Single Review: On The Floor / Watcha Waitin' For (Feat. Blade) by Whirlwind D

 

On The Floor / Watcha Waitin For (feat Blade)

By

Whirlwind D

 

I have been pretty lucky to have been able to review pretty much every release from Whirlwind D since 2017’s Falling. So, I was hyped to hear that this latest release was coming, and when he mentioned it would be featuring the legendary figure, and a close friend, Blade, I was even more hyped.

As the man himself Whirlwind D has featured here many times, there is no need for me to introduce him in any way. The single is released through ae Productions and features production and cuts from Djar One, who also mixed the tracks at Beats House. Plus, there is also art and design from John Dyer to cap it all off.

So, there is not much more for me to say except, let’s get into it…

 

On The Floor finds Whirlwind D taking back; back beyond the times of labels, Solid N Mind and the Battle Tipped Rhyme, to speak on the toys that would be instrumental in the years before Hip Hop, Graff, BMX, and skateboarding would come along, and those toys would be left on the floor. Now, being of that same era but, also having a younger brother too, I can really associate with everything that D drops here from Steve Austin (The Six Million Dollor Man) and Skeletor (He Man), to the Dinky, Matchbox and Corgi toy cars, to building Airfix model kits of planes and even Star Wars vehicles. Thinking back over these times brings a smile and even a tear, these were, as D says, the times that shaped who we were and how we would interact with the world and people around us. These were good times when we had no cares and no worries before we grew and world seemed to change. This is the kind of reminiscing that brings so much enjoyment, and Whirlwind D brings it all back so vividly. But the enjoyment levels here don’t just come from D’s skilful wordplay, Djar One brings this upbeat sound that mixes in funk fuelled keys and horns with the kind of head nod, body moving beat that broadens your smile and really helps to crystallise those vivid memories; even the cuts here seem to have a vibrant upbeat feel to them. In fact, this one is so infectious that you kind of want to spin it a few times before flipping it over.

However, flip it over is something you have to do because the B-Side is Watcha Waitin’ For and see’s D linking up with Blade. Djar One brings a deep 70’s, Prince style funk vibe here with cuts, keys and bass that make you nod your head slowly while thinking to yourself, ‘Oh Yeah’. While you are bouncin’ to this one, there is a solid message here that D and Blade make perfectly plain and simple for you to understand. That message is that it is ok to have dreams about the future but, just sitting back and crystallising those dreams is not enough; you need to work towards them, reach out and take hold of those dreams and make them happen for you. It will take you a lot longer to achieve anything unless you have the determination and drive to make it happen, and that means working through all those doubts, feeling the fear and doing it anyway. Remember, practice makes perfect, or close to it anyway. So, practice over and over, be unapologetically yourself, show them your authenticity and don’t try to be like someone else.  

 

Overall, what can you say about two completely solid tracks like these? Either could be an A side track, they both have that strength and emotive content. Both have equally powerful messages to say on different subject matter that speak to you on different levels bringing enjoyment, reflection, and motivation.

As always Whirlwind D uses his intelligent and distinctive wordplay, with differing flows, to bring you solid Hip Hop vocals that speak to you in a way that you have no problem having on with youngster’s around, making them a pleasure to listen to, as you get to hear every word he says; and that is also reflected by Blade who drops his intellectual wordplay in the same way. Blade might not make many appearances these days but, when he does there is always a depth to his words that goes beyond normal thought patterns, and you have to read between those lines.

There is just so much to like here on this release. On The Floor has Whirlwind D in full on reflective mode bringing us the kind of feel good vibes we all need right now, while Watcha Waitin’ For sees D and Blade working so well together in bringing a track that has a deeper aspect, speaking to you on a whole other level but, still with an enjoyment factor that rocks the spot.

Both of these tracks are underpinned by the production from Djar One who shows here just who you can take that funky Hip Hop to a level that raises the bar every time. Djar One has a knack of producing funky Hip Hop vibes that can elevate any track but, that also have a life of their own as instrumental tracks with an upbeat feel that makes them such a joy to listen to.

There is nothing left to say except this is one release you need this year and will stand head and shoulders with other summer releases.

On The Floor / Watcha Waitin’ For is released today, so don't sleep on this one.

As always, my humble thanks to Whirlwind D for giving me the chance to bring you this one as an exclusive.

I’ll see ya next time,

Steve.

LINKS

Grab your copy of the single Here:

https://whirlwindd.bandcamp.com/album/on-the-floor-watcha-waitin-for

Stream on Spotify Here:

https://open.spotify.com/album/

Whirlwind D Socials:

https://www.instagram.com/whirlwind.d/

https://www.facebook.com/solidnmindrap

 

 

 

 

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: God's Poet / Just A Page by Kelz

 

God’s Poet / Just A Page

By

Kelz

 

It’s been a while since I last reviewed a B-Line Recordings release But, whenever I do, I’m always struck by the quality of what they release. It’s always a total package with artwork, vinyl and quality music and the latest release on 7” God’s Poet / Just A Page by the mighty Kelz of Bristol’s own 3PM, is no different.

Released on B-Line Recordings in association with Hip Hop Be Bop, the vinyl boast’s quality artwork from the one and only John Dyer (Digital Dyer) with both tracks produced by the legendary SIR Beans OBE (Transcript Carriers, Parlour Talk etc).

Let’s be honest here, when you look at what little I’ve already mentioned here, it ramps up the anticipation levels to max. So, let’s just dive in…

 

Banging drums, bass and piano notes immediately draw you into God’s Poet and you know that the anticipation was well founded as your head get’s to nodding. Kelz, meanwhile, drops three verses that detail the story of God’s Poet and his experiences on the present-day streets. There is an intellectual and spiritual depth to his words as he paints pictures in your head of the struggles faced by this person, these are the kind of experiences faced by so many black people, especially those who choose to speak out. Here the God’s Poet is not one simply telling people what to do, where to go or who to follow, he is a guiding light that is more telling people to be themselves and know they can be all they can be. In a world of candles this poet is the taper that helps each one to shine.

There is an etheric quality that is almost hypnotic before the bass drops followed by the beat, which is interlaced with flute notes that retains that etheric quality at moments. That flute is almost like the Pied Pipers flute, and you can’t help but, nod your head and follow Just A Page. This track is a stunning tribute to the late Bristol rapper Sir Plus. Sir Plus was one of most respected rappers to come out of Bristol in recent years and who sadly passed away in 2020. When you lose a close friend, remembering the good times is one of the best things you can do to keep their memory alive and that is exactly what Kelz does here, to remember his friend and all those good times. There is not much more I can say here because Kelz words say it all, R.I.P. Sir Plus, A Legend Out Here…

 

How do you sum up something like this? Here you have two Bristolian legends doing what they do and showing why they are so highly thought of. Dropping the kind of release that is the definition of the phrase ‘Mic Drop Moment’…

Firstly, you have Sir Beans OBE crafting the kind of funky Hip Hop that he does so well and that has that infectious quality to it but, more than that there is a deep vibe to each track here that draws you in and helps you focus on Kelz words. Here those words span two tracks with differing flows and vibes. God’s Poet has this dark edge to it that reflects perfectly how someone can be treated, as all they seek to do uplift and inspire those around them. Just A Page has this emotional focus on the memory of a good friend but, far from having any sadness, Kelz world bring and shine a light on a life well lived and a beautiful legacy that uplifts you as you listen.

There is little more you can say about this release except you simply can’t sleep on this one. The Limited-Edition Vinyl won’t be around long so, jump on this one quick.

My humble thanks to Hip Hop Be Bop’s Shaun Dowling for sending this one my way.

On that note,

I’m Out,

Steve

LINKS

Get the vinyl directly from HHBB Here:

https://hiphopbebop.com/product/kelz-gods-poet-just-a-page/

HHBB Home Page Here:

https://hiphopbebop.com/

Single Review: Lucky Number / Do It Now by Whirlwind D

 

Lucky Number (ft Lewis Parker & Specifik) / Do It Now (ft Smoove)

By

Whirlwind D

 

Lucky Number/Do It Now is the latest release from Whirlwind D. Releasing this one via Bristol’s premier Hip Hop label, AE Productions, it promises to be something special.

This time around Whirlwind D has teamed up with some true heavy weights from the UK Hip Hop scene. Lucky Number features production and an appearance from the legendary figure of Lewis Parker, alongside B-Line Recordings head honcho Specifik on the cuts. Do It Now features production from Smoove who returns after the success of last years ‘Labels Smoove Remix’ and with another stunning piece of art and design from the one John Dyer @digitaldyer, this 45 package certainly lines up to pack a punch, so let’s get into it…

The first thing to note about Lewis Parker’s production on the A Side, Lucky Number, is that there is this Multi-layered sound where, aside from the drums, you can pick out some horns, guitar notes and so much more and it all combines to produce this dark dystopian funk vibe, with an almost soundtrack edge to it, that really reflects what society is like at this present moment whilst, at the same time, drawing you in and making you want to listen and focus on the words. When those words drop in, what you find is that Whirlwind D and Lewis Parker are not speaking on those numbers that we all hope will bring us some good luck. No, here we realise that this is all about the way those in power, such as the British Government, are always rolling the dice, playing with the lives, hopes and dreams of the everyday person. We are the pawns in their games, where our lives, earnings and even health are the chips they use to bet on multiple rolls of the dice, where the outcome is never guaranteed and their losses and gains are, more often than not, our losses either way. We all have to realise that these people are not out there for our greater good, they are only doing what they do for their own personal gains, which is so often money and fame. Why else would you give yourself a pay rise while those who put you there are systematically financially crippled, suffering mentally and emotionally while they are thinking “I’m Alright Jack”. The track ends with Specifik on the cuts, creating a mesmerising sound that bends and stretches this harsh vison and giving a brief glimpse of the light at the end of the tunnel… Don't forget to check the video for this one too...

With all that stirring in your mind, you flip over to the AA Side, Do It Now and you quickly realise that this is the Yang to Lucky Numbers, Yin, Smooves production is this upbeat funky vibe that is full of drums and organ notes, mixed with soulful vocals, it brings a real positive and head nod energy. What Whirlwind D does here is to bring balance to darkness by uplifting the listener. There are so many ways that the world around us impacts our daily lives and makes us feel lethargic or struggle to get things done and find that motivation but, Whirlwind D explains that it is just about getting up, pushing through the brain fog to Do It Now and he reinforces that by bringing in his own personal experiences and showing us that he is just the same as the rest of us. This track is here to serve as encouragement that we can all do this in the face of adversity, which is shown as he references the struggle of Del Soulcondor (R.I.P), the inspiration for this track, who fought to start his own record label, bringing his love of Hip Hop music to a wider audience and at the same time giving so much to those around him, even though he was dealing with a terminal cancer diagnosis. Del’s story touched us all and should also serve as a beacon of light to everyone that you can do it, just Do It Now…

 

The thought that this release represented the Yin and Yang came to me as I began to write, after reading the press sheet and before fully listening to Do It Now. These two tracks are interconnected as A and AA, just as the Yin and Yang are interconnected opposing forces of dark and light that maintain the balance and harmony in the universe, it is the same with both sides of this 45.

Overall, you simply cannot have Lucky Number without Do It Now, these songs are both sides of the coin, the light and dark or the Yin and Yang. It is a truly masterful idea that shows how emotive music can be and how it can truly touch and give rise to your deepest feelings. Something I personally felt on many levels here and see no reason why it would not be the same for any listener. We can all associate with the dark times and how we need those bright times to lift us and help us achieve to near impossible.

What Whirlwind D has done with this release is quite stunning and an instant classic. Using his deep descriptive wordplay, of which you can hear every word, alongside slick turns of flow and emotive musical canvases from Lewis Parker and Smoove, is a release that is more than just Hip Hop or conscious Hip Hop, this is Hip Hop with deep awareness that also truly touches the soul, showing just how the light and the dark side of life bring balance. The appearance of Lewis Parker on Lucky Number just adds extra depth, as one of the UK’s most respected artists, he brings conscious lyrics and an almost cinematic production that perfectly fits with the vibe of the track bringing it alive.

Lucky Number/Do It Now (executively produced by Whirlwind D and Mr Fantastic) is available now, physical copies are already limited so, get in quick if you want one…

My humble thanks to Whirlwind D for sending this over and his continued support for this Blog.

On that note,

I’m Out...

Steve

LINKS

Get the single via Whirlwind D on Bandcamp Here:

https://whirlwindd.bandcamp.com/album/lucky-number-do-it-now

Get the single from AE Productions Here:

https://www.ae-productions.co.uk/product-page/whirlwind-d-lucky-number-do-it-now-7

Get the single from Suspect Packages Here:

https://suspect-packages.com/product/lucky-number/

Whirlwind D on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/solidnmindrap

VIDEO

Lucky Number Official Video (by Hausriot)

 

 

Single Review: SS005 - Flight of the Condor / Final Flight of the Condor

 

SS005 - Flight Of The Condor / Final Flight Of The Condor

By

Uncle Mic Nitro, DJ Nappa & DJ Mr Thing / DJ Nappa & Krash Slaughta

NOTE: Before I get into the review, I just wanted to let you know that this will not be my usual review style. There will be some personal stuff included in here and some of this may be considered as triggering to some people and I therefore give a TRIGGER WARNING as some of what you are about to read will contain references to cancer, suicide, and death. If any of this may affect you, I please ask you take care when reading.

Thank You, Steve

 

This single is the final release on the SoulCondor Slices label that was set up by Del Soulcondor aka Derek Grayston. Like so many I became friends with Del over Instagram, by the time I became aware of Del’s music and awful situation with his cancer diagnosis, I was already suffering with my own grief having lost my youngest daughter, in October of 2020, when she took her own life. His story touched me deeply as I had lost my own mother to cancer back in 1995. I felt that I wanted to do something to support him and knew that the best way for me to do that was to review his upcoming releases.

After a few chats Del sent me the files for SS001 & SS002 and a little later the files for SS003 & SS004. I was so glad that he liked the reviews, and it gave me a true sense of getting his music out to people. When he told me of the up coming SS005 (Then called Operation Condor) I knew it would be a given for me to drop another review when it was eventually released.

As 2021 moved towards its final quarter I began to struggle with my grief as this would be the first anniversary of losing my daughter. Although these were dark times, I kept watch on Dels posts and sent him screen shots of when SS003 & SS004 (Issue 467/8) appeared in the Online Gonzo weekly magazine (Gonzo is an online music mag run by a good friend who now features my reviews and had already featured my reviews on SS001 & SS002 (issue 457/8)), Del did not get back to me, which was not something I expected as by now he was in a hospice and I knew it was getting harder for him to respond. So, it shook me deeply when I saw the post that he had passed away. Then, more than ever, I knew that SS005 would be on my list.

I had originally heard both tracks when Del released them via soundcloud. The fact that these tracks are dedication tracks really touched me on a deep level as I have been exploring the idea of a dedication track for my daughter for some time and I still hold that in my heart.

Del was a true lover of Hip Hop music and music in general. He loved his family and all those around him. He was also a true fighter and had a strength of character that I have seen in very few people. So, here is my take on SS005, Enjoy…

 

Flight Of The Condor is touching dedication track written by Southampton UK emcee Uncle Mic Nitro. Produced by DJ Nappa and featuring cuts from DJ Mr Thing. Nappa’s production blends guitar, horns, xylophone notes, and Drums with emotive choral vocals, the outcome is this upbeat track interlaced with Mr Things classic cuts that, in spite of knowing the story behind it, just gets you in the mood to nod you head and groove to. It’s just the kinda sound Del enjoyed. Del also loved Uncle Mic Nitro’s deeply personal vocals as he details his online friendship with Del, his desire that they would one day meet in person and the shock when the heart-breaking news came that Del’s cancer was terminal and nothing more could be done. UMN also speaks on the kinda person Del was, the fact that he always had time for a chat and his love of Hip Hop, the music he produced and his plans for Soulcondor Slices. With Flight Of The Condor, Uncle Mic Nitro, DJ Nappa and DJ Mr Thing really bring into focus the strength and the soaring nature of Del’s spirit. This is quite honestly a dedication track of the highest order and one that comes straight from the heart and touches your heart.

 Final Flight Of The Condor see’s DJ Nappa on production and Krash Slaughta on the cuts, and what these two do here is to take the strength and the soaring nature of Del’s spirit and take it to another level. Nappa brings horns, drums which, alongside Krash Slaughta’s, quite honestly, incredible cut’s, creates this beautiful blend of jazzy horns and Hip Hop vibes. That final flight is something we will all take one day but, few of us will have our final flight reflected in such a way as this. As you listen to the track you can sit back and easily imagine Del’s spirit soaring high above in the clouds, a scene that is so beautifully depicted on the cover of the 7” single by Digital Dyer (John Dyer). This one hits you in so many ways, it is a true anthem that evokes the memory of Del, someone who lived for music and his family, even after that heart-breaking diagnosis. Every beat, every scratch and cut, puts you in touch with Del’s resilience and strength of character, aspects that were such an inspiration to so many. Final Flight Of The Condor not only celebrates Del’s life but, it also reminds us that we all have the strength inside us to walk tall in the face of even the hardest of life’s hurdles.

 

I don’t think that I can write much more to sum up this release. This was one review that took so much to write.

What I would like to do, is to give you Del’s own words on what he thought of these two tracks, everyone involved and more. This is taken from the back cover of the 7” single…

This record is special to me. Both sides, very personal and very special…

I want to say thank you to Uncle Mic Nitro for stepping to me with the first idea, for doing such a proper heartfelt job on the vocals and for becoming a caring friend.

DJ Nappa for being the man as usual and bringing two of the nicest beats ever that totally suit this project, Nappa mate love you pal.

Dj Mr Thing for stepping up and lacing “Flight” with the crazy nice cuts. That’s twice I’ve had my fav DJ in the world on my tracks…..

Thank You, also on the DJ tip I’ve got to big up my man, good friend and ex band mate DJ Krash Slaughta for totally killing “Final Flight”…..Wow, when I heard this for the first time I had tears. The Amazing, amazing cuts combined with that beat!

Massive shouts to Rare Dave over at Diggers With Gratitude for doing all the postage and packing. Without him you would not be holding these records! Thanks so much Dave.

Want to thank John Dyer for getting involved in the artwork. Looking great, I appreciate it. Ollie Knight for the vocal production and mastering the tunes for us, thanks pal.

And sending all my love out to my mum, sister, and daughter, love yous all so much. All family and friends thank you for your support.

Much Love

Del Soulcondor (October 2021)

 

Here are two tracks that celebrate the life of Del in a way that only the Hip Hop community knows how to do but, more than that you have two deeply emotional tracks that will undoubtedly bring tears to the eye’s of many as they listen and think, not only of Del but, also their own loved ones whose spirits now soar above with Del, looking down on us and helping to give us the strength to see another day and to remember that they are never truly gone but, are there stood beside us when ever we think of them or through the hardest times.

If you have not heard these tracks yet, I wholeheartedly invite you to head over to the link below and listen, you will be glad you did and if you are one of those lucky enough to have a copy of the 7” single, then this is one to treasure.

My love and respect goes out to everyone involved in this truly special release for Del.

I dedicate this review to Del (Derek Grayston), to my daughter Deanie, and to memory of all those we have loved and who now soar above us.

Fly high SoulCondor…

Steve

LINKS

There are still a few copies of the 7" and the SSCD001 Super Dynamite Soul available through Diggers With Gratitude Fresh Pressings Here:

http://freshpressings.bigcartel.com/

Check Soulcondor Slices on Soundcloud Here:

https://soundcloud.com/soulcondorslices