EP Review + Bonus: The B-Line EP Vol.5 & Sunshine Single by Specifik X Chrome

 

B-Line EP Vol. 5

By

Various Artists

Bonus – Sunshine by Specifik x Chrome

 

Now this review is probably gonna come as a surprise to most people as I have not told anyone I’m doing this one. The B-Line EP series has been going since way back in 2013, and I happen to own volumes 3 and 4 which were gifted to me by Specifik at the first ever Rope-A-Dope for being the unofficial photographer on the day. It is the B-Line EP series that gave me one of my favourite UK tracks to date, Painkiller by Chrome and Illinspired ft Whirlwind D and Super JB which featured on Volume 4.

These EP’s have always been packed with top notch Hip Hop bangers to really get your adrenaline levels ramped up, giving you an insight into the some of the cream of the underground UK Hip Hop scene.

As a bonus I am going to give you my take on the hot new single Sunshine from Specifik and Chrome, so keep reading for that little bonus. I’m not going to give you any insight into who features on this one so read on for the lowdown.

So, without further ado, let’s get into it…

 

It all kicks off with a track that has been resurrected from the early 2000’s, Microphone Mathematics comes from the one and only Krash Slaughta and features Louis Falasha, Remark and Bandog. As you can probably guess this one hits max levels from the get-go as Krash hits us with a pulse pounding mix of horns and an infectious beat, alongside a wealth of cuts, scratches, and much more getting your body moving and your head nodding. This one is a trat for the eardrums and gives you exactly what you expect by adding three mics together, then multiplying by two turntables, dividing between four legendary figures, and subtracting nothing at all. Working this all out means the answer is total enjoyment and the freshest thing since sliced bread. If you were in any doubt as to whether things might ease back after that, think again as a huge beat explodes in your ears for Molar Rameses from Beattrix featuring the man Junior Disprol. This one has your adrenaline levels pushing past the red levels as Junior Disprol seizes your mind and rips your awareness apart with the kind of lyrical mastery that is second to none. All the while the beat kicks, the cuts slice, and the samples bring in the one Kool Keith. All in all, this one pushes your heart to the point of bursting with its shear hip hop purity. Now its time to bring the pulse levels down a little but, increasing the energy that vibrates through the body as Specifik and The Doozer bring us The Grift with beat that literally shakes the walls and the very core of your being. The guitars add a nice little edge while the beep monitors your heart rate. This one has The Doozer laying it all about those who engage in the swindling of the masses. Dropping little nuggets of information that form a larger scale misdirection, sucking people into their propaganda without even knowing it. The message here is really not to trust anything to hear in the media or from sources that stand close to the powers that be. Next up is Whirlwind D, Franky Roar and Djar One with International Swagger. This one has a heavy but laid-back beat with an orchestral backdrop that puts you in mind of some James Bond, espionage vibes, while the cuts hit with laser like precision. Whirlwind D seems to slip into his Double Agents persona here delivering intricate and intellectual lyrics that appear to show the trio promote their Hip Hop swagger while keeping their cloak and dagger exploits well and truly in the shadows; their one focus to prove to the world that Hip Hop lives through B-Line Business. The A-Side rounds off with Dancin’ With Life by Chrome. Time to take things to a more funk fuelled vibe as the multi-layered beat gets the energy levels pounding big time with a huge dancefloor sound. Listening to this one is not just infectious but, it takes over your whole body and mind, helping you understand that, through the music, you can feel how it intoxicates us all the same, making us move to the beat and feel the positive vibes that can easily unite us all.

Take to flip the wax over and continue this ride with Paul Nice (Fabreeze Brothers) featuring AG (D.I.T.C. & Show and A.G.) with For Old Times Sake. A pounding beat and big horns combine with razor-sharp cuts to bring the kind of sound that gets the head nodding from the get-go and screams Hip Hop from the roof tops. AG brings that golden era Hip Hop lyricism, with a hint of braggadocio for good measure, making it known that sometimes, you just gotta do things one more time for old times’ sake. This kinda speaks for itself right here so enjoy. Now, you might think its gonna be hard to follow that but, now its time for the UK’s legendary Evil Ed to step up with Every Time, which features Habitat, Chrome, Cappo and Donnie Proppa, and that line up alone gets the pulse racing. The beat is heavy with a dash or two of cuts and a chilled out horn sound that gets the head nodding while bringing a focus to the lyrics. The message in this one is pretty simple and is all about the universal language of Hip Hop. The message is in the combination of the lyrics and the music that all comes together in one cohesive moment, just as the diverse peoples of the world can all come together, and it is the universal love of music that does it every time. Next Up is Miracle and Deeflux with I Forgot, bringing a heavy funk vibe to proceedings with a wicked beat with guitar and keys, combining with slick cuts for the kinda sound that gets you swaying. This one might sound like a little journey into one person’s forgetfulness but, there is a deeper part to this if you really listen to Deeflux. It speaks on how forgetfulness can be a precursor to something much more challenging for a family and it is important to be aware of this, because things such as dementia can affect us all so deeply. After such a deep edge to the last track, the B-Line EP Vol 5 rounds off with a due who got together back before B-Line Recordings, Specifik and Project Cee with The Medley. The beat on this one really takes you back to those early days. This one takes you places you might have forgotten as Specifik lays down some slick breaks that many of you will remember while Project Cee gives us the kind of lyrics that remind us of why we fell in love with Hip Hop in the first place. The Medley, which was originally recorded back in 2002 for live shows only between 2002-2004, is a reminder of what can be achieved by those who have a deep love for the music and what to create something out of that love for those who share that love, the love of Hip Hop…

 

What the B-Line EP Vol. 5 does is to take you from the shores of the UK, across the pond and back again. It gives you the kind of experience that, felt to me like experiencing the live Rope-A-Dope events on vinyl, it really had that vibe about it. It was a treat for Hip Hop music lovers that really felt like B-Line Recordings was putting out something for the fans as much as anything. This EP does not just celebrate UK or US Hip Hop but, brings you the kind of listening experience that leaves you breathless and wanting much more. This EP has the calibre of artists that gets you excited just by reading the hype sticker on the cover, just as each one has done over the years and yeah, I must get Vols 1 and 2 sometime too.

I’m not gonna say too much about this one because, for me, the EP speaks for itself, and I have probably said enough about it already. So, it you have heard this one already, then you will know exactly what I’m talking about, and if you have not heard it yet, then why not? You need to get on this one now, because this release is what B-Line Recordings is all about, giving you, the listener the best audible experience you can get, and reminding you that Hip Hop music is alive and well here in the UK and beyond.

The B-Line EP Vol 5 is available now and there are still a few vinyl’s out there so jump on this one quick.

 

Now it’s time for that bonus review of the latest single release from B-Line Recordings, Sunshine (Gotta Get Away) by Specifik x Chrome.

This one has a nice heavy beat with chilled out Guitar, bongos, Horns and more. When all combined this one has such an upbeat sound, especially with that sung chorus, that really does put you in mind of those summer vibes, listening to dopest beats. Chrome reminisces and takes us back to the eighties with memories of breakin’, electro beats, and playing your tapes so much they got distorted or broke. There will be many of us older heads out there who will be touched by this one, it reminds me of the days we would hop on the train from Southampton to London, to check out all the big stores for new trainers and then tour the independent and second hand music stores, trying to find the latest releases or something we had been wanting for a while. We even tagged the trains and buses along the way, because that’s what we did back then, those were the days…

Specifik and Chrome have really knocked this one out the park and created a single that is not just something that has that summer anthem vibe but, it really takes you back to a time when you were younger, had little to care about except what Hip Hop culture was all about.

For me, Sunshine (Gotta Get Away) takes the biscuit as the number one summer track. It is also out on a very limited run of 30 7” vinyl, so catch one of you can (Think these are now all sold out! Sorry Peeps).

 

I have to give huge shouts here to Shaun Dowling at Hip Hop Be Bop for giving me the chance to bring you my take on the EP and to Specifik for the single promo, which I just had to include here.

 

So, till next time, Enjoy the sunshine and the B-Line Business.

Steve.

LINKS

Grab Your Copies of Both Below:

https://thecoldkrush.bigcartel.com/product/various-artists-the-b-line-ep-vol-5-12-b-line-recordings-bln041

https://hiphopbebop.com/product/various-artists-the-b-line-ep-vol-5/

https://thecoldkrush.bigcartel.com/product/specifik-sunshine-gotta-get-away-featuring-chrome

Specifik on Bandcamp:

https://djspecifik.bandcamp.com/

Chrome on Bandcamp:

https://chrome.bandcamp.com/music

VIDEOS

Sunshine (Gotta Get Away)

 

 

 

 

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: Sambuca (Smoove Mix) by Whirlwind D

 

Sambuca (Smoove Mix)

By

Whirlwind D

 

This one sneaked up on me almost under the radar but, after getting the chance to review the Smoove Remix of Labels, with the 7” version as the B-Side to Without Music (2021) and the full Extended Mix on the Libra album (2023), how could I pass up the chance to do this one. Simple, I couldn’t…

Sambuca (Smoove Mix) is a strictly limited 7” release, that is limited to just 100 copies, on B-Line recordings and is released today via Whirlwind D’s Bandcamp page.

I don’t want to keep you waiting on this one so, lets just get into it…

 

The funky beat immediately grabs your attention and those horns on the bridge give this one the sort of infectious sound that you gets you moving and puts a huge smile on your face and that vibe really fits so well with Whirlwind D’s witty vocals. Now, if you have not heard this track before, if not why not, it’s all about getting hyped up for those live shows, getting rid of any anxious feelings with a little liquid courage. Anyone who has been to Rope-A-Dope or certain live performances since the release of Libra, can tell you that that Sambuca has featured; the firey liquid burns its way from mouth to gut, giving the warmth and internal strength to perform with gusto and engage the crowd throughout. But this track might be all about getting hyped for the shows but, really sambuca is one of those drinks that you can just have fun with, a bit like this track sees Whirlwind D having some fun with it.

What I love about this track and this remix is that Smoove takes nothing away from the original, which was produced by Specific and had cuts from Djar One, but he gives it a whole new spin, giving it a funky vibrant club vibe that would not be out of place being thumped out a few notches above ten at your BBQ, in your car, wherever suits you. This one is sure to have you bouncing around every time you hear it. Just remember to drink responsibly and don’t have a shot every time you hear the word sambuca, otherwise you are likely only to get through one play of the track, Ha Ha…

This is a great addition to Whirlwind D’s catalog and a truly blinding remix from Smoove who just has this uncanny knack of feeling a track and knowing exactly how to elevate it and put the kind of spin on it that takes it off in a whole new direction. Plus, it could not have been released at a better time keeping those summer vibes going. 

The wicked artwork for the Sambuca label comes from the creative talent of John 'Digital' Dyer.

Grab a vinyl why you can and get this one flowing through your musical veins.

Huge thanks to my man Whirlwind D for giving me the chance to bring this one to you.

See ya next time,

Steve.

LINK

Get your copy from Bandcamp Here:

https://whirlwindd.bandcamp.com/album/sambuca-smoove-mix

Album Review: The Triple 3 Effect by Specifik

 

The Triple 3 Effect

By

Specifik

 

Specifik’s new album has been in production for a while and its been more than three years since we all went to the Ill Circus back early in 2019. Now since that time a lot has happened, we’ve had pandemics, lock downs, war and so much more. But, what happens when, in the midst of all that chaos, you experience moments of seeing the same group of numbers over and over again? Simple you take those numbers, in Specifik’s case 333, and you make that the focus of your new album, and with Specifik being, first and foremost, a producer you get a whole host of top draw features to properly bring some clarity to The Triple 3 Effect.

So, when you are consistently waking at 3:33am, getting 333 in your change at the supermarket, having 333 as you gas bill, or your bank account balance or miles travelled? What does it all mean? Could it be trying to tell you something, be a lucky number, your angel number? Perhaps it symbolises mind, body and spirit or was it ascended masters letting him know he was in great hands and being assisted in what he was working on, or is it a combination of all those things? Who knows for sure but, seeing these numbers will mean different things to different people and what is for sure is that these numbers became the catalyst and the driving force behind Specifik’s creative expression, leading him and those he worked with to bring you The Triple 3 Effect…

So, the only thing left now is for me to take you deep into the album and tell you exactly where it takes me…

The album begins with What is the Triple 3 Effect (Intro), where we get a little insight into what the Triple 3 Effect could be all about. Specifik provides a background ambience of piano, bass, cymbals, and a few sounds which creates a calm vibe to allow all our attention to be focused on the words. It also gives us this deep sense of anticipation of what is to come. We are not waiting long, just seconds before horns, drums and sonic sounds guide us into Ting, which features Uncle Kelz and Sir Beans OBE, the keys and bass come to the forefront bringing a ragga edge to the sound. Uncle Kelz delivers an intelligent performance as he speaks on keeping yourself and what you do moving forward, regardless of what life is throwing at you, the obstacles put in your way, whatever you see going on around you, the most important thing is focus on you and your hopes and dreams. If that were not enough, we get treated to a solid display of Sir Beans OBE on the cuts, proving why he is one of Bristol’s finest. Drums, bass, keys, and guitar are brought together by Specifik and merge together into this stunning upbeat, feel good vibe. Step up the legendary figure of Craig G who perfectly encapsulates what the Summertime is all about, he spins his words into pictures in our minds, lifting us up from wherever we are and carrying us from the USA to the UK, perfectly capturing the moods, people, and experiences along the way. When you add in some mellow cuts from Specifik, this one is the vibe to live you summer by and when the clouds and rain roll in, this one will allow the sun to shine once more. Just as you are getting lost in your thoughts of summertime and the Juice Crew, Specifik throws the perfect curve ball and lands Eight Bars To Flex on you. A homage to the scratch DJ, its’ introduced by legendary UK emcee Mercury and features DJ Krash Slaughta, Specifik, Sy Matic, DJ Jabbathakut and DJ Woody, before a mid-session break from Del SoulCondor (R.I.P). After which we are treated to appearances from SIR Beans OBE, DJ Tones, DJ Jazz T and DJ Destruction. There is not much you can say about this verbally or with words, all the speaking is done with the hands and in less that four minutes they rip the cut, leaving the speakers, your ears, and the needles smoking. This is the perfect demonstration of what the scratch DJ does, all served up from, what is arguably, the cream of the crop when it comes to the UK Scratch DJ…

Next up is a short Public Service Announcement, a little pallet cleanser, if you will, with a funky little break to keep you moving. This is just to remind you about the quality of the production you are hearing and originality of the words you will hear.

With the words of that short skit still playing on our mind Specifik introduces a multi-layered sound on us that, at first seems simplistic, But, as it progresses becomes almost sonic in nature and gets our minds buzzing. King Kashmere joins Specifik and proceeds to speak on The Pits, all those things that stress us out. This one will resonate with all of us on some level, we’ve all had those moments in our jobs etc, I know I have, when we have simply had enough and just want to express our frustration and just leave. The best thing you can do is to get the emotions out in the open as bottling things up just leads to negative outcomes. As we move on, the next step from looking at the negative side of things is to focus more on the positive side. Piano and Specifik’s deft cuts of a classic Eric B and Rakim sample leads us into Spread Love Repeat then, as the head nod beat drops in, and Junior Disprol enters the scene, we immediately wonder if this will have that positive edge? As we nod along to the beat it quickly becomes apparent that what Junior Disprol is doing here is opening us up to the stark reality of life before pointing us in the direction of the focus that will bring the positive vibes our way. Sometimes you just have to open your eyes to the darkness so you can recognise the light. With out focus firmly on the light things become clear and with the clarity comes a vision and not just any vision, with bass, horns, cuts, a dash of other sounds thrown in and the kinda funky beat that has your whole body out the chair and groovin’, we see the Visionary Heavyweight. Iron Bridge (aka Verbs and Jibbarish) join Specifik to show you exactly what it is to be the very definition of a Visionary Heavyweight, you need to have knowledge and forethought, be able display both written and verbal wordplay and it all needs to be presented in a way that quite honestly just ‘Moves The Crowd’, and with Iron Bridge alongside Specifik, this one ticks all the right boxes…

Time for a quick musical interlude with Meta War, a heavy funked upbeat with tambourine and bongos and sonic sounds that cleanses your pallet after some intense verbal wordplay that has had you mind entwined. However, Specifik keeps the energy going, keeping your body and mind wired for the next onslaught…

We know that The Triple 3 Effect grew out of the experiences of Specifik during the Covid pandemic and the lockdowns. Our introduction to Crumblin’ Bricks takes us back to those dark times with sampled TV broadcasts to a nerve tweaking sound. The beat, when it hits, is pounding drums with tambourine sounds, piano notes, and more stories from the pandemic, highlighting the effect on mental health and more. Chrome steps up alongside Specifik to open-up, in his unique style, and detail what it was for us to live through those times, where we all felt controlled and separated from those we loved, listening to stories of, and constantly exposed to climbing death rates. The effects of those times had huge impacts on us all in so many ways, to numerous to mention and some too painful. During those early days of the pandemic, something else that exploded was the Culture War and here Specifik invites Figure Of Speech to the mic to speak on all aspects of this situation. From the history we’ve been taught to the history we should have been taught to the fact that the poor fought the poor and no thought to knock number 10’s door and challenge the elite and powerful, those who make the decisions that affect us, tell us what we should learn so if fits their narrative and keep the darker side hidden. Being woke to what was happening, became a thing to be ridiculed, when waking to the truth is in fact a powerful thing but, those in power don’t want us to understand the truth, because that brings power to the people and the people will rise up to be heard and so they ramp up the fear to take the focus away and take back the power. This is all set to Specifik’s big ragga sound system vibe of bass, bongos, drums, keys, and sonic sounds that gives the perfect platform for the message and gives it an almost anthem like sound. With all that knowledge and the strength of those emotive subjects Specifik brings us a lighter note, one that is rooted in Hip Hop and the streets as he takes a look at graffiti culture alongside El Da Sensei (Artifacts), Cosm and Phill Most Chill on Hurt The Transit. Firstly, Specifik makes feel like we’re transported to the dark tunnels of the New York subway system, then he drops this heavy beat with plenty of bass and rapid-fire cuts. Each emcee drops stories of being out there getting your name up using markers or spray cans. Hitting tags, throw-ups and burners, it’s all about those window-down whole cars or top to bottoms. Getting into fights with other crews means going over their work or getting your work gone over in retaliation. The thrill of bombing and the adrenaline rush is hard to beat where putting your freedom and your life on the line is what you do in writing you name in graffiti on the wall. This the perfect musical expression of what it is write…

Our last little skit is Get Wild, and once again in this short musical interlude, Specifik pounds our ears with a heavy, wild, and funky drum break which will undoubtedly have you bouncing as he gives you another little look at his production quality, what else can you say, right…

Now well and truly into the final quarter of the album Specifik drops heavy beat with keys, a sonic sound, and a good dose of razor-sharp cuts. Under Control see’s Specifik’s partner in rhyme, Whirlwind D, and Doozer on vocal duties over that dark edged beat. This one is all about how the masses are under the control of the ruling elitists. How they exercise this control is all laid bare here with intelligent and knowledgeable wordplay directing us to think more about what is going on around us. You can only be open to the truth if you choose to question what you see and hear around you and then educate yourself. Now your mind is open to almost anything, Specifik and the NuJericans (Joey Dynomite & Sol Zalez) ask you to 4give My Actions. The drums and percussion are almost softened by the guitar heavy sound but, together the sound mixes and merges into a sound that invades every corner of your mind with an almost ragga edge to it but, ending the track with horns that almost switches the vibe to a soundtrack sound. The NuJericans put their cards on the table in terms of their music and life, it’s all about doing what you need to do to always be moving forwards. Sometimes you might need to do things you are not entirely at peace with the keep that forward momentum and that means needing to seek forgiveness at times. It might not be the best way to be but, it is the nature of the society we live in, at times. The album ends with MC Oliver Twist joining Specifik on This IS Not A Test. Specifik creates a heavy pounding beat with some acoustic guitar notes. There is this dystopian air to things here and it fits exactly with MC Oliver Twist who calmly and slickly dictates a narrative of a bleak future. This is a place where the Bomberman rhymes without beats and Specifik creates music from the most basic foundation, fuelling artists to push forward and take a stand, taking music back to the starved masses and giving back that energy, that enjoyment and the expression music gives. No matter what happens in the future, there will always be music…

 

                                      Specifik at Rope a Dope 5 - ©S.Rider Infinite Images

Let me sum this up first of all by saying ‘WOW, Just WOW’, This album is simply that good. I mean, could it really be that The Triple 3 Effect was overseen by some higher power? In a world where more and more people are awakening to new paradigms and science becoming more open to things such as parallel universes and life beyond death, could it be that something esoteric or could it be that Specifik was simply guided by his own higher self to create an album that touched on higher levels of consciousness, fuelled by the energy of what is happening around him? Will we ever truly know?

What we do know is that overall, The Triple 3 Effect is a truly outstanding album where Specifik is demonstrating what can be achieved when you are at the top of your game. His production and scratch DJ techniques are top notch, in fact there is almost something next level about his production here. He creates sounds that are real Hip Hop at their roots but, the subtle influences from other genres flows in and out, giving you a complete experience, if you can call it that. His choice of guest artists is inspired, with each fitting perfectly into their place and adding the icing to the cake. This has the pedigree and the possibility to be the pinnacle of releases from the UK this year, if not Hip Hop in general. The Triple 3 Effect oozes passion and emotive music making with every beat and every bar that you hear, and I’d go so far as to say that this is solid gold right here. It truly left me with chills and buzzing like I had just heard something that touched my soul.

I have no words left now so all I can say is this, if you have not heard The Triple 3 Effect yet, you need to get it, listen, and feel it because that’s the only way you get 100% of what this album is about.

The Triple 3 Effect is out now on B-Line Recordings. It is mastered by Rola at Khameleon 107 Bristol, features art and design from Digital Dyer and is dedicated to Del Soulcondor (who’s memory lives on in the music).

On that note,

I’ll See Ya,

Steve.

LINKS

Get The Triple 3 Effect from Specific on Bandcamp:

https://djspecifik.bandcamp.com/album/the-triple3-effect

Buy The Triple 3 Effect from Suspect Packages Here:

https://suspect-packages.com/product/the-triple3-effect/

Buy The Triple 3 Effect from Hip Hop Be Bop Here:

https://hiphopbebop.com/product/specifik-the-triple3-effect-lp/

 

 

 

  

 

 

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: Tales From The Darkside by MC Oliver Twist featuring Franky Roar and Specifik

 

Tales From The Darkside

By

MC Oliver Twist

Featuring Specifik and Franky Roar

 

It’s been a whole year and a bit since I reviewed the stunning single Malawi by MC Oliver Twist. I am pleased that he is back with Tales From The Darkside, a track that was released in time for Halloween this year and is one that might not make it on to his forthcoming album.

Before I get into the track proper, I have to just say one thing, if this track might not make it onto the album, then it promises to be some album. Tales from the Darkside has production from Franky Roar and features B-Line recordings Specifik on the cuts. This line-up alone screams quality before you even hear a single beat or bar.

MC Oliver Twist

Tales From The Darkside is, quite honestly, a single in its own rights and is one hell of a teaser for the upcoming album. Franky Roar cooks up this cauldron full of sound that is heavy on the pounding drums, has twist of eerie piano vibes and a sprinkling of other sounds throughout. Once mixed and blended you have this dark and strangely energy provoking sound that quite honestly is perfect for this time of year. MC Oliver Twist brings his lyrical prowess to the mix with some solid vocals that you can easily hear throughout. He brings this interesting blend of stark lyricism that at times touches scars of real world, while in the next second dropping lyrics for the sake of it just to entertain. His vocals come straight from the light side but, detail what it is to be in and return from the dark. Along the way the sound and verbal visons have your nerves fraying with each line but, just to ensure you are ready for the next onslaught, Specifik is there to remove those frayed ends with some cuts that are sharper and more deadly than a guillotine blade.

Franky Roar

Specifik

What a cracking little trick this was to treat us to this on the cusp of Halloween. As the veil between this world and the next was so thin, we were treated to something that blurred the line between dark and light and at the same time dangled an invisible carrot in front of us and planting the seed of what is soon to come, out of the shadows and into the light.

If you’ve not heard this one yet, then do it now. If you don’t, I can’t promise what might happen to you in your dreams…

1, 2, Twist is coming for your hide….

3, 4, Just grab Tales From The Darkside…

I’m outta Here,

Steve

LINKS

Grab your copy of the track here:

https://mcolivertwist.bandcamp.com/track/tales-from-the-darkside