuts and Busta Rhymes brings so much energy to this track that I just had to post it.

k-os (Joyful Rebellion) [2004]

More k-os? Yes please!

5. B-Boy Stance


7. The Love Song


9. Clap Ur Handz

k-os (Yes!) [2009]

Check it...

1. Zambony


6. 4 3 2 1 (Sorry Embedding is Disabled)

7. Eye Know Something (Yes!) ft. Becky Ninkovic

k-os (Exit) [2002]

I can't believe I had never heard this cat before a week ago. He's from Canada and has a style that parallels that of Zion I and Pete Philly. His music is all over the place and can be hit or miss, but there are definitely more than a few hits. He combines hip-hop, soul, funk, reggae, and other genres of music to give you an experience you won't soon forget. I will be posting more albums by him soon but here are the better tracks off his first studio album (Exit):

5. Superstarr Pt 1 (Yoshua's Song) (Sorry No Link)

6. Freeze


7. The Anthem


9. Higher


10. Masquerade ft. Kamau (Sorry No Link)

PNS & Zavala (Canciones Modernas Vinyl) [2009]

Check out the second half of this album, which features soothing and stimulating instrumentals from an up and coming, Chicago producer named Alex Zavala. If I were you I would skip the tracks by PNS as the beats are kind of flat (boring). I think Zavala has quite the potential, especially in Chicago, but he just needs to steer clear of some of the local MCs that distort his sound.

6. The City is Mine


7. Mal Momento


8. Devon Ave


9. Sin Esfuerzo


10. The Cincinatti Bears

Lupe Fiasco (Lasers) [2011]

After listening to this album my mind has been racing. It is clear that Lupe's record label is as greedy as any other major label today, especially when in a recent interview Lupe was quoted saying he "hates" lasers (because of his record label's involvement). It seems like any time I find a dope artist they tend to blow up, which in my mind severely handicaps their ability to control the direction of their music. After listening to Lasers in its entirety, you can hear how much pop, techno, and random bitches singing hooks have been added to broaden Lupe's audience, which is not necessarily the sound I was waiting all these years to hear. I hope Lupe Fiasco leaves his record label and finds one that fosters his true musical ability. Regardless of my overall feeling of the album, I still have my favorites, and here they are:

1. Letting Go ft. Sarah Green (prod. by The Future)


3. Till I Get There (prod. by Needlz)


4. I Don't Wanna Care Right Now ft. MDMA (prod. by The Audibles)


5. Out Of My Head ft. Trey Songz (prod. by Miykal Snoddy)


6. The Show Goes On (prod. by Kane Beatz)


7. Beautiful Lasers (2Ways) ft. MDMA (prod by The Future)


8. Coming Up ft. MDMA (prod by The Future)


11. All Black Everything (prod. by Wizzo Buchanan)

Kid Cudi (A Kid Named Cudi (Mixtape)) [2008]

This was the first Kid Cudi release I ever heard and he definitely was a breath of fresh air into the world of hip-hop in 2008.

5. Man on the Moon (The Anthem) (prod. by NOSAJTHING)


7. Day n Nite (prod. by Dot Da Genius)


8. Embrace the Martian ft. Kid Cudi (Original Artist: Crookers)


16. Cleveland is the Reason (prod. by Dot Da Genius)

Zion I (True And Livin') [2005]

Members: Baba Zumbi & AmpLive
This duo is from Oakland, California and definitely represent the Bay well. Here is their third album, which I used to bump 24/7 when it came out.

2. Doin' My Thang


3. Bird's Eye View


4. The Bay


9. Temperature ft. Talib Kweli

One Be Lo (S.O.N.O.G.R.A.M.) [2005]

One Be Lo makes up the better half of the former rap duo Binary Star. This album is his second studio release and is definitely his best so far. S.O.N.O.G.R.A.M. is composed by the production team The' Trackezoids (One Be Lo, Magestik Legend, Decompoze & Chic Masters).

3. enecS eht no kcaB


7. The Ghetto


8. Axis


18. E.T.


20. Rocketship


22. Follow My Lead

Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley (Welcome to Jamrock) ]2005]

I was just looking for some newer reggae to post and then came across this album from 2005. This one isn't very hard to find but I figure there are some people who may enjoy this post. Rip Bob Marley...

3. Welcome to Jamrock


4. The Master Has Come Back


5. All Night ft. Stephen Marley


11. Road to Zion ft. Nas


14. Khaki Suit ft. Bounty Killer & Eek-a-mouse

Blu (And If You See The E Drop 'Em (Mixtape)) [2011]

Give this Blu mixtape a listen. Here are the more memorable ones...

4. Pour Another Glass ft. Blu (Original Artist: Presto) [2008]


6. Hi(gh) Music ft. Blu (Original Artist: Shingo Suzuki)


8. DreamLand ft. Blu (Original Artist: Andy Allo)


9. Life of a Lover (Remix) ft. Blu & Jesse Boykins III (Original Artist: Theophilus London)


12. Jazz (Tribute Remix) [Sorry No Link]

J. Rawls (The Liquid Crystal Project) [2006]

Enjoy this jazzy album from one of the smoothest producers out there...

2. The D Effect (Sorry No Link)

5. A Tribute to Dilla


6. Remember When (Sorry No Link)

10. A Tribute to Bobby


13. A Tribute to Troy

The Primeridian (Da Allnighta) [2005]

Members: Tree Tha Scarecrow & See-Me-On
These guys are from Chicago and they represent the underground scene well.

2. Floatin'


5. Trumpets of Zion (prod. by Stoney Rock)


6. Yeah, Yeah We Know (Sorry No Link)

8. Pose to Do


12. Off Tha Track

Wax Tailor (Tales of the Forgotten Melodies) [2005]

Wax Tailor is a French trip-hop and hip-hop producer. He has been in the game a long time but this 2005 release is his debut album. I think you will appreciate the musical journey he takes you on...

2. Que Sera


3. Ungodly Fruit

Eulorhythmics (Extended Play (EP)) [2006]

Members: Adad & Kenny Keys
I saw these guys live at the Abbey Pub years ago and bought this EP after the show. It is certainly worth listening to and these two are from the Chi (represent!)...

3. Blam! (Sorry No Link)

5. Listen


6. L.I.V.E (Sorry No Link)

Chiddy Bang (The Opposite of Adults (EP)) [2010]

Here is a really short mixtape by Chiddy Bang...not sure why it is so short...

1. Opposite of Adults (KIDS)


2. Chiddy Freestyle (aka Pro's Freestyle 1.0)


3. Sooner or Later

Chiddy Bang (Air Swell (A Mini-Mixtape)) [2010]

Members: Chiddy & Xaphoon Jones
I now present to you a mixtape Chiddy Bang did with UK artists such as the Gorillaz, Ellie Goulding, Hot Chip, Tinie Tempah and Kate Nash. Its dope...

2. Breakfast


3. Hey London


4. Pass Out (Freestyle)


6. Stylo Remix ft. Mos Def & Chiddy Bang [Original Artist: Gorillaz]

Chiddy Bang (The Swelly Express (Mixtape)) [2009]

Members: Chiddy & Xaphoon Jones
By now you have to know who Chiddy Bang is...here is their first mixtape ever!

1. Get Up In The Morning


3. Danger Zone


4. Fresh Like Us


11. Dream Chasin'


14. Decline

B.o.B aka Bobby Ray (The Adventures of Bobby Ray) [2010]

This album put B.o.B on the map commercially, probably because of all the soft stuff. Too many of the tracks from this album got played out on the radio unfortunately but here are the few that didn't:

3. Past My Shades ft. Lupe Fiasco (prod. by B.o.B)


9. Fame (prod. by The Knux)


11. 5th Dimention ft. Ricco Barrino (prod. by B.o.B, T.I., Lil' C)


15. I See Ya (Deluxe Edition Bonus Track) (prod. by DA Honorable C.N.O.T.E.)

Pete Philly (Open Loops) [2010]

Here is a brand new release from Pete Philly and despite recording it without the help of his associate Perquisite, he manages to put out a masterpiece.

2. Free


3. Changing


4. Non A Dem ft. Ziggi Recado


5. Remember You ft. Roos Jonker


6. Movin' On


7. US ft. Collective Efforts


9. R Hood


10. Truth Be Told


13. Movin' On with Benjamin Herman Quartet


14. Changing (SirOJ Remix)

Pete Philly & Perquisite (Mystery Repeats) [2007]

The first track of this album is insane! The rest is just super chill...definitely a good album to take a nap to.

1. Clap Kick Flow


2. Womb to Tomb


3. Fish to Fry


5. Believer


11. Third Degree


13. Empire


15. Mystery Repeats


16. Time Flies

Pete Philly & Perquisite (Mindstate) [2005]

I just heard this album for the first time and decided to post it ASAP. I love the vibe this Amsterdam duo gives off. Its like jazz, soul, and hip-hop all mixed together! Pete Philly is the MC and Perquisite is on the beats...

1. Intro


3. Insomnia


6. Lazy


9. Conflicted


14. Cheeky ft. Ceemajor

Lupe Fiasco (The Cool) [2007]

I saw Lupe Fiasco live in 2006 (before he blew up) and I knew then what I know now...that he is as rare as they come. 2 years later he put out this musical masterpiece and if you haven't heard it you must have had your head in the sand...

3. Go Go Gadget Flow (prod. Soundtrakk)


4. The Coolest (prod. Chris & Drop)


5. Superstar ft. Matthew Santos (prod. Soundtrakk)

6. Paris, Tokyo (prod. Soundtrakk)


8. Gold Watch (prod. Chris & Drop)


9. Hip-Hop Saved My Life ft. Nikki Jean (prod. Soundtrakk)

11. Streets On Fire ft. Matthew Santos (prod. Chris & Drop)


12. Little Weapon ft. Bishop G & Nikki Jean (prod. Patrick Stump)


14. Dumb It Down ft. Gemstones & Graham Burris (prod. Soundtrakk)


20. Blackout (Bonus track) (prod. Soundtrakk)

Lupe Fiasco "Shining Down ft. Matthew Santos" [2010]

It is hard to believe that a song this good has no album to call its home yet. We won't know till Lupe's next album is released whether or not it makes the cut. Either way this track is one of Lupe's finest...

Camp Lo (Uptown Saturday Night) [1997]

Members: Geechi Suede & Sonny Cheeba

2. Luchini AKA This Is It


6. Sparkle

14. Coolie High

Lupe Fiasco (Food & Liquor) [2006]

I can't wait till Lasers drops in the spring! Lupe Fiasco is hip-hop turned mainstream but still hip-hop...makes me proud! This album had a few tracks that were removed prior to its release, I've posted those too:

4. Kick Push (prod. by Soundtrakk)

5. I Gotcha ft. Pharrel Williams (prod. by Neptunes)

8. Sunshine (prod. by Soundtrakk)


9. Daydreamin' ft. Jill Scott (prod. by Soundtrakk)


10. The Cool (prod. by Craig Kallman)


11. Hurt Me Soul (prod. by Needlz)


12. Pressure ft. Jay-Z (prod. by Prolyfic)


14. The Emperor's Soundtrack (prod. by Soundtrakk)


17. Carrera Lu (limited edition bonus track) (prod. by Prolyfic)


18. Tilted (limited edition bonus track) (prod. by Needlz)


These 3 were removed from the album pre-release:

Make Sure


Spaze Out


What It Do


Ghetto Story (Steady Mobbin')

Devin The Dude (Suite 420) [2010]

Not a lot of hits on this album, but give these two a preview:

2. We Get High


7. What We Be On

Devin The Dude (Just Tryin' ta Live) [2002]

There aren't really any hits from this album when you compare them to this instant classic...probably my favorite DJ Premier beat.

11. Doobie Ashtray (prod. by DJ Premier)

Devin The Dude (Landing Gear) [2008]

What else can you say about these two that hasn't already been said?

1. In My Draws


7. Highway ft. Dee-Rail

Devin The Dude (Waitin' To Inhale) [2007]

Devin should be considered a comedian in addition to being an all in one hip-hop machine. He has been in the game a long time, doing big things, and this album is by far my favorite...

2. She Want The Money ft. Odd Squad


4. Hope I Don't Get Sick A Dis


5. What A Job ft. Snoop Dogg & Andre 3000


13. Somebody Else's Wife

B.o.B aka Bobby Ray "Fuck The Money ft. Wiz Khalifa" [2010]

“Fuck The Money” originally was on another B.o.B mixtape (May 25th), however he replaced Asher Roth and re-released it as a single (great decision in my mind).

Organized Konfusion "Wake Up Show Anthem '94" [1994]

Members: Prince Po & Pharoahe Monch
Featured Artists: Nas, Lauryn Hill, Ras Kass, Shyheim, Saafire & Dread Scott
Gotta love this single from 1994. Can you count the number of dope artists?

The Pharcyde (Sold My Soul: The Remix & Rarity Collection) [2005]

Check out this one track off of the 2005 remix album of the legendary group The Pharcyde.

8. Pandemonium

The Pharcyde (Bizzare Ride II The Pharcyde) [1992]

Members: Imani, Bootie Brown, Slimkid3 & Fatlip (prod. By: J-Swift)
As far as old school albums go, how can this not be one of the best of all time?

2. Oh Shit


5. I'm That Type of Nigga


7. Soul Flower (Remix)


11. Ya Mama


12. Passin Me By


15. Pack the Pipe

B.o.B aka Bobby Ray (B.o.B vs Bobby Ray (Mixtape)) [2009]

B.o.B knows whats up. Check these tracks out (already classics in my mind).

13. Satellite (prod. B.O.B)


15. Mr. Bobby (prod. B.O.B)


20. Put Me On (prod. B.O.B)

Exile (Radio) [2009] & Exile (AM/FM) [2010]

Exile has such a unique style I just love listening to his solo projects once in a while. It just so happens that my favorite track off his 2009 album (Radio) features Blu on it in Exile's 2010 album (AM/FM).

Radio:
13. Love Line


AM/FM:
13. Love Line (Remix) ft. Blu

Zion I (Atomic Clock) [2010]

Members: Baba Zumbi & AmpLive
Haven't had much of a chance to listen to this album but this one track stuck out plus I know there are a few Rebelution fans out there. When I get a chance I'll edit this post and maybe add a couple more from the album.

8. Many Stylez ft. Rebelution

Mac Miller (K.I.D.S.) [2010]

For a 17 year old kid I'd say Mac ain't bad but he definitely has plenty of room for improvement. The album is pretty much garbage but listen to these three tracks and let me know what you think.

4. Nikes On My Feet


14. Kool Aid & Frozen Pizza


18. La La La La (Bonus Track)

Damu The Fudgemunk (How It Should Sound, Volume 1 & 2) [2010]

Finally a release of everything Damu has been keeping secret from us....

2. Another Introduction (2007)


4. Clap & Form Your Soul (2007)


9. Its Called The Chill Out (2004)


10. Gone With The Sunset (2005)

Wiz Khalifa (Kush & Orange Juice (Mixtape)) [2010]

I never really liked Wiz, but I do like this mixtape (he should have released it as an album though).

1. Waken Baken


2. Mezmorized


5. The Statement


10. Never Been


13. Still Blazin

The Roots (How I Got Over) [2010]

This album was a complete 360 in terms of quality compared to their last album. Also, Blu somehow managed to get featured on some of their tracks, which really helps make the album.

4. Radio Daze ft. Blu, P.O.R.N. & Dice Raw


5. Now or Never ft. Phonte & Dice Raw


6. How I Got Over ft. Dice Raw


8. The Day ft. Blu, Phonte & Patty Crash


9. Right On ft. Joanna Newsome & STS


11. The Fire ft. John Legend

Hieroglyphics (Full Circle) [2003]

Members: Casual, Del tha Funkee Homosapien, Domino, Pep Love, & Souls of Mischief (A-Plus, Opio, Phesto, & Tajai)
This album is my favorite Hieroglyphics of all time, it may have been the first hip hop album that sparked my interest in real music.

2. Fantasy Island


3. Powers That Be


4. Make Your Move ft. Goapele


5. Shift Shape


6. Classic


8. Heatish


9. Halo


10. Love Flowin'


11. 100,000 Indi ft. Abstract Rude


16. 7 Sixes

Johnson & Jonson (Johnson & Jonson) [2008]

Members: Blu & Mainframe

3. Mama Told Me


5. Wow!


7. Spell Check ft. Gang Sign Language By Big D Menace (Sorry No Link)

Living Legends (The Gathering (EP)) [2008]

2. She Wants Me


7. After Hours (Extended Euromix)

U-N-I (Fried Chicken & Watermelon) [2008]

Members: Y-O & Thurzday
This album could use a bit more production and less repetition.

1. Intro


11. Castlevania


13. Beautiful Day

DJ Heat & Blu ((So)ul Amazing (Mixtape)) [2008]

Blu is always fire and DJ Heat comes up with a few interesting beats for this one.

2. Local Legends (prod. Flying Lotus)


3. Spanish Winter


6. Git It Now f. MoveMent & Trek


7. City Of Los(t) Ang(e)les ft. Co$$


9. Its Okay (Pt 1) ft. Myth & Definite


10. My Boy Blu


13. Mars (Remix)


14. Fly (Song of Liberation)

Tanya Morgan (The Bridge (EP)) [2008]

Members: Donwill, Ilyas & Von Pea

2. We Doin' Our...


4. Got 2 Get Done


5. Be You ft. Czelena


9. How Low

J. Rawls & John Robinson Presents Jay Are (The 1960's Jazz Revolution Again) [2009]

J. Rawls is a very smooth, jazz influenced producer.

2. It's Jay ARE (Sorry No Link Available)

3. Know U ft. Invizible Handz


10. 1 Of The Greatest

2 Hungry Bros (My Crew's All Thinner) [2009]

If you don't know who these guys are you better get on it.

4. Bed-Stuy Bullett Dodge ft. Fresh Daily & $trictly Busine$$


6. Glass House ft. 8thw1


12. Harlem Hendu ft. 8thw1


19. I Wanna Do Something Freaky To You ft. 8thw1 & Leon Haywood


21. Parallel Perpendicular ft. Homeboy Sandman


23. Te Conozco ft. Willie Colon

Oddisee (Mental Liberation) [2009]

Check out some hidden gems from one of my favorite producers:

1. Hip Hop's Cool Again


5. Q & A ft. Kenn Starr


6. Rhymes Get Written ft. Silent Knight & XO


8. Cold For That ft. Trek Life


11. Drugs Outside (Remix) Feat. Black Milk, Rapper Pooh & DJ Romes

Elzhi (The Leftovers Unmixedtape) [2009]

Elzhi is a newer member of Slum Village and after listening to this album he may be your favorite (current) member.

2. Deep


4. Like This


6. Glow


7. Living

Blame One (Days Chasing Days) [2009]

Now Blame One may not be a great MC, but lucky for him Exile does the production on this album.

5. Wonder Why ft. Blu & Exile (prod. by Blu)


6. Disturbed ft. Sean Price


7. Days Chasing Days ft. Aloe Blacc & Beleaf


8. Sat Night Special

Oddisee (Traveling Man) [2010]

Traveling Man is a solo project by the up and coming producer Oddisee. There aren't any rhymes over these beats but they are still quite elaborate.

8. Tokyo


9. Brixton


11. Long Beach


24. Houston

Panacea (12 Step Program) [2010]

Artists include: K-Murdoch, Raw Poetic, and Damu The Fudgemunk

2. Collard-fried Grey Sky


3. Stumble Home


5. Blue Oceanwave


6. Black Coffee


8. Natural Selection


9. Revolution World Crazy


11. Immortal

Tanya Morgan (Brooklynati) [2009]

Tanya Morgan is one of those groups you have to see live! The amount of energy they bring is amazing. Von Pea and Brickbeats are a powerhouse production duo on this 2009 release.

1. (We) On Our Way


2. Alleye Need ft. Piakhan


3. So Damn Down


4. Bang & Boogie


6. Hardcore Gentlemen


12. Morgan Blu ft. Blu

Blu & Exile (Below The Heavens) [2007]

Here is one of my favorite albums of all time. Exile is such a sick producer and when you add Blu into the mix its just unreal. The whole album could play on repeat for days and I wouldn't get sick of it.

1. My World Is...


2. The Narrow Path


3. So(ul) Amazin' (Steel Blazin')


4. Juicen' Dranks ft. Taraach


6. Blu Colla Workers


7. Dancing In The Rain


9. No Greater Love


10. Show Me The Good Life ft. Aloe Blacc


11. Simply Amazin'


12. Cold Hearted


13. The World Is... (Below The Heavens)


15. I Am...

Nas & Damian Marley (Distant Relatives) [2010]

Saw most of this album performed live at Northcoast and it was superb. Damian Marley produces most of this album with the exception of the few tracks that Stephen Marley produced. The whole album is worth a listen but hear are my top choices.

1. As We Enter


5. Friends


7. Dispear


10. Nah Mean


11. Patience