Album Review: Golden Ape Beat-Tape Vol. 2 - Beats By Dweller Side-B Mixed by DJ Simon C

 

Golden Ape Beat-Tape Vol. 2

Beats by Dweller

Side-B Mixed by DJ Simon C

 

It was about eighteen months ago when a reviewed the first Golden Ape Beat-Tape from Dweller on the Live From The Groove label. That release featured a collection of some of the UKs finest underground beat makers , plus a B-Side that was seamlessly mixed by the legendary Jazz T.

Now Live From The Groove is back with the second instalment, the Golden Ape Beat-Tape Vol 2. This time around the collection of beats all come from label founder Dweller with Side-B being mixed by the labels own DJ Simon C….

That said, let’s get into it…

Each side of the Beat-Tape is nine tracks long and a little under 25 minutes in length. The A-Side kicks off with Misguided Adventure, which has a proper funky head nod vibe that really comes alive with this double bass element that vibrates through your whole body as you groove to the sound. What It Means follows with drums, keys, guitar vibes, flute and more, all coming together to give you a sound that keeps you moving. This one has that kind of vibe that would not see it out of place on a soundtrack of movie or TV series that has an inner city setting or similar. Next up is Chop La Disco which brings this awesome funk fuelled sound that mixes drums, strings, piano and guitars into the kind of sound that has an infectious feel to it. The infectious funk vibe continues on Beam Me Up which has this wicked drum beat over which is this eclectic mix of piano, organ and electronic vibes that picks you up and has you floating off into space. Now you are suitably floating off, its time for North Stars to have you transcending into another dimension with this futuristic beat and electronic vibes. Taking you far away as you allow the sound to permeate your awareness. Without warning the vibe changes with Grubby Luggage, here the sound has a more boom bap feel with a solid beat and funky bass sound that brings back from outer space to get your head nodding once more. Now you suitable grounded once more, Slow Motion Thinking brings a lighter sound with flute, keys, guitars, and a more chilled beat. This one would almost have you chilled right out but for the occasional high paced beat elements that just about keep you in the moment. The penultimate track on this side is the only one to feature a vocal sample thus far as the intro to Pick The Right Way. Here the beat is heavy with electronic elements which seem to fit with the notion that picking the wrong way will take you on a downward spiral to place you don’t want to be. You end this side immersed in a place where you get A Word In Your Ear, one which is full of strings, drums, and cymbals. The sound has this head nod element but, also this vibe that has a more thoughtful edge to it, the kind of sound that fits perfectly when you are in a contemplative mood.

It is now time to flip over to the B-Side where DJ Simon C is about to test the minds of the listener, especially the reviewer who has no idea of track length going into this, with nine beats being perfectly and seamlessly mixed from start to finish. It all kicks off with Cryptwalking, with a heavy beat, bells, keys and more, this one does give you the sense of slowly walking forward, with no real direction and with one eye cast over your shoulder. The beat changes slightly as we move into Flat-tops, where big orchestra horns take the forefront alongside a solid head nod beat. Once more you get that kind of soundtrack vibe before heavy strings join the sound. This carries you into Waterfalls, where the beat and guitar vibes unite with Piano elements to bring this upbeat sound that makes you wonder, what would a waterfall sound like if it had a musical element as is cascaded over your body, and perhaps this is it. The Piano vibes continue with Gut-Wrench which has this Lofi sound that, I have to say, does put you in mind of how you feel having had some gut-wrenching news; carrying you along where you are almost in a daze. Just as you are wondering where this is going, Shot In The Dark drops in with a pulse pounding funk sound that has this awesome uplifting sound with this funky guitar element that puts a grin on your face once more. Sycamore Style kind of drifts into the flow with a drum program and horns that give you a sense being at speed but, also floating at the same time, just like a sycamore seed as it falls to the ground, spinning rapidly while floating slowly on the breeze. Crom’s Lament comes in with a recognisable sample that has that soundtrack vibe to it, alongside heavy drums and cymbals; all of which put you in mind that something big is coming and this is almost the calm before the storm. It is either that or this is the sound of someone coming to terms with their past as their final journey awaits them. Whichever it is there is this emotive edge to this one that conjures up many things for the listener. You won’t be waiting long see what the impending sound was foretelling as The End Of The World is soon upon you. Drums and keys create this deep sound, one that continues that emotive edge, touching you to the very core of your being and making you wonder if there is anything more to this journey; that question is soon answered as Shake The Colours almost explodes into your awareness, instantly pulling you back to the present moment. The upbeat sound of drums, xylophone notes and horns give you an instant adrenaline hit that makes you realise that there is not just a silver lining to the world around you but, that music is the gateway to a brighter future, you just have to let it in…

I have to say that, bringing myself back from this one was a huge task as instrumental music gives me free reign to interpret things however I want and, looking back over my words, I could rewrite this one totally differently if felt like it and even go on for a few more pages yet but, I have to give you some overall impressions, or perhaps I just did…

There are few things that strike you when you have given this a good listen or two, the first of which is the diversity of Dweller’s production across these eighteen tracks. Yes, you can feel that the foundation comes from that boom bap Hip Hop sound but, there are some great elements of other sounds, genre’s and more mixed into each one of these; showing the calibre and an insight into just what he is capable of as a producer. The emotive nature of these tracks really allows you to go anywhere with this one and the fact that it leaves you on a high note means that no matter how you are feeling when you put this one on, it will leave you on a more euphoric note once you get to that last track.

You can’t sum up this one without taking a good look at the B-Side too. DJ Simon C expertly mixes these tracks together, keeping the vibe going all the way through until that last explosion of sound and inferred colour. His addition of cuts across the whole thing also adds depth and keeps that foundation of the Hip Hop sound alive while giving you food for thought without pausing to consider just where the music is taking you; it’s just one long journey to enjoy.

For me this a cracking release that shows exactly what Live From The Groove, Dweller and DJ Simon C have to offer. The Golden Ape Beat-Tape Vol 2 takes things to a different level from Vol 1 and proves that they are true silver backs of the UK Hip Hop scene.

The Golden Ape Beat-Tape Vol 2 is available now and is definitely one not to miss, also make sure you check out the recent review of MNEA ; The Future Introspective EP which is another outstanding release from Live From The Groove

My thanks to Dweller for giving me the chance to bring you this one.

I’ll see you next time,

Steve.

LINKS

Get your copy from one of these links:

https://www.livefromthegroove.com/

https://livefromthegroove.bandcamp.com/album/golden-ape-beat-tape-volume-2

One link for all things LFTG:

https://linktr.ee/livefromthegroove

Live From The Groove Socials:

https://www.facebook.com/livefromthegroove

https://www.instagram.com/livefromthegroove/

VIDEOS

Golden Ape Beat-Tape Vol. 2  Side-A

Golden Ape Beat-Tape Vol. 2  Side-B Mixed by DJ Simon C

 

 

 

 

EP Review: The Future Introspective EP by MNEA

 

The Future Introspective EP

By

MNEA

 

It was back in July 2023 that I reviewed the debut, and now sold out release ‘End Of Your Era’ by Collective MNEA. Now they are back with the hugely anticipated The Future Introspective EP which keeps the core of the label artists from Live From The Groove but, adds in new features along the way.

The Future Introspective EP sees Dweller on production, mixing and mastering duties. The artwork and design come from Tuff Draft Design alongside artwork concepts by Ethr82. With such a wealth of artists involved in this one, I’ll give you as much information as I can in the review. So, sit back, keep your mind open and join me as I take you through The Future Introspective EP.

As the initial release for the EP is on limited edition vinyl, with streaming coming only once the vinyl is gone, I’m going to refer to side A and B as I go along. The EP kicks off on the A-Side with Look Forward which features King Kashmere, Enlxsh and Dweller, with cuts coming from DJ Cuban Jon and DJ Simon C. The beat is heavy getting your head nodding as soon as it drops; under this beat is an almost eerie sound from keys that grabs your attention enough to keep you focused on the lyrics, while the cuts slice through your awareness with laser like precision. This one looks toward a possible dystopian future for the human race, where we have these dreamscapes put forward by the emcees, each one giving us a bleak look at what’s to come in a future that might be a lot closer that we truly realise. With those bleak thoughts still so raw in our minds, it’s time to Free My Mind with Jess Edie on vocals. The sound eases the anxiety of a bleak future with a vibe that takes you back to the days of Bristol’s Massive Attack or, more recently, the neo-soul of O.Love. Jess brings us a stunning vocal sound that calms the most stressed nerves as she opens up on what she will do to free her mind from all the struggles and strains of life. Now suitably chilled out, its time to join Dweller, Enoch and DJ Simon C for the Rapture. Organ notes and horns mix with an up-tempo drum beat that gets you bouncing once more. This one kind of mixes the definitions of the word rapture in to one track as it brings you that sense of euphoria, teasing you with aspects of looking back at what has  gone before and then looking forward to the start of a new journey; in a way that is uplifting and bringing optimism to the forefront. Side-A is rounded off with Hurt, featuring Laura Vane, this one combines bass and piano as the main elements that give this one a deeply soulful vibe but, with a funky edge. Laura brings this powerfully soulful voice that captures every part of your being as she brings forth the fact that no one can get away from the fact that there are aspects of life that with hurt us. We can do our best to avoid and ignore what’s happening around us but, sooner or later we have to face that facts and it will hurt…

 

With Side-A ending on such an emotive note, it gets you wondering as what Side-B is going to bring. You don’t have wait long as Life’s Many Questions brings a feature from Scrabble and sound that this jazzy funk vibe to it with this mix of drums, keys, guitars and more. Scrabble goes off on this one juxtaposing everything you think might be the answer and whisking your thoughts into a whirlwind, all in the space of a single verse. Still leaving with no real answer to life’s many questions. Next up we find MNEA reworking the track Loose Tongues by indie funk band The Stash Collective. This one features SimpleSamples and Kansul with cuts from DJ Simon C. The sound is heavy with a pounding bassline that gives this one a head banger vibe that will likely have you punching the air. The title of this one describes the track perfectly as its all about letting their tongues loose and spitting forth the kind of bars that have you buzzing from top to bottom. The midpoint of the B-Side brings you The Most Wonderous Part Of Your Life as Conbel Evrence, on co-production, helps bring you this chilled out interlude of laid-back beat and organ notes that takes you to the point of being so relaxed you just want to float off to this one for the rest of the day but, this is MNEA and you know that is not about to happen. The penultimate track of the EP is the Free Your Mind (Extended Mix) which features guest appearances from enlxsh and UK DMC finalist 2024 DJ Rasp alongside Jess Edie. That same neo-soul vibe is here once more, only this time you get a lot more of it and you really feel how that deep bass vibrates your entire body. Enlxsh adds this deep verse that mirrors the sentiments of Jess and is all about looking deep inside to unlock what will truly set you free. DJ Rasp brings the kind of cuts that take your breath away, adding another element to superb extended version. The final track on the EP is the Hurt (Algo Remix). Here we find that Laura Vane’s stunningly powerful vocals and message remain the same, but the huge change here is the DnB sound of the remix. This one turns the tempo up a few notches, which you might think would change the vibe of this one far too much but, the increase in tempo is just enough to keep the message working while taking the track to the kind of level that could well make it a huge club banger. While DnB is not my cup of tea normally, this one actually sounds quite good and does work very well.

 

Now, I’ve kept the descriptions relatively short here but, there is a lot more that you could say about these tracks but, sometimes it’s just not needed. MNEA and Live From The Groove have done a cracking job of dropping an EP that, firstly, is as long as some albums can be these days; secondly, they have experimented with a host of different vibes and sounds that take you on a true audible rollercoaster ride. What this shows is that MNEA are not just your normal run of the mill Hip Hop collective, but they are here to bring good music from whatever genre fits the bill. So, the foundations of the sound might be in Hip Hop but, what you do get from this one is that MNEA are a collective that truly want to stretch the boundaries of their musical influences and by doing that they are going to open the listener up to a sound that you can never anticipate one hundred percent. That is especially apparent when you consider that outside of the core label artists, you will never know who might feature and the vibe they could bring.

It is actually very hard to sit here and know exactly what more I can say about this EP. It is one of those things that kind of speaks for itself and you are just going to have to listen yourself to know what feelings it is going to elicit within you.

Every feature on The Future Introspective EP brings their own energy and a diverse range of styles, flows and vocal dexterity. From Rap vocals to Soulful sounds, this one has something for everyone to enjoy and I have to say that I enjoyed every minute of it.

With all that talk of new paths to follow and new beginnings on The Future Introspection EP, has made me feel I’ve said enough here and so it’s over to you give it a listen and see how it speaks to you.

This one is out soon on a limited run of 100 vinyl copies. One randomly selected pre-order customer will also win a USB stick with the entire back catalog from Live From The Groove and some exclusives too. There will also be CD, Cassettes and a couple of concept canvases available too that are hand painted by Ethr82.

Digital release will follow once the vinyl is sold out. So, don’t sleep on this one.

My humble thanks to Dweller and all at Live From The Groove for giving me the chance to drop this exclusive look at the EP.

 

Enjoy and I’ll see you next time.

Steve

LINKS

Live From The Groove Website and Bandcamp:

https://www.livefromthegroove.com/

https://livefromthegroove.bandcamp.com/

Live From The Groove Socials:

https://www.facebook.com/livefromthegroove

https://www.instagram.com/livefromthegroove

https://www.youtube.com/livefromthegroove

  

 

 

Album Review: Universal Patterns by The Chameleon

 

Universal Patterns

By

The Chameleon

 

 

It is not often that I get an album that piques my interest from the description of what its all about. However, when I got Universal Patterns by Newcastle based emcee The Chameleon (AKA Joe Robertson) the album was described as a musical exploration into AI/tech addiction, medieval knights, secret societies, numerology, spies, aliens and spiritual love, it really did grab my attention. Not only that but, the album features some of the UKs top producers and cuts from Jabbathakut, Fidel Cutstro, and Adika

Now, as this one delves into subjects, I have a personal knowledge and interest in, I think the best thing is for me get straight into it. There is a lot to get through here so join me on this deep dive into these twenty-four tracks and a little over an hour of the Universal Patterns…

 

It all kicks off with Through The Mirror which is produced by Remulak and has a very chilled vibe that comes with movie samples, guitar and flute notes over a laid back beat. This one serves as an introduction to the Chameleon and really just sets the stage, giving you just a glimpse of what you are about to immerse yourself into. Replicate the Fabricant is next, with production from Ryan D who gives us an into from Blade Runner before a proper head nod beat drops in with this background sound that almost floats through your awareness and is almost juxtaposed to the beat, which brings a vibe that has you on the edge of chill and bouncing. This one explores the darker side of where technology is headed, from the way smart phones have become the norm, to how advanced tech can be implanted under or even tattooed onto the skin. It opens up the mind just where this might all lead. With all that in mind Tech Disease seems to expand on that notion. Produced by Manage the vibe has this heavy beat backed by guitar notes and cuts from Fidel Cutstro, that keeps things flowing with a laid-back edge. This definitely takes us deeper down the rabbit hole of how much tech influences how we live. This is a world where you can use AI to write for you, create your art and even make your video’s, and where the world some of us grew up in is quickly becoming a distant memory as people relay more and more on their devices and the younger generation rarely engage with the world around them. DJ A.D.S produces Virtual World and brings this head nod beat over a mix of piano notes and more that has this infectious energetic vibe to it. This one tackles things like virtual reality, virtual worlds, and ideas like the matrix where digital technology will become so advanced that you might be able to upload your consciousness to a digital world and essentially live or exist for an infinite length of time, an interesting or somewhat scary thought. Mechanical Movements is produced by Ryan D with cuts from Jabbathakut, the sound has a heavy drum beat with these eerie strings that tweak your nerves, just a little. This is more of a skit that touches on AI, social media etc and really invites you to look deeper and read between the lines in everything you do, and ask yourself why is AI making such huge strides and why do companies want this to happen? Could be to remove the human aspect from decision making and notions such as this? Think about it and I mean really think about it…

Produced by Sam Krats, Visions of Hell brings a heavy beat that is underpinned by this deep bass and an eerie sound seems to envelop you. This one switches the narrative away from technology and on to one that focuses more on secret societies and the clandestine activities of such. This is the stuff that exists in a world beyond what we normally see, clouded in a veil of secrecy that few of us will even penetrate but, it does exist. Ladder of Destiny is produced by Mark Fear who brings a head nod beat that is backed by a choral sample I have heard many times, and one which adds a deep edge to the overall vibe of the track. Here we find the focus remains in the cloak of secrecy but, here we find the narrative looks more at how science seeks to dispel any talk of a higher spiritual power. However, all the while those who cloak themselves in the veil of secrecy are engaged with these higher, or lower, powers in direct opposition to the information they release to general public. This is another area where we need to ask more questions and read between the lines of what is being said.

Hozay brings a more funk injected sound for Beast and Bunny, where the head nod beat is mixed with strings and a funky guitar vibe. This one is short and switches the narrative of the album once more as we find it is all about the beast being tamed by the love of a woman. Ryan D is back on production for The Love Gravity, with bass and keys behind the beat, giving this a laid-back funk vibe. Love is key in bringing balance to the world around us and this one takes us deep into many ways that you can bring love and balance into your life, something that you can’t avoid when you live around Glastonbury. But however you chose to achieve it, bringing more love into your life will change the way you see and interact with everything around you. Cosmic Kiss sees Manage and Ryan D joining forces on production, alongside Jabbathakut. The sound has a chilled edge to the first half of the track with just the Piano taking the forefront, halfway in and the beat drops in with sax notes that give the kind of sound you can close your eyes and drift off too. This one is deeply emotive love song but, not one in the normal sence as this love song speaks on a whole different level with cleaver and descriptive lyrics that stick with you.

The Visit is a short instrumental piece produced by Mr Slipz that seems to be almost a bridge between emotive vibes of the last few tracks; then transporting you beyond the confines of this planet. We move out of the atmosphere with DJ Nappa on production for the Galaxy of Mirrors where a heavy beat, keys and xylophone notes transport us to a new level of conscious awareness. Here we become embroiled in thoughts of time and space, where quantum mechanics and theory open us up to new ideas that encompass travel beyond what we know as now possible where the current laws of physics chose not to go. With those mind-blowing concepts now anchored in our awareness Speed of Thought takes that and runs with it. Ryan D’s production uses piano, sax and drums to keep us focused while The Chameleon leaves the rabbit hole and enters a wormhole that transcends spacetime and delves deep into what the mind is capable of if you truly focus. There is also a side focus here which brings in the subject of extraterrestrial biological entities, or Aliens. Controversial to some but, a subject that is inexorably linked to our awareness when we leave the confines of our planet and the 3-D construct. Talk of Aliens and UFOs continues with Warrior Kings where complex lyrics and the concept of planet earth being visited by UAP’s (Unknown Ariel Phenomena) takes the forefront. The production comes from Wounded Buffalo Beats who creates this head nod vibe that is underpinned by piano notes and has this vocal sample that seems to speak to you on an unconscious level, just as another intelligence might do. Out of Towners continues subjects of an out of this world nature. Produced by Manage and Jack Diggs, this one has an almost unsettling sound of drums and piano. There are almost too many things to pin down in this one from Aliens and UFOs to the Black Knight satellite and beyond. This one will have you mind in loops questioning what’s real and what’s not, and if these things are real just what binds them all together?

Trinity Codes switches the narrative once more, with production from Stu Tha Don and cuts from DJ A.D.S this one hits with a pounding beat and a mariachi type guitar and vocal samples that have you moving while listening intently to the vocals. This one seems to take us away from one particular focus on the world around us and takes us within. It is almost like we are listening to the thoughts of the protagonist as he sits and considers much of his internal knowledge and where it will lead him next and what effect that will have on those around him. As you consider what might come next, 9 comes forward to burst any notion that you might be able to string a cohesive thought into something that will help you understand. The head nod beat from Ryan D and cuts from Adika form this sound that you can’t help but enjoy; and all the while you enjoy that beat these deep lyrics that explore many aspects of the unseen world around us, sink into your unconscious awareness.

As the heavy beat and string infused head nod vibe from DJ Nappa hit from Love and Valor, it is time to switch the narrative once more, now we find ourselves drawn back through time to the realm of knights and wizards. A realm that could well still exist in another dimension, a place where the knight stands for all that is good and protects the land and its people. Our journey to the land of myth and legend continues with Arthurian Legend. This one is produced by Manage and has cuts from Jabbathakut. Manage brings strings and etheric vocals over this pounding beat that gets your head nodding. But there are no vocals here as this little instrumental makes you drawn back to its title and has you dreaming, albeit briefly, of the legends of king Arthur and the knights of the round table, something that is always in your awareness around Glastonbury, a place that it often described as Avalon. As your mind drifts into the mists of Avalon Hozay brings us an etheric sound of choral samples, guitar notes and a hefty drum beat for the Rap Crusader pt 2. Here the knights of old merge with the emcee to bring you a new bread of crusader, one who uses their lyrics as both sword and shield, while Jabbathakut slices the air with battleaxe cuts. This is followed directly by the Rap Crusader pt 1, produced by Ryan D, with cuts from Adika and additional vocals from Jane Walker, this one has the kind of beat that will have you out your seat, hitting hard with huge energy. This one is both a prequal and a sequel to what has gone before. Time to just sit back and enjoy, nuff said for now…

Hozay and Jabbathakut are back for Cloak and Swagger, a pounding beat with strings gets the energy levels up and the heads nodding once more. This one sees The Chameleon entering the world of international espionage. This one will have you thinking of James Bond, Jason Bourne, and more with no secrets safe as The Chameleon uncovers everything bringing it out into the open for everyone to see. The penultimate track of the album is Present Day, produced by Bay 29 and featuring Jabbathakut on the cuts, this one is an instrumental track that has a heavy beat with a background sound that has a gritty dark feel at times, while at others the piano comes forward to bring calm. The track focuses on some of the subjects that are seen in the media every day, from the war in Ukraine and the horrific situation in Palestine, to global warming, these are some of the of what we see every day, things that fill us with fear. The album ends with Hope, Rebirth and A Perfect Musical Universe. Just the title alone lifts your spirits, and the uplifting sound of sax, bass, keys and strings gives you that sense of hope and rebirth across the first two minutes; the following two minutes bring this piano track that forms the background to the vocals, a sampled narrative on music and what the perfect musical universe might look like. Now I’m not going to say I know who wrote this piece but, it does touch you and leaves you pondering that notion long after the track has ended.

 

With everything I have just written, how can I possibly sum up this album? Firstly, I can simply say WOW, because this album is packed so full of knowledge and information you could easily make two albums from this and it would still have the same impact. But, let me try and say just a little bit more…

Lyrically I found this to be extremely good because The Chameleon has a solid vocal style, flow and his wordplay are spot on and the way he incorporates the subject matter and complex descriptive narratives is, quite honestly, superb and being able to hear every word of this is truly something. Not only are some of these subjects the kind of esoteric stuff that many don’t like to speak about but, here he packs so much into this album its just mind blowing. I did like the way that each subject matter is grouped in a way that you could split them into little EPs and they would still work. The grouping might seem a little strange at first but, as you listen there is no effect on the flow and the positioning of the tracks about love and knights and strategically positioned to break up some of the heftier subjects so as to not overload the listener. It is still a marathon listen but, it has to be well worth it in my mind.

The production on this one is also top notch and you can probably see that from the names of the production credits. It just works so well in matching the vibe of each track and keeping the overall flow of the album working. There are all those little movie extracts and things that also add extra depth to the narrative of each track too. I don’t think I need to say much else production wise, it just that good.

Also great to see a wealth of cuts on this one too. Jabbathakut, Adika and Fidel Cutstro, all do a cracking job in adding that little extra depth to those tracks they feature on. It just brings that real Hip Hop vibe to life.

There is stuff on this album that I could talk about for hours as I have personally researched a lot of it in the past and it is always good to see someone willing to bring those subjects to life in a way that is enjoyable on a different level. Everything on the album is what you can encounter in day to day life, some of it is more sobering while much can be uplifting but, what is important here is that by bringing this stuff to you through the medium of music, allows you to enjoy it in a new way or, just enjoy it for being music, you do not necessarily have to immerse yourself in the subject matter, although I suspect that many people will find themselves looking up a particular subject after listening.

For me, this is one that has to be heard to be believed and understood. It is a deep dive beyond the normal and there is nothing wrong with that right, plus it makes you think and that is a good thing.

Universal Patterns is out now.

I’ll see you next time.

Steve.

LINKS

Grab you copy from Bandcamp Here:

https://thechameleon1.bandcamp.com/album/universal-patterns

All the Streaming links you need are right Here:

https://linktr.ee/jr465

Socials:

https://www.instagram.com/9thchameleon/

https://www.facebook.com/joeythefixer

VIDEOS

Tech Disease

Speed of Thought

Rap Crusader Pt 1

Album Review: S.T.A.R.V.E by Cappo

 

S.T.A.R.V.E

By

CAPPO

 

This review was originally written for the September Issue of the Killa Tapes Magazine. It is amazing to think that my reviews are being featured in physical magazine. There are not many magazines out there right now and it was reading magazines such as Hip Hop Connection and others that were part of the inspiration for me to do what I do now, because I wanted to do reviews which expanded on those short reviews and gave an insight from the point of view of a person who might buy and listen to the music. Anyway, back to the review...

Way back in the early 2000’s I became aware of a highly rated album by a UK emcee called CAPPO. This album, Spaz The World, quickly became hot property and one of the must haves of the time. So, to have the chance to review his latest work for my first review contribution in Killa Tapes Magazine is something special.

Cappo was born and raised in Nottingham UK and originally began his Hip Hop journey as a Graff writer. He also began rapping from an early age and by the Mid-1990’s getting noticed with his first proper show coming in 97 at the Nottingham carnival. His first Demo ‘First Knight’ came in 98, closely followed by the self-produced and self-financed ‘The Cap Tape Vol 1’. After getting noticed by SON records Cappo had a few released via the label before his first solo album ‘Spaz The World’ came on the Zebra Traffic label in 2003. Since then, he has become a legendary UK emcee, with a string of releases under his belt, the latest of which ‘CANON’ came in 2023

S.T.A.R.V.E is released via Plague records and is a nine-track album with some incredible physical releases on the cards too. The album is written and produced by Cappo, with some additional production coming from Congi, Theorist and Sam Zircon. Recorded and mixed by 1stBlood and mastered by Irn Mnky, the design and layout come from Rich Brown at Bee Graphics.

With all that said, there is only one thing left to do, and that is for me to take you through the album, top to bottom, giving you my impressions along the way…

It all kicks off with Jar which is produced by Congi and has a heavy pounding beat, interlaced with keys and more, giving it a sound that is deep but, also switches along the way keeping you focused on the words. Cappo’s vocals here seem to have this reflective air to them which mirrors the tone of the beat. Jar grabs you deep in your chest as Cappo speaks on what feels like the thoughts of someone musing on a broken relationship or even the loss of someone close, things that have a close emotive energy and leave you wondering what hits home more, the loss or the wonderful memories left behind. With those thoughts still so clear in your mind the intro to Drip, suddenly jerks you back to reality, produced by Theorist, this one has a sparse beat mixed with piano and the sound of dripping water. This all comes together for a vibe that plays havoc with your mind, much like Cappo’s words, which at first seem to be reflective of things he sees around him, from the struggles of relationships and changing aspects of who you are to fit with that relationship, to the struggles of a parent doing their best but, seeing their frustrations explode on those closest to them. However, as you listen you begin to question those thoughts and wonder if this all about one person’s experiences in life, dripping into his current awareness. There is not time to sit and contemplate those thoughts as Terrace 3 – Void hits with an accapella vibe, where Cappo’s words have the emotive strength of a person grappling with their own mental health, stepping back from those closest to them. The beat kicks in about halfway through and has a more modern sound to it, mixed with some electronic vibes that seems to match the feels of those intrusive thoughts that hit every day, matching the air of the lyrics perfectly.

Window is next and opens with an eerie intro, which I’m not gonna try and translate here, and sets a tone that has you wondering what’s coming. When the beat drops, it has a pounding feel that seems to weigh heavy on every nerve. Cappo’s words seep into your mind and speak on someone struggling with life, medicating and immersing themselves into anything that numbs the pain. Just as you are coming to some understanding, the beat changes, becoming slightly more upbeat with a sound that gets your head nodding. Here, it feels like this is a moment of clarity in an otherwise pain filled haze. This is a moment where you can suddenly see your own struggles and where you need to be to get back to who you are but, it is also the moment where you may question if you have the strength to do it? Terrace 2 is a short that has a huge impact, with Cappo’s words those someone might record in a live video, recording their thoughts as they continue to struggle with the strains of life where there is not enough money or help for those who need it most. I have seen this stuff first hand on the streets and in talking cafes and it hits so hard because these few words are so real and reflect the sad reality that so many live. With those words hitting so hard, it is almost a relief when the piano and head nod beat of Strongbow kick in but, that relief is short lived as the reality of Cappo’s words hit home once more. There is a glimmer of hope here though as this one focuses on someone doing their best to recover, swapping the spliff for a four pack of Stongbow, doing their best to take their meds in an attempt to get better but, only finding solace within their own four walls while the system looks down on them, labelling them and failing them and those around them. This is where the medical model favours legal drugs over giving more support and therapy that can truly help people get back into society and back on their feet.

Slow Poison is produced by Sam Zircon and brings a heavy modern sound with a grime edge to it. The piano elements give this one an emotive edge; that emotive edge fits with the vibe of the track which really seems to be focused on addiction in its various forms, and that is the poison which slowly invades you, gaining control of who you are, taking away your true self and separating you from those who care. Coming back from addiction is hard and takes willpower, something that has to come from deep inside, from your true self, and you have to recognise that and find who you truly are. The penultimate track is another short, Terrace 1, which brings another glimpse of the sun through the dark storm clouds. Here we hear the words of someone fighting to kick the darkness and find the light of the true self, realising that they have retreated from everything and everyone who brought light to their life. This is one of those huge steps forward in finding your true self, asking for the help. The last track of the album is Writeful Owner and brings another emotive vibe of electronic keys and heavy pounding beats that reinforce the deep aspects of the words. Those word here see Cappo opening up on moving forward with a clean slate, starting again after all the struggles, pain and suffering, this is where the new journey begins and walking forward into a future that you get to write yourself, written in a place that is illuminated by the light of love and positive vibes…

Sometimes you have to give yourself a minute when you are summing up the overall vibe of an album such as this, and this is one of those times.

On the face of it this album is about so many of the struggles that people go through in life but, it is so much more than that. S.T.A.R.V.E has such a deeply personal edge to it that you can’t help but feel as you listen to every track. It hits every emotion you have as you listen, from sadness and empathy to a conclusion that culminates in a feeling of relief as you understand that all the battles throughout the album have not gone in vain and there truly is a brighter horizon in view.

Cappo touches on so many subjects that anyone of us can relate to, and it is the strength of those words that impacts you so deeply as you listen; you can feel his pain because you know that pain but, more than that, you can feel the positive nature of the final track because you feel that too, and you feel all this because of the skilful way in which Cappo delivers every word of every line across the album and those spoken word elements carry such impact too, it’s almost unreal. The wordplay is incredible too as it matches the impact of the delivery, allowing you to hear and feel every word on a whole different level.

Production wise too, you can’t get much better here as every track has this sound that matches the tone of the lyrics perfectly, allowing every track to reverberate through your entire being, eliciting an emotive response that you might not be expecting. I have to commend the guest producers as much as the production from Cappo himself, it’s a cracking piece of work to say the least.

I don’t know how much of this might come from Cappo’s personal experience but, from sitting here and letting every word in, feeling those words too, it makes me think that these words could very well come from his own lived experience, which is why this album hits on so many levels, because it comes from a place that is rooted firmly in reality and true emotional experience and for someone to be that open and honest takes story teller to a whole different level. In fact, you could even say that this goes beyond story telling and becomes a beacon to those out there going through their own personal hell, and shows them a light, a direction to a true path of recovery.

S.T.A.R.V.E is out on Plague records now.

You should also check out the additional release by Cappo and Plague called Vignettes, a collection of additional shorts that serve as an expanded narrative for S.T.A.R.V.E and it protagonist. This is available as a free or Pay what you can download and well worth listening to once you have digested the original.

My humble thanks to Craig at Killa Tapes for asking me to do this and also huge thanks to Danny over at Plague for giving me the chance to review the album.

I’ll see ya next time.

Steve – Infinite Sounds UK 

LINKS

Get your copy of S.T.A.R.V.E. here:

https://plague11.bandcamp.com/album/s-t-a-r-v-e

Get a copy of Vignettes Here:

https://plague11.bandcamp.com/album/vignettes

Cappo Links:

https://www.instagram.com/kafka_poe_murakami/

https://linktr.ee/_Cappo_

Plague Links:

https://www.facebook.com/pg/plague11/posts/

https://www.instagram.com/plague_11/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCffd_9Pc-5NDYA7OyoUV5cQ

https://twitter.com/Plague218

Get the Killa Tapes Magazine and much more from Killa Tapes Here:

https://killatapespodcast.com/product-tag/magazine/

https://www.facebook.com/killatapespodcast

https://www.instagram.com/killa_tapes/

Exclusive Single Review: Space Bear Clique / Waiting In The Wings by Doozer

 

Space Bear Clique / Waiting in the Wings

By

Doozer

Produced by Djar One, Cuts by Specifik

 

It is an absolute pleasure to bring you an exclusive review of the upcoming addition to the B-Line Recordings catalogue. Space Bear Clique and the flip side Waiting in the Wings is a forthcoming single release from longtime B-Line collaborator the Doozer (Critically Ill, Contraflow Collective), featuring production from French producer and another B-Line collaborator Djar One, the single also features cuts from B-Lines head honcho himself, Specifik.

Now, this single has actually been sitting on the shelf for a little while, so its interesting that the B-side is called Waiting in the Wings as this single has been doing just that. I had a sniff of this one while having a chat with B-Line’s own Whirlwind D on a trip to Southampton some months back. This review was initially written for the Headz-zine Vol. 2 Issue 2, written and compiled by Adam De Paor-Evans (Project Cee). It came about when my initial review for this edition did not materialize and so I decided to reach out to Specifik to see if he would like me to review it here and give you a taste of what’s to come.  

Without further ado, let’s get into it…

Space Bear Clique

Violins, cuts, and a proper funky beat get your head nodding from the get-go on this one, in fact there is something about the sound and the vibe from Djar One that’s gets your whole body movin’, swaying from side to side as your head moves. This one seems to be precariously balanced between a serious and tongue-in-cheek as Doozer takes a shot at the social media era that we now find ourselves in. It is a time where so many people appear less interested in their own lives and dreams and far more interested in the latest funny meme that everyone is customising for their own ends, just to get a laugh or poke fun at some unfortunate person or celebrity figure. But, it’s not all that serious as Doozer takes a shot at flat earthers and the fact that there are plenty of people out there who will believe anything that is one the internet, as he points out you could say the earth is round and is being juggled by huge space bear and shortly there would be a whole clique rising from the belief that it is real. There are messages within this, like don’t be so serious about what you see on the internet, take a lot of it with a pinch of salt and don’t get drawn into everything you see. Also, don’t get distracted by the constant stream of memes that constantly invade your awareness when you scroll your social media feeds, they might be funny but, they also distract you from the reality of what’s going on around you and some, to be honest, are simply exploiting the pain of others. The real message though is just to not forget who you are and the dreams you have and don’t let the internet and social media distract you from what truly matters.

 

Waiting in the Wings

For this one Djar One combines another solid boom bap beat with some xylophone notes to create another infectious sound that has the energy to get you moving or just sit nodding your head to, like I’m doing right now. This one has a bit more of a serious edge to it as Doozer focuses on what’s going on in the world around him right now. The more you listen the more it become apparent that this is looking at all the changes that happen around us from the rising cost of living to those who govern and those who protest. So many of the choices we encounter or make, result in a negative outcome because to much focus is placed on making one thing happen and less on just how to get to that conclusion. Rising prices put more and more pressure on those who already struggle, because prices rise because of the greed of those with the ultimate control. So, many poor decisions are made because too many are feeding their own ego’s instead of focusing on what truly matters in their lives. The thing is that with every facet of life in all we do there is so often someone else standing by to take our place either through our own failings or by taking advantage and pushing you aside. We need our choices to have a positive impact on our lives and the lives of those around us. We all stand by those who mean something to us, if that sentiment could be broadened and adopted by everyone then who knows what world we could create for ourselves.

 

It is obvious from my extended reviews for each track here that they both elicited and fairly strong response in me; in fact, and if I’m honest, I could have written much more but, I always enjoy when I listen to something that allows me to do this because it means that even if I have not got the meaning of the track exactly, it does mean that I felt enough for it to allow my feeling to connect on some level and often that enough and Doozers words and how he crafts those for each track, certainly got me thinking and feeling, to the point my mind was nearly running away with me. He definitely has a skilful way of taking a message and spinning it in such a way through wordplay that it is both entertaining and thought provoking. Doozer is definitely one of the UK’s underrated rap artists, in my humble opinion.

If we are speaking of skill, then we can’t overlook Djar One or Specifik. Djar One is one of those producers who has this uncanny talent for taking the most obscure samples and flipping them into something brand new that can bring a smile to your face and have your head nodding on an almost unconscious level, and here are two great examples of what he does. One the face of it they seem to be two cracking Hip Hop boom bap beats but, when you go beyond that you realise that it takes a keen mind to know exactly how to chop up a sample and to add in all the little elements to get it just right and here two perfect examples as to why Djar One is one of the best out there. As for Specifik, well, what would a Hip Hop track be with out some cuts? Well, without cuts it could always be a little better and here Specifik shows just how a DJ/Producer knows how to put the right cuts in the right place to add that extra something to each track. It seems like a six-sense know how to select the right cuts and scratch pattern to bring the track alive.

When all is said and done Space Bear Clique and Waiting in the Wings are not just a welcome addition to the B-Line catalogue but, I can see this single doing big things on its release. So, I would say don’t sleep on this one because those 7-inch singles are gonna go quicker than a shooting star streaking across the night sky.

Space Bear Clique and Waiting in the Wings will be available soon through B-Line Recordings in conjunction with Hip Hop Be Bop and features some great artwork and direction from John Dyer.

On that note,

I’ll see you next time.

Steve

LINKS

The single has not been released yet so keep watch on socials for details of the release date.

Please expect to see copies over at Hip Hop Be Bop:

https://hiphopbebop.com/

Single Review: Dark Star Demoralizer by Ill Sykes Prod. by Bogart

 

Dark Star Demoralizer

By

Ill Sykes

Prod. Bogart

It was back in November of last year that I reviewed The Chronicles of Nefaeria Volume 1 by Ill Sykes, and now he is back with a new single Dark Star Demoralizer. This new single is the first collaboration between the London based rapper and the Swiss based duo Bogart aka Marin and Jayztylez.

Released at the end of August, the first thing that hits you about Dark Star Demoralizer is that the opening almost teases you that this one might be a laid-back affair until the pounding beat drops in and gives those background vocal samples an entirely different edge, suddenly the whole thing takes on this dark, almost sinister air. Ill Sykes delivers his rugged poetic vocal style and wordplay in a way that mimics the vibe of Bogarts production and you begin to feel there is this dark, almost demonic feel that penetrates you, chilling you to the core. However, listen a little deeper and what appears to be the cry of a damned soul, is more like the cry of a soul that fears the eternal damnation and is looking for redemption. You almost feel that this reflects someone wrestling with their own sanity, with the devil on one shoulder and an angel on the other.

Dark Star Demoralizer is an exciting introduction into what promises to be an exciting collaboration between Ill Sykes and Bogart. The sound has this deep vibe that reflects the state of modern society but also keeps its roots in Hip Hop of the late 90’s and early 2000’s. What is also apparent here is that Ill Sykes rap style and Bogart’s production work very well together, each seemingly aware of exactly what is needed to breath life into the particular vibe they are looking for.

With this insight into what they are about to bring to the Hip Hop community, I for one will be eager to see what they bring in the form of a full album. With this mix of deep emotive beats and vocals that twist the senses with relatable topics and more, it looks to be a highly anticipated sound.

Dark Star Demoralizer is out now with artwork from Sinisa Kandic and a video from Full Clip Media and is released through their own Tu Phaze indie label. Go check it if you haven’t already.

See ya next time…

Steve

LINKS

Check the single out Here:

https://tr.ee/w8PxtNfTjQ

Check everything on Ill Sykes Here:

https://linktr.ee/illsykes

Check out everything on Bogart Here:

https://linktr.ee/bogart.beats

VIDEO

 

 

 

Single Review: Introspection (Remix) by Alias Molombo Feat. Masta Ace, Heart.Wyred, Upfront MC & The Nicewun JM

 

Introspection (Remix)

Produced by Alias Molombo

Feat. Masta Ace, Heart.Wyred, Upfront MC & The Nicewun JM

 

It was only a few months back that I featured a track that was produced by German producer Alias Molombo. That track also featured The Nicewun JM (Wiltshire UK), and so when I heard that these two were going to be linking up again, it seemed only right to drop a review; and a good thing too as its official release is today, 6^th September but, it has already been receiving some big airplay.

The Introspection (Remix) features a big international line up of emcees headlined by the legendary Masta Ace alongside Heart.Wyred (Germany), Upfront MC (Split Prophets, Bristol UK) and The Nicewun JM.

 

Let’s get straight into this one,

The Introspection (Remix) is a remix of Alias Molombo’s own single which featured Masta Ace, Heart.Wyred and Upfront MC, this remix adds The Nicewun JM to the mix. Molombo’s production here is quite laid-back, the drums are the main element but, there is this background sound that features what seems to be a xylophone, which when mixed in the drums gives this one a very thoughtful tone, which fits perfectly for the track. The whole message to this one is about looking within yourself, examining your own thoughts and feelings and questioning, what would be different, or would I be different if the choices I made or the events in life took me down a different path, exactly what Introspection is.

We have all considered what would life be like had choices and events and here we have four emcees giving us their own experiences of this aspect of life; doing it by thought provoking wordplay, mixed with real life experience. It is almost impossible to listen to this track and not have it bring your own introspective thoughts to mind. I know that I have daily introspective moments, and this track really does reflect those moments well.

This is a great track to get the mind ticking over in its relatable contact but is also enjoyable at the same time. There is also that international vibe to the track too, one that gets the mind ticking even more as you welcome the fact that this music brings us all closer together, something you don’t need to reflect on.

This is the second release that features the awesome artwork of Scum Doodlez aka Amir J. Sadeghi. I'll drop a link below to his Insta so you can hit him up for some dope art.

Introspection (Remix) is out today, so go check this one out.

Be seeing you…

Steve

LINKS

Stream on Spotify Here:

https://open.spotify.com/track/

 More from Alias Molombo Here:

https://linktr.ee/aliasmolombo

Masta Ace on Insta:

https://www.instagram.com/mastaacepics/

Heart.Wyred on Insta Here:

https://www.instagram.com/heart.wyred/

Upfront MC on Insta Here:

https://www.instagram.com/upfront_splitprophets/

The Nicewun JM on Insta Here:

https://www.instagram.com/tscrewjm/

Scum Doodlez aka Amir J. Sadeghi on Insta Here:

https://www.instagram.com/scumdoodlezink/