Nick Bike - "Scratch Sentence / 98 Beat / Skipless / 101 Beat" (6:19)
Review: Private Stock Records serves up a treat for DJs and turntablists with a new 12" packed with beats, scratches, and skipless tracks. Four skilled DJsiBig Once, Cutso, Double A, and Nick Bikeicontribute their skills to this collection, offering a diverse range of flavours for scratching and beat juggling. Each DJ delivers a 'Scratch Sentence' and a selection of beats at various tempos, providing a versatile toolkit for creative routines. The inclusion of skipless tracks adds another dimension, allowing for seamless blends and extended mixes. With its focus on functionality and quality, this release is a must-have for any serious turntablist or DJ looking to expand their arsenal of sounds.
Conjunto Media Luna/Mumbia Y Sus Candelosos - "Bogotokio" (feat Hydro As BNJ) (3:20)
Mumbia Y Sus Candelosos/Conjunto Media Luna - "Cumbia Teriyaki" (3:30)
Review: Conjunto Medialuna's latest album on Little Beat More is a direct trip to the heart of Bogota's rich cumbia scene. The record blends traditional rhythms with psychedelic influences driven by the Colombian accordion and ecstatic percussion that is so strongly associated with this style. These are two of the jams from it, but frankly you should also check out the full LP. It's a tribute to the guacharaca and the lively street parrandas where each song explores new interpretations of classic sounds. Featuring collaborations with N. Hardem, Mismo Perro, Son Rompe Pera, MC Hydro and Japanese-Latin percussionist Muupy, Noches de Medialuna, it transcends cultural boundaries and joins the dots between traditional and modern urban Latin music which is now so hugely popular around the world.
Review: Dr. Dre's The Chronic gave rise to such heavy-hitters as 'Nuthin' But A 'G' Thang' and 'Let Me Ride', but what about its many "reimaginings" over the years? With The Ghronic, released in 2023, West Coast rappers 38 Spesh and Conway The Machine can't be said to have laid down their own version more so than they did treat the Dre touchstone as a starting point, dropping a nine-track array of similar G-funk whistling lowrider bumps, readapted for the contemporary New Yorker, and yet with fresh lyrical themes and subject matters. Reissued two years later on green vinyl, after an initially white-sleeved run, the productions are ever clean and the flows lackadaisical. Features from Lloyd Banks, Che Noir, Benny The Butcher and Elcamino cement the bluffing rep of a brag-heavy machine duopoly.
Review: Following mesmerising Marseilles mutations from the likes of Syqulone, Kabylie Minogue and Lisa More, Cain ? Muchi return to Gros:Oeuvre with their remarkable debut album. A heady tagine of grime, beats, techno, global bass and contemporary electronica with a title that either refers to famed Moroccan popstar or, far more likely, relates to meaning as 'universe', Dounia is a beguiling clash of western electronics and eastern bars, lyrics, and vocal harmonies. Fractured and macabre throughout from the distorted hardcore bass highs of 'J'wadi' to disarming vocal cries of 'Majdouba' this post grime, pre apocalypse opus is a trip from edge to edge.
Smokin' (feat DJ Paul & Kingpin Skinny Pimp) (6:41)
Review: Carmike's sole album is a gritty masterpiece of "slithering nightmare raps" that was originally recorded amidst carjackings and robberies and very ably and aptly captures the raw chaos of its 1994 cassette release. Now officially reissued for the first time on LP, this cult classic is dark, haunting and unapologetically authentic as it embodies the turbulence of its time. Delivering a visceral listening experience that resonates decades later, this gem is the latest of a multi-LP series exploring Memphis's influential hip-hop history These distinctive and often brutal tracks helped reshape rap music and have to be heard by anyone who considers themselves in the know.
Review: More Chaos marks American rapper and record producer Ken's fourth studio album and shows a bold evolution of the distinct style he introduced on A Great Chaos. A pure solo effort with no guest features, the record sharpens his voice both lyrically and sonically and the production is handled exclusively by a close-knit circle of trusted collaborators, all of whom he's cultivated and refined across previous projects, and who give the album a cohesive, focused energy. With More Chaos, Ken expands the emotional and sonic range of what he's done before while staying true to the intensity that first defined his work. It's a sharpened vision well worth tuning into.
B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition
Green Room (3:16)
Jennifer's Body (2:37)
Fighting My Demons (1:47)
Singapore (feat Destroy Lonely) (0:52)
Lose It (4:41)
Hardcore (2:11)
Me N My Kup (3:53)
It's Over (1:34)
Succubus (2:28)
Paranoid (feat Destroy Lonely) (2:12)
Pots (1:33)
Like This (feat Lil Uzi Vert & Destroy Lonely) (0:37)
Overtime (3:11)
Vampire Hour (1:47)
Nightcore (5:37)
Nightcore 2 (3:05)
Rockstar Lifestyle (3:10)
I Need U (2:28)
Review: ***B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition***
Ken Carson's A Great Chaos marks a creative breakthrough for the Opium affiliate, showcasing a departure from his previous work and establishing him as a force to be reckoned with in Atlanta rap. Collaborating with producers like Starboy, Outtatown, F1LTHY, and Lucian, Carson delivers a thrilling album filled with outrageous beats and vibrant vocal performances. The album's calculated sequencing and diverse production create a brisk and electrifying listening experience. Carson's vocals are upfront and raw, conveying a sense of urgency and vitality that permeates each track. From the icy duet with Destroy Lonely on 'Singapore' to the bludgeoning intensity of 'Hardcore,' Carson explores new sonic territory while staying true to his roots. Carson's audacious approach and undeniable charisma elevate the album to new heights.
Like This (feat Lil Uzi Vert & Destroy Lonely) (0:37)
Overtime (3:11)
Vampire Hour (1:47)
Nightcore (5:37)
Nightcore 2 (3:05)
Rockstar Lifestyle (3:10)
I Need U (2:28)
Review: Ken Carson's A Great Chaos marks a creative breakthrough for the Opium affiliate, showcasing a departure from his previous work and establishing him as a force to be reckoned with in Atlanta rap. Collaborating with producers like Starboy, Outtatown, F1LTHY, and Lucian, Carson delivers a thrilling album filled with outrageous beats and vibrant vocal performances. The album's calculated sequencing and diverse production create a brisk and electrifying listening experience. Carson's vocals are upfront and raw, conveying a sense of urgency and vitality that permeates each track. From the icy duet with Destroy Lonely on 'Singapore' to the bludgeoning intensity of 'Hardcore,' Carson explores new sonic territory while staying true to his roots. Carson's audacious approach and undeniable charisma elevate the album to new heights.
Review: Chase Atlantic's fourth album offers a more mature sound than previous LPs while exploring themes of loneliness, depression and fear. The title reflects the paradox of being in an ideal place yet feeling miserable and the music showcases the band's evolution into a fusion of pop, rock and r&b in their signature genre-defying style. The lead single quickly gained popularity by amassing millions of streams and views and follow-up 'Doubt It' continues the trend with addictive melodies and fresh sounds. Although Chase Atlantic pushes boundaries here, their original fans will still remain happy with the signature energy of this album.
Review: This soundtrack was originally released in 2006 and is a great reflection of the Disney Channel movie's rich and candied musical journey. Featuring songs that blend pop, r&b and dance beats, the album showcases the talents of the Cheetah Girls themselves aka Adrienne Bailon, Sabrina Bryan and Kiely Williams as they take on new challenges in Barcelona. Highlights include the upbeat 'Strut' the empowering 'Cheetah-licious Christmas' and the catchy 'The Party's Just Begun'" The soundtrack perfectly mirrors the film's themes of friendship, self-expression and following dreams as well as being full of infectious tunes.
Review: Childish Gambino's return last year with this album was a bold one showcasing his signature eclecticism and willingness to experiment. The album opens with suspense and builds anticipation before diving into dense vocals and rich rhythms. While the intensity can be overwhelming at times, it's clear Gambino is exploring new sonic landscapes, and thankfully the likes of 'Steps Beach' offer a refreshing moment of calm with Gambino's angelic voice shining through. Featuring artists like Chloe and Jorja Smith, the collaborations add an interesting dynamic that expands the album's depth. The LP concludes on an open-ended note and make this an ambitious and intriguing release.
Review: A refined reimagining of his 2020 album 3.15.20, Childish Gambino's evolution both musically and personally has come full circle. Originally released during the early pandemic, 3.15.20 was a raw, unfinished work, but Atavista polishes its predecessor, adding clarity and finality to Gambino's bold vision. The album retains its experimental nature, ranging from vintage soul to dark, electronic soundscapes, with tracks like 'Psilocybae' (formerly '12.38') and 'To Be Hunted' now more defined and impactful. The refined vocals and instrumentals elevate the emotional depth, while the stripped-down tracklist favors the fresher sounds like the title track and 'Human Sacrifice'. While the album doesn't stray far from its predecessor, the tweaks are significant. Gambino's collaborations with Ariana Grande, 21 Savage, and Summer Walker shine and tracks such as 'Time' and 'Final Church' demonstrate his ability to blend sweet melodies with dark, experimental energy. A powerful prelude to what could be his final album, coming next.
Review: Chino XL's sixth full-length and first posthumous release, captures the late East Orange lyricist's unrelenting introspection and masterful wordplay. Recorded in 2020 during the pandemic, this hauntingly intricate project bridges personal pain and societal critique with dark, vivid storytelling. The opener, 'Words in the Color of Deat, sets a morbid tone, as Chino - who passed in July 2024 - reflects on life beyond the grave. Tracks like 'Sermon in Crimson' and 'Sepia Files from the Last Supper' blend symphonic and boom bap elements, showcasing his ability to interweave humour, existential dread and sharp punchlines. 'The Red You Deserve', produced by Body Bag Ben, dives into his unmatched lyrical prowess, while 'Byzantium Darkness' and 'Blue Obsidian' examine inner struggles and resilience. Features from Eto and Sauce Money elevate the album's intensity, complementing Chino's visceral delivery. Despite estate conflicts, the album's release affirms Chino's dedication to his craft, giving fans a poignant glimpse into his genius and legacy.
Review: Imagine a world where the pioneers of hip-hop and electro reign supreme, their sounds echoing through the neon-lit streets of a futuristic metropolis. This is the world that Clipping creates, their music a heady blend of gritty beats, razor-sharp rhymes and dystopian soundscapes. 'Dominator' and 'Change the Channel' set the tone with their raw energy and infectious hooks, while 'Run It' and 'Go' showcase the group's lyrical dexterity and knack for crafting intricate rhymes that weave tales of technology, alienation and social unrest. Collaborations with Aesop Rock, Nels Cline and Cartel Madras add further depth and dimension to the album's sonic tapestry, each artist bringing their unique flavour to the mix. Tracks like 'Simple Degradation' and 'Mood Organ' delve into the darker corners of this dystopian world, exploring the anxieties and uncertainties of a future dominated by technology. It's not for the faint of heart, but it is a thrilling ride through a world of futuristic sounds and thought-provoking lyrics.
Review: Common's Resurrection celebrates its 30th anniversary with a special edition re-release that reminds us, as if we needed reminding, of how good the Chicago rapper's groundbreaking 1994 album really was. Known for its introspective lyrics and socially conscious themes, the record solidified Common as a key figure in the golden age of hip-hop and blends jazzy beats, soulful samples and of course his powerful storytelling. It touches on topics like identity, love and struggle and tracks like 'I Used to Love H.E.R.' became iconic anthems that influenced future generations of artists. As a poet and rapper in the hip-hop landscape, there are few finer than Common.
Review: This 1991 release stands as a cornerstone of West Coast gangsta rap, delivering a raw, unflinching portrayal of early 90s Los Angeles street life. With hard-hitting beats and vivid storytelling, the album builds on the group's debut, offering a more refined and confident sound. The deep basslines and funky grooves, courtesy of seasoned production, lay the groundwork for narratives steeped in urban realities. The album's heaviest tracks are a masterclass in gritty storytelling. 'Growin' Up in the Hood,' featured in the world renown movie Boyz N the Hood, pairs evocative rhymes with strings and drums sampling Funk Inc and Mountain, creating a tense, cinematic backdrop. The song captures the struggles of street life, blending hardened perspectives with a sense of inevitability. 'Raised in Compton' dives deeper, painting a stark picture of how systemic decay and gang violence perpetuate cycles of destruction. Meanwhile, 'Driveby Miss Daisy' haunting depiction of violence is another gem, layered with somber samples and a chilling piano solo that amplifies the track's nightmarish aura. Throughout, the album balances braggadocio with complex street narratives, offering a visceral and authentic glimpse into its environment. Along with NWA and Above The Law, this is West Coast rap at its most compelling and unapologetic for the time.
Review: South London rapper Confucius MC returns to Native Rebel Recordings for a new project alongside producer and multi-instrumentalist Bastien Keb. Dedicated to the "lost travellers" of the world, this is an album of pop-filterless texture and raw admission, filled to the brim with political messaging and wisdom in the face of oppressive social machinery. Toeing lines of fairytale realism and soul-feeder contrition, Keb and Confucius muse on dilemmas of eternal life, striving, perseverance and recompense, crafting a near drumless hip-hop album for veteran ears.
Review: Polish producer Latarnik and American vocalist Anthony Mills collide on this new album for Polish label Astigmatic to explore lo-fi hip-hop, soul, dub and experimental electronics. Mills's falsetto vocal brings great Neo-soul warmth to Crack Rock with emotionally charged tones soaring over the production which ranges from sugary and 80s-tinged disco and boogie on 'Crack' to deep, seductive and gooey on 'Passive Lover' which is a more romantic sound. Latarnik's work is often minimal yet immersive which creates space for Mills' voice to shine and is delivered in equal parts spoken word, chant and soulful croon. The hypnotic, slow-burning soundscapes that result are both intimate and confrontational, ready to make you dance but also often just to feel. Unapologetically raw and deeply human, this one lingers long after the final track ends.
Review: Queens, NY rapper Craig G offers us a new and harsh stovetop burn of an album, themed around the fossil-fuelled burning of the Earth. "The whole GAME is cooked... cooked... cooked..." echoes G's voice in the opening skit, before launching into a boom-tastic creed against the prodigal ills of today's rap game. With the rap game serving as a microcosm for the world, G's conceit is a compelling one - folding in diatribes against social media and precarious world affairs - and it comes wrapped in block-rocking, nightcrawling beats, shrink-wrapped in loudness boosting effects and rattling hums. Clock 'America's Dumbest Criminals', a rebuking detour of two acquaintances and ultimately enemies of G who were arrested on the same night as their crime.
Review: Curren$y and MonstaBeatz reunite for their second full-length collaboration here in the wake of years of joint projects. Both are New Orleans natives and the Jet Life rapper and producer duo first made waves with their 2009 debut, This Ain't No Mixtape. New record Radioactive delivers 12 fresh tracks that speak of great chemistry and subtle sonic evolution. The album features guest appearances from Jay Worthy, Fiend and DeeLow Diamond Man all of whom add their own dynamic energy. These tunes have a blend of smooth production and sharp lyricism that once again restarts the artists behind it as some of the most consistent collaborations in modern hip-hop.
Review: Cult American hip-hoppers and legendary stoners Cypress Hill played live at San Francisco's iconic Fillmore on August 16, 2000. Now available on vinyl for the first time, the set captures the legendary group's explosive live energy as the band were in top form and delivering raw, high-octane renditions of their biggest hits. What better way to relive classics like 'Insane in the Brain,' 'Hand on the Pump,' 'Cock the Hammer' and 'I Wanna Get High' than on vinyl? Those gems sit alongside deeper cuts such as 'A to the K,' 'Riot Starter' and '(Rock) Superstar' making this a great blend of those for singing along to and those for the head.
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