X1 to Netanya is the new single from vocalist and beatboxer
Jonny Steele of The Scribes. Now, you will all know that I have featured The
Scribes a number of times on the blog, but this will be the first appearance by
on of the crew on a solo.
I want to approach this review a little differently as I am
sure it will provoke some deep feelings along the way so, please join me…
Before I get into the song itself lets just have a quick
look at the title and see what that says about what you are about to hear. If
you search X1 on the net you will find two main results pop up, the BMW X1 and
a number of Bus Timetables. These might seem unrelated but, these are both
forms of transport, and that idea of a journey is key here. Now search for
Netanya and its meaning and things begin to take shape. Netanya is a city in
Israel and also a girl’s name, which in Hebrew means ‘god has given’. Now put
this all together and you will see that Jonny is focusing on the terrible
events which are all over the news as Israel wages war on Hamas in Gaza and how we see it so far away in the UK.
X1 to Netanya is produced by One Soul and has a laid-back
soulful vibe of keys and drums. The overall sound is a reflective one that
brings your focus to more spoken word approach from Jonny Steele. The
intelligent lyricism and wordplay soaks into all aspects of your awareness as
the emotive tone of the words flow. This brings the plight of the Palestinian
people well and truly into the light, just as the many peaceful protests are
doing but, more than that it also asks why, with all the pain and suffering that
is happening, do our own government chose not to call for a ceasefire in this
war. In fact, it you truly look at what is happening, it causes you to question
everything because, in the past, wars of this nature have been called ‘ethnic
cleansing’ but, because this war started as an apparent retaliation to a
terrorist attack, that somehow validates what is going on. I do not condone
acts of terrorism and never will, so don’t get me wrong here. But is this war
truly what is needed? What about the historical plight of the Palestinian
people, try to find Palestine on a map, look on-line and you will find it is
not even labelled. The problem is a lack of balance in what is reported in the
media, listen to the voice of the people and you will begin to see the truth
behind all this.
I don’t want to get off track here as I do try to stay
neutral in what I write on the blog but, Jonny Steele has chosen to put into
words what so many of us are feeling and thinking, on what is going on so many
miles away and the lack of any acknowledgement by the UK Government. It was
only a matter of time before these thoughts and feelings were put into the
words and to music and Jonny has done this subject justice by bringing it into
the open and in such an emotive way.
X1 to Netanya is a powerful and thought-provoking piece that
truly asks what we as a united peoples are prepared to accept as we look upon
the injustices that go on around us and, what are we willing to accept when it
comes to the inaction of those we apparently voted to stand up for the people?
Jonny Steele is one voice that echoes the voices of the many
and puts that voice into a medium that crosses borders and asks us to stand
together as one for those who are not given a voice.
X1 to Natanya is out now and I encourage you to listen and
truly feel the message between the lines here.
Till next time,
Steve.
LINKS
To stream the single and for all things related to The Scribes:
Milestones are always something special and when AE
Productions reached it’s 50th release, in the same years that Hip
Hop celebrated its 50th anniversary, there had to be something
special for that special release.
Let me hand you over to Mr Fantastic for the lowdown on this
release:
Recorded circa 2012 and originally intended for
release on High Noon Music following Mr Fantastic's other 7"s for High
Noon but somehow and for reasons we can't remember it was never released.
Rescued from the vaults with thanks to High Noon Music for our landmark
catalogue number of AE050.
We dug out some pictures taken around the time of
recording - actually the same photoshoot that supplied the image for Mr
Fantatsic's Harvey's Bristol Cream album on Ruztik Records and manufactured by
AE, and had the sleeve designed by Nick Pointon who did the designs for HBC and
Mr Fantastic 's other High Noon 7"s so was our natural choice.
That being said, Let’s get into it…
Don’t Worry finds Mr Fantastic on
production and cuts with J.Todd (Def Harmonic) from Milwaukee on vocals. The
beat is proper head nod and has sweet funky vibe with bass and other guitar
vibes. There is also this little crackle to it that gives you the vinyl feel
even if you’re listening to the digital version. J.Todd brings a solid display
on the mic, making sure that you know there is no need to worry because he has
got this, binging that raw shit with slick lines, similes, metaphors and so
much more. There is no complicated message here, nothing that needs too much
thought, it’s all about that feel-good Hip-Hop music to get you movin’ and
groovin’ to the beat and rhymes and it does everything it sets out to do and
with those razor-sharp cuts, this is one of those tracks you’ll keep going back
to time after time.
As a landmark release, this one has it all, in a Hip
Hop sense anyway. There is a banging beat to get you bobbing your head, an
emcee dropping some classic rhymes, and cuts galore; I mean, in the 50th
year of Hip Hop Don’t Worry gives you a track that celebrates the roots
of what Hip Hop music grew from, the DJ and Emcee, and at the same time it
celebrates what AE Productions does best, releasing classic Hip Hop from the UK
to the US and beyond.
Don’t Worry is out now with Limited white and black
vinyl, and on digital too. So, grab one while you can.
My thanks to Mr Fantastic for sending this one my way.
As there is no need to worry,
I’m Out,
Steve.
LINKS
Get you copy of the Single from the AE Website Here:
It was way back in May 2021 that I last featured Bristol’s
C-Froo when I reviewed his last album, Unit Three. Now see’s the release of his
fourth album, Starling, which dropped two weeks ago on streaming and Bandcamp.
The album is primarily produced by Joe Bird but also
features production from 'Riski Le Bizniz' (One Cut,
Hombre Records), Master Chef and Chrome (Def Tex, Chrome+), there are also
vocals from Miss Cherie and international reggae artist, Da Fuchaman.
Starling promises to be a cracking
album as C-Froo describes the album as being full of “deep stuff, dark stuff
and dancey stuff. There's storytelling, satire, and social commentary. It's a
dip into my world and a satisfying listen.” With the man himself describing
it this way, there is a lot to look forward to so, let’s not mess about here,
come join me as I take through the album…
Profound Statement opens the
album featuring Miss Cherie on the chorus. Joe Bird’s production features bass,
keys, and drums which all mix together to create this deep vibe that had me
nodding along as I listened intently to the words. This one really strikes me
as a look at life through the eyes of C-Froo, where its all about never
standing still and making life the best it can be while doing what you love
but, also remembering to keep yourself grounded and to get too caught up in what
life brings. Miss Cherie brings these etheric vocals that almost seem to act
like your conscious, speaking to you when you need it and keeping you on track.
If you floated off a bit at the start there then the funky vibe of Unit Three
plus back down, realigning your focus. The bass and drums have you bobbing
along as you listen. Unit Three is a place where everyone needs to be,
where positivity is the key and inner peace is the ultimate goal. I guess the
thing is, how do you get there? C-Froo speaks about where you want to be and
also provides the path to get there through the track itself. Music can take
you to these places and help you open the door. Now you’re in a happy place
it’s time for a Welcome To The Funhouse. The upbeat mood comes from
flute, keys, bass, and drums that keeps you in this place where you just wanna
move. C-Froo brings a smile to your face as he takes a wealth of children’s
program titles, new and old, and weaves them into something that has your mind
working overtime, not just on the storyline but, also on reminiscing on all
those old programs.
With a grin still planted fairly and squarely on your face,
Piano and drums are the backdrop for the head nod. I Like When It’s
Excessive keeps the smile on your face But, this time for a different
reason, as C-Froo has you reminiscing once more. But here it’s all about the
crazy things you used to get up to in your younger days. As you cast your mind
back, alongside C-Froo, the smile is tinged with concern as you wonder what
effect the fun excessive times might have had on you? Well, I guess it might
have concern for some but, no reason you can’t enjoy the memories at the same
time. Just while you are in that place of excess, one thing you get excessive
with is Cheese, and here we have a mind-bending sound of drums and piano
that creating a short that kinda reminds you of the weird euphoric state you
can get into eating cheese… or is that just me?
Next up is the first track of the album not produced by Joe
Bird as production on Just Cool comes from Riski Le Bizniz. The track
also features Da Fuchaman alongside C-Froo as they both break it down about
just what it is to be just cool. It’s as simple as that and they do it in true
style over this reggae infused boom bap style beat of drums, bass, and
electronic sounds. You just gotta enjoy this one, ya feel. Next up, Joe Bird
brings a solid beat of drums, piano notes, and bells, creating this heavy beat
that also tweaks the nerves, just a little. On The Anti-Candyman we find
C-froo opening up about how hard the music scene is and offering plenty of
advice to those other artists out there about the most effective ways to make
it. This is not about being some freaky figure from the dark side, taking out
other artists. Here it is all about offering a hand, an olive branch of solid
advice, here, it’s all about being a beacon of light and giving, not taking
away. Drums and horns create this melodic sound that draws you into Blood On
The Tracksuits, a deep dark story of one youth caught up in the struggles
of inner-city life. This could be the story of any number of youngers, barely
teenagers, get used by gangs and being promised the highlife, while being used
and abused.
With the struggles of the youth still lodged in our minds,
heavy drums with a middle eastern vibe pull of minds back to the moment. The
heavy beat, from Riski Le Bizniz and Master Chef, has you bouncing around once
more as C-Froo schools us to finer points of what he notes is My Technique.
This one is all about the music and enjoying each and every second. DJ Riski Le
Bizniz provides the cuts that slice through your fragile awareness. The
penultimate track see’s the one and only Chrome on production and cuts for Britcore
On Chrome. The beat and the cuts are all high octane, as are C-Froo’s
vocals, and the focus of this one is that heavy hardcore, britcore, Hip Hop
vibe. This is one to savour as its got the flavour and it’s not for the raver.
Moving into the final track of the album, we have A Vision Of Utopia,
taking us out. The drums are softer here with Piano taking the forefront, this
creates a calming effect before the drums kick in with some pace for a short
outro. C-Froo’s vocals create this vision in the mind of summer festival vibe
with everyone on a euphoric vibe, enjoying themselves and doing just what they
wanna do with no drama, the music bringing that sense of utopia…
This is another cracking album from C-Froo. I mean there is
so much to like here as it takes you on a proper trip through modern day life.
It delivers exactly what it promises by showing you the stark reality of
inner-city life in contrast to the more upbeat and lighter side of life. C-Froo
once more displays a solid rhyme style while mixing up the flows, styles and
genres. He always delivers his words with dexterity, backed up with the
knowledge and integrity. There is also a good amount of emotive feeling running
throughout the album which adds to the depth and helps the listener to
associate with what they are hearing. When he is talking on the music industry
everything is written and delivered in such a way that you can easily
understand and vibe with.
The production here from Joe Bird, Riski Le Bizniz, Master
Chef and Chrome does exactly what in needs to do by drawing the listener into
each track and then carrying them throughout by delivering the exact vibe or
feeling being put across in C-Froo’s words. You get to hear that the roots of
the music are in Hip Hop but, along the way there are elements of other
influances too, all of which ad depth and feeling to the album as it flows through
your awareness.
Although there are only a couple of guest artists on the
album they do bring so much. Miss Cherie brings some beautiful vocals that
brings an emotive edge while Da Fuchaman, who C-Froo tours with as bassist,
brings that intense reggae sound and a huge energy and strength.
Overall, Starling is a solid Hip Hop album that immerses the
listener in the world as seen by C-Froo, who takes you into takes you on a
vocal and musical rollercoaster ride that leaves you on high but, knowing that
the twists and turns of life are always in front of you and the best you can do
is face them on a firm footing for both you and the sake of others. This is an
album to both enjoy and to savour and that do it all again.
My thanks to C-Froo for sending this my way. Starling is out
now on all good streaming platforms.
I have to say that I felt this new EP from former
Journeyman, Gee Swift, really deserved a review. Mainly because I’ve not seen
much exposure on it since it dropped a few weeks ago.
The Moody Waves EP is well worth checking out not just
because it is by Gee Swift of The Journeymen and the co-founder of AE
Productions but, also because it is produced by The Aroma, aka Rola and DJ
Rumage, and features cuts from AE’s head honcho Mr Fantastic.
Released through AE Productions, Gee Swift has decided to
put this straight on-line with no physical release. You find it on Bandcamp for
a pay what you like fee and with the pedigree the Moody Waves EP has to offer,
why would you not wanna grab it for a few quid?
If your still not sold on the idea, join me know and see
what I have to say about it and hopefully I will convince you to check this one
out…
Things kick off with the EP’s title track Moody Waves.
Drums, keys, and cuts are the basis for the sound with the drums creating that
boom bap Hip Hop sound while the keys have the effect of making you feel like
you are in a boat ebbing on the sea, while the cuts almost feel like the breeze
as you roll on the waves. Gee Swift is bang on as he says, “Take time with the
words so its well composed”. You get this real sense that he is speaking on
what he sees on the road in front of him But, also what makes him tick. Life is
just like floating on the sea, through calm and stormy seas we endure what
comes and as we do, there are waves of moods that come with what flows into our
awareness. This is not just well composed but, intelligent too.
There are more drums, keys and cuts providing the backdrop
for Come On Man, the drums, once more, carry you, just as the waves do
but, the keys and cuts combine to make you feel like a storm is brewing around
you. Here we find Gee Swift speaking on life and how he approaches his craft. It’s
all about putting in the work, the effort and always giving you all in
everything that you do But, ultimately you need to leave your best till last,
never slipping and to leave on a high, because that way you know that you have
achieved exactly what you came here to do.
The waters seem to calm with the coming of the High Seas,
where etheric vocals, pounding drums and bass notes create a reflective vibe
that also seems to have a essence of knowing and understanding. This fits
perfectly with Gee Swift’s vocals which has this air that speaks of change and
the temporary nature of things. We push to be all that we can be, to bring
light to the dark. We walk the earth leaving a path behind us, one that nature
will eventually reclaim, take back what was once hers, it’s just the natural order
of things.
We move into the final track with a solid head nod beat that
is backed by some electronic notes. We also find Gee Swift moving away from the
rough seas to the far reaches of space on a Space Odyssey. As the track progresses,
we wonder if we are on a trip into space or into the deeper reaches on the
mind? Esoteric subjects about here with the sort of vibe that will maybe take
us beyond space, beyond time and beyond the mind. This is one that will take
you wherever you need to go as you merge with Gee Swifts words on an
extradimensional trip.
Have to say that this a cracking EP that sets a new
benchmark from the Bristol emcee. Deep intelligent wordplay shows that he has
lost none of his edge from those Journeymen days. What he does here is to show
all the upcoming emcee’s out there that you need to have the skills and
presence of mind to focus on longevity. So, many artists blow in and out,
barely making a statement or have one important thing to say but, then don’t
back it up. Gee Swift simply says it how it is, do what you do and do it well,
then keep doing it well until you are ready to leave and then leave in an
explosive way, making a bold statement.
The interesting thing is that Gee Swift is also prepared to
touch on those esoteric or even exoteric subjects that few will. But more and
more artists are willing to go that extra mile and speaking on what drives them
and what they see in the world beyond the music and beyond the physical
reality. It’s a bold move to do this but, one that gives a deeper edge to the
music.
At the end of the day this is Hip Hop from one of the UK’s
top Hip Hop Hub’s, Bristol, brought to you by those who love what they do and want
to bring you a high-quality sound with slick, intelligent wordplay to get you
thinking as much as enjoying. For me, this is what the underground Hip Hop
sound is all about, top music from top artists who do it for the love and not
for the money, although a little support for their hard work never hurts…
Warpath is the latest EP release from Bristolian Krazy.
Brought to you on the Word Life imprint it features production from partner
Kali Mist and a whole bunch, if not an army, of guest artists. Although being
called an EP, at 9 tracks, this is what some are putting out as an album.
Let’s not hang around here and simply put ourselves on
Krazy’s Warpath…
The EP kicks off with it’s title track, Warpath,
where heavy drums are accompanied by guitars and horns giving a very raw, heavy,
posse cut vibe. Krazy is joined by Impact Merv, Form 1, Deaf Frets, Daysa and
Guire on a track that is, essentially, about spitting bars. It’s all about
letting off lyrical fury in the most rough, rugged and raw style, seven emcee’s
with a brutal verbal display. The assault on your senses continues with
pounding drums, orchestral sounds and organ notes. King Aggi (who brings that
ragga edge to the track) joins Krazy to explain how it’s all about being better
than the competition and being in A Different Lane From Them. It’s like
being in the fast lane of the motorway, you want to be better and faster than
the rest. It’s the same in music and in life, you always want to be better, and
it can be a rough and dirty business but, sometimes you gotta do it to move on.
The extreme assault on the senses abates a little here as guitars and drums
combine for a rough but less heavy edge. Whiske XMP, Krazy and Eurgh (Don’t
Flop) speak on real life experiences and how, when taking riska in life, there
will always be Twists of Fate that take your life path off in tangents
but, you have to take risks and reach your goals, even though life can be hard.
The risks and twists might be great but, the rewards can be greater.
There is a more laid-back feel to Tryna Eat, even
with its pounding drums, the strings seem to soften the edge to this one. Here
Krazy and Yung UK appear to be speaking on doing what you have to do to
survive, almost with a ‘by all means’ mindset. The world is a harsh place right
now and harsh decisions have to be made at times. Papercut then brings
in the boom bap, head nod vibe with Drums, keys, and strings. Krazy, Eurgh
(Don’t Flop) and Pablo Milkybarr drop bars on how, sometimes, you just must
tell the truth. It might might cause hurt and the truth can sting, slicing deep
into the heart of anyone and here have examples at how the truth can hurt, and
hurt those closest to us at times. Your head keeps nodding as drums, keys, and
a whistle merge to bring a vibe that reminds you of the spaghetti westerns. You
Win Some, You Lose Some finds Noodlez, Krazy and Kali Mist step up to talk
about how it’s all about walking forward in life, no matter what. You might
feel you can’t go on but, the good times will eventually outweigh the bad, it’s
your inner strength that is your true power.
The heavy drums and horns of Don’t Come Around, has a
slightly dark edge to it, something that is reflected in the lyrics of Krazy
and Whiske XMP. This one seems to be focuased on those who live on the harsh
side of life and who no problems with violence. They do exsist in this world
and make the streets a dangerous place. These are the ones we don’t want to
come around. There is an almost soundtrack sound to What’s Your Life Like, with
drums, keys, and orchestral sounds. It provides the perfect backdrop for Krazy,
Shakezpeare, Origin and Griz Bear to expose the hard realities of inner-city
life. It’s not always sunny, it’s sometime brutal and violent but, it is what
you have to live through.The final
track of the EP finds Kali Mist dropping a more funky vibe to proceedings with
some drums, keys, and guitars. Krazy, Dogzilla and Matrix combine on Lord Save
My Soul to bring you, what appears to be, the final thoughts of gangster, all
those bad things they have done, suddenly seen for what they are, there is a realisation
that redemption may be the last step on life’s journey…
Warpath almost seems to be like the episodes of some audible
mini-series that is exploring the life of an inner-city gangster. That harsh
reality of the inner-city life is mixed with braggadocio, reflection and an
ultimate realisation. There is stark look at life through this person’s eyes,
perhaps as they finally review their life choices on approaching life’s final
decision. It is an unapologetic and brutal commentary as this view that is
brought to life through lyrics and music. It is view that many don’t or chose
not to see as they go about their daily lives. It brings to mind the recent TV
series Outlaws, which was set in Bristol. However, there is no comedy here…
Warpath see’s Kali Mist and Krazy reuniting to bring a
hard-hitting hardcore Hip Hop vibe. Kali Mist provides some heavy and hard
musical vibes that easily take you deep into the gritty inner city Bristol
life. Krazy then uses his energetic vocal delivery to help paint these vivid
brutal scenes with a wordplay which is as subtle as a rusty razor. The vast
array of guest artists brought on board here each bring their own style to the
mix, each perfectly complimenting stark nature of the project.
Warpath might be a hardcore Hip Hop experience and one that
makes you feel the very brutal core of inner-city life but, it draws on very
real experiences which help bring the reality from the streets to your ears,
allowing you to visualise those experiences in a very real and vivid scene.
This is the reality of life, and these stories need to be told.
Warpath by Krazy is available now to stream everywhere…
Now, I know this one has been out for a little while now,
having been originally released back at the beginning of April this year. It
was only recently that Billy sent me the digital files and, following a few
hours we spent chatting in Bristol, I knew that I wanted to give this one the
treatment.
So, let me give you a quick intro to Billy Whizz and Wish
Master for those who might not be familiar. Wish Master is an Emcee from St
Paul’s Bristol, He is also the CEO of O.R. Records (Original Recordings Records) which was set up in 2017.
Billy Whizz, also from Bristol, is a Hip Hop producer whose influences range
from Black Metal to Neo Soul. He has produced his own Eps alongside those of
Twizzy and Lordwillin, and currently DJs for Tkorstretch, Wish Master and Press
1.
So, having read the liner notes for the album and chatted to
Billy, I liked the idea that the album was set up as a lost soundtrack to a
Sci-Fi Tech Noir movie that starred Wish Master and Billy Whizz. If you are not
sure what I’m going on about then here are the liner notes to help spread some
light on things:
Limited Edition Compact Disc Recently discovered in a DVD
bargain bin, it turns out Wish Master & Billy Whizz starred in their own
Sci Fi Tech Noir movie in the mid 80s. The soundtrack created from stolen
synthesizers and drum machines from John Carpenters next door neighbour and the
narrative provided by Wish Master's lyrics creates the perfect soundtrack all
produced by Billy Whizz. Top grade features from Upfront MC, Press1, Danja
& Datkid all add merit to the tense atmosphere Wish & Whizz have to
face. OR has now officially released its soundtrack in its full 8 track glory
restored on streaming services and CD.
I hope that helps because I thought I would add a slight
movie synopsis edge to the feel of my review. So, sit back, dim the lights, and
get the popcorn out, it’s time to press play…
Our opening scene see’s the dawns early light just breaking
over the urban skyline of the city of Bristol UK. The heroes begin to stir from
their slumber as a pounding beat hits, backed by some choral vocals, there is
almost a ragga feel to the opening theme of the movie. Wish Master is soon
dropping bars to Billy’s beats, switching between flows and styles, and musing over
Thoughts of Thoughts, we get a good introduction to Wish and Whizz,
prepping us for what’s to follow. As the light of day bathes the city in a
golden light, we see this is not the Bristol we know now, the skyscrapers tower
above the old city, just as giant redwood trees would tower over the native
oaks growing on what was our green and pleasant land. Giant LED displays
advertise products to the masses and vehicles not only travel the streets but,
also fly above them. This is a metropolis of the future. Our heroes set out in
the early morning light not knowing what day will bring but, as a wicked head
nod beat drops, it’s time to get everyone moving and grooving. With Billy on
the 1’s and 2’s, Wish Master opens up about who he is, what he does and how he
and Whizz channel their creative energy. The fact is their energy comes from
the heart, the Heart of a Lion that is, with passion, strength, and a
desire to rise to the top.
In this future full of technology that is integrated into
the very brains of humans, Wish and Whizz prefer to do things the old way in
analogue and digital, not by creating beats just by thinking them and having
them immediately available on an SSD built into a small watch like device on
your wrist. Yeah, it takes time, and you have to be a Workaholic to do
it. Here billy drops a deep, laid-back vibe from keys, drums, and choral
vocals. But it’s not laid-back enough to stop you moving, especially when Wish
is joined by Upfront MC to detail exactly what it is to get deep into this rap
game. If you wanna be the best you gotta work at it, constantly upping your
game to rise to the top and be the best. But, getting to the top is not gonna
be easy, especially in a high-speed word where things go beyond digital. Our
heroes stop in a small green space that was once Castle Park. As Wish begins to
muse about the future, Billy flips on a beat that has that soundtrack edge,
drums and sonic sounds create a grime vibe. This sets the stage perfectly for
Wish to speak on the struggles of daily life and all those times we see things
we feel we would like to do but, for whatever reason, we just don’t feel able
to reach those goals. Well, one thing is for sure here, Wish is certain of one
thing, if anyone can then Wish Master Can. With that desire ringing
strong in their ears Wish and Whizz now Get Connected with DatKid.
Together they walk tall through the megastructures as heavy drums and
multi-layered sounds create a solid head nod vibe that gets a smile on
everyones faces. There is almost a John Carpenter edge to this one as Wish and
DatKid speak hard and unapologetically on life in Bristol, what you have to do
to survive and the fact that being connected to all those liked minded souls
out there keep things alive and keep them going on…
As they continue their journey, Wish and Whizz find
themselves in an underground rock music club. With one thing in mind our heroes
set out to, once more, merge Rock n Rap. The people of the future have
forgotten that music genres can be brought together and Billy Whizz proceeds to
mix up some heavy drums, heavy rock guitars and rock vocals to bring a proper
rock n rap sound. Meanwhile Wish proceeds drop bars on the merging of musical
and lifestyles. Time to bounce to this and hit the mosh pit. As Wish and Whizz
emerge from the club, they are suddenly inundated with people asking questions
about what they are trying to do? With a sense of confrontation in the air
these people seem to have No Manners in their pursuit for answers,
pounding drums and a weird sound, almost like the Green Hornet theme, is the
opening for a heavy grime style beat, pounding your ears with bass. Wish Master
answers all the questions by explaining they make their music, their way. They
don’t work to any script, just put out what they want to put out, using any
sound they want and saying whatever they want. To show the crowd exactly what
they mean, Billy Whizz drops another grime edged beat with a mix of vocal
samples, rapid drumbeats, cymbals and multi-layered sounds. Wish Master calls
on Press 1 and Danjo to join him and with that all three proceed to spit lyrics
that deal with life while each one switches up Flows on Flows
demonstrating exactly what it is to do things your own way, why you do it,
reaching for those goals.
With the crowd in a frenzy, the commotion comes to the
attention of the authorities. Wish and Whizz take a step back to reflect on how
they got to where they are now. This gives birth to who they truly are Wish
and Whizz Ltd. Que a cut scene retrospective over the albums title track,
sparce drums, horns and strings bring a slightly laid-back vibe, giving us time
to pause for this reflective moment. Now with the feds quickly closing in and
blocking all exits its time for Wish and Whizz to bring some focus and clarity
to help diffuse the situation. Billy queues up some head nod drums backed by
organ notes which provide a slightly chilled edge, while still hitting on all
the right levels. Wish Master steps to the forefront dropping some deep verses
on just what it takes to create music, their way. He speaks on the passion, the
work ethic and the real-life experience that is tinged with emotion. It’s all
about creating music from the heart and not just the head. Its that which
allows you to dig deep inside and to bring out the King In Me. The crowd
seems to suddenly awake from a dream state, they switch off their devices,
unplug their minds and vow to make music from the heart. The authorities see
the crowd disperse but, keep watch on Wish and Whizz as they make their way
back to home. Once there and with the knowledge of what has gone that day they
reflect once more. Billy drops a heavy sound of drums and horns that is full of
energy. Wish, fuelled by the sound, opens up on what it is to be in this world,
a world where there is so much Poison around us in many different forms.
You have to get out there, make a stand, do what you gotta do to make you voice
heard. To make that point even deeper there is some samples of Wish speaking
during the BLM marches in Bristol way back in 2020. As the music fades and the
credit roll, you are left wondering just how Wish Master and Billy Whizz got to
this futuristic Bristol? Perhaps that one will be uncovered in another dusty
DVD bin someday, that’s if the movie was ever made…
So, I may have put a fun spin on this one to make it fit in
with the kinda fun overview of the album but, make no mistake here Wish and
Whizz Ltd is a solid street level expression of urban music styles that exist
in Bristol.
Wish Master and Billy Whizz, as individuals, have a deep
connection to the underground music scene in Bristol and the UK in general. As
they show their talents are second to none, which makes them a force to be
reckoned with as a team. With Billy’s production, which mixes a whole host of
musical styles and influences, with Wish Masters lyrical style and flow, which
has its foundation in his own real-life experiences, really does seem to create
this aural experience that creates these visual ideas in the mind of the
listener, as it did for me. They just work so well together, each seemingly
bringing out the best in the other.
Wish and Whizz Ltd is just a wining formula that takes the
multi-faceted production and DJ skills of Billy Whizz and adds in the intelligent
wordplay, styles, and flows of Wish Master, then multiplies by a few carefully
selected guest artists and divides by 11 solids tracks which equals one huge
slice of underground music that will appeal to a wide range of people and
deliver enjoyment for years to come.
I could go on for longer about the album, singling out how
good the guest artists are and how they each bring their own styles, spicing
things up in just the right way when needed but, do you really need me to say
all that?
All I really need to say is this, if you have not heard this
already then grab a download or CD and stick it on cos I can guarantee you
won’t be sorry you did and plus it’s always good to support the artists too.
So, Wish and Whizz Ltd by Wish Master and Billy Whizz is out
now on O.R Records.
As for me?
I’m outta here,
See Ya…
Steve
LINKS
Remember to check all the usual Social Media sites for Wish Master, Billy Whizz and O.R.Records.
It was back in June of 2021 that I reviewed the debut
release of Unbreakable by Bristol Duo Kali Mist and Krazy on the Word Life
imprint. Since that time the guys at Word Life have not been resting with their
podcast and new music blowing up.
Now one half of the duo, Kali Mist, is back with his brand
new production album YO YO PUNK! (also released via Word Life), which he also features on alongside a
host of guest artists, one of which is a Young KSV who is Kali’s son and
dropped his own single, Five Guys, back in July last year (which I also
reviewed).
So, let’s get straight in and find out what YO YO PUNK!
is all about…
The kicks of with Childhood Dayz which features
Reggie Millionz and DoMc alongside Kali. The vibe of this one is straight up
funk courtesy of guitar, keyboards, and drums. It makes you wanna nod ya head,
big time as the emcees take back to growing up in the 80’s, when Hip Hop was in
its youthfulness and it was all about the Commodores, Atari or spectrums, where
no had a care in the world. Cymbals, drums, and guitar vibes bring in the
slightly more laid-back sound of Circles, where Kali Mist is joined by
Social Conscience and Sadia (who provides stunning soulful chorus). The message
here is all about how so many people are content to stay in their safe zones.
If you are not prepared to make moves and take a chance you will never do
anything but, go round in circles.
Guitars, bass, drums, and another soulful chorus form a
funky backdrop, perfect for Kali to be joined by Reggie Millionz and Dan
Ratchett on Live Your Life. As the title suggests, this one is all about
getting out there and living your life. You gotta make the right decisions to
ensure that you make everything count, to be the one who stands out. The keys
and guitar of See Tomorrow create a chilled vibe while the drums provide
the pace for the vocals, leaving you wondering if you should sit back or get up
and move to this. What you should do is listen as Baileys Brown and Social
Conscience join Kali to speak on the things that help us get through the days.
There is so much that causes us to struggle through the days, testing our
mental health and have so many questioning if they even want to see another day
but, just a little bit of love in our lives from family, friends or a partner
can help us want to see the next day.
How Can I Live switches the pace up a few notches to
mix of bass, drums, and xylophone notes, creating the kinda upbeat feel-good
sound you can’t help but nod your head to. Reggie Millionz and DoMc join Kali
once more for a track that speaks about the motivation that we all find within
us, everyday as question what goes on around us and how we keep going in the
face of such adversity. The penultimate track is the title track Yo Yo Punk!
It features Social Conscience, Reggie Millionz and Young KSV alongside Kali
over another feel-good vibe of drums, bass, guitars, and horns that infuses you
with the energy to move. Is this about Hip Hop and Punk, or about being a punk,
or is it just a bit of everything. Well, it’s definitely a bit of fun and
that’s what we need right now so enjoy this one and have some fun. The album
finishes up with Way Out, which keeps that upbeat vibe going with bass, keys,
and drums. Kali is joined by Social Conscience and Micha B to drop it heavy
about getting out there performing live and just going way out of your way to
do what you do, to enjoy yourself while you’re doing it and most of all bring
enjoyment to others. Let’s face it, it’s all about the feel good…
There is no two ways about it, Yo Yo Punk! Is a
little over twenty minutes of funk fuelled, Hip Hop vibes to make you wanna
bounce as Kali Mist once more shows that Bristol is the home to some of the
UK’s premier Hip Hop.
Kali’s production here is straight up banging Hip Hop that
has a core vibe inspired by the funk sound. What this does is to bring that
underlying energy has you wanting to either nod your head, bounce around or
just move in some way to the beat. There are a few tracks here that would be at
home in the clubs just as much as they would be pounding out the car stereo or
your headphones. When you then add to that sound a stellar line-up of emcees,
bringing that Hip Hop vocal edge, and singers, who bring a tinge of soulful
sounds, it just polishes things off.
If anything, I found myself wanting to hear more. I wanted
another four or five tracks as I was enjoying it that much. For me, Kali Mist
is one of those emcee/producers who, without a doubt, will go far on the UK
underground Hip Hop scene with projects like this. Not only that but, he has
also provided a platform to launch the names of those guest artists. You might
not be familiar with those names before this but, after this you most
definitely want to watch for all those artists featuring alongside Kali Mist.
I don’t think there is much more that I can say about Yo Yo
Punk! Except that is out now and if you have nor heard this one yet then you’re
sleeping on a proper crackin’ slice of home-grown Hip Hop. So, you know what to
do…
On that note, I just wanna thank Kali Mist for asking me to
do this.
Back in October I dropped a similar double header for the
previous two AE Productions 45 drops and as these two new 45’s were also
released together I decided to do the same again. So, sit back and enjoy…
AE044 – Sir
Beans OBE
Part Of It ft
KELZ / DEF - Defeat Evil Fools ft Zaeb Dust, Blaktrix & Medusa
Bristol Legend Sir Beans OBE (Parlour Talk, Undivided
Attention & Transcript Carriers) has previously supplied beats for the
Truck album and also turntables on The Aroma on AE Productions but, he now
drops his first solo release.
The A side see’s Sir Beans joined by another Bristol legend
in the form of KELZ for Part Of It. The sound here is a mix of drums,
guitars and keyboards that has that classic Bristol, Sagittarius Sound System,
Ruztic Records vibe. At times it feels like an urban industrial sound which
merges in and out of an almost spaced-out sound alongside it.
That sound is the perfect back drop for KELZ to bring his no
nonsense lyrical style, tinged with ragga elements, to bear on this track.
Listening to this you get that feeling that what KELZ is saying here is that
you gotta stand up for what you believe in, no matter what it is. It could be your
stance on the state of current events, your feelings on what it is to be Hip
Hop or anything you feel passionate about. Don’t just be a Part Of It by
believing everything you are told! Always stand up for who you are and speak
your truth.
This track oozes that Bristol vibe and sound which is
encapsulated by Sir Beans production and KELZ knowledge and inimitable rap style.
Whenever these guys work together, they put out Hip Hop that reeks of
experience and a deep desire to entertain while bringing the truth to the
people as only they know how…
The B side finds Zaeb Dust (The Enjinz), Blaktrix (Ruztik
Records) and Madusa (Project Blowed, L.A.) join Sir Beans on DEF - Defeat Evil Fools. The soundscape here is a surreal mix of drums, horns, bells, and
vocal samples that are mashed together by Sir Beans to create a sound that
seems to ooze from the shadows to reach into your mind.
With that dark vibe established the vocal trio drop lines
that seem to focus on not just shadowy people but also the shadowy side of
people’s characters. The side of people and the very world around us that is
seldom seen and not something many really believe in. It is always this darker
side reality and of people themselves that is kept quiet. We all know the
shadowy nature of governments and the like but, so often we do not realise that
we might live next to a racist or a paedophile, because they are so good at
hiding that part of their nature from us.
With slick vocals and individual styles these emcees bring a
focus to the shadows and those that live there. These people who live by
pulling a veil over everyone’s eyes are the fools and now its time to Defeat Evil Fools…
AE045 – Chrome Plus
Popcorn /
Pieces will align
Now, most of you will know the legendary figure from Norwich
that is Chrome (Def Tex) but, more recently he has put together something new
in Chrome Plus. More of a Hip-Hop band, Chrome Plus is Chrome providing Rap,
Tom Hanna on Bass, aCivillian on Guitar and SuperJB providing the Production
and Cuts etc. So, what does this all add up to on this debut…
The A side, Popcorn features production from DJar One
and SuperJB, who also provides the cuts, and brings us an upbeat funky
feel-good vibe. Chrome brings his classic rapid-fire vocals which uplift you
even more as he breaks it down about just what he and Chrome Plus are all about
and what they are bringing to the party.
This is really one of those tracks where the music does all
the talking. The mix of classic Hip-Hop production and live instruments is a
delight to behold. It has to be said that the addition of live guitar and bass
just adds an extra dimension to the music and makes you want to listen to it
over and over, again and again, because it just pumps you up and get you
moving.
Flipping over to the B side for Pieces will align,
production comes from Steve Ebola and SuperJB. The mix of organ notes and
drums, alongside the live guitar and bass brings the kinda sound you want to
nod your head to but, also has this vibe that makes you want to listen…
Chrome turns slows his pace, ever so slightly, as he
delivers a deeper message. That message seems to focus on the fractured nature
of reality and life around us. In nearly every aspect of life, entertainment
and music, there are many facets that don’t appear to fit. It is like for every
piece of perfection there is an equal or opposite imperfection. But what if we
could turn back the hands of time, find those imperfections and make it that
all those Pieces will align…
There is no doubt that AE Productions has, once again,
delivered two mighty 7” releases for our listening pleasure. On one hand we
have Sir Beans OBE delivering two heavy weight tracks that pound our minds into
submission, whilst on the flip side Chrome Plus brings two equally heavy tracks
that raise us up and have us bouncing around one minute, then have us nodding
our heads in contemplation the next.
I’d like to say more by not saying too much again, here we
have two not to be missed releases that show the high calibre and depth of the
UK Hip Hop scene. AE Productions is truly dropping some of the cream of UK Hip
Hop and Hip Hop that well and truly has its feet solidly in the roots or real
Hip Hop music.
As always AE Productions brings us stunning releases with
full colour artwork and more. AE044 features artwork from Nick Pointon and is
mixed and mastered by Rola (Numskullz/Aroma). AE045 features design by Leon
Nockolds while SuperJB handles mixing and mastering.
Both are released tomorrow on AE Productions.
I’m out,
See Ya,
Steve.
LINKS
Buy both from the AE Productions online shop Here:
With such a wealth of good music being released in 2021, I
was excited for the release of the album Future Life Progression from Bristol
based and Multitalented artist O.Love (aka Asian Hawk).
I have previously reviewed a couple of the single releases
from this album in Embellishment and Controversial. This introduced me to his brand
of electronic neo-funk, neo-soul. This was a refreshing sound, and I was
looking forward to listening to the album to see what else was instore.
So, lets get right into it…
The albums title track, FLP, is also its intro, with
sparce and spaced-out tones providing the backdrop, it really invites you to
listen with an open mind because every time you put this on it will bring a new
and exciting experience. This is mind expanding, like an introduction to a
musical meditative experience. Our first full length track is Controversial which
features Matt Owen (Noah and the Whale) and Keno Decosta Medford (Sounds of
Harlowe) providing guitars. This track reflects the driving force and desire
to leave the DJ world behind and expand to newer, more exciting musical
heights, with universal appeal. This is a spaced-out Neo-Funk/Neo-Soul
track that has a vibe right out of hyperspace, deep space, or some previously
undiscovered alternate reality. It has a funk fuelled beat over which floats
that eclectic mix of guitar, synth and melodic vocals. Those vocals bring to
your awareness all that is or could be termed controversial. By the end of the
track, you are feeling like you have just been dipped into some awesome mix of
Prince and Parliament/Funkadelic but, with vibe like it’s all been experienced
through your third eye. Now we are floating around just outside of earth’s
atmosphere the Galaxy Cruise Briefing provides us with some
intergalactic electronic notes with vocals that make us ponder what is about to
happen on our journey.
A Wonder of the Modern Age is a slightly more
laid-back vibe with synths and piano notes. There are plenty of wonderous
things in our modern age with technological advances and so on but, is there
anything more wonderous that watching someone you love just do the things they
do, being themselves. Embellishment continues our journey and see’s
O.Love’s voice bring an almost dreamy quality that perfectly contrasts yet
compliments the track. As you listen you are drawn into this parallel dimension
of electric funk which lifts you up and carries you, floating in an alternate
colourful realisation of space. As you float along the vocals reach into your
mind and create this almost trippy vision of the duality of lives and
everything around us. Where things are not always what they seam and those you
trust often have an ulterior motive for doing or saying certain things. We
venture further into the cosmos with an upbeat extra-terrestrial Rhythm
which is infused with drums, bass, rain sticks and Rhodes piano (played by
Jackson). It is all about the rhythm here and how it makes you feel and move.
We venture beyond our solar system on an electronic,
futuristic jazz vibe and boom bap drums, alongside vocals and a rap from Press
1. All this combines to transport your awareness In To The Parallel
dimensions. Feel free to stay here, especially if you consider you own dimension
and are not happy with what is looking back at you. We spend a short interlude
suspended between one dimension and the next. The music is unplugged with just
a piano to accompany the vocals. This short moment says so much, O.Love says Before
I Leave there is still time to reflect on all those individual times you ponder
on life and who you would like to spend it with. Guitar and drums accompany the
organ notes on Instascam as O.Love looks at the world of social media.
There is a value in keeping touch with friends and family. There is also value
in making new connections but, with all the fun you can experience comes many
pitfalls, especially the addiction of valuing ‘likes’ above all else.
Dumbface hits with a percussion vibes and bass over
the organ notes. The message here seems to reflect the ups and downs of
everyday life. Especially those time we lose control of our conscious thought
when tired and exhausted. We just need to maintain ourselves with poise and
positive focus and not throw it back in one’s face, no matter the situation.
There are times in life where we meet someone and there is that instant energy,
The Spark, between you. These times you just have to act on that impulse
because something special is to come. This is reflected in the energetic mix of
musical notes here from guitars, bells and syth. From one kind of energy to
another. A drum and synth heavy vibe takes us back to the 3-D world where Time
Is Money, working hard and exhausting our mind and bodies. We do this all
for money, a created concept that has no real value, except that which we put
on it…
Pre-Wind has a melodic backdrop of bells as we
realise that noise is a winding mechanism tightening, increasing the tension
for what is to come. Our anticipation is carried forward with that winding
sound alongside drums and guitar as we continue to Wind Up. What we are
winding up to is an increase in sexual tension. The visions created here are x-rated
to the maximum as you and your partner engage in all manor of fore play to increase
the pleasure. That pleasure and the experience of love and making love is
explored further as we groove to some smooth electronic vibes and guitar notes.
Here it is all about taking that love to the next level, a universal experience
that takes you both to the Finish Line.
We end the album with some smooth mix of drums, guitar, and
synth vibes on SMHL. The sound carries us to the moments of true deep
love. When it so strong for that special someone you just want the universe to
do one thing, Send Me Her Love…
For me listening to Future Life Progression echoed the
passion, the energy, and the spirit of Prince. Having been a huge fan of the
purple one for many years, I was truly taken aback at how this album captured
the essence of the late musical genius. I do not know if this was intentional
or not but, it honestly felt spooky, just as if Prince was sat on the shoulder
of O.Love who channelled that musical genius through once more. That might be a
huge statement to make and, if you agree or not, that was what my initial feels
were as I listened, and they have not changed.
You can truly feel O.Love’s love of music here and creating
an album that will uplift you but, at the same time will allow the listener to
transport themselves to different spiritual and emotional experiences each time
they listen.
Although I have mentioned Prince here as a major influence,
in my view, you can easily feel different influences from funk, jazz and soul
to Hip Hop and more modern musical vibes, there is something for everyone to feel
on this album. Through all these multi-genre influences there is still
something that O.Love imprints on this album that is truly his own and for me
it is his passion for creating something different that people can feel on many
levels that speaks out. In a true departure from the DJ that people know him
as, he has reinvented himself and in doing so has created a piece of music that
truly does touch you on many levels.
What can I say except, experience Future Life Progression
for yourself and see where it takes you?
The album is out now and at only a fiver, it's an absolute bargain.
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