Album Review: Purgatory by Reken

 

Purgatory

By

Reken

 

UK emcee Reken was born and raised on the streets of Blackpool. Since becoming interested in all four elements of Hip Hop culture he has worked, almost tirelessly for the last five years representing his home city and dropping a string of hot releases of which Purgatory is the latest, released at the end of August this year.

The title suggests that this album will take us to a place where we are neither one place or the other, kinda like where society is right now. With that in mind and the fact that this album is some sixteen tracks deep, I’m gonna take you straight into it. So, lets take our first tentative steps into Purgatory together…

Heavy drums, bass and orchestral strings set the tone for Reken to introduce himself. He also gives us some background on his life and gives us a huge Welcome To Purgatory but, at the same time you begin to question this reality and ponder some important questions… Is Reken talking to us from Purgatory? Is he talking to us, who are the ones residing in this half-way place or are we all here together, looking for the answers that will carry us forward?

Just as you are wondering what to expect from the coming tracks, The Rock introduces the next track before a funk fulled vibe of drums and guitar hits your awareness and brings a thought-provoking feel with it. Reken takes a look at current state of society, its such a messed-up place where victims of crime and the poor suffer so much more than any perpetrator of a crime and the elite, those in power, become richer on the pain and tears of others. The more Reken makes you think, the more you ask, Why? With our questions left unanswered, for now, a nerve tingling piano and some melodic drums bring a darker edge as we slip into the dream world of Midnight Masquerades. This is place of nightmares that tear into your soul, mashing your mind to a pulp. You wake drenched in sweat and questioning how much of that was just a dream and how much was rooted in reality? The combination of drums and piano continue bringing a more reflective air. Here its about the memory of those moments that pushed you to you limits, made you wonder if you’d ever catch a break? But all those tough moments also give you a strength, a strength to go on and to say to yourself that you are Not Giving Up…

It’s true that we won’t stay down for long and that is reflected with an uplifting beat of drums and keyboards. Reken is joined by Dog4ouse and seems to be telling us here that its all about finding faith in something, whatever works for you, that one thing that guides you back from those dark places. It is not easy but, you can Catch A Vibe in a place where the sun smiles on you once more. That uplifting vibe carries on with mix of heavy drums, electroninc notes and some soulful vocals. The message from Reken and Ben SOS is that now you are out of that dark place remember to take life one step and One Day At A Time. That road to recover is a twelve-step process, you can do it with dedication, support and a faith in that higher power. The light continues to shine upon us as we are accompanied by some laid-back drums and keyboard notes. The support we receive on out journey often comes from someone very Special and here we have a dedication to that person, that special individual who makes you both complete.

Strings, keyboards, and drums create a floaty vibe for us to drift away from the thoughts the past and the future. Here it is all about living in the moment. Those special moments when you are present in the Prescence of a higher power, an energy that helps you focus on what really matters and to be thankful for all that is. Bruva Smokes joins Reken over a beat full of guitars, keyboards and drums which switches up the energy levels more than a few notches with S W A T. The guys take aim at all the fakes and suckers out there as they bring the kinda bars that stop you in your tracks and drop the opposition to their knees. Next, we go from high energy to that head nod vibe of drums and guitar and an appearance from Karlow. This one takes us back to the days of having fun, when no one gave a damn and it was all about having a good time. So, tell me Do You Remember The Day?

Karlow keeps hold of his mic as he joins Reken to drop some Heat. The beat is a heavy mix of drums, horns, keyboards, and piano. The vibe is straight up battle rap and guys deliver it in a precise, clinical fashion as they execute their execution of the punks. This is heavy rap style just for the sake of it and if you think you can handle the repercussions, then step up! Now, no one ever said rap and Hip Hop was just one thing, one style, it can be an Abstract Art, and that abstract style is reflected here as we have a drum beat over which is a mariachi style guitar while Reken drops vocals with the air of battle rap thrown into the mix. Try listening to this one if you think all rap is the same. As you are musing over things the air around darks with the onset of some deep piano and drum vibes. You begin to question again, is this a look at a warped psychotic mind full of Resentment, is it showing us that there are times we need the darkness in order to truly see the light or are we taking a look at the destabilised mind that is the dark side of mental health…

The uplifiting vibe returns with some soulful vocals over drums and keyboards. The notion of faith is not something new on this album and on G.O.D. Reken looks deeper into what it is to find faith in a higher power, a belief that can be the catalyst for your positive self. It might not be an easy journey for anyone to make but, then life and the truth are not the easiest of things to experience but, they are ultimately fulfilling. From that idea of faith, we move to a harder vibe as horns, electronic notes and drums combine for a more modern trap style vibe. The message on this one is taking a look at those modern rappers who chose to promote violence and negativity to today’s youth. Reken shows that no matter what sound you chose, there is no need for Badmanism. The final track ends on a more contemplative air that comes from the piano and heavy but laid-back drums. The message here is that no matter what happens in your life, through all the ups and downs, there is Still Time Left to turn it around and make every moment count and that is the answer to all the questions and how we leave Purgatory.

 

There is something about albums that are self-produced that often adds an extra dimension to what you hear. Everything is from the self and comes from your heart and you can hear that and feel that with every beat and every bar on Purgatory.

There is so much to like here and both musically and lyrically it carries you along with something to appeal to everyone. It is easy to visualise what Reken is putting across with each track and there is a great balance of light and dark, just as there is with any journey we make and this one is no exception. You can feel the passion he has for what he does and what has helped him as he has walked his path. For Reken his belief in a higher power has brought through all the rough times to where he is now. While you yourself might not have a belief in a god as such, we all believe there is something that works for us, and it is having that faith that will carry us through the dark times.

Overall, I really enjoyed this album and the fact it was so easy to feel something with each track. The personal aspects that are built into this album allow you to feel that deeper aspect at all the right times and there is also that great balance of fun vibes and realness that allow the album to flow so well and speak to all of us. Add to that the stunning artwork from Matt Herbert (aka Junior Disprol) and this one has to be on your shelves.

As purgatory has been out for a few weeks now, a lot of you may have already heard it but, to those of you who have not, I highly recommend that you give this a listen at the very least as you won’t be disappointed.

My thanks and respect to Reken for sending this one over.

On that note,

I’m out,

Peace.

Steve.  

LINKS

Get Purgatory on Digital or CD on Bandcamp:

https://rekenone.bandcamp.com/album/purgatory

All streaming etc via this one Link:

https://songwhip.com/reken/purgatory

Album Review: The DEAD Wait by MUZ

 

The DEAD Wait

By

MUZ

 

The Dead Wait is the album from MUZ (aka MZA, Mury P, Muzpopz & Mury Poppinz) who is no stranger to the game. The Wakefiled emcee is one half of No Pretence and a former member of Don’t Talk To Strangers among others. Along the way he has worked alongside the likes of Junior Disprol, Prince Po, Cage and Brutal Artistry to name but a few. After all this and a five-year break to become a father, he is back and ready to continue his musical evolution.

With a title like The DEAD Wait could it be that this album is all about the living dead? Well. The easiest way for me to answer that question is to take you on a journey through the album from top to bottom and give you my thoughts. So, let’s go…

The album kicks off with Erasure which mixes a nice head nod beat with a mariachi guitar vibe. You get the feeling that this track is like the narrative of a man sitting looking out at the world at what is happening around him. At the same time, he is wrestling with own internal struggles, especially with the knowledge of now being a father and how that relates to everything. The extended instrumental second half to this track is more relaxed and brings a reflective vibe which gives you the time to contemplate what he might be thinking but, it also allows you muse on your own situation in the grand scheme of things. The mood moves from one of contemplation to one that is more light-hearted created by the sparse drums and piano of Spit Blood. That musical vibe is almost a juxtaposition to the vocals, which appears to see MUZ taking on the zombie horde during the zombie apocalypse. However, this could also be a metaphor that sees MUZ seeking to awaken those who choose to blindly accept everything that is told to them by governments and so on, never questioning anything but, becoming zombie sheeple. So, in one instance you are taking out a zombie with a headshot but, when you flip it, you are awakening people with knowledge and truth through the medium of music and not with a bullet. Bells and a winding sound appear to be gearing us up for something, that something is Deep Time with a melodic beat mixed with bells, electronic vibes and vocal samples create a very mind-bending feel. This one seems to speak on the constraints of living within the 3D world. So many appear to be closed to the truth that they are almost dead to real reality that we live in. We all have to choose whether to be awake to the true reality and if we do choose to awaken then we have a further choice on which journey we take to be awake…

Next we drift into an eastern flavoured vibe of Bye Bye Kansas Pt 1 that has sparse drums and violin notes floating through it. There is also a darkness to this as appears to take place in a troubled mind, one that seeks to find solace as it navigates through a world ruled by fear. As he searches for the way he knows is there, it becomes hard to walk the true path as it becomes harder and harder to understand what is real and what is not? The undead themselves introduce us to the albums title track, The DEAD Wait. The beat is head nod and the mixture of synth sounds lift this to an almost light-heated feel as the human zombies once again take centre stage as a reflection of how most of society are looked upon as being. Those whom govern or control our countries and, to a point, our lives wish us only to remain subservient in a zomboid state where we do exactly what they want. The truth is that the dead do wait, wait to become awakened to the truth around them. The next track is a short skit, Addy Paddy R.I.P, which is in the form of comedic recording that features the nephew of MUZ and who the next track is dedicated too. A Cruel Eulogy has a relaxed beat with synth sounds and vocal samples which all blend to form a vibe that, rather strangely, carries you along. MUZ’s nephew Adam sadly took his own life and in dedicating this track to him MUZ takes the place of the loved who has crossed over. It is not easy to put yourself in this position and try and help people understand the struggles of that person in this fucked up world. That person fights every day, behind the mask of a smile, with demons we will never know. One day they reach that most overwhelming choice and choose a path that those of us left behind may never know, in making that choice they have committed no sin but, show a bravery unlike any other.

Bye Bye Kansas Pt 2 has the same musical vibe as Pt 1 as the journey of the lost soul continues. Even the intervention of external forces does not help and only serves to make his experience a more tortured one. Lies and false truths, fear and Negative aspects cause a catch 22 situation where the only outcome he can see is a bleak one. As you are wondering where you go from here the drums and xylophone notes whisk you off to a new view of earth on Five (6 4) 3. As the plant spins and floats through the cosmos, orbiting the sun, this new view asks if it could be that us minute humans who inhabit the planet are simply slaves? Are we all controlled in so way to help maintain someone else’s view of a status quo? We go about our lives occasionally looking toward the heavens and seeing all those stars burning bright But, we forget about our own true light that burns deep inside of us. All we need to do is to take a step away from the external fear and control, just close your eyes and focus, then remember who you truly are and the light inside you.

Ego Death (The After Party) begins with an acappella intro before a pounding beat drops, hitting like blows from a rubber sledgehammer that constantly bounce off you mind. Here we take a mind-expanding trip with someone who has circumvented their ego self by taking a concoction of drugs and far too many. This desire to expand the mind has worked in one way but, ultimately has led to them expanding their consciousness beyond the need for a physical body. A more modern type of vibe comes through on The Psychopathy Prophecy. The vibe is a bit darker and takes us on a deeper look at current pandemic, lockdown life, social distancing, and the touchy subject of those vaccines. What could it all mean as we walk forward into an uncertain future? Yes, this is a very dystopian view of could be in the future as subjects like nanotech are brought to bear. Could it really be that the future for us, our children and grandchildren will be one that is far bleaker and more controlled? I guess that is up to us…

The album ends with a bonus track Iron Sky, a truly funked up vibe full of bass, guitars, and drums. There is a deep but laid-back vibe here that gives you a feel of looking back at life, the struggles we have had and hurdles we have overcome along the way. There is also that ultimate view of what could truly be for us all as we continue on our life’s journey. We are in control of our futures, those silver linings and the light at the end of the tunnel, it can all be ours if we desire it enough, rise up and create our own personal reality…

You can probably guess that from what you have just read, that The DEAD Wait is a deep and sometimes dark look at what is happening in life around us every day. There is this unapologetic and no-nonsense approach to telling you how it is and focusing on subjects, like suicide, that so many consider to be an elephant in the room. MUZ handles everything extremely well, describing everything in a way that is both enjoyable and thought provoking.

In the run up to the album launch MUZ has released some videos that help you to understand the story behind each track. Please bear in mind that I made my note before those were released and so what you read here is purely my own take and instinct from listening to the album.

I found some of these tracks to be quite touching in a way. Personal experience really comes into play when listening to an album that touches on such raw subjects. MUZ’s lyrical wordplay and flow technique shows a great adaptability with complexity and knowledge. He often draws you into the world he is creating on each track allowing you to see his point of view but, also giving you enough room bring in your own personal experiences. You might find that some tracks take you a few listens to really get the point but, that’s not a bad thing as it displays the longevity this album is likely to have, because you won’t forget it in a hurry.

Production, all by MUZ, here is all totally on point and in a way the elevates the whole thing, twisting and bending your interpretation of reality but, at the same time, holding your focus on the points that really matter and are of true importance. There are moments of grounding and others of true emotion that you can feel to your core, all enhanced by the musical content.

That personal aspect that comes through on some tracks really does touch you on many levels and all in all the album merges into this deep narrative on life through the eyes of MUZ. At times it does feel like you’re on a shamanic trip courtesy of a good helping of peyote but, in the end you come out on a positive note knowing that you can create that brighter future.

Yeah, some of this is profound and I highly advise you to grab this one and take your own trip alongside MUZ.

The limited two-week digital release begins today, 1^st October, with full physical release to follow in the near future.

On that note, I give huge thanks to MUZ for sending this over,

I’m out,

Peace,

Steve

LINKS

Get the album on Bandcamp Here:

https://murypoppinz.bandcamp.com/

Check MUZ on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/muz_tha_don_popz/

Check MUZ on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/user/BadLOOKTV

Single Review: Unseen by MC Juice

 

Unseen

By

MC Juice

 

Unseen is the second release by MC Juice on the Nobody Buys Records label. Production comes from the Bankrupt Europeans and cuts from the one and only DJ Grazzhoppa.

Nobody Buys Records (NBR) was formed in by the Bankrupt Europeans back in 2012. This followed eight years of dealing with Industry rule #4080 and signing deals with certain labels from NY and Boston. Once they had the home for their recordings everything kicked off with the Fast Rap EP from Phill Most Chill and releases from AG, MC Rise, PMC, and Craig G were to follow. After a short hiatus between 2015 and 2019 the Bankrupt Europeans returned with the cut n paste anthem ‘Class Dismissed’ which featured scratches from DJ Muzzell and a verse from PMC. Alongside all this the Bankrupt Europeans have a host of production credits to their name including RA The Rugged Man, Chubb Rock, Dooley-O and Dizzy Dustin alongside those already mentioned.

It was in 2020 that the Bankrupt Europeans would finally release their first collaboration with MC Juice on NBR, the highly acclaimed ‘Where You Go’ 45. It was due to the success of this release that 2021 would see NBR drop Unseen…

If anyone is not familiar with MC Juice, then here is very short introduction for you. Out of Chicago, MC Juice is hailed as the GOAT of the freestyle and battle circuits. He is the MC who straight up won a freestyle battle with another freestyle GOAT, Eminem. Now dipping his mic into dropping records he is showing that he cannot only rock rhythms and only rock rhymes but, also rock records…

Unseen hits hard with mix of bass, keyboards and pounding drums, giving this a heavy vibe that lives in the shadows of Hip Hop. This dark and sinister world that is created by the Bankrupt Europeans is the perfect place to be inhabited by MC Juice. On the streets of this shadowy world MC Juice drops some intense vocals that are unapologetic and seep into your physical body and then reach beyond into your soul. He demonstrates what he does best, taking out emcees and getting to the top of the pile and once there he can just walk away, still at the top, because he has done it all from shadows leaving those emcees in his wake wondering what happened as their opponent came and went in style but, still Unseen.

This track has that air of cruising in your car at midnight on the dark empty streets, the volume up loud but, not necessarily to attract attention. Here you might feel you’re being toyed with, you feel the vibe and love the music but, all around you is the devastation perpetrated once more by the one who goes Unseen.

Definitely one to get the pulse pounding Unseen is one of those track you can play anytime but, suits the end of the evening when you want something heavy to wind down to, or when your out in your car and what people to know what you’re listening to. The Bankrupt Europeans create the perfect backdrop that sets you up for MC Juice to take you down and then, just when you thought everything was over DJ Grazzhoppa steps in and finishes you off with some razor-sharp cuts.

Unseen is one for your collection, if there are any physical copies left. If not, then you will just have to settle to being ghosted by the etheric digital version…

On that note, a quick shout and respect to DJ Snafu for sending this over to me, and I’m out…

Peace,

Steve

LINKS

Nobody Buys Records Website:

https://nobodybuysrecords.bigcartel.com/

Nobody Buys Records on Bandcamp:

https://bankrupteuropeans.bandcamp.com/

DJ Snafu (Bankrupt Europeans) on Soundcloud:

https://soundcloud.com/dj-snafu-bankrupt-euros

DJ Snafu on Mixcloud:

https://www.mixcloud.com/DJSnafu/

Nobody Buys Records on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/nobodybuysrecords/

MC Juice on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/juice4real/

EP Review: RISE by Era Nova

 

Rise EP

By

Era Nova

 

Rise is the debut EP from Era Nova, otherwise known as Gambit (Switzerland) and Tak (Los Angeles). I first heard these guys together on the track Firestorm from Gambit’s 2019 album Underground Kingpin and to have them together on an EP seems like a logical step.

The EP is released through Spit Slam records and see’s Chuck D serving as executive producer. Production comes entirely from Gambit so you can expect the sort of sound that requires you to turn this one way up to really get the best feeling from it.

The best thing is for me to just dive right into this one and take you through it…

The Ep kicks off with Actarus, a high-octane Hip Hop beat with some orchestral samples that does have a few switches in pace along the way. This does not just serve as an introduction or a demonstration of who Era Nova are and what they are all about but, also looks at such things as the current state of Hip Hop and how some rappers conduct themselves. The frantic and deadly cuts come from JMARZ and just add to the fact that Era Nova are here and mean business. The octane rating does not diminish as the sonic DnB sounds of Ambush assault your ears. There is also a dash of ragga running through this as the energy levels rise. The guys have you bouncing and pumping the air ambushing your senses with the change in sound and insane wordplay. There is not let up in the energy levels as pounding drums, bass, bells and claps all twist and merge into the Sparta Routine. Gambit and Tak, alongside some deft cuts from DJ Roy, get you fired up and ready to head into battle. There is no room for fear here, only a raw desire to defend your honour to the bitter end.

Huge sonic sounds herald the arrival of a classic Hip Hop sample which takes the term Bangin’ Hip Hop, to a new level. Joined by Australian emcee KID Lyrical (Blades) and DJ Roy on the cuts, K.I.L is a straight up homage to the Hip Hop culture with every one of the four pillars mentioned along the way. It is also about the longevity of sound and keeping one foot squarely in the roots of Hip Hop while allowing the other to evolve with the times. This one will have your adrenaline pumping, the b-boys popping, the graff artists tagging and the DJ’s scratching with everyone joining in Keeping It Lasting. There is no easing you out of the EP gently as more sonic goodness and pounding drums hit with a slightly more reserved edge, kinda like heavy sledgehammer blows to the head. If you think you can step up in the game, then be aware that Era Nova bring a no fucks given unapologetic edge to their style and are not above showing their Assassin’s Greed in their pursuit to take out any weak wack rappers or anyone stupid enough to step into their crosshairs…

 

If you are gonna mix up styles and sounds then you have to be confident, especially if you are going to mix Hip Hop and DnB with kinda hectic vibe you get from heavy metal music. There is do doubt that Gambit’s production needs to be played loud for you to get the best out of it and, let’s face it, why would you want to play it any other way. The production hits like a railgun as it pounds your ears and mind in a relentless manner leaving you feeling like you’ve just been hit by train.

Lyrically Era Nova are clinical in their delivery even if it is not clean. Their distinct differences in style have this odd way of complimenting each other. Gambit brings his high-octane raw vocals which naturally seem to fit many styles of musical flow, while Tak has a more classic rap style but, still shows a maturity to mix it with varying flows as needed, easily handling whatever is thrown at him. Together they both bounce of each other effortlessly, with one complimenting the other as they move from verse to verse and track to track. Bringing in KID Lyrical on K.I.L also worked perfectly as his no nonsense vocal style fits perfectly with both Gambit and Tak, sitting somewhere in-between their styles.

I always like to hear some slick turntablism when I’m listening to Hip Hop, otherwise its just not the same and here there is a good dash of that. DJ Roy and JMARZ provide the kind of cuts that fit perfectly with those feature tracks, demonstrating that the real Hip Hop sound can easily evolve and still sound fresh.

So, if you are looking for a sound that is hard, heavy and will get your pulse pounding and push your energy levels into the stratosphere, then look no further than the Rise EP. This is Heavy Hip Hop and Heavy Rap that pushes the EQ levels and the bar to new heights. That said, it’s not for everyone so, if you don’t wanna get burned then step aside because Era Nova are bringing the heat.

The Rise EP by Era Nova is out now on Spit Slam Records.

After that I’m outta here,

Peace,

Steve.

LINKS

Get Era Nova on Bandcamp Here:

https://eranova.bandcamp.com/album/rise-2

All Streaming links and Offical Store Link Here:

https://smarturl.it/reix4w

SPIT SLAM Records Website:

https://slamjamz.com/

VIDEOS

K.I.L ft KID Lyrical Official Video

Special Double Single Review: SoulCondor Slices SS003 & SS004

SoulCondor Slices 003 & 004

Special Double Single review

 

Not too long ago I reviewed the first two releases on Soulcondor Slices. Save The Wax and Superfunk (remixes) were two incredible slices of Hip Hop that not only crossed borders but, showed what can happen when the Hip Hop community pulls together to support one of their own.

That incredible show of support continues to grow. The struggles of label creator Del Soulcondor has brought together Hip-Hop artists and fans the world over who have united in showing love and support as he battles cancer. It is his resilience, resistance and overall strength in the face of extreme adversity that has touched so many and his on-going desire to bring his vision to the Hip Hop community  has resulted in him teaming with the awesome Diggers With Gratitude Crew to release these via their Fresh Pressings page.

Let’s get into these two Singles and first up is SS003…

Fuck Cancer-The Condor Consortium / Heavy XL-Cut Beetlez & Dopamine 189

Any piece of music that has a deeply personal story behind it can be emotional and inspire a deep emotional response in those who listen, particularly if they can relate to it personally and nothing hits home like this more than cancer. It seems to affect so many people either directly or indirectly that we all have a story, I will not relate my personal stories here but, it is the stories that are part of who we are and Del’s own fight that is the catalyst to simply say Fuck Cancer.

Fuck Cancer is a shot across the bow for this disease and a message that no matter what we will continue to stand against it. The production comes from DJ Nappa who brings an upbeat mix of bass, Drums, horns, guitar, and more classic samples than you can shake a stick at creating a huge sound that rouses your emotional energy. The vocal side of the Condor Consortium consists of Chrome, Phill Most Chill and legendary UK emcee Blade. The emotional side of things hits from the get-go as Chrome relates his own personal experiences of losing a sister and almost losing a brother to cancer and you can really feel the pain, emotion, and the strength in every word. Phill Most Chill takes shots are the big corporations, the ones who make huge amounts of money from drugs and whose best interests are their shareholders not necessarily in finding a cure. He also talks of the benefits of staying strong and positive in the face of cancer and not letting it win. Blade speaks on the war against cancer and how it so often sneaks up on those we love but, that we always all stand together as a collective force of positivity, letting cancer know we will never give up, we will stand strong together and we will be the ones who will win out. If that were not enough of a statement, the track is rounded of with a barrage of slick cuts from the final member of the Condor Consortium, B-Line head honcho and the man behind Bristol's Rope-A-Dope, Specifik, who simply says Fuck Cancer as only he knows how.

 

Heavy XL-Cut Beetlez & Dopamine 189

Heavy XL drops in typical Cut Beetlez style with brutal guitar heavy sound mixed with drums, cymbals, and cuts (provided by DJ J-Man and HP Lovescratch of course). The guitars are courtesy of Janne Aronen and brings a sound that assaults you ears and shreds your nervous system. Rock musicians have been renowned for smashing guitars but here it sounds like they have ripped apart some electric guitars and then put them all back together creating something recognisable but, raw and new. Dopamine 189 gives us bars that are, at times, as brutal as the sound as he speaks on the music and how he conducts what he does. This track takes the idea of merging hard rock and Hip-Hop to a whole new level and then gives it that experimental Cut Beetlez treatment. Something that always takes a standard concept in music then tips it out of the box shattering it into pieces and reconstructing it as they see fit, bringing you something you’ve never heard before.

 

Next up is SS004…

Living For The Day-Respek BA, Zeeny & Mr Thing / Raise Em High-Soundsci

Living For The Day see’s Zeeny provide production, Mixing and Mastering. His production of Horns, Guitars, Drums and Piano brings a vibe that instantly puts you into a thoughtful and reflective state of mind. Mr Thing’s slick cuts also add to that whole air of reflection and solidifying the whole Hip-Hop sound. Respek BA brings everything to life as he reflects on what’s been, what made him smile and what made him who he is. But it’s not all about reflecting on the past, its also about bringing that energy into the present moment and making every day something special, a memory to be treasured. This is another track that you simply can’t help but to get lost in. The whole concept of Living For The Day is something everyone of us can associate with as we get older. At times we think back to better times, and we can feed off that energy, recreate it in the now using that memory to recreate those feelings…

 

Raise Em High – Soundsci

The mighty Soundsci return with Ollie Teeba’s production bringing a straight up Hip-Hop club banger. The Heavy drums and guitar notes bring an upbeat vibe which will instantly have you out of your seat. The energy here is beyond infectious as Soundsci rock the mics once more. Their intention here is all about that feel good vibe and getting the crowd to Raise Em High. There is no one better to do that as they have us moving to every beat and every bar with the kinda wordplay that perfectly matches the sound. I dunno what more there is I can say about this one really, it is one of those tracks where fewer words are needed as the music does the talking.

 

There is little more left for me to say about these four tracks. Individually they each have their own tone, their own message that ranges across almost every emotion, providing you choose to open yourself to that. However, together they are two individual releases that carry a collective message around the globe, that message says that the Hip-Hop community is not just that, it is a family that spans borders and cultures and one. We recognise when one stands up and creates a vison that brings enjoyment to so many, just as Del Soulcondor has done with Soulcondor Slices. We also recognise when one of us needs support and is going through a tough part of our journey and we stand by that person, just as so many of us doing now in supporting Del Soulconder at this truly harsh time.

There is no doubt in my mind that what Soulcondor Slices is doing is not just releasing some one off, incredibly passionate Hip-Hop music but, it is creating a whole incredible legacy that will still be standing tall long into the future. This music will outlive every one of us carrying its message to many more generations who will undoubtedly feed off the energy and the messages within…

Further Shouts go to Mr Krum (Layout and Design) and Rola (Mixing and Mastering on Fuck Cancer) on Fuck Cancer/Heavy XL. Mak One for Artwork on Living For The Day/Raise Em High and the Legendary figure of No Sleep Nigel for mixing on Raise Em High. 

It looks certain that we will see SS005 & SS006 dropping. So, regardless of whether you purchase a hardcopy or just a digital copy of these two, when you listen to these tracks, feel them, I mean truly feel them because that’s what they are there for.

On that note I send love and healing vibes to Del Soulcondor,

One love to you all,

Steve

LINKS

Physical copies can be ordered from DWG Fresh Pressings very soon:

http://freshpressings.bigcartel.com/

Stream all SoulCondor Slices releases via Soundcloud now:

https://soundcloud.com/soulcondorslices

Follow Del Soulcondor on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/del_soulcondor/

EP Review: Live at the Guillotine '88 (Remixes)

 

Live at the Guillotine ’88 (Remixes)

By

Chess Moves Junior Disprol and DJ Mada

 

A little while ago I dropped a review for the release of the original single of Live at the Guillotine '88. If you remember back to that review, I described the single as something akin to Death Hop. It was a brutal single that didn’t just not take any prisoners and left the floor littered with heads of those who chose to listen.

So, what could you do to single of this nature in releasing a remix EP? Could you improve on it or even take it to new levels, was this indeed even possible? Well, let’s see…

The EP is made up of four straight remixes of the single. The first is the Executioner Mix, with it’s heavy drums and orchestral notes it almost places you in the role of the executioner. Seeing everything though the eyes of the one behind the blade, this mix puts you in a place where you have just been hung, drawn and now you’re being quartered…

If the feeling of being quartered was not enough, then the Slice of the Blade Mix takes the visceral nature one step further. The violent scratch and violin intro leads to a dark pounding beat that is boom bap Hip Hop. Its dark nature means that you feel every slice of every word and musical note as they cut into your awareness.

As you are reeling from what has just happened the scratch and bass intro opens you up to the Off With His Head Mix. The gritty and raw electronic vibe of this one builds across the length of the track, constantly bringing you focus to the sharp blade that is poised above your neck. This one does not place your head on the chopping block facing away from the blade, oh no, here you just watch and wait till eventually the razor-sharp blade drops…

Finally, as you lay in pieces, a mournful intro leads you into the Gravedigger Mix. As the gravedigger awaits another burial the tone here is more somber with drums, cuts, and a mix of electronic sounds. It is still raw, mirroring the brutal nature of the journey of the body being laid. But soon the rawness and the brutality is just a memory as the spade cuts into the earth to cover the body…

Chess Moves has done a cracking job here of taking this brutal track and giving it four new vibes that are different but, are also linked. They are individual but, also parts of a larger story. The overall vibe here leans far more towards Hip Hop than the original but, having said that, it loses none of its brutal nature and, you could even say, it is now more horrorcore.

These four remixes are raw and unapologetically slice away at your nerves. The distorted nature of Junior Disprol’s vocals claw at your ears and rip into your mind. Together these four tracks reach into your very soul like you are the victim of Pinhead from Hellraiser. There is no where to hide, no place to seek solace for once you open yourself to this EP, you are on you way to a new experience of experimental Hip Hop Horror.

Another aspect to note is the way DJ Mada has totally flipped the cuts on these remixes. On the original the cuts were ferocious and cut through your mind like a chainsaw fuelled by Nitrous. Here he has cut back on the ferocity and taken a more dextrous, even clinical approach.

On a lighter note, once you have given this a listen and dragged yourself back from near oblivion, Chess Moves is now making his boom bap beats available to rappers and DJ’s. If your interested, then check out the link below.

After that little lot, I’m off to get exorcised…

Peace out,

Steve

LINKS

More streaming links etc will be available soon

Check the remixes on Spotify Here:

https://open.spotify.com/album/62ct6pAmNALFb0zTXaomGx?si=RXeKLveaSAW1Xb8H_5S4RA&dl_branch=1&nd=1

Check Here for those Chess Moves beats for your next Project:

https://www.beatstars.com/chessmoves/feed

Album Review: Lead By Example by Ramson Badbonez

 

Lead By Example

By

Ramson Badbonez

 

There will be few of you out there who do not know the name Ramson Badbonez. One of UK Hip Hop’s most prolific emcees has returned but this time he puts down the mic in favour of production duties.

Lead By Example has a stunning line-up of emcees from the UK, USA, and Canada to handle the vocal duties, whilst also featuring turntable trickery from DJ Miracle, Kompoze and DJ Jazz T. With such a wealth of talent being brought to bear on this album, it promises to be as good a debut production for Ransom as it is a departure from his norm.

I’m not gonna make you wait here but, get straight into it…

Straight out the gate, with On Your Mark, you get an immediate sense as to what this album is gonna be about. A perfect head nod beat with keyboards is the background provided by Ramson over which we are introduced to the album over the course of a couple of minutes and the outstanding cuttin’ and scratching of DJ Miracle. It has your pulse racing from the get-go which is just as well because there is no letting up as heavy drums and jazzed up horns hit for Stay True. If you were wondering where the bar was after the intro then there is no doubt left that it’s been knocked into the atmosphere as Reks, Ruste Juxx and Blacastan drop some incredible bars of lyrical fire to get you even more fired up. The mood chills a little as the piano heavy beat of Rap To The Future hits like a cool breeze to your grill and sees Dizzy Dustin, Mr Hooper and Moka Only take us back over some of raps early days, with cuts from Kompoze, before returning us to the present.

Nonchalant is up next with some heavy drums, bass and guitar vibes that mix together to provide the fuel for Mark Fear and Ramson himself to each drop a verse in sparring fashion. Just to remind you that Ramson Badbonez can easily drop a verse when needed. Strings, piano, and a slightly more laid-back drum vibe are the backdrop for Justo the MC, Johaz of Dag Savage and Sleep Sinatra to drop some deeper more thoughtful words on Bismillah, which is Arabic for ‘In the name of God.’ Drums, piano and a mariachi guitar vibe create the prefect soundscape for spinning tales of the cities underworld and the Wolves who walk those streets. Those street stories are spun by Ramson alongside Cyclonious and Phoenix da Icefire.

Equality for Every is like a breath of fresh air, almost an aural cleanser, with and upbeat drum and guitar vibe over which is a lively brass flavour that drives the track as Ramson and Chima Anya look at the subjects of equal opportunities and racial justice, just as if they are sat at a table musing over current affairs together. Pounding drums and sonic sounds herald the arrival of Tru Trilla, Fly Kwa and Prince AK to the ring. There is nothing pretty here as these guys are here to deliver a flurry of lyrical punches with only one aim, to knockout all those Lame Ducks. Time for Ramson Badbonez to go it alone on Chinchillas. The drums pound over a melodic eastern style vibe and Ramson is clinical here in taking out those fakes. His lyrics are as sharp as a scalpel and as precise as a brain surgeon.

The drums continue to pound alongside flutes and guitars as Az Izz of The Outsidaz, Cymarshall Law, Speed Walton and Quip break out the heavy verbal artillery. This one is high octane and as deadly as any stand off from Reservoir Dogs. The penultimate track here is a posse style cut of epic proportions and one which reads like a ‘who’s who’ of top UK emcees as Ramson is joined by Kashmere, Truemendous, Mysdiggi, Micall Parknsun, Joker Starr, Gee Bag, Confucius, Jehst and Phoenix da Icefire for the Black Hole Cypher. The drums are heavy with a sonic vibe alongside and the lyrics are cerebral, with each bar drawing you further and further into the black hole but, what’s next? Where does it lead? It leads to our final track. A great spoken word intro leads on to solid boom bap beat with cuts by DJ Jazz T. Recognize Ali, Skyzoo and Juxx Diamondz step up to drop breathless flows and straight up knowledge with one main theme, if you wanna be an inspiration, a leader in this game then you have to one thing and that’s Lead By Example…

 

So, what have learnt from this album? What has the last 39 minutes shown us?

We started of by ticking a lot of boxes. We had Ramson Badbonez sidestepping from his usual trademark position as an emcee into the role of producer. We had a whole host of truly talented guest artists who joined Ramson from both sides of the pond, and we also had Ramson Badbonez displaying his mic prowess as well so, expectation was high, but did it deliver?

Did it deliver? The answer is easy, you’re damn right it did…

The album delivered on all levels. Ramson’s production is spot on throughout this album. It creates this perfect flow from start to finish that raises you up and keeps you there, ebbing and flowing, before taking you up a few more notches towards the end and wrapping up the whole thing on a new level of high points. The masterful use of talented guest artists is breath-taking. From legendary figures such as Dizzy Dustin, Moka Only, Micall Parknsun and Jehst to names that might be less well-known in the UK such as Fly Kwa, Justo the MC and Speed Walton, every one of these emcees drop performances worthy of those who are at the top of their game, this shows the sort of respect that Ramson Badbonez has in Hip Hop, that all these emcees and DJ’s are prepared to step up and to work with him at such a high level. It also demonstrates how Hip Hop is one and all those within it are one, breaking down borders to stand together as one.

Lead By Example truly is ‘The Real Deal’ and I have no doubt this album will be loved by Hip Hop fans the world over. This is not a UK Hip Hop album this is a straight up Hip Hop album, showing that hip hop is universal. I can also see this album as one of those that will stand the test of time and receive heavy rotation on playlists and radio shows wherever good music is played.

Can I overstate how good this album is? Nope…

Lead By Example is out today on New Dawn Records so, I suggest you find out how good it is yourself.

On that note,

I’m Out, See ya Soon,

Peace.

Steve

LINKS

Get Lead By Example on Bandcamp Here:

https://ramsonbadbones.bandcamp.com/

Check New Dawn Records on Bandcamp Here:

https://newdawnrecords.bandcamp.com/music

New Dawn Records Website:

https://newdawnrecs.com/

Check Ramson Badbonez on Facebook Here:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063495610805

Ramson Badbonez on Instagram Here:

https://www.instagram.com/oscarslouch/

Ramson Badbonez on Twitter Here:

https://twitter.com/ramson_badbonez?lang=en

EP Review: Chalk Alley by Briti$h

 

Chalk Alley

By

Briti$h

 

Following on from the release of his debut EP ‘Stuck In A Bunker’, Ipswich MC Briti$h is back with a brand new release, the Chalk Alley EP.

The Chalk Alley EP is billed as a concept EP looking at the contrast of daytime and night-time life in the back alleys. With a diverse range of beats this one is sure to demonstrate the lyrical abilities of Briti$h. The EP features appearances from Sloth of Indigo Frequency and Kyle Parrish (KP) while production comes from label mate Bunker Beats among others.

So, join me as we take a walk-through Chalk Alley with our guide Briti$h…

We first step foot in Chalk Alley under the light of day and to a jazzy vibe created by the laid-back beat and a mix of keyboards and horns. Here Briti$h gives us a little introduction to where we are, while letting us know just what to expect as we experience the goings-on in both the day and night. The further we venture into the alley; the mood shifts to a mix of sharp drums and nerve tingling electronic organ notes. This darkens our vison allowing it to take on an almost post-apocalyptic feeling. This hard-hitting vibe is apt as it reflects the current state of reality and the fact that you gotta stay Woke to all the lies and false truths. Our minds are under constant pressure of fear-based media that it clouds our thoughts but, don’t close your eyes to this or get lost in a smog that hides the truth.

As the skies darken over the alley a new reality begins to emerge. A grime infused beat and a mix of twisted banjo and tambourine notes carry us to the Red Hammock. This is a place where a new smoke haze feels the air, a place where realities are less defined and where the questioning of the state of society and what is happening around us floats around in hazy clouds of coloured smoke drifting from one mind to the next. Our trip continues but, now in more ways than one, as the smoky haze accompanies us as does a boombap beat and some etheric sonic sounds. Sloth joins Briti$h at this point and it’s time to Watch Out as they treat us to a straight up bars’ session of lyrical freedom. It’s all about saying what you want, how you want, mixing it up with the music and the smoke to take us of to another dimension. It’s been some night in the alley and as the faintest hint of light begins to colour the sky once more Briti$h takes us to meet KP and together they take us through a wealth of different strains, each one blended to help us to Elevate our minds to different places as we relax in what comes, drifting off…

With the sun now high in the sky above Chalk Alley an upbeat piano driven boombap vibe fills the air. With everything we have experienced in the alley it’s time to bring our thoughts back to Who we are and finding your life’s purpose, once you know what that purpose is then you have to pursue that dream with all your heart and make it yours. We end this trip with a mix of keyboards over a grime beat. Keeping our energy up Briti$h gives us something to take away from our trip to the alley. He drops his Thoughts on a whole host of different things, musing on life, the current state of reality and what we do or don’t do as a species in respecting the place we live.

 

So, we have accompanied Briti$h down Chalk Alley through the day and the night, the good and the bad and at times, with some help, and in an envelope of purple smoke we have drifted beyond the material confines of the alley in new realities. We have learnt that Chalk Alley is place you may, or may not want to frequent but, it is well worth checking it out for yourself.

The EP is a highly enjoyable listen and the differing vibes from Hip Hop to grime show just how far Briti$h can stretch his style and he does so with aplomb. The production and lyrical content fits perfectly together creating vibrant visions for the listener to immerse themselves in. Those visions work so well as they twist reality with some smoked filled dreamscapes and on to more thoughtful spaces for you to create your own.

Everything here balances very well and the narrative flows so well reflecting what could easily be 24 hours in the life of a location that could be based almost anywhere in the world today, depending on where you are listening to this.

Once more we find a talented MC emerging from the UK. One who is not afraid take what he does and push himself mixing up his wordplay and style to bring us some top-notch underground rap. What more do I need to say…?

Chalk Alley is released through DJGT entertainment and is available on Vinyl, CD and also digitally on all major platforms on 26^th August.

I’m off for a lie down,

Peace,

Steve

LINKS

Get Chalk Alley from Bandcamp Here:

https://djgtentertainment.bandcamp.com/album/briti-h-chalk-alley

Get Chalk Alley and more from the DJGT Entertainment Webshop:

https://djgtentertainment.co.uk/shop

DJGT Entertainment on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC83e357s0v31_ZVbQUlamcw

VIDEOS

Chalk Alley