Hip Hop / R&B Recommendations June 2016

Review: On Boombox 1, the dusty-fingered crate diggers at Soul Jazz Records have turned their attention to the nascent hip-hop scene developing in New York in the late '70s onwards, gathering together independently released disco-rap and electro released between 1979 and '82. Accompanied by a 40-page booklet telling the story of rap's independent pioneers in impressive detail, it's another essential history lesson. You'll naturally find hard-to-find cuts from visionaries including Spoonie Gee (the quick-fire rhymes and low-slung disco breaks of "The New Rap Language"), TJ Swann and Master Jay, plus killer selections from virtually unknown names. Check, for example, the synth-laden boogie-rap of Neil B's "Body Rock", the hip-shakin' disco hustle of Bramsam's "Move Your Body", and the rubbery brilliance of Sweet G's "Boogie Feelin' Rap".

Review: Japanese hip-hop crew Southpaw Chop keep themselves busy with this new single "How It's Done". For this release they bring two big guests to the table: Kool G Rap and Craig G from Juice Crew. Their previous work "Finger Prints On The Record" (feat. A.G. of DITC) was originally only released in Japan, but made its way further abroad gaining great attention from hip hop fans in the US and Europe. This reunion with the Juice Crew builds and brings chemistry, pushing boundaries and sharp rhymes from the two. Things get even better when matched with Southpaw Chop's signature horn sounds and for those who love Cold Chillin', the label design must be mouth watering. This 7" will send ripples through the 2016 hip hop scene - it's a must buy!