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Not sure how long this will stick around for so hurry (and Hulkshare won’t let me disable the Download link for some reason). The standout track from Game’s last summer release The R.E.D. Album gets the visual treatment to superb effect. A powerful cinematography accompanies the life of a youth making the wrong choices in the precarious world of gang culture. Interestingly Game holds his own in front of the camera and emanates that big personality we all know him for. As much as Kendrick spazzes out at the end and totally steals the show, the visuals here portray him in more the ‘apprentice’ styled role. Intentional or not, in light of the verses, a good move by Game’s people to retain at least a shade of credibility.
This track continues that trend with a dark production that bursts between minimalism and thudding bass-heavy work, with that contrast mirroring that of the raps and samples, as the cartoon clips and Kendrick’s softer verses and hook are much opposed to the gristly, aggressive work following the hook. The verses are excellent once again, boasting a few thought-provoking lines packaged in the slick flows now expected of him. It’s a very unique listen that almost defies structure at times, and hence is a very refreshing slice of hip-hop that clearly demonstrates what someone operating with a much more boundary-free mindset is capable of.
The sample used is drifty and atmospheric, adding a real sense of depth and mystery to the track (I’m also quite sure a speedier version of it was used by The Illz on Let It Fall), whilst the intermittent, offbeat percussion gives the production a very unique feel. It also makes the production tricky to find a ‘common’ rap delivery for, which brings two different and equally enjoyable flows from Q and Kendrick, both of which are packed with some solid, often introspective lyricism that adds to the atmosphere of the track. Very good track, and hopefully that Habits and Contradictions project is coming soon.
The combination is a good one, as Kendrick’s very enjoyable verses are supplement by an equally-likeable contribution from Busta, who tones down his natural aggressiveness to fit the mood of the track, without sacrificing the quality of his delivery. The production is unaltered and rightfully so, with the jovial horn melodies adding to the frantic nature of the track in a manner that synergises well with the raps. Definitely one to grab whether you’ve heard the original or not.
Needless to say, this looks like a must-have for all hip-hop fans, and alongside the glut of rap gargantuans, there are a couple of ‘middle-ground’ names on here I’ve been looking to get into, whilst I’m sure we’ll also be introduced to a few new and upcoming stars. To quote Peter, ‘With so much BS out there — sometimes it’s hard to find what’s really poppin. Well I did the work for you. Enjoy.’
Oh, the artwork (left) is dope as hell. July 2nd the date.
Visuals from the industry’s latest torch-carrier, Kendrick Lamar. With the track analysis taken care of by Ajay last month, there’s no need to open any new cans here. The video complements the “slightly unsettling, vintage-inspired production” by setting Kendrick up in the first scene on his own, staring out of a warehouse window (Ja Rule’s Clap Back springs to mind here) which combined with sporadic socially-conscious clips really drive home the subject matter in question. I’m pretty sure from the still-shot (left) that some women makes an appearance later on but unfortunately this was as far as I got before my Internet decided not to load YouTube videos anymore. Watch it for yourself and then read Ajay’s track analysis here.
The stuttered melodies make for a very distinctive and memorable sound, whilst the slow and driving percussion rolls along nicely with Kendrick’s flows, which are somewhat reminiscent of J. Cole’s own direct, slightly aggressive style. Lyrically, Lamar comes through with a decent set of rhymes that might not wow the real lyric heads, but should satisfy most hip-hop fans with their diversity. On iTunes now.
Can’t say I agreed with some of this list when it was released, but we’ll see if my mind is changed by what those I doubt put forward on this tape. Aside from that, it’s always good to grab new material from the likes of Yelawolf and Kendrick Lamar, so this should definitely be one to add to the collection.
I’m not familiar with J-Lie, but the other three rappers on the track are certainly well known, and all four combine nicely to deliver a very solid all-round hip-hop track. The airy synths are fantastic here, giving the track a spaced-out, relaxed feel which is embellished by thudding bass hits. Each rapper comes through with decent raps, each tackling the track with similar flows but varying lyricism. Award for best verse probably goes to Curren$y, though only just as the others certainly do their thing too. Very enjoyable piece of new school hip-hop. The music world has slowed down for Grammy weekend, but this emerged and caught my eye recently. During a recent live show, Kendrick Lamar presented none other than the elusive Dr. Dre to the crowd, along many other guests at his show (including J. Cole, though not in this video). It’s a short video/appearance from the good Doctor, but it really only takes a few words from Dre to make an impact, such is the man’s importance. Not only is his appearance a major co-sign, but his open declaration of Kendrick as the ‘new West’ certainly adds weight to that belief. A couple of slightly hesitant mentions for Detox too, which is understandable given the seemingly insurmountable expectations already surrounding the forthcoming project. Nice to see this sort of validation though, and it’s always good to see Dre being active on the scene!
Click this bit of red text to grab hold of this tape and click the red text below to check out the tracklist! → Continue Reading DJ Kay Slay & Streetsweepers-The Soul Controller [Mixtape]
We’re treated to a really relaxing, smoothed-out track that stands up as one of the better chillout hip-hop beats in recent months. There’s a touch of class and real quality about the production, with atmospheric elements alongside light synths and samples, all combining together for a very enjoyable listen. Kendrick doesn’t disappoint with the raps either, tackling a range of subjects with a captivating and clear flow. Thankfully, Gucci’s appearance is restricted to hook duty, meaning he doesn’t ruin the smooth flavour of this track too much. Odd choice of feature either way though, there are dozens of other/better rappers that would have fitted brilliantly on this. Still, a great track and probably the strongest (of the very few) of his I’ve heard to date. Some very valuable camera time for Kendrick Lamar’s breakout track, on the back of his Dr. Dre co-sign. This video keeps things really simple, with some energetic footage of Lamar spitting his rhymes on a black background, which certainly enhances the raps on the track and gives you the chance to appreciate the general feel of the track. One thing I didn’t appreciate enough in my track review was the thumping bass in the track, which certainly grabs the attention. Definitely an artist to keep an eye on, and he’s expected to make an appearance on Dr. Dre’s Detox. Audio for this is available here.
He’s got a very unique delivery, as he opens up with a lazier flow and progressively increases the intensity in his voice and raps, with the last third of the track coming at a breakneck tempo that commands attention. Typical Westcoast style on the lyrics, which isn’t a bad thing and works very well with his flow. Definitely one to keep an eye out for. |
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