Review: 6LACK's third studio album, Since I Have A Lover, is another one that follows the form he has set over the previous two - namely it is a musical update on his life. It tells listeners where the rapper is mentally, emotionally, and spiritually with those that are the closest to him. This trilogy-completing album is another personal reflection that speaks of the growth of 6LACK since the last outing East Atlanta Love Letter. It's a big one, too, with 19 tracks across four sides of limited and gatefold translucent pink vinyl.
Review: Here's a chance to cop a pivotal piece of R&B history on vinyl. Aaliyah's second album was released in 1996, when she was just 17, and she was already one of the most commanding artists in modern R&B. Working closely with Missy Elliot and Timbaland on a number of the tracks, she made a significant step on from her debut with a revitalised and forward-leaning sound, and all while finishing drama school and preparing to star in Romeo Must Die. One In A Million is solid gold start to finish, and given how costly original pressings of it can be on the second hand market, this reissue is long overdue so grab it while you can.
Review: Angry Blackmen's The Legend of ABM is a visceral exploration of life in contemporary America. Through their gritty and unapologetic lyricism, Quentin Branch and Brian Warren confront the harsh realities of their existence with raw honesty and introspection. Produced by Derek Allen, the album's chaotic and distorted soundscapes provide a fitting backdrop for their narrative, capturing the ambient stress of navigating a society rife with systemic injustices. The album's tracks delve into themes of depression, existentialism, self-reflection and survival, offering a poignant commentary on the struggles faced by Black men in today's world. Branch and Warren's lyrical delivery is blunt and uncompromising, detailing their personal demons and experiences with searing clarity. From grappling with mental health issues to confronting generational trauma, their storytelling is both captivating and harrowing. While the production style may draw comparisons to noise rap, The Legend of ABM maintains a sense of accessibility and immediacy that sets it apart. Branch and Warren's chemistry is palpable as they effortlessly weave through intricate rhyme schemes and rapid-fire verses, infusing each track with a competitive intensity and undeniable energy.
Review: Jorun Bombay returns with another double-sided gem that again blends nostalgia with fresh 2024 vibes. On 'Our Thang,' he reinvents a classic James Brown production by adding funky guitar riffs, a trombone solo, and vibraphone touches from his band, the Espressolites. This instrumental rework breathes new life into the original and makes subtle yet impactful tweaks to a timeless track. On the flip side, 'Phungry' fuses a 90s rap classic with vocals from the reggae canon in an innovative and seamless blend. Both tracks are essential for pretty much any crate, to be honest.
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.
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.
My Writes (feat Tash & J-ro Of Tha Likes & Xzibit) (5:25)
Ooooh/Ghost Weed Skit 01 (feat Redman) (5:17)
Thru Ya City (feat D V Alias Khrist) (3:33)
I C Y'all (feat Busta Rhymes) (3:15)
View (3:56)
Interluden (0:22)
Set The Mood (feat Indeed) (4:21)
All Good? (feat Chaka Khan) (4:59)
Declaration (2:44)
Squat! (feat Mike D & Ad Roc Of The Beastie Boys) (5:23)
Words From The Chief Rocker (feat Busy Bee) (3:52)
With Me/Ghost Weed Skit 03 (1:01)
Copa (Cabanga) (4:04)
Foolin' (4:14)
The Art Of Getting Jumped (3:47)
U Don't Wanna BDS (feat Freddie Foxxx) (3:58)
Review: The wealth of De La Soul reissues coming out right now is only good news - as is the fact the iconic US hip-hop outfit's music is finally available on streaming services. Art Official Intelligence: Mosaic Thump was the flower power band's fifth studio album and was packed with iconic guests from Redman to Busta Rhymes, Chaka Khan to Mike D and Ad Rock from Beastie Boys. One of the cuts, 'Oooh' got the group a Source Award nomination while the album itself was also nominated for a Grammy for Best Rap Performance By A Duo or Group. It should have won, if you ask us.
Uknowhowedo (ATCQ Check The Rhyme Remake remix) (3:54)
Review: Move fast on this reissue because DJ Bacon drops sell out quicker than quick. The revered beat smith is a valuable best friend when it comes to modern breaks remixes of old skool hip-hop and funk. He's served up plenty in his time and 'Ladies Quest Vol. 1' focuses solely on revered hip hop group A Tribe Called Quest, flipping two of their most revered instrumentals, 'The Jam' and 'Check The Rhime', with vocal acapellas from legendary femme lyricists Lauryn Hill ('Lost Ones') and Bahamadia ('Uknowhowwedu'). The effect is powerful and as well as proving dancefloor heat, there is some real soul in these here beats.
Review: All Right Fresh serve speciality brews of West and East Coast nu-funk, soul and hip-hop. Here they welcome DJ Spinna and J Rocc for the very latest edition in their Wrecka Stow Edits series, which hears two further majestic remixes of classic r&b reelers. First up is Spinna's version of Prince's 'Starfish & Coffee' with the renamed 'Maple Syrup Jam', which strains and thins Prince's already prickly granules to provide that extra ophiuroid zing. Then J Rocc follows up with 'Re Purple Music', also a remix of a Prince cut, 'Purple Music', providing ever further filtrated disco-funk panache.
Review: The Du-Rites is a superb funk combo based in New York City with Jay Mumford (no, not that Mumford) on drums, keys and bass guitar and Pablo Martin on guitar, bass guitar and keys. They have been turning out the jams now for almost a decade and 'Go Funk Me' on Od Maid is their latest. The short but sweet A-side rides on a deep cut funk rhythm that is softened by some fluttering flutes, though the baritone spoken words being a hint of menace next to the organ chords. 'Bucket' on the B-side is another percolating rhythm with cool spoken words and plenty of liveliness in the perc.
Review: Rapper Elzhi brings nostalgic vavavoom to Detroit boom bap with Elmatic, a new album drawing on the many instrumentals and themes explored in fellow crown-bearer Nas' modern hip-hop classic Illmatic. Elzhi expatriates these to the flagship Michigan city, conjuring grittily hearty visions of project blocks and childhood loves, blending recollections of ferocity and tenderness. The choice to engage in hip-hop derivation is no misfire either; classic DJ Premier instrumentals such as 'The World Is Yours' and 'NY State Of Mind', the latter transferred to 'Detroit State Of Mind' here, are entirely reconstructed from scratch, hearing the way rappers identify with one another through time. Elzhi's lyrics are incendiary, blowing us away with themes of crib loyalty and teenage amities.
Left & Right (feat Method Man & Redman - instrumental) (5:14)
Spanish Joint (instrumental) (3:35)
Sugah Momma (instrumental) (1:33)
Brown Sugar (instrumental) (3:08)
Me And Those Dreamin' Eyes Of Mine (instrumental) (4:07)
Cold World (interlude instrumental) (2:27)
Be Here (feat Raphael Saadiq - instrumental) (4:03)
Review: To commemorate the 20th anniversary of D'Angelo's iconic album Voodoo, Amerigo Gazaway had crafted a masterful tribute that reinterprets several standout tracks from the original. Utilising live instruments like electric guitar, synth bass, clavinet, organ and Rhodes, Gazaway breathes fresh life into these classic cuts while maintaining the essence of their grooves. The result is a woozy, silky update that melds elements of hip-hop, gospel, neo-soul and r&b, creating a rich tapestry of sound that honors the source material. With fourteen tracks, including both vocal and instrumental versions, this project captures the spirit of Voodoo while infusing it with new energy. A highlight of this release is the bonus track featuring Raphael Saadiq alongside D'Angelo on 'Be Here', which further emphasises the collaborative spirit of the genre. Gazaway's reimagining not only celebrates the timeless quality of Voodoo but also showcases his talent for blending classic sounds with contemporary influences, making this tribute a worthy addition to any music lover's collection.
Review: Gunna's album One of Wun is a strong addition to his catalog, solidifying his status as a melodic trap powerhouse. Kicking off with 'Collage,' Gunna delivers an ethereal and catchy vibe that sets a high standard. The title track, 'One Of Wun,' shows his effortless flow over a triumphant beat, while 'Neck On A Yacht' stands out as an intense trap anthem with a menacing melody. Tracks like 'Hakuna Matata' and 'Prada Dem' (featuring Offset) highlight Gunna's versatility and ability to craft bangers, with energetic performances and captivating beats. Even the more experimental 'Freesh' impresses with its futuristic sound. The album's standout moments, such as 'Still Prevail,' really stand out to what else is popular in this scene. Overall, One of Wun continues Gunna's streak of compelling releases, reinforcing his position as a leading figure in the trap scene.
B-STOCK: Slight dent om the edge, otherwise in perfect condition
Review: ***B-STOCK: Slight dent om the edge, otherwise in perfect condition***
Reissued, as it should, via the original label on which this ubiquitous single first made its mark on the world, House Of Pain's 'Jump Around' comes to our attention once more. A spiritual spin-off of Cypress Hill - the track's beatsmith DJ Muggs originally made the beat for the group, and it was only given to House Of Pain after being later rejected by Ice Cube - the song houses an undeniable demonstration of how samples themselves, when worked into the track in the right way, can work just as effectively as melodies in 'hooking' the listener. Notably, the high-pitched squeal, lifted from Chubby Checker's 'Popeye The Hitchhiker', occurs 66 times throughout.
Review: "Donuts" is J Dilla's instrumental masterpiece and perhaps the finest record he ever made. This is half soul mixtape, half beat CD and 100% genius from the sorely missed hip-hop legend.
B-STOCK: Creasing to corner of outer sleeve but otherwise in excellent condition
Missiles (3:47)
Pick You Up (feat Self Esteem) (4:18)
Kiss Of Life (2:57)
Good Mourning (feat Shola Ama & General Levy) (3:55)
Got To Let Go (3:51)
Tears To The Floor (3:13)
Bruises (4:45)
Peaches (3:29)
Miracle (3:29)
Hearts In Danger (4:11)
Review: ***B-STOCK: Creasing to corner of outer sleeve but otherwise in excellent condition***
Shaznay Lewis's upcoming album Pages marks her return to solo work after two decades, promising a "rebirth" of her artistry. Described as a fusion of established songwriting and lyrical wisdom gained through experience, the album showcases Lewis's growth and creativity. Her latest single, 'Kiss Of Life,' is a testament to her evolution as an artist. With punchy bass beats and heartfelt lyrics about love and commitment, the track highlights Lewis's ability to craft emotive and captivating music. Collaborating with writer/producer team Emily Phillips and Ant Whiting, known for their work with artists like Florence + The Machine and Sigrid, Lewis delivers a powerful and resonant performance.
Review: Before Lone became one of Britain's most celebrated kaleidoscopic rave fusionists with the R&S-released Echolations EP and Galaxy Garden LP, he was best known as a beat-maker with a passion for experimental MPC rhythms and dreamy exotica samples. The highlight of this portion of his career was undoubtedly debut album Lemuria, which here gets a deluxe reissue - with new artwork - on vinyl. It still sounds just as magical, dusty, picturesque and otherworldly as it did back then, with brief moments of rush-inducing clarity nestling side by side with jazz-flecked workouts and shimmering, Boards of Canada-go-glitch beatscapes.
Attack Of The Tupperware Puppets (feat Oh No/Declaime/Gods Gift) (4:17)
Interlude 4 (0:19)
Forever Beef (feat Oh No/Medaphoar) (3:38)
What 'Cha Gotta Say? (feat Oh No) (3:04)
Interlude 5 (0:24)
Miss Deja Vu (3:56)
I Declare War (feat Oh No/Medaphoar) (4:24)
Why Do We Go Out Like That? (feat Declaime) (3:27)
Make Your Ears Want To Bleed (feat Kazi) (3:09)
Interlude 6 (0:16)
Female Request Line (3:00)
Undisciplined (feat Gods Gift) (3:19)
Hip Hop (2:38)
Review: In West Coast terms, Lootpack are one of the greatest to ever do it. This is where Madlib took flight, first gracing the world with his inimitable touch. But this is also where he took to the mic in a straight up style alongside Wildchild and DJ Romes. Soundpieces: Da Antidote! Flipped the script when it landed in 1999, and like all the greatest innovators they soon splintered off in their own directions, but fortunately there was more archive material to be dug out for those who needed more Lootpack in their lives. This collection originally came out in 2004, but it's been long overdue a repress. Hip-hop heads rejoice!
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