The waiting game.

2008-07-28T09:22:00.003-05:00

You've been pretty patient to keep this bookmarked expecting updates. Fact is, I've essentially jumped ship where the real friends are at on Facebook. This whole time I've been periodically updating so you've missed out on SO. MANY. GEMS. Like the fact that I was in a karaoke contest and got third place (holla to a $50 bar tab), or that I'm going to Israel in three days as of post time. It's about time I went on an actual vacation.

I never said I lived an exciting life, but dagnabbit I have fun and enjoy myself immensely. So much that I don't even need to make it public knowledge. Believe me, I'm out there, if you look hard enough with your sociopath goggles, I am most definitely out there in true form like the ultimate nerd I am. You don't need to look here.

Sooner or later, when not being particularly bogged down with the daytime occupation, I would love to use this for what it was meant to be used for: songs I'm feeling at the moment not necessarily condusive to new shit...cause damned if I'm paying even the slighest attention to the exclusives. I've been doing a lot more studying than writing, a lot more listening than talking. That's the natural progression as you get older and realize some motherfuckers are acting the same way you did thre years ago.

Beta ain't going anywhere but I sure as hell am. And when I come back I'll actually have an excuse to use this (even if my ultimate reason for shying away is actually the format bullshit which I cannot stand). Sleep if you wanna, but keep your alarms on.

- E

I bought a melodica.

2007-11-05T17:15:00.000-05:00

Okay, so it's really a harmonica horn. In essence, its the same deal --- humming into a mouth piece while hitting keys on the top. Only mine doesn't have as many notes in the scale. For $2.16 I found myself this red plastic harmonica horn, which I will now use to play along to such hits as "Champagne Supernova" and "And We Danced". Please feel free to let me know of any other tunes I should learn!

After years and years of being borderline deaf, my dad finally got a hearing aid. Now he can hear the secrets that you keep when you're talking in your sleep. Better watch out.

Well if I have anything to say or do about it, this blog is certainly en route to getting the living puss kicked out of it. Major overdrafts in the works. No more music blogging. Pandering to the masses is lame and formulaic. Gonna try something different that doesn't make me feel like I am competing with others.

Cheers,

Elann

Reservations.

2007-07-10T21:28:00.000-05:00

Bobby Caldwell - My Flame (zSHARE link)
Talk Talk - I Believe in You (youtube link)

There's about five dollars left in my wallet for rest of this week, or at least until my next paycheck arrives, hopefully en route Friday. Therefore my weekly menu has changed somewhat: apples, ramen, and coldcuts. Maybe pudding if my roommate will let me. Taking it back to the good old days of summer camp when I would make myself a bagged lunch. The renaissance of intelligence and boundless creativity was bound to surface sooner or later. Living in a city of $7 tunafish sandwiches gets quite grating after so long a time, so tapping into the ol' noggin was a good look on my part.

While I budget myself, I stay hungry, which is fine since I spend enough time sitting down all day getting negative amounts of exercise and choosing to let the numbers and headlines of business news fill me up instead. So I've got enough on my plate, but I constantly seem to need more. That's why I've saved a little money of my own to buy a new laptop once and for all.

It only took a year.

Looking towards getting an HP Pavilion or Sony VAIO. Leaning towards the HP since I trust HP more as a company. FUCK Dell though. Nothing but woes.

So this means Beta's gettin' more consistent. Redesign in the works too (yeah, you read correctly).

About the music: I would have posted an mp3 of the Talk Talk but I do not have the capability of ripping tracks right now...so in replacement I posted the stunning video they made for it. As for the the Caldwell jawn, well...that comes thanks to the homie Black Moses (what up Gangsta). I usually don't like wasting Throwback songs on non-Fridays when I don't need to but Bobby's that dude and more people gotta know about him.

Enjoy, you cantankerous loonies.

Cheers,
Elann

Half a year.

2007-06-30T10:21:00.001-05:00

For a minute I thought that having both a dead camera and a dead laptop was annoying enough. Then last night/this morning I'm on my way home around 4 am and some douchebag steals my credit card and some cash from my wallet by literally slicing his way into my back pocket while I was sleeping upright.

Gotta hand it to you, Queens. Just when I thought I had enough to be frustrated about with my increasingly dilapidating technology in full swing, you gotta go ahead and throw me a curve ball with the identity theft. And to think I was actually getting over being the naive sonuvabitch I was, too.

Almost two years in this fuckin' city. I've gotten this far, so let's see if I can manage to pick up all the pieces before this summer ends.

FYI: My music is all on that dead laptop.

I hate making excuses. I should probably start creating entries from the office now, in any case.

Happy Fireworks and Barbecue Day if I don't speak to you beforehand.

Cheers,
Elann

Throwback Friday #18.

2007-04-06T19:03:00.000-05:00

Literal break.

Les DeMerle - A Day in The Life (sendspace link)

Got a lotta love for break compilations, and the Kon & Amir On Track series is no exception. Not sure if it was ever highlighted on their earlier ones, since I have only heard at this time the most recent Sixth Volume in the series (released last year), but this is probably the coolest song I have in my collection.

As for O.C., all I gotta say is... "Of course we gotta pay rent, so money connects. But I'd rather be broke and have a whole lotta respect." One of the best lines in rap evaah.

Cheers,
Elann

Headphone Masterpieces #13.

2007-04-06T16:06:00.000-05:00

Straight ripped that shit, kid.

M.O.P. - That's All We Know (sendspace link)
Iomas Marad - I Stand Alone (sendspace link)

Feeling energetic or Mellow? That's the question I have concerning how you're feeling. Whichever mood you might be in, I present you with supplemental choices for this evening. First, we have an absolute banger of rare stature from M.O.P., and then a barebones headphone masterpiece that happens to be the opening cut from All-Natural stablemate Iomos Marad's debut album, Deep Rooted. Either way, these will do the trick, whichever your fancy may be.

So what's up....me, I moved. Still in Astoria though. My room is bigger and admittedly better. A lot more personal space, and *ta-da* Internet works. Moreso than before, anyway. I've got the ill set-up in here, it's nice.

I recently managed to save 80 pages, about four years worth within, of entries from my last journal/blog. If I hadn't accidentally stumbled on the old website and seen in an itty bitty corner on the top left side of the screen, "Oh, by the way, we're shutting this down tomorrow," how would I have known otherwise. In conclusion, I just wanna pointlessly but justifiably give Bolt.com a very large FUCK YOU for the awful website, FUCK YOU for reeling me in, and HAHAHA for having that karma come back to you in the form of a newer website that poses as a half-assed version of youtube and myspace, which nobody likes might I add. Real smooth.

Rant over. Whaddup to my Candian peoples!

Happy Easter!

Cheers,
Elann

Back in action (temporarily).

2007-03-27T16:49:00.000-05:00

*boom*

Philaflava's Jason Gloss got at me about doing an interview with QN5 Music for the site. Here's the result:

http://www.philaflava.com/qn5.htm

Hope you enjoy, in spite of the length and the minor spelling and transcribing errors.

Cheers,
Elann

Radio Refreshments #7.

2007-03-08T20:00:00.000-05:00

omg nsfw

Golden Palominos - Little Suicides (sendspace link)

We're gonna try and get back on track here with the flagship entries. And because I don't have much of a directive to write about bands I don't have much knowledge about, I'll let the music speak for itself from now on. At least more so than before.

Lori Carson has a beautiful voice though, and were it not for her I probably would have never checked for this song in the first place. This is going back to 1994. Back when I used to like The Cranberries. Yup. I've got no shame.

Or should I? Either way, we're talking two completely different vocal styles. I'm pretty keen on how subtle the production is too.

Cheers,
Elann

Don't get me wrong.

2007-03-07T19:00:00.000-05:00

Couldn't help myself.

Josh Martinez - Just a Dood (sendspace link)

Deal with it.

Cheers,
Elann

Workinonit.

2007-02-18T16:58:00.000-05:00

Cigar Store Indians - Kisses in Vain (sendspace link)

Finally in possession of the majority of my CD collection. I feel liberated. Like music actually is apart of my life again, separate from karaoke, iPod travel mixes, and random youtube search queries at work.

You may notice now that I have disabled anonymous comments. The way I see it, unfamiliar people without a face or identity, commenting on someone who is of the same nature, do not deserve to have their voice heard if all they spew is blind, negative commentary. I am a firm believer of the "If you don't have anything nice to say, leave it to yourself or air it out on a messageboard" approach.

I'd much rather get that kind of criticism directly to my face, quite frankly.

Okay, so let's keep it comfortable here. I'm not working at Fat Beats anymore. Haven't for a while, actually. And my biggest mistake while working there was solely depending on the store to keep up to date with new music. Now that several months have passed, I do feel slightly detached. I also need to get on top of purchasing a new laptop, so I can actually download new music again.

I am not being over-dramatic about this. There is currently less than 500 MB free. Shit is fucked, man.

It'll be taken care of. I've come to the conclusion that in the interim, I can feasibly upload tracks to sendspace (if my home connection decides to work), send them to my e-mail, and then take some time during my days at work to make entries, on a much more consistent basis, naturally.

Enjoy today's track, a late bullshit excuse for Valentine's Day. Which for me happened to be the best ever to date (sushi and sake galore). February, in the past few years anyway, has a tendency to be the most depressing month for me. I'm generally happy nowadays though so perhaps the curse is broken. Likewise the future is certainly looking up for me this year.

I hope it is for you as well. In fact, 2007 so far seems to be the year that a lot of creative potential is being taken to use. Its the Year of the Pig. I have been informed that this signifies how much personal cleansing is going to occur.

I believe this. Just look at Britney Spears.

Cheers,
Elann

A year in thought.

2006-12-31T16:00:00.000-05:00

I cannot wait to get my new computer.

That is all.

See you in '07, when we finally are gonna get things started up again.

Cheers!
~*E*~

On the web, any traffic is good traffic!

2006-11-29T13:08:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I'm glad I don't drive in the city. Although it's good to have people to drive you around whenever it is convenient (free, shortened travel time to Thanksgiving, for example), I can not see myself being burdened with another liability at this stage of my life.

Where I'm at right now in my life: New job, new girl, new place. Yeah. I moved at the beginning of the month. Unfortunately, the wireless connection is about as stable as my financial situation--- good in spurts but not reliable in the long-term picture unless I do something to further myself. In any case, uploading songs is looking to be pretty effin' tough with the slow response time.

Slow response time...much like just generally posting here. A goal for 2007 I suppose would be to finally take all of my endeavors seriously, and Beta Kerosene is included since its no one's fault but my own for allowing myself the lack of commitment. Not like you care or anything. Perhaps these words are merely blurred lines on the page and you're just waiting to download some music like you usually do.

Soon, I say. I got some swell ideas up ahead at least. Its just that I need to feel excited by music again to really churn out more drivel.

At least you'll still be reading, right?

Xploding Plastix - Treat Me Mean, I Need The Reputation (sendspace link)

Fuckers.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Alright, boogers.

2006-10-24T02:12:00.000-05:00

Mountain Goats - Love Love Love (sendspace link)

Well, I think its safe to say that in the course of a month, at least some things have gotten better. Come next month, hopefully, the entire blackboard will be erased of already-solved equations. Who knows just when...

All I know is that as of now, E got his groove back.

This song was worth me making the brief appearance, trust me. I could have posted about fifty other John Darnielle ditties, and this one makes the cut because Mr. D got that crack to make the heart rest calmly with a simple proclamation without the lyrical complication. Easy now, y'all.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Remember where you saw it first.

2006-09-29T05:31:00.000-05:00

Four months ago, Jive Alive and I had a dream. That dream was to see one actor portray the infamous character of Tony Stark aka Iron Man for the upcoming film in 2008. We both agreed, Robert Downey Jr was to be that man. Jive even posted it on myspace. You all laughed at first. Some of you thought I was out of my mind. Well, Favreau must be out of his mind too then. Because of this.

Will be back with a more appropriate update soon. Once my computer decides to finally do something functional like actually do comptuer like stuff and agree with me. In the meantime, suck on those lemons, Apple Jack!

Peace to Jive and all the others who supported us this summer in our never ending campaign to bring great actors to ill comic book movies. We have triumphed!

Cheers,
~*E*~

Sorry.

2006-08-22T21:38:00.000-05:00

Among other matters, some things are just a little larger than the Internet. Along with a general frustration with this website (check the entry below; is it at all possible to just format an entry and have it stay the same way when you come back to it?), my attention has been diverted....

Basehead - Brand New Day (sendspace link)

Perhaps I'm pulling my own card. Oh well. I promise to get things back on track once my computer can actually do the things I want it to.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Throwback Friday #17.

2006-07-14T22:46:00.000-05:00

See, the way I see it, there's always an upshot to behaviors generally looked down upon. And dare I say, the good thing about staying up for hours upon hours is that you get so much more thinking done. Too much sleep leads to a, though perfectly understandable, specific regiment to which every normal human being must prescribe to at some point. But for now, I'll be happy with this time to dwell. On many ideas. Among them: why the hell I'm awake taking pictures of the Queensboro Bridge as the sky bleeds a purple dusk pre-sunrise (you'll get a glimpse tomorrow.

I blame Brooklyn. My future home. Where in exactly is yet to be decided. If it isn't Bushwick or somewhere relatively close, somewhere south of Prospect Park for sure. I'm keeping my options open. Regarding the recent heat wave, I wish for every place I visit to have waterslides going out of the windows of the prospective rooms, leading to a deep, cold, clean pool. I know I'm just speaking complete crazy, but sometimes it takes a certain kind of crazy to be level with your readers, y'know?

::clears throat::

Non Phixion broke up today. The reason? Goretex's inepitude, straight up. No reason to beat around the bush, its all true so I don't have to be put on trial here for my views. I look forward to seeing future projects from the Uncle Howie camp.

But I digress, the real matter at hand is schooling those here who haven't been put on to how dope Necro's production can be. When he isn't busy typing in ALL CAPS and being an all-around outspoken emcee ("I Need Drugs", anyone?), he's actually a very skilled crate digger that deserves his props for sure. Case in point, for this week's Throwback Friday...

Osanna - Preludio (sendspace link)

Non Phixion fans know the deal here. Sampled masterfully by Necro is the sounds of Osanna, an Italian progressive rock group who came out with this track in 1972 for the soundtrack of a movie called Milano Calibro 9, a little known gangster film. Along with the cinematic orchestration, this composition hosts jazzy flute riffs and guitar effects that definitely scream progressive. It's an interesting cut, for sure.

Non Phixion - The CIA Is Trying to Kill Me (sendspace link)

Obviously, notwithstanding, Non Phixion display their own prelude to anarchy on this fan favorite cut from the group's only official album, The Future Is Now.

Here's to hoping for another Sabac solo album, personally. This La Coka Nostra stuff just seems bland in execution as far as the concept goes if you ask me.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Radio Refreshments #6.

2006-07-13T17:38:00.000-05:00

Sugar - If I Can't Change Your Mind (sendspace link)

What's it gonna take to find a decent external host. Until further notice, due to minimal but nonetheless substantial criticism through IM, fileforge is getting the gasface for not performing to the full potential.

Today's Radio Refreshments brings back a very special gem. Bob Mould of the seminal indie outfit Husker-Dü tried his hand at a solo career after disbanding the group in 1988. Eventually, he found himself spearheading the creation of a new trio. Led by Mould, Sugar released their debut album Copper Blue, in 1992.

The song I have posted was the flagship single, a hit in the UK and certainly a refreshment for the radio, even to this day. Dare I claim, no one really checks for this outing as Mould's defining musical prowess these days...I however think this song is of the perfect singalong caliber. If this was on the karaoke list, I would do it every week or something, I swear, hah! I'm saying yo, it's almost like a throwback to 60's pop. Or maybe it is entirely. You decide.

I should make a confession though. Regardless of hearing the song come up on the local radio station, the first time I actually heard the song, I didn't actually hear the music. I think I actually saw the video...in the nearby Filenes while shopping for summer clothes, I'd bet, during the middle school years. It looked like the video anyway, goddamnit.

In any case...

Cheers,
~*E*~

Smokin' on Arizona.

2006-07-12T01:47:00.000-05:00

DJ Syl - 9th Wonder's Samples Mix (Volume 5) (fileforge link)

Who would have thought you'd be gracing these pages again, man.

This is 17 minutes long. Geez...for the record, he plays both the sampled and the sampling back to back. The creation was stemmed from this thread, and thus why Syl decided to make a Volume 5. Yeah, it's safe to say that after this, it will be tough to get a 9th track up on Throwback Friday again.

HEY! Someone tell me if fileforge isn't working for you goddamnit! This is why I conduct experiments. It seems to work for some, and not for others.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Headphone masterpieces # 12.

2006-07-08T02:02:00.000-05:00

Don't let the bread get to ya head...

The Presuppositions of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP):

1. Communication is the response you get no matter what your intention.
2. There is a positive intention for every behavior.
3. Everyone has all the resources they need.
4. There is no such thing as failure, only feedback.
5. We are making the best possible choices at the time.

A lot of people seem to have a hard time believing I'm for real. I'm going to prove a lot of people wrong after this weekend. But I can assure you I'm only proving myself so I can make things better.

You know, I remember when I spent a weekend at a Zen monastery. It was quite possibly the most amazing weekend of my life because for one instance of time, one simple weekend, I became completely aware of myself, my actions, and my thoughts. I had just broken up with a girl who I still wasn't completely over, and for the first time ever I actually managed, for once in my feeble little existence, to not care about women at all. Hard to believe, but true.

Self-awareness? Check. Happiness? Check. Self-confidence? Mmm...check. So what was missing from the equation? What corner wasn't covered? Adaptability. Because I came home to my house back at college, and this was being done to my room (sorry for that waste of space I call a chipmunk). I managed to take it in stride. I took it very well and to this day I laugh about it. Nonetheless, how I handled it then reflected how I handle anything that comes my way unexpectedly now. In other words: I'm still a pushover. And I don't seem to care at all.

The irony in all this, is, of course, the prank that was done to me can not feasibly follow the listed presuppositions at the beginning of this entry. Small potatoes; the sophomoric intentions were meant ultimately to be playful, but also to overthrow the weekend of spiritual work I had just immersed my soul into. I'm not sure if any good can come out of those "intentions".

I have a lot of petty shit that happens to me. But as someone very close to me always says, "When it rains, it pours". At the same time, I indeed believe I am luckier than most. I have believed this for several years. And the more I say it, the more it is engrained in my brain, unable to be contested.

That all taken into account, do my actions really take a part in how lucky I am? Or have I just been allowing events to take place and fall right into my lap? I feel like I've been lucky without any intiative. And if there has been, it's been to a minimal but notable extent. I wonder...if I initiate more, will the luck continue to build, or will I finally become stuck working the normal mechanics in a sea of novices. I suppose at this juncture that I am afraid of what NLP will do...that it might be what was necessary all along to eventually silence my critics and leave the doubters without questions.

Bonobo - Nothing Owed (live) (fileforge link)

It wouldn't be an entry to think about, without some thinking music.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Throwback Friday #16.

2006-07-07T16:18:00.000-05:00

Larger than my graduating class = truth.

First, let me try something new.

The Fania All-Stars - Cha Cha Cha (fileforge link)

Let me know just how fast that works. Might as well be the best file host out there, but we'll see. Props to DJ Premier Planet for introducing me to it.

Hokay. This song comes off of the collective's apparently least memorable release, their first album through Columbia Records, Delicate and Jumpy (1976). Their namesake comes from their start on Fania Records. As it stands, the group outlived the label, as they continued performing into the 90's past the the label's 30th anniversary. They are considered a seminal group in popularizing salsa, especially in New York (the label's homebase). Only to find a wider market outside of New York did the All-Stars sign with Columbia.

Tapping into the timelessness, a producer by the name of Victor Padilla, aka V.I.C., unearthed "Cha Cha Cha", and looped it for a track on Soundbombing 3, featuring Kool G Rap and some back up from Capone and Noreaga. For more information on what V.I.C. is all about, Matt once again has got the hook-up (second time this has happened!) for those sleeping.

Kool G Rap w/ CNN - My Life (Remix) (fileforge link)

Excellent use of the sample. The vocoder (supplied by G-Wise) is kinda cheesy, but I suppose when you're past your prime and you're aiming for commercial success while still needing to maintain your classic reputation (no one in the Juice Crew was fuckin with G Rap when he first started, not even Kane), tracks like this are supposed to offer a good perspective on evolution. Still, as NORE refers to G Rap in the beginning: "Godfather of gangsta, ghetto, project, complex, co-op, hip-hop." He clearly branched out early on.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Radio Refreshments #5.

2006-07-06T22:59:00.000-05:00

Off the dome, I can only name four James songs, all of which I heard on the radio constantly growing up. "Laid." "Say Something." "Born Of Frustration." And, of course, "Sit Down," our focus on this Thursday's return to form for Radio Refreshments.

James - Sit Down (sendspace link)

With the help of typical trusty online research, I offer you some interesting trivia: James's frontman Tim Booth wrote the song in homage to two women who greatly inspired him: Patti Smith, and an author by the name of Doris Lessing.

It's actually kind of interesting to see what kind of impact such strongly feminist writers had on Booth. Smith, for example. Quote: "The first time I heard 'Horses', I was a 17-year old English public schoolboy. That evening I was told that my father was dying and might not make it through the night. Unable to sleep, I sneaked through the dark corridors, past the prefects, and into my study. The first words I heard through the headphones were:

"His father died
and left him alone on the New England farm.
All the black funeral cars left the scene
and the boy was left standing there.
It was if someone had spread
butter on all the fine points of the stars
cos when he looked up they started to slip ..."

Needless to say, Patti Smith had a profound impact on Tim's writing and clearly it shows in "Sit Down", dripping with the archetypal loss of innocence. Another quote: "Sit Down is about me feeling so alone in my 20s and reading books by a writer called Doris Lessing which made me realise I wasn't. It was about being awake at 4am and having no-one to talk to."

Interestingly enough, one of Lessing's most well-known novels, The Golden Notebook, is the namesake to the token bookstore in my hometown. It all connects somehow, doesn't it?

It would make sense at this time to post the lyrics to this song, but instead, I'll let you listen. Honestly, I feel the lyrics are just great, even disregarding the back story entirely. With the back story, however, I would suspect that a new level of depth has surfaced. SO NOW YOU KNOW!

Cheers,
~*E*~

Headphone masterpieces # 11.

2006-07-01T21:46:00.000-05:00

Denny Zeitlin - Requiem (sendspace link)

More ill piano compositions to let you kick back, close your eyes, and get taken away. I've been on a roll with this shit lately, I feel.

Went to a Hooters for my first time today. Needless to say, I left the pathetically yet rationally empty establishment feeling extremely let down. The food was adequate (to be nice about it), but it was the service, and the...aesthetics...of the service, which bummed me out most. Oh well. Better off going to a Sushi Samba or something.

Aaalright. Play this song as you ride a Q train over the Brooklyn Bridge at 9:30 am. Hah. See, now I'm starting to get too specific. Too much information!

Cheers,
~*E*~

Throwback Friday #15.

2006-06-30T19:53:00.000-05:00

I've been obsessed with youtube and wikipedia for some reason lately. Perhaps it is the accumulation of days I have gathered without working. Yes, my faithful readers, its been one of those weeks. Make that two weeks. The slump will soon deteriorate, but I suppose what's done is done. And what's been done has been a lot of catching up with my favorite television shows as a young'un. A bunch of Disney Afternoon, of course. Captain Planet. But most of all...

The Muppet Show (and Muppet Babies too, hell why not?)

Easily and without argument one of the best opening TV show themes of all time. Which brings me to this week's Throwback Friday. De La Soul had some major sample issues that plagued their debut, 3 Feet High and Rising. The Turtles sued the group when "You Showed Me" was sampled on a little interlude track called "Transmitting Live From Mars". But that was only one.

The other was a track that eventually made it to the bonus disc of the remastered version of 3 Feet High, released in 2001. It was a bouncy little number called "Double Huey Skit". It didn't get past clearance after it was put on a test pressing for the "Say No Go" single, for obvious reasons (though I am surprised KMD managed to pass with the samples from Sesame Street on their Mr. Hood album). It's the Muppet Show theme, for crissakes. Let's be honest. Jim Henson was and always will be the man, but does he seem like he would be the kind of guy who lets his shit get sampled in rap? Makes enough sense.

De La Soul w/ Double B - Double Huey Skit (sendspace link)

I still have no idea who that Double B guy is. This track is funny though. They kinda sound like muppets a bit. Just like Jim Henson knew how to make adults and children laugh, Prince Paul will always be an underrated producer who knew how to make rap fans and rock fans appreciate what once was considered a revolutionary sound in music. It's a shame they've only scratched the surface of popular music. Perhaps it was meant to be that way.

Peace to Maseo, who's been apparently not been feeling too well lately. No links to a news article right now, but as Wikipedia is reporting, as of June 4th, he was checked into a hospital for liver problems. Let's hope it doesn't get worse, for hip-hop and for the group's sake.

I leave you now with a classic Muppet moment: Buddy Rich vs. Animal!

Cheers,
~*E*~

Damn, beat me to it.

2006-06-25T12:49:00.000-05:00

Seems as if Mike posted a couple of tracks already on Friday. Although I'm sure I'm not even close to being the second blogger to post a new Dilla track from the upcoming post-mortum release, The Shining, I would hope I am at least the first to post this track:

Jay Dee featuring Black Thought - Love Movin' (sendspace link)

I suppose now I've officially contradicted myself after the Louis Logic entry. Dare I insist, this is a rare exception to the rule in my book: It's Jay Dee, people. And this track right here is a monster. Much like a lot of the album's tracks.

You'll see. Come August (I think the release date is the 22nd, not sure though), critics will be lauding this effort as the perfect swan song to the man's career. And I agree. It packs a whallop in a different way than Donuts. They are also two completely different albums.

This was expected, however; Donuts was meant to showcase Jay Dee's production alone, whereas The Shining finally puts him back together for the last time with all the emcees he helped along the way. Common, MED, Busta Rhymes, and our topic for the entry, Black Thought. Four tracks on this album have "Love" somewhere in the title (I think the Monch track of that apt title was leaked months ago if I recall correctly), and this one basically is standard lyrical fare for the Thought. Straight fire regardless, and over some of the most hypnotically hard-hitting production Jay Dee has created, specifically for this album alone. In other words, if you think this track is dope...yeah.

Enjoy, and always support the real hip-hop.

Cheers,
~*E*~

(P.S. - The promobot is ignorable for the most part)

Headphone masterpieces #10.

2006-06-24T16:55:00.000-05:00

Freddie Hubbard - Here's That Rainy Day (sendspace link)

I need a life. I've been getting way into karaoke and now just as I was becoming a huge fan of Sid and Buddy Karaoke at the Galapagos Art Space every Sunday night, its about to end. Tomorrow is the last night EVER. And even though karaoke nights will continue at other locations, such as Bar XII in Midtown, and Alligator Lounge in Williamsburg (not neccesarily the best selection though; different hosts), it just won't be the same. I wish I got to know Sunday nights better.

Karaoke has been good to me for many reasons. I get to go up on stage on a regular basis, make a complete ham of myself without shame, and establish relationships with new people for the better.

About this song: It's actually a duet with Ron Carter. Simple, touching, and chill. Get into it.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Throwback Friday #14.

2006-06-23T20:08:00.000-05:00

Eddie Kendricks - The Newness Is Gone (sendspace link)

Kanye flipped a piece of this track by the late great Temptations singer for our Father's Day special, Nas's "Poppa Was A Playa". Before "Bridging The Gap", Nas had written this song in homage to his father, but the track didn't make its intended spot on I Am. It eventually found its way to The Lost Tapes a few years later, and remains one of Kanye's first production credits, going all the way back to 1998.

You can find this track on Eddie's Going Up In Smoke album, from 1976. Although he was still signed to Motown, this would end up being one of his last albums for the label. Obviously the Wall of Sound is in full effect here, layered under his signature falsetto. Enjoy!

Ahhh, I think we're finally getting back up to speed here.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Hmm, I take that back...

2006-06-22T11:15:00.000-05:00

It got worse.

Somewhere right now, Stephon Marbury is laughing. 'Tis a sad day when Marbury is happy. It won't make him any better next season. :-(

Cheers,
~*E*~

A rough day for us Knicks fans.

2006-06-20T23:02:00.000-05:00

Fuck that dude.

Heroes of the week go to Bill Simmons for telling it like it is, and Marc Cuban who's about five times the GM that Pat Riley will ever be...he speaks his mind, cause he straight cold!

All in all, what an absolutely amazing NBA season. Too bad it had to end a game early. It would have been nice if Antoine "Executing Cartwheels Better Than Perimiter Shots Since '96" Walker didn't now have a ring to call his own. But props to the kid Dwayne Wade I suppose....

Ah to hell with it. This is all small potatoes. I hate all the players on the Heat. They represent all that frustrates me as a Knicks fan. It's one thing with the Pacers, or the Nets. But the Heat is a whole other story. We New Yorkers watched as Riley jumped ship to Miami over ten years ago. He slept with the enemy and never came back. He'll always be that douchebag.

In an effort to alleviate the frustration of seeing a team that really wasn't even that good win it all, I will move on. To a lighter note. Aside from the obvious choice of Lebron, my choice for the playoffs MVPs go to both Nash and Dirk.

I'll end on that.

Next year in Utah!

Cheers,
~*E*~

Who cares about leaks.

2006-06-19T17:29:00.000-05:00

Louis Logic - Misery Loves Comedy (sendspace link)

Ignorance is bliss sometimes. I think many of you can agree with me on that, though in a much different aspect I presume.

Anyway, I have in fact posted another one of this guy's songs in the past, but for our friend Mr. Alive's birthday yesterday, I offer probably the best lyrical display Louis has right now. For today's belated edition of The Most Compressed Birthday Presents Ever, we offer you the title track to Louis Logic's new album Misery Loves Comedy, officially out on Fat Beats Records as of last Tuesday. It's arguably better than Sin-A-Matic, but its those kinds of statements that require a gradual development. Kinda like when everyone said Fishscale was better than Supreme Clientele or Ironman, but in the end it managed to be a stellar release worthy of taking the bronze.

Bad comparison. Point is, let the music take its time. Just because you listen to an album three times in a row in one sitting doesn't mean you've played it enough to proclaim how it will stand over repeated listens. With the quickness and convenience of downloading music, so the experience of posessing the music becomes ever the more disposable. /end rant (due to realizing how I'm just going to end up talking about myself)

I was supposed to go to a Mets game tomorrow but the promise of extremely inclement weather has forced plans to change. So now I'm hoping that a) it either rains REALLY FUCKIN HARD on Tuesday or b) The Drowsy Chaperone is that sensational that I'll kick myself for not seeing it sooner. And believe me, I don't even go to see Broadway shows ever. I think the last time I even saw one was several years ago before I even started college. As oppose to my track record of attendance to major league baseball games which is on the same level of pathetic, arguable more (three).

I wonder how that Bonaroo festival held up.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Weed wacking.

2006-06-18T17:19:00.000-05:00

Nas - Poppa Was A Playa (sendspace link)

Love you, Dad.

Yo, Jive, I got you for tomorrow for The Most Compressed Birthday Presents Ever. Even though your birthday is today, I must embark to Manhattan tonight, as my bus leaves in an hour.

Hope everyone had a happy Father's Day.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Headphone masterpieces #10.

2006-06-17T20:37:00.000-05:00

Sam Rivers - Beatrice (sendspace link)

Being home is peculiar, to say the least. Thankfully, there is music like this to offer the mind a clean slate, away from the busybodies, construction, and, most importantly at this juncture, sticky summer nights. It's nice seeing family, all in all.

Tonight will be spent dabbling with old friends and for the first time in months, DRIVING. I partook in it early today while shopping for Father's Day, and I can't believe how much I missed it. If only it was my own car and not my mom's. I miss driving around in my car listening to album among album.

That being said, you gotta peep Louis Logic's new album. Pretty fuckin awesome.

This song is dedicated to my friend out in South Dakota. This lovely jazz standard, written by a Midwestern composer coincidentally enough, should be something to make you smile, right?

Cheers,
~*E*~

For the Haterzzzzzz (sorry I fell asleep)

2006-06-14T14:28:00.000-05:00

Awww what a cute wittle gasface.

Truly, I am fascinated by my surroundings. Thus the reason I felt it necessary to include it in my profile on this site as my only interest. And though it certainly isn't by any means the only one, I have no choice but to insist on its primary relevance in my life.

Distractions. But good ones, nonetheless.

Still gotta work on more of this redesign stuff, fix the page load, all that boring guano you don't wanna know.

To clear up a few misconceptions about my last entry, I do still stand by my statement, as controversial as it might be. You all might be growing question marks out of your ears (god that must hurt), but you need not worry about questioning. Just move on. If Robert Downey Jr doesn't get cast, which at this juncture seems just as likely as it did when I made my initial proclamation, the production will just not be as good. Favreau probably knows it himelf too. It will just come down to money, I guess.

I'll settle for Viggo though if I have to. Just stay away from Tom Cruise, is all.

Beta Kerosene is brought to you today by Bob Saget, the illest motherfucker in a cardigan sweater.

Welcome back to Beta. Now that you've enjoyed that hot new video, let's cut to the chase. Although I have covered J-Zone once before on this site, I have been graced with a hard copy of a remix project he's putting out later this month, and it would make no sense but to jump on the opp. J-Zone is...EXPERIENCED! (at least that's what it reads on the press release) takes the road less travelled of remixing Hendrix and morphing it alongside Zone's unique style of production. I'll leave it up to you guys to weigh in with your opinions, but me? I don't need to say much. I might as well let the music do the talking.

Funky Child (sendspace link)
Shoot Em Down (sendspace link)

Last Wednesday, I had one of the worst days of my life (in recent memory, anyway). Then, in some strange twist of fate, I won a hundred dollars later that night at my usual karaoke hotspot. I was pretty damn close to winning three hundred, but then I looked on the bright side...I still was a hundred dollars richer just for singing modern rock fodder to appease the midtown yuppies.

I guess my point is: I do what I want, and I wear a big smile while doing it. Regardless of how shitty I may feel deep down.

Over and out. You know what I'm about.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Well, this should work.

2006-05-29T23:11:00.000-05:00

Greetings, folks. Welcome to the new redesign, courtesy of the homie Jive Alive (who recently updated his own site). Now that I have some sort of life and substantial schedule (for now anyway), I will return with more goodies to rock the spot.

First, allow me to explain Mr. Downey, Jr. Now that I've seen X-Men: The Last Stand, I'm officially pumped for...no, not that movie. No, not that one either. I mean, sure, I'm looking forward to them, but there's nothing that can eclipse my excitement for IRON MAN.

Now, don't hang on to my words too much. The fact remains that an Iron Man film is not completely set on happening. At this point its the brainchild of one Jon Favreau who is set on directing the project and production doesn't even look like it's gonna commence until January of next year.

And so due to that fact, I have officially made my nomination for the role: Robert Downey, Jr. He hasn't been in anything recently (well, sort of...read on), and this would be the perfect role for him. An alcoholic billionaire saves his own life by creating a suit of metal armor and inconscipuously fights crime with it. It's like slipping on a pair of birkenstocks; too fitting. Jive and I had this discussion the other night (while I was high as a kite, of course) and consider us the first in what should hopefully be a cult following for this nomination.

Wikipedia has a list of possible rumored runner-ups for the role, including Tom Cruise, Viggo Mortenson, and that guy from Highlander. Johnny Depp, also in the running, would probably be my second choice behind Downey, but that's just me. Personally, I usually find that the younger they make these antogonists, the better. Case in point, my stunt double, Tobey Maguire. The man is now forever Spiderman, just like Christopher Reeves will forever be Superman (to me, anyway).

This time around, Iron Man isn't supposed to necessarily be young. He's supposed to be a bit older but not Sean Connery old. Old enough that it makes sense to see a grown man rocking a moustache without looking like its of the Adam Morrison caliber.

Tom Cruise is a greedy bastard that doesn't need another franchise under his belt. So to hell with him and his Mission: Impossible publicity stunts. Give me Robert Downey, Jr. goddamnit! He may be already working on a film where he'll be playing another famous alcoholic, but with Sylvester Stallone at the helm, one couldn't be too sure if Rob will find his niche with that role or not. Looks good though.

Anyway, if you or anyone like myself have ideas about the Iron Man movie, join the myspace group Jon Favreau himself has going. I've been reading suggestions for who will play the infamous Tony Stark, and some suggestions are boderline laughable (Colin Farrell, Vince Vaughn) to almost too perfect for believabilty (Bruce Campbell, Charlie Sheen). But I'm sticking with Downey. And Terrance Howard as War Machine.

And now, here's a token of my appreciation for indulging all of that drivel.

Four Tet - Iron Man (sendspace link)

From his album of last year, Everything Comes And Goes, Four Tet composes an ill Black Sabbath cover that isn't too intense of a listen. Still extremely attention grabbing, regardless. Enjoy!

Cheers,
~*E*~

Yo 1, 2, what does this button do?

2006-05-20T12:01:00.000-05:00

When life throws you prunes, make prune juice and stop fuckin' complaining. You don't see old people whining about how it tastes awful. They've lived long enough to come to peace with the fact that worse has happened in their long, miserable life. Fuck what Marx said; life may be short and brutish but from one's personal experience you'd be surprised how long it takes for life to go by as fast as it's made out to take.

So in this past month nothing much has changed. Except that I had quite the writer's block, and that's perfectly normal. Perhaps it was for the best that I regrouped all the minions who run this brain of mine to figure out some better solutions for this city livin' thing. One day at a time, I say.

Expect a new layout soon, plenty more music, and actual content to appease the literary masses.

Just letting you know I haven't bailed out on you. I've got some cans of prunes just waiting to be opened.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Radio Refreshments #4.

2006-04-20T22:46:00.000-05:00

Edwyn Collins - A Girl Like You (sendspace link)

Quite the holiday today! Hope everyone who observed it had fun...

It's been an unpredictable week Very little sleep, but quite a bit of productivity. Let's see what this weekend brings us. For now, let's take it back to 1994 for this week's Radio Refreshment.

"A Girl Like You" was prominently featured on the soundtrack to Empire Records (yet another movie with a soundtrack that was the more successful of the two). I remember hearing this on the radio for the first time and not even being able to comprehend how it was a current track. Smart pop music is supposed to do that, I suppose. Throw off your entire perception of what is pop. It's the reason why "Hey Ya" was such a craze.

The guitar riff is instant classic.

More goodies tomorrow. I need to get some sleep!

Cheers,
~*E*~

Headphone masterpieces #9.

2006-04-15T21:13:00.000-05:00

Flashback to about a month and a half ago: I was talking about learning more about Brazilian music. And sure enough inbetween then and now I picked up a copy of the newest Wax Poetics issue that has a nice spread on the Black Rio movement. It's a terrific issue not only because of this, but because it has a very rare interview with Bill Withers...since when does he do interviews? Pick that issue up if you can, because it will then save me looking like a doof talking about stuff I don't know. So in the meantime, I'm gonna focus on today's entry and give you a pretty fantastic Headphone Masterpiece.

Banda Black Rio - Melissa (sendspace link)

Props once again to the Captain's Crate who has since taken this song off their server after dropping it on the blogosphere about a year ago. This cut comes off an album they released in 1980, called Saci Perere, named after a impish (and gimpish, too) forest protector in Brazilian folklore who terrorized humans for fun. The album got repressed last year, thus the reason for all the immense hoopla for this band's catalog at present time.

This song in particular is perfect for private listening because...well, goddamn, just listen. How many different things are honestly going on at one time? You got the horn section, the vocal harmonies, the bass in your face, the...is that a jug someone's blowing into? See, its this kinda music that really envelops you in good vibrations. Yet another track to bump while the sun shines on this sad, thirsty world. Play this as it reaches dusk and the temperature is about to cool down.

This entry is dedicated to my newfound friend, first time reader, and inspiration for this entry's focal point, Luciana. If it wasn't for her I wouldn't have been able to drop knowledge about Brazilian folklore kiiid. Hah. Big shout.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Throwback Friday #13.

2006-04-14T19:57:00.000-05:00

Please do excuse my tardiness! I'm getting this in kinda late into Friday, admittedly. I just helped myself to some good eating while watching the new episode of Wonder Showzen, where we all learned that "Dumb Is Golden", with the help of Amy Poehler and David Cross, among others.

On this segment of Throwback Friday, we're going back to 1974 for George Benson's "A Changing World."

George Benson - A Changing World (sendspace link)

Might I say this is another perfect springtime song. Nice to play while resting in the park, with the breeze sloping over your face. This one was one of the few ballads off the album Bad Benson, a trip into the world of jazz fusion. Benson is well-renown in the world of jazz as one of the greatest guitarists to ever live. He has also been noted for his acceptance of different styles to which he would play with. This is truly the case because you would be hard pressed to see Charles Mingus or Sun Ra on VH1 Classic, but yet, you see George Benson, who had crossover hits in "Dreamin'" and "Twice The Love" (I've only seen the former myself).

Meanwhile, fast forward twenty years from "A Changing World". From Pittsburgh, PA to Chicago, IL, 1994 saw the release of an album called Resurrection.

Common Sense - I Used To Love H.E.R. (sendspace link)

Hah! Had you fooled! That isn't the original version. Of course I could upload it if I really wanted to...but why would I do that when I can simply post a stellar remix of it? Sure it doesn't carry the same George Benson sample, but you should already know the Common joint enough by now to know the sample better than your mother's own telephone voice goddamnit.

Thank 9th Wonder here for offering a nice, safe alternative to the norm we all know and love.

Easter egg hunt tomorrow! Maybe I'll make a new friend!

Cheers,
~*E*~

Radio Refreshments #3.

2006-04-13T22:06:00.000-05:00

The Tragically Hip - Bobcaygeon (sendspace link)

Suppose I was Canadian for a second. How fuckin' dope would that be? I'd have an excuse to be a Degrassi fanatic, it would be expected for me to be a nice guy, and I could smoke pot as liberally as I want. Plus, I wouldn't have to complain about spending my tax money on meaningless war.

But I'm not. And so, I carry on as an American. I am content.

Some bands I probably would have gotten into more earlier on in life, were it not for being American: Sloan, Elbow, and The Tragically Hip. For the latter case I bring a song that graced the radio in 1998 for the first time. The second single off of their eighth album Phantom Power (the first being "Poets" and the third being "Fireworks"), "Bobcaygeon" tells the story about an officer who, while in the midst of trying to subdue a riot, longs for his loved one so much that he can't even concentrate on the commotion.

It happens to be a really beautiful song and it's perfect for the spring weather we got (especially today!), because from the look of it, the town's beauty was perfectly captured in this track. And what of geography; Bobcaygeon is located in a waterway, as one of many cities nestled in the heart of the Kawartha Lakes in the province of Ontario, the home of the Hip. Although, they are from Kingston, which is more in the Southern tier, whereas Bobcaygeon is more in the North country. Eh? Got it? Some geography fo yo bacon.

This is good for me though, seriously. I would love to visit Canada again, and this entry merely enstills me with some adamance for yet another area to check out and visit. As of now, I have Vancouver, Lake Louise, and...hell, Bobcaygeon. Why not. If the town is as wistful and majestic as its musical homage, consider me a naive tourist in the making.

By the way, I think Gordon Downie's voice is one of the most unique voices in rock music, and works to great effect here. Also, I think Gordon Downie is one of the best names for band frontman ever. Aside from Gruff Rhys I guess. That isn't even his real name though!

Another Throwback Friday on deck. And from the looks of the forecast, another rainy day. Thank god I get to sleep in tomorrow!

Cheers,
~*E*~

Headphone masterpieces #8.

2006-04-08T20:47:00.000-05:00

This installment returns after taking a unnecessary hiatus last week. I promised you something indie yesterday, so here you go.

My Bloody Valentine - Blown A Wish (sendspace link)

Don't deny: you know you love it! Shit this ethereal is destined for private listening. Play this while lying in bed with a loved one, facing upwards, eyes closed. Let it grab ahold of you.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Throwback Friday #12.

2006-04-07T16:59:00.000-05:00

Last Wednesday, I watched a new episode of South Park for the first time in AGES. It must have been at least four years, easily. See, its not that I don't enjoy South Park, but I'm not throwing up my hands in celebration for its existence. It certainly serves its purpose. I've just become more a fan of the Adult Swim line-up, specifically the Williams Street productions. If South Park was featured on Adult Swim let's say, I'd probably give it the same attention I do to a show like say, Futurama--- regard for its brilliance, but I'd rather wait for Family Guy to come on.

That being said, I applaud Matt Stone and Trey Parker for their ability to poke fun at Seth McFarlane's humor and make it believable. But the show really seems just a bit too drenched in its own sociopolitical irony to make me laugh like it used to. Well, that is, if that episode made any indication to its new direction. What do I know, I just watched my first episode.

I will give Parker and Stone credit though. They have the capability of making episodes with such massive expedience, that it makes sense why the show is still being commended for its brilliance. I didn't see the episode on Scientology, but taking into account that the episode aired only a mere week or two after Isaac Hayes quit the show due to South Park's "crossing the line once and for all" (paraphrased), I would certainly give Trey and Matt kudos too.

That is now. But let us go back to when Isaac Hayes wasn't a Scientologist. How sad is it that Wikipedia's article talks more about his involvement with a TV show when in reality Hayes wrote the fuckin' "Shaft" theme, won an Oscar for it, wrote some of the most timeless baby making music of all time, and contributed plenty of timeless samples drenched in hip-hop music. He didn't even become a Scientoligist until a year before South Park appeared on the airwaves.

For this edition of Throwback Friday, we look at one song that has been used in so many songs, its like the track itself is timeless.

Isaac Hayes - Ike's Mood (sendspace link)

An epic number of rare fanfare, coming on the brink of a new era in music in 1970, but seems to be ridiculously tough to find. Thankfully it made a notable appearance on this essential compilation, but sadly it can't even be purchased here in the States.

The producer of this next track was the first to sample "Ike's Mood", but in a different song than the one you are about to hear. Most notably used in Biz Markie's "Make the Music With Your Mouth Biz", Marley Marl stepped it up even more in '93 and gave the sample a speedier tempo so that it could barely be a recognized from its earlier inception, thanks to a ridiculously amazing loopjob.

Intelligent Hoodlum - Grand Groove (remix) (sendspace link)

Before he became Tragedy Khadafi, he was better known as Intelligent Hoodlum, and made his eponymous debut in 1990 with an album destined for classic status. Queensbridge representitive and an esteemed member of the Juice Crew, he switched his name to the Tragedy moniker in 1995 after already establishing himself as a major contributor to Queens hip-hop--- he was the one who started 25 To Life Records, the label that dropped the first Capone & Noreaga album The War Report.

This song is an introspective look into the feeling of loss for a family member, in this case Trag's grandmother. A video can also be peeped here. Excellent production, great spring music, and stellar lyricism from a criminally slept on artist.

Speaking of great spring music, just wait until I get at you tomorrow. Indie heads need not lose sleep.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Radio Refreshments #2.

2006-04-06T19:40:00.000-05:00

Jact - (Through With) Excuses (sendspace link)

Good news, y'all. I decided once and for all that for the time being I am going to use a better site for downloading. Less complicated, and plenty of shelf life until expiration.

Yeah...so, Jact. Probably haven't heard of them right? It's cool. They only released one self-titled album which I can assure you I've never even heard, but thanks to WDST back in my days of sophomore year of high school, I was at least able to appreciate the single which I have now dug from the depths of my collection. Going back to 1999, the music is polished, catchy, and totally brash. It may not be up to par with the Pogues or Billy Joel, but this is one of those songs that was destined to be converted into a classic singalong at your local pub. Works for me, anything is better than "Pour Some Sugar On Me" (I hereby swear that if I hear that song in any bar I walk into, I will promptly walk out).

I wanna see some jazz shows. Thinking of seeing Chick Corea on Tuesday night. It's expensive though, damn! What do you think? Anyone here like to go to jazz shows at Blue Note or Birdland?

Boy do I owe you some good shit tomorrow or what. Stay tuned.

Cheers,
~*E*~

With a key in the ignition...

2006-04-04T14:43:00.000-05:00

"How the fuck do a Ferrari end up in a rose bush?"

All that television I talked about watching a few entries back? Didn't happen. As it is, they didn't show a lot of the Degrassi episodes I needed to watch, and the final three games of the Final Four were all apparently really disappointing blowouts (congrats to Florida). The only thing I really missed was the Wonder Showzen season premiere, but I got to see the second half of it on Saturday when I got back from an entire day of being away from my apartment. It was pretty amazing, gotta say...

Now I'm just concerned about missing the Degrassi season premiere on Friday but you know what? Fuck it, there's something else going on that's even better....read on to find out.

Last night's show was dope once again, seeing the QN5 fam come through to a pretty damn live show at the Knitting Factory. Probably about a hundred heads came through at least. Highlights of course was seeing PackFM who especially rocked most energetically (to pre-order his album, click here), Tonedeff who of course dazzled the crowd as always, and my homies the Cunninlynguists who performed three new songs from A Piece of Strange and personally made me wile the fuck out.

Other performances were Session, Mecca, Subconscious, Pumpkinhead (with members of The Plague in tow), and Substantial. Stan, who's basically the nicest dude ever and one hell of a performer, is rocking a stage once again this Friday, with a special guest. I suggest if you don't want to pay all the money to see this show, you should come out to Brooklyn and support real hip-hop without paying more than FIVE DOLLARS. Shit is crazy...

Syl is coming down on Friday so it will most definitely be on. And then it's back to the Knitting Factory on Saturday for the Murs & 9th Wonder show. Meanwhile, I finally got my schedule for (one of my) job(s) so I'll be working all of Saturday from 9 to 6 pm (ouch). The weekend is going to be INSANE.

So now you know why its "dur dur d'etre" blogger.

Update when I actually get another miraculously free moment in time like this one.

Cheers,
~*E*~

It don't make sense, but it makes cents.

2006-04-03T13:40:00.000-05:00

Just when I plan on updating more, I get pushed into a weekend full of no free time. Dagnabbit! I'll update in a major way when I get back tonight from the QN5 show at The Knitting Factory.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Radio Refreshments #1.

2006-03-30T23:24:00.000-05:00

Superdrag - Sucked Out (rapidshare linkneedwebspacesoonholycrap)

Puttin' you all on to something new in an effort to reach out for yet another weekly segment. Every Thursday, I will post a track I first heard from the radio, way back in the day of my depressingly memorable youth. Most of these tracks will be modern rock fodder. Then again, I wouldn't have downloaded them in the first place if they didn't offer some sort of catchy hook to make up for a dated sound.

And so for our introduction, we focus on Knoxville, Tennessee's Superdrag, an excellent power pop outfit who never really had a hit, but thanks to MTV they had a nice run with this song on the actually-relevent-at-one-point "Buzzworthy" playlist. They took that buzz and went on an extensive tour that seemed to do them some good, but how many ways can you unsuccessfully squeeze an orange? Marketing problems maybe? Duh. It was Elektra Records/Entertaiment or whatever for crissakes. THEY DON'T EVEN EXIST ANYMORE. They're an enigma of the music industry and I don't think I've seen their name on a CD in at least four years.

Enough of that tirade. I remember seeing the video for the first time and loving it. But as it happens to be the case, it was the second medium to which I had been exposed to Superdrag. I first heard "Sucked Out" sometime earlier that year on this ridiculously thin formatted station called WRRV based out of Middletown, NY (home to the guy who made this album; is it any surprise now?). It's not the same format anymore; it used to be all about alternative rock and boy did it get old after a few years. Try listening to a station celebrating bands who celebrate the 90's sound when its near end of the 20th century. You know the deal. I caught on quickly and that might be why I found myself getting into hip-hop a lot more than ever before.

Thank god for catchy numbers like "Sucked Out" to bring me back to middle school without making me think about middle school. Definitely taking a page from Weezer's handbook, sprinkling in a bit of Bad Religion (slower tempo though, I suppose, but harmony construction still in tact), and offering a good yang to their then counterpart Nada Surf's extreme ying.

[sidenote: The album believe it or not was recorded in my hometown too. Not bad for a connection, eh?]

Superdrag released another album after Regretfully Yours, called Head Trip in Every Key in 1998. When I can remember, I will most defintely post "Do The Vampire", the only song I think I might have heard from that album. I liked it enough, anyway.

Enjoy! Tomorrow we take it back for another edition of Throwback Friday. Until then...

Cheers,
~*E*~

The world crashes into my living room...

2006-03-29T15:54:00.000-05:00

Time to rumble.

All those years in college of watching next to no television whatsoever have been made up for within the past year since graduating. Having cable is a great thing. And of course, if you know me well, this upcoming weekend is going to be a big weekend.

1. Final Four!

Obviously. My boy Chris is a sophomore at George Mason and I've been quietly rooting for them since their inception into the second round. I admit though, I definitely didn't think they were gonna make it this far, but fuck it you know what? Right on, I say. Even if they don't win against Florida (who really are picking up the pace here, especially with Joakim Noah being an absolute beast on the floor), I'd bet that this won't be the last time they make a playoff appearance. They're just that good. Look at Arizona some ten years ago. Anything can happen.

Meanwhile, I hope LSU beats UCLA merely because seeing either an LSU-GMU or LSU-Florida Final would be such a fuckin' great game. But what do I know. Usually I'm totally off, regarding these kinds of things. On the other hand though, who hasn't been this time around. Seems like everyone's brackets are fucked up for good now, right?

Anyway. Both games are on Saturday on CBS. George Mason and Florida at 6 pm EST, and UCLA and LSU at 8:45 pm EST.

2. Wonder Showzen Season 2 Premiere!

You might notice my user profile image and my buddy icon on AIM--- both characters from this amazing show I saw for the first time last year at the infamous 32-04 (all IC kids know the deal) while under the influence of something fiercly elevating. You might have also noticed how I put a link on the side of this page for some time, of some shoddy YTMND creation paying homage to the segment "Animal Dance." I have abstained from talking about Wonder Showzen a lot though in my entries just cause, and its paid off until now. Friday at 9:30 pm EST on MTV2. Allow me to offer a promo commercial that's been airing for a minute now and is currently still fucking with my head.

If writing about it doesn't make my preparation any more apparent, get this: the Season 1 DVD came out yesterday and I just picked it up. All 8 episodes, plus a modest dose of extras: guest commentary, a segment featuring Flava Flav, plus auditions and outtakes. It's ALL MINE. I'm officially pumped for the return of my favorite show of the moment.

3. Degrassi: The New Generation marathon!

Okay, this one doesn't really count, but next week, new episodes commence on The N with the season premiere on Friday the 7th. It's this weekend though, every night from Friday to Sunday between 6 pm and 6 am, that a bootyload of past episodes will air. Some of which I never saw, mainly from the last season though.

I will be the only one I know watching it. High five.

Cheers,
~*E*~

All stars cross at Fishscale.

2006-03-28T23:19:00.000-05:00

Fried fish, kiiid.

Ghostface Killah w/ Trife - Clipse of Doom (yousendit link)

In honor of the U.S. release of this album today, I have put up a YSI of probably the only track someone else in the blog universe isn't posting today. Ghost and Trife trade bar for bar on an MF DOOM produced banger. This one might just grow on me.

The album is pretty much straight fire, can't front. We'll just have to see how it stands the test of time, and if it really is better than either of his first two albums.

I'm not convinced yet. But then again, it's only two full listens in.

By the way, it's a YSI because I want you all to buy this album if you haven't yet. Ghostdini deserves a platinum rekkid!

Cheers,
~*E*~

Throwback Friday #11.

2006-03-24T22:24:00.000-05:00

"I wish I were a member of the firing squad...le sigh..."

Now is the time of the year when this weekly custom gets me all excited more so than other weeks; for the sheer reason that, of course, this week will so far be the best one yet. This week on Throwback Friday, we get to witness the marriage of an irresistible jazz ditty from France and a hardcore rap classic straight outta Brooklyn.

Those who had me as a friend on myspace since the beginning just about, I used to have a song on my page. You may remember it, but if not, fear not, because I'm about to put you up on what you missed.

Michel Legrand - Sweet Gingerbread Man (rapidshare link)

Legrand, the Academy Award winning bandleader/producer who was down with Miles and Quincy and hasn't stopped making music since the fifties, wrote this back in 1970 for the film The Magic Garden of Stanley Sweetheart, which incidentally stars a very young Don Johnson as the lead role (first movie he was was ever in, actually). I think I wanna see it.

About the soundtrack....heh, well, this track is on the same album as War's "Magic Mountain". I'd say that's already pretty nifty. A live version is also available on 1976's The Concert Legrand. This song makes me wanna come up with my own dance to it. My own special whiiiiite persoooooon dance.

One of the very few songs I can hear over and over and over again, and never get tired of. DJ Premier probably felt the same way too when he looped a sample from it and constructed arguably his most impressive beat ever, at least for Brownsville's own Mash Out Posse.

M.O.P. - Breakin' The Rules (rapidshare link)

Did I ever drop any hints to any of you that I've basically become a fan of M.O.P. only within the last year or so? It started technically around "Ante Up", "Cold As Ice", and that X-Ecutioners jump-off "Let It Bang", all around my freshman year of college. But then through the continuation of appreciation for their sound and a newfound respect after seeing how well they can cantrol a live crowd (thus the reason why they don't tour, regardless of a 50 Cent blockade or not) and get everyone hype as fuck, I have officially become completely enthralled with their music.

London has their grime and garage. New York has Billy and Fame. Our city doesn't need a whole genre to hype us up, all you need to do at New York show is play "How About Some Hardcore" over a loudspeaker and the venue could be shaken apart if you're in the right place at the right time of night.

And so this song is yet another perfect M.O.P. anthem, a 21 gun salute like any other if you will, leaving all other carbon copy rap duos trailing behind. What M.O.P. may lack in capability to stray away from sheer raw lycial abrasiveness, they make up for by delivering it all over ill production, thankfully supplied for the most part by Primo over their twelve years in the game. This song is no exception, and serves as the opening track of their 1998 album First Family 4 Life. Who woulda thought a group like them would fall into the G-Unit web of misplaced thuggery.

That being said, what a tangled web 50 weaves for himself. Primo is making Nas's new album. 50 is putting out M.O.P.'s new album. AZ dissed 50. M.O.P. disses AZ. Rap is outta control as my man Mindbender once...no, constantly put it.

Maybe I should get up away from the computer now. I think I've written enough. Expect a much more consistent schedule now (I actually didn't quite make it home last night but that was a rare instance). I have more music to share, oh so much music to share. I need something else to talk about, clearly.

Cheers,
~*E*~

No groin disposition, but almost a panic attack.

2006-03-22T23:16:00.000-05:00

Temping some more for the remainder of the week and then next week I start a new job. So something at least is surfacing but don't worry! I'll be sure to leave the bitching to myself, and save you my audience the trouble of hanging on to my every last word of weekly struggle.

Oh, right. A song. This one's for Kim.

Gore Gore Girls - I'm Gonna Get You Yet (rapidshare link)

You'd think it was recorded in the 80's or something, but this is straight outta White Stripes land, Detroit. Before "garage rock revival" was on a national level.

I gotta do some laundry. Enjoy this in the meantime. I'll be back tomorrow with something witty and insightful. Here's to hoping, anyway.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Headphone masterpieces #7.

2006-03-18T18:17:00.000-05:00

Because of lack of time, I'm gonna give the track for the day and be out.

Chet Baker - I Don't Stand A Ghost Of A Chance With You (rapidshare link)

Chet Baker has a voice that rocks me to sleep, might I stress that in the best way possible. Songs like this put me in a fuckin' lethargic mood like none other. This song in particular though is essential with headphones, especially due to its delicate and quiet mood.

Play this on a rainy day.

Which reminds me...springtime is right around the corner!

Cheers,
~*E*~

Throwback Friday #10.

2006-03-17T20:14:00.000-05:00

Don't be a stranger now.

First of all, Rest In Peace. Just when I was finally starting to get into their catalog too. X was dope. Yet another timeless artist to pass on.

I had such a great entry planned, I didn't wanna get off track. I think I'll post a track tomorrow.

For today's Throwback, one of the greatest TV theme songs ever.

David Pomeranz - Nothing's Gonna Stop Me Now (rapidshare link)

I just played this for my roommate just now. Even after all the years of not hearing it, she completely remembered all the words. After all, this is one of those opening numbers you never forget. Pretty much all the shows in the old TGIF line-up follow this code. But only this one speaks directly to the starving artists of the world. Let's dissect.

Sometimes the world looks perfect. Nothing to rearrange. Sometimes you get a feeling, like you need some kind of change. No matter what the odds are this time, nothing's going to stand in my way! This flame in my heart, and a long lost friend, gives every dark street a light at the end.

Standing tall, on the wings of my dream. Rise and fall, on the wings of my dream.

The rain and thunder! The wind and haze! I'm bound for better days. It's MY life and MY dream. Nothing's going to stop me now.

How grand of a message! Did you know David Pomeranz has done several other notable projects aside from Perfect Strangers? Check out his website so I can stop talking about him.

Now, you might be wondering to yourself who would have the insanity to flip a sample outta this song. Well, good news. I have two songs for you. One is a parody, and one is a....novelty, we'll say.

First, the novelty.

Rappers Anonymous Posse - The Stranger (TGIF) (direct link! OMG)

These guys entertain the fuck out of me. Honestly, take my word for it when I say these guys are pure hilarity and not embarassing. If you don't get it, look here at the top of the page, and check out some more of their songs. It takes some time to appreciate.

And now, the parody.

Isaac Jones feat. Kev Brown - Perfect Strangers (rapidshare link)

Now the thing is that I can't find any information about this track. But I assure you the basics are in tact. Incidentally, I've had this track in my posession for precisely a year. I really wish I had more details. But I'll do my best...

Basically, from what I recall, this track was meant to be a Dipset parody. And how about that, it ends up accomplishing its thesis quite masterfully. Although not in the vein of the Dipset we know at the moment, this brings us back to the early years, circa early "aughts" as they are apparently called, where they created a much more benevolent sound. But still ridiculous nonetheless.

I mean, let's be serious. We're talking about the same crew who sampled "We Built This City". That's enough reason to see how Kev could tap into another epic number for inspiration on mirroring that aesthetic. I just wish I knew when this was made. Keep an ear out for a bunch of quotables from Kev. My favorite is when he recites a section of the alphabet.

If you're not familiar with the Low Budget Crew, Kev's crew out of the D.C.-Maryland area, which has since expanded, school yourself, fool! Ken Starr, Oddisee, and plenty others round out the group of talented artists. Don't sleep.

Oh, before I go celebrate in lieu of the St. Patty's Day madness, gotta give a shout to my long time friend Ryan Reich (check his photomontages when you get a chance---on the side). He turned 22 today. Because of this, I must give him the proper respect: another edition of The Most Compressed Birthday Presents Ever. And since Ryan is a huge Soul Coughing fan like myself, I'm gonna post an excellent live version of "Mr. Bitterness".

Soul Coughing - Mr. Bitterness (live) (rapidshare link)

Happy birthday, Ryan!

Alright, enough of this writing shit. RIP once again to Professor X.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Reflections.

2006-03-16T18:04:00.000-05:00

One more.

There's nothing more painful and real than seeing a grown man cry. Especially when it's over a best buddy. In this scenario, we have my father, who very much had a special bond with the male counterpart of our family feline duo.

Taken in as more than just pets since 1993, our cats developed personalities very quickly. To my surprise, these personalities at the time seemed very uncatlike to a certain degree. You expect cats to be either those self-absorbed creatures who want to be left alone, or these constant attention seekers who nuzzle the shit out of your leg like it was made out of catnip. Although both Peppy and Cupcake exhibited the range of expected attitudes to come from a cat, the balance was extremely precise. Too precise. Almost like the cats had studied our ways.

For as long as I can remember, Peppy had that capability more so than Cupcake, and for this and this alone was the main reason to how my dad got so attached to this stupid cat in the first place. And as we buried Peppy behind our house at 11 pm on a cold Tuesday night, I finally understood how much their relationship meant to him. The most remarkable discovery I made through this experience was an admission he made: that he couldn't believe the magnitude of his own reaction. We all saw it coming, however. I suppose the famous adage "You don't realize what you've got until its gone" stands true here.

Peppy was sick for a few months, suffering from lung and heart problems. I actually remember when he was given the diagnosis in the fall. So in a sense we all were, or at least should have been, prepared for the outcome. It just came a little too suddenly, is all. You work so hard medicating a cat for several months and, well, relapse is a reality for all creatures, regardless of what they are.

In the past year, I've dealt with a family friend's fatal illness, a classmate's suicide, the sudden death of a kid sister I never had, and now the passing on of a great fuckin' cat, who exuded more personality than I get from most dogs, let alone most people. I wish I got to know him better in his last remaining days. Rest in peace to one cool cat.

I don't have any songs to put up in homage of a deceased cat. I don't know if I even know of any songs that are. This song seemed really quite lovely though, so I decided to put it up because it stuck out in my head more clearly than others while on route to the "funeral".

Morgana King - A Song For You (rapidshare link)

You know...not to stray far from the entry's direction or anything, but I would like to make one thing clear about this song. It is a sample, yes. Used in Sole's "Bottle Of Humans". I could have saved this entry for tomorrow, but its St. Patrick's Day and a special tenth edition of Throwback Friday. And, being the compulsive consistency stickler that I am or at least try to be, I wanted to insist that I usually wouldn't be wasting a perfectly feasible Throwback on an off-day. This is what will end up being one of those rare instances.

Enjoy this gorgeous track.

Cheers,
~*E*~

There are no words.

2006-03-14T17:39:00.000-05:00

April '93- March '06

Later, big guy.

Headphone masterpieces #6.

2006-03-11T17:50:00.000-05:00

What beautiful weather we had today. I wish I got to wake up earlier to enjoy it. I was unfortunately plagued with some form of an earache that wouldn't quit (nothing like getting woken up from pain at 4 in the morning). Feeling a little groggy in the head, I opted to sleep it off with the ipubrofen at work. Now I'm generating resumes from my local coffeeshop/home away from home away from home.

Let's take a break though, shall we?

Mike Ladd - Wipe Out On The Wave Of Armageddon (rapidshare link)

Why do I feel like I posted this already? I didn't after a thorough check, but I could have sworn I talked about this track already. Ladd is dope. He's the guy responsible for the albums by the Majesticons and Infesticons, as well as the upcoming Domesticons. He performed a show this past Thursday. A shame I didn't know about it, but then again I couldn't go anyway due to work (I damn missed the entirety of the free Fat Beats jump-off as well). Anyway, a lot of his music is a bit much for me, but goddamn does he ever earn my respect, simply because he doesn't settle for one genre. He's a rapper, spoken word artist, producer, DJ...yeah, he definitely does it all. He started out doing rock shit before he even got into spoken word. Enough said, he's been around for quite a while, pushing out product since 1997 with the release of Easy Listening 4 Armageddon.

I need to get more versed with the Ladd catalog, true indeed. Only a handful of tracks have I gotten to hear. This track in particular comes off of his second album, Welcome to the Afterfuture, released in 2000. Really nice, regardless of what time it is. Completely ready for private listening pleasure, full of squelching sounds and an engaging bassline. Play this while coming down from a wild night of recklessness and debauchery.

I hope to have something in that regard soon without feeling the grips of financial limitations.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Throwback Friday #9.

2006-03-10T21:10:00.000-05:00

...There we go.

First of all, rest in peace to Christopher Wallace aka the Notorious one. Yesterday marked the ninth anniversary of his death.

Now we move on.

Today for Throwback Friday, a highly exalted band's least acknowledged single, and a highly regarded obscure single from Def Jam's least acknowledged group. (hey, that actually worked I think)

The Who released an album in 1982, my year of birth. It's Hard apparently failed to make a blip on the radar, but this song stood the test of time because of its accessible raw sound which made The Who so popular to begin with. This song doesn't really give me the chills, but it shuts me up pretty quickly. And then I start to groove to that synth riff, which is simply killer. But the guitar coming in is a nice compliment to say the least. This song goes nearly two minutes in with no singing from Pete. Pretty damn stellar joint, not much else to say but rock out to this!

The Who - Eminence Front (rapidshare link)

I didn't grow up listening to The Who so I'm learning slowly. I ran across this song for the first time while watching VH1 Classic one time. I was already initially familiar with the song that samples it, after some historical audioblog digging myself...

Downtown Science - This Is A Visit (rapidshare link)

I'm gonna refer you to Matt's write up from a few months back where he touches on Sam Sever. Very detailed, very informative about the back story on the track and the group in general. I will be simple though, in saying that why Bosco Money isn't rapping now is a mystery to me. What cadence that dude has! Good wordplay too.

I love the way Sever samples the riff. I should also add that this track wasn't the only one to sample The Who track. Sever (obviously) produced "Pop Goes The Weasel", 3rd Bass's infamous Vanilla Ice dis, and used the track, but he didn't utilize the sample in the same way at all. What's more, not as extensively. Here we get to hear the sample looped like it should sound...hypnotic as fuck too! Enjoy!

I need another job in a serious way. So many forms of employment right now, yet so little money. Come on, March! Don't do this to me!

Cheers,
~*E*~

A winner is...not him!

2006-03-09T00:07:00.000-05:00

BAM!

I can't believe it either. Props to Chloe! And now that the show is done, I can now have my manhood back.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Free ghetto passes for everyone! Hooray!

2006-03-05T22:44:00.000-05:00

Wifey.

This is what happens when I decide to miss SNL (as usual). Big whoop. Highlight.

I officially want to marry Natalie now, let it be known. I've wanted to for about seven years as it stands. But now, it's very much decided without any drawbacks. And mark my words, I will stop at nothing.

Unless one lucky woman can successfully woo me before I get to Natalie. Or, likewise, Natalie manages to get married before I can get to her. It's fine with me, I've got time. But otherwise, don't even think of stopping me.

Okay, so anyway, this is fine and all, but hold the phone, THREE SIX MAFIA WON THE ACADEMY AWARD FOR BEST ORIGINAL SONG.

The performance was pretty cool. But the acceptance speech was better. See for yourself here. Even if you've already seen it, you're gonna wanna see it again, that's for sure. You should have heard me when they announced the winner, I practically woke up my roommate.

Also, haha to Crash winning. A movie with Ludacris beats out the Brokeback Mountin'. This is gonna be a real fun topic of conversation tomorrow, I can sense it.

God bless the Academy. Damn.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Headphone masterpieces #5.

2006-03-04T14:19:00.000-05:00

Coming from the perspective as someone who enjoy more consonant music, I must admit this song was a bit hard to get into at first. It still resonates as an eerie number after all these months I've had it kicking around. It works especially in the private listening realm. Listen to this one at night. Call me the morning after and tell me if it causes anything.

The Books - Enjoy Your Worries, You May Never Have Them Again (rapidshare link)

This is the opening track to the critically acclaimed first album, Thought For Food, which I don't have, but probably will get when I can find it. I have the most recent Books album, Lost and Safe, a very delicately produced album from what I remember. It's been a while since I've pulled it out. There will be a right time to dust it off.

I suppose I'm officially tired of rap shows after last night's debacle. The show was sold out, so G-Proph and I got in by paying an extra five dollars to the doorman, for a total of twenty dollars admission for each of us.

The Clipse only played for a half-hour. Tops. I waited outside for about as long as the show commenced. Some fuckin' party, Fader. A shitty DJ and an even shittier main act. Props.

Damn, I'm supposed to be a fan of this shit? Fuck commercial rap, real hip hop shows will always belong to the underground. You scenesters can enjoy whatever you like on record, but don't think you're gonna convince me that a group like The Clipse can rock a show without even playing more than an album's worth of music from their seriously underwhelming catalog.

All I'm saying is, yes I took a chance and got suckered into it, and I should have seen it coming. One less group to check for, I guess. I used to be a fan, but now I feel like I might be completely justified in my skepticism.

Also, another problem I had but should have seen coming. It was the Knitting Factory. Which means it was way too packed. Some guy trying to push his way through to the backstage (we were up on the mezzanine) actually had the audacity to get up in G's face saying "DON'T MAKE ME GET HYPHY ON YOU."

Are you serious? I fuckin' hate that shit. Who honestly has the gall to say that to someone with a straight face. Next time I go to a rap show, I'm tapping into my inner seventh grader so I can GET ALL BACKPACKER ON YOU. Don't get it twisted now, it may be just as far from my personality as someone who says "hyphy", but at least it will be expected coming from the mouth of some white Jewish kid.

Over and out, you know what I'm about.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Throwback Friday #8.

2006-03-03T17:31:00.000-05:00

Wait, you mean to tell me that this isn't Kyle Gass?

Alriiight. Lack of posts this week directly correlates to finally starting to work a 9-to-5er. Although it is a temp position, so nothing to get all excited about yet. Point is, I'm at least on track now. Now it's just a matter of keeping the cash flow steady. I'm tired of looking for work, I'm about ready to sit on my hands and wait for someone to get in touch with me. Which of course I won't, but it's so late into this process I just assume I can finally start back up with the catering operation I work for. I'm all ready to dust off the tuxedo, put on my actor face, and create another great performance.

I've already said too much.

Today's Throwback is a forgettable 80's track. Which means that only one outfit in today's rap scene would have the audacity to flip the sample. Get ready for a fun one: Agallah's got the props this week for unearthing...

Christopher Cross - One Chance For Heaven (rapidshare link)

Remember the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles? Okay, well, what about Greg Louganis? I personally don't remember. I was two years old. Anyway, he won his first medals for Diving that year. Incidentally, this song was the official anthem for the Swimming event, which I guess in turn meant Diving counted as well.

This song could have been accidentally the Greg Louganis theme song. Just a thought, okay? I mean, I'm not going to insinuate Mr. Cross himself as being gay (Louganis didn't come out until ten years later), but given the majorty of those album covers with flamingos on them, its a bit suspect. Nothing against flamingos, though their pinkness probably gets the Dipset no homo nod of approval (whatever). All this being said, I'm partial to puffins.

Fun fact from wikipedia: He and Norah Jones are the only two artists in history to receive all of the "Big Four" Grammy Awards (Best Record, Song, Album, and New Artist) in the same year. Whereas Ms. Jones owned 2002, Mr. Cross owned...1980. Needless to say, artists that peak to early? Yeah, I think we have a pattern developing. At least Norah seemingly won't pack on too many pounds years from now...

Time to revert out of gossipy mode. We have work to do here!

Purple City - Winning (rapidshare link)

Rappers on this track are Un Kasa and Bathgate. ...Roight. Sounds to me like a slightly half-assed looping by Agallah aka "The Don Bishop" (he'll always be the Crookie Monster to me though). As an overall package for a song, it's still a goodie in any case; the drums especially are kinda nice, if not so completely generic that you can nod your head without falling asleep.

I was going to cover the topic of my bias against Dipset, but then I remembered I had already planned to cover that at another point in the near future. Therefore I'll save you the details and just be very blunt: the singles are all that I really like from them. The album filler joints are, for the most part, extremely lacking and really disappointing.

Luck would have it that last year's The Best of the Purple City Mixtapes is probably the least talked about Dipset related release. Here's the vibe I've gotten, especially after working the "Purple City Byrdgang" 12" during my senior year of college stint as a music director: To not be a fan of Agallah's (newer) production, or (the lack of) consistently enjoyable lyrics from the mostly anonymous rappers (what Cam can bring to the table will only hurt his buddies without the assistance)--- it's not like you're being looked down upon, within that ever so present circle of the Dipset Fan Club. It's almost like, if you are a fan of the Diplomatic Immunity compilations, to the point where you've become completely dumb in the head, you're ready for the next level. And so then there's this.

Cross's Ode to Winning might be more enjoyable though. What do you think?

Tonight I venture off with the homie G-Proph to the Knitting Factory to see what's up with this Clipse show, sponsored/hosted by Fader Magazine. House DJ will be Clinton Sparks, who I've never been a big fan of, in all honesty (Maybe You Been Brainwashed was dismal, to say the least). Clipse, however, I am willing to check out. Probably because, for one, there's nothing else going on tonight really and, hell, it's a $15 dollar rap show--- good deal. But certainly not because I'm soooo turned on to their music after reading a stupid Fader cover story. Fuck that shit.

If I may explain my stance here...I swear that some of these magazines, like Fader for example, overdramaticize commercial rappers with so much fluffy journalism about their message, their persona, their drug habits, as if reading between the lines we should be able to extract something deep, like YO DEM FRANCHISE BOYZ ARE LIKE THE JIM CARROLL OF THIS RAP SHIT KIIIID.

Perhaps I'm just a struggling writer coming to terms with my own jaded personality, but as a reader, I see this pampering and primping as a real turn off. Perhaps this is meant to be the overall goal; to annoy the audience into appreciating artists for all the unnecessary reasons. Perhaps I'm just not willing to accept the fact that SPIN had been doing the same thing all along during my middle school years, with rock acts I've since shrugged off without looking back. Perhaps this mentality has indeed been embedded in my brain, and only in this time of my life have I become aware of the double entendre.

Make no doubt about it, I don't ever doubt ownership of hypocrisy when it comes along. I just think more writers need to do the same. That's all.

Hope you enjoyed this edition. Something good coming your way for the Headphone Masterpieces tomorrow.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Still in the trade of that ol' boom bap.

2006-02-28T00:46:00.000-05:00

They work too damn hard for you to fuckin' download it.

I could rattle off so many memories I have from listening to O.S.T., the third album of L.A.'s dynamic duo People Under The Stairs. Driving around listening to tracks like "Montego Slay" and "The L.A. Song" after the roads emptied out back home, tossing some brews back with the boys at school while dancing to "The Hang Loose", or dropping "Empty Bottles of Water" on my radio show and getting requests all the time for anything by them. When I saw them live at S.O.B.'s back in 2002 opening up for J-Live, I was hooked on this album. Straight across the boards, they are simply a stellar group that deserves their props.

Since 2000 with the release of Question In The Form Of An Answer, Double K and Thes One have been holding it down for the West, using the ground-up aesthetic to make music that inspires. And no I'm not saying that for the hoke factor. It's actually true. Two guys, crate digging, beat making, scratching, and even making artwork for their albums. This DIY method really resonates well on record because the music sounds so polished and professional nowadays in their catalog, you wonder if there's anyone else really helping them out.

In an interesting twist, on O.S.T. (Original Soundtrack), aside from two tracks featuring one guest artist a piece and three other people simply working on the mastering, design, and photos for the album cover, EVERYTHING on that album was done by the boys themselves. More than impressive, it's hip-hop, mayne.

As far as production goes, each of them have their own distinct style. But since I'm not a producer or much of a crate digger myself, I'm not really in much of a position to analyze the difference. If there's anything I can dissect, I would look towards Double putting a lot more emphasis on bass and tempo while Thes sprinkles in excellent, infectious synth or guitar loops to compliment the pop of his drums, all put to a slower rhythm than Dub's.

See, I told you I couldn't do it. I tried though.

On the mic, they've gotten some flack, but to be honest with you, they've improved drastically on the mic over the years. I would venture to say the criticism of past has gotten the best of them and made them step up harder. I guess they've managed to create some beef with fellow artists (Lootpack to name one in particular), but for what reason, I don't understand. I know they beefed with Soulsides' own O-Dub a few years back, but once again I'm travelling into unknown territory. I'll leave it at that then, and say that for the most part, PUTS are on their own. Which is rare in hip-hop, but its their choice, I suppose. The only well known cats I have seen them collaborate with over the years on some sort of consistent basis is Ugly Duckling (speaking of which, March 9th). No awful pun intended, but sometimes the names truly take on double meanings in the most amusing way.

PUTS have a new album coming out this spring, entitled Stepfather. Look out for it April 18th. BUY IT. Or they're gonna ring my head the next time they come through to New York, and we wouldn't that, k? In the meantime, enjoy this new track from off the album. Completely exclusive, kiddies...to the point where I was so paranoid I had to google search this just to make sure I wasn't bullshitting you.

People Under The Stairs - Tuxedo Rap (rapidshare link)

Those drums!!! That synth!!! I'm totally hyped for this album now. I'm not sure at this time which of the two laced this, but I'm gonna say this sounds more like a Thes One production. It reminds me a little of the "Noonen" joint Thes produced in 2004 I believe, for those in the know. Enjoy this, cause its all you're getting until April!

Meanwhile, if I've made a fool of myself (likely) to a degree that you're still not really sure what kind of sound these guys have, even after listening to that track, save yourself from what I like to call An Embarassin' Comparison (many a scenester/trendwhore, as I prefer to call them, fall victim to this episode), and redirect your browser here.

For the record, I typed in "people under the stairs" and got the following: Warren G, Mac Dre, Madlib, Soul Position, and Crooked I.

It's a pretty damn great site. I'd sign up for it without hesitation, personally. Think about it: if you're at work and can't download software but wanna listen to music on your web-enabled office computer, just go that site and you'll be set.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Headphone masterpieces #4.

2006-02-25T13:42:00.000-05:00

This was just the album I needed to listen to today. It has been such a long time since I pulled it out, and I'll tell you something, its still an amazing piece of work. Phil Elvrum has some truly sublime, dare I say simply gorgeous, lyrics. And the tracks go seamlessly together. Damn man, if I haven't burned this album for you yet, remind me to when I get the oppurtunity. Try buying it though if you feel so inclined. Its an interesting package to own, thin sleeve and all.

The Microphones - The Moon

The Glow Pt. 2 came out in 2001. I saw The Microphones live in like 2003 or something. At Cornell. The rendition of this song was a little different but still managed to stand out in the back of my memory bank. I did almost forget though that I went to this show due to how many years have passed. I have yet to actually buy another Microphones album, but I'm thinking I probably should. Despite this one being apparently considered their best. Time to explore more, I guess.

The Microphones - I Felt Your Shape

I had to put another one up because this song is also too irresistable to overlook. It also offers a range of the kind of path this album takes. The music ranges from gentle acoustic numbers to heavily percussion-filled ones.

Laundry day!

Cheers,
~*E*~

Throwback Friday #7.

2006-02-24T22:41:00.000-05:00

9th Wonder alongside his long lost, much whiter twin brother.

I would like to take this time to apologize to my readership for keeping it shorter than usual today. I've been tired and very stressed out, BUT, I will not let life get me down as I covered in my last entry. And furthermore, I won't let little shit stop me from delivering my promise! Double trouble for today's edition.

The Stylistics - One Night Affair

Little Brother w/ Joe Scudda - Lovin It

9th beats by now are pretty predictable. But predictable doesn't necessarily mean bad. If you have a formula that works, stay with it, I say.

The Stylistics joint is dope, and 9th flipped it well for the single "Lovin It" which has a video I was in but extremely AWOL from in the final cut (Jive! You took it off your server! Proof in the pudding accidentally swallowed up! Noooo!). No biggie. It was a well spent day in Park Slope. I appreciate this joint after hearing the way it was chopped up. All the right vocal crescendos make an appearance.

Arthur Verocai - Caboclo

Little Brother w/ Chaundon - We Got Now

Not really a fan of the album closer too much, but I absolutely adore the sample. You can actually find it on Verocai's self-titled album dating back to 1972. Maybe one of the reasons I've been vibing to it is due to constantly bumping it, but the real reason might be my growing love and appreciation for Brazilian music, as well as Afrocuban and Bossanova. Thank Blog for Captain's Crate in that case.

Please, do yourself a favor and stop hating on Little Brother. They are dope. You just get bored too easily. You're probably American if that's the case, which is pretty reasonable logic since Americans after all are known for having pretty short attention spans.

Or is that just an inherently human trait that goes beyond habitat. Hmm.

Steve Francis had a respectable debut as a Knick earlier tonight despite yet another loss. Obviously, like every other fan/mourner of Knicks, I'm still shaking my head in disbelief at Isiah Thomas. At this point, Isiah might as well go ahead and trade the best player New York has, Channing Frye, for Antoine "Comedic Relief" Walker, in an effort to indefinitely tarnish whatever credibility the Knicks might still have left. At this point, it seems like there will never be hope. Poor Larry Brown. He didn't deserve this.

Anyway...I ain't thinking about a lot aside from myself these days. Sometimes you gotta be selfish. I feel like an asshole, that being said, but at least this is (potentially) temporary. I should get some sleep.

Cheers,
~*E*~

More Optimism.

2006-02-23T20:20:00.000-05:00

This week has been going by too quickly. Kinda overwhelmed a bit right now. Through numerous different outlets I've got new prospective employment oppurtunities and while that's pretty consuming in itself, I'm barely able to wrap my head around how I'm gonna manage my money this weekend to help towards rent. I've been sending out resumes like a madman. "On my grizz" as J-Logic would call it.

I need music like this to keep me at ease from the mental loopiness.

Massive Attack - Be Thankful For What You Got (rapidshare link)

From their first album, Blue Lines, which I'm still on the hunt for. I'm sure I could find it sitting in a record store somewhere deep in the confides of the city streets. The lyrics have a slight cliche factor to them, but in 1991 this kind of song fit perfectly well alongside all the other dance hits. Not to state the obvious here, but I dunno, it makes me learn to appreciate that whatever might be going on is only a blip on the radar compared to what could be going on. I just gotta hang in there like that damn kitten. That damn kitten.

Throwback Friday tomorrow. A special one too! How special, you ask? Let's just say...like a necessary shot of espresso to start your day, having a double dose is even better.

Cheers,
~*E*~

When you're young, not much matters.

2006-02-20T01:50:00.000-05:00

I met this guy.

When I saw Kids for the first time, it brought images that forever changed my perception of New York City. It also opened up new doors regarding my images of sex, drugs, and the AIDS epidemic. I won't front...I mean, sometimes it takes a movie to bring out the realness that can't necessarily be portrayed in words, you know? I can't deny, this movie was really real.

Not to emphasize on pointless little details but rather to make the fact known, Harold Hunter is the second actor from this movie to pass away. Justin Pierce (aka Casper from the movie) hung himself six years ago. Harold (aka himself in the movie) succumbed to an overdose of cocaine at the age of thirty-two. It really is tragic. Some of my coworkers rolled with him and he seemed like a totally crazy but otherwise complete stand-up individual. I only met you once Harold, but you definitely were a dope kid. Rest in peace, man.

The Electric Co. - Respect Life (rapidshare link)

First got put onto this when I purchased Soul Supreme's The Saturday Nite Agenda upon the recommendation of a great guy named Pete (Mr. Pre-war bluesman; check under the "Anything Goes" links). The album ended up being one of my favorites of 2003, seeing that Soul Supreme made such dope beats and knew how to work with an eye-opening guest roster. Oh yeah, and another thing: he hadn't even turned 18 years old at the time of release. Not bad for a stellar debut.

The best song on the album, besides "Worst Nightmare" featuring O.C. and "Queen" featuring Pete Rock and A.G., was this nice little gem called "Respect Life". It would end up being one of the most memorable rap tracks of recent memory that really managed to stay positive without the excessive chewing of granola, or more so, irony to win over an entirely new crowd.

The last verse of the song continues to resonate for me, thanks to the splendid word weaving of a certain Boston-bred emcee who I'd later learn went by the name of Insight. The Electric Company Crew is his band of brothers, which also includes another great emcee named Dagha. To the best of my knowledge Insight is the only one to have released a solo album (Blast Radius--- cop it), but both he and Dagha have made a very clear blip on the underground circuit last year with their guest spots on Edan's critically acclaimed Beauty and the Beat album.

The track you just downloaded was eventually released on an EP called Life's A Struggle, released in 2004. It's okay. Definitely worth the purchase, seeing that it took me travelling across the country to find it. Clearly the best song continues to be "Respect Life". I upped the EP version since the version from Soul Supreme's album is more appropriated to the blaxploitation film gimmick Supreme has running all throughout, chock full of audio clips that aren't really distracting but could be ignored if needed. I felt this made it easier to work with.

It also is a good track to remember what you're here on this planet Earth for. Peace to another fallen soldier.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Headphone masterpieces #3.

2006-02-18T16:11:00.000-05:00

WAZA~?

Understandably, the last few of these have been confusing and have needed explanations. Still, I believe they remain good choices for this experiment. But this week I'm not beating around the bush. The Bran Flakes are insane, and make music perfect for this vein.

The Bran Flakes - Give Your Stereo A Check Out (rapidshare link)

Just listen to it with headphones on. Seriously. This band is so funny, goddamn. Go to their site when you get a chance. I'm still trying to understand what's going on.

Over and out, you know what I'm about.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Throwback Friday #6.

2006-02-17T20:25:00.000-05:00

Feel the wrath of my sash!

It's been a productive week, with nice weather to boot. Of course this weekend is going to be completely different because like the train schedule, the weather needs to take a break too from being overly convenient to living. Goddamn, listen to me. I sound so spoiled, like I refuse to ever deal with snow ever again. Gotta get outta that head...

Listen, all I heard was that it was going to be cold. Whether or not snow will be involved is another thing entirely. I'm going one day at a time, y'know? Kinda like how I plan my weekends, in accordance to my preferred nightlife bible/torah/koran/Vogue (hey, blame Miss Parker for that analogy, not me) of choice: Fusicology. Go to the side links, you should find it under "Shameless promotion". If you're like me and are at a complete loss as to how to go through a weekend in a cultural epicenter and have fun, that site might do you some good. Currently, they're working with NY, LA, Chicago, and the most recent addition, Toronto. Props to DS for putting me onto the damn thing. Very deep scooping going about there as far as the skinny on nightlife is concerned.

Also, shout out to Oh Word for including me on their list of Jay Dee tribute links. Comprehensive list if I ever saw one, yessir. Geez, is it fair to say that I suddenly feel so awkward that I'm apart of something so big? That's a nerdy feeling if I ever felt one.

So yeah, its Friday. And ooh do I feel like having fun with today's Throwback or what. But the problem with this Throwback is that there's very little information about it. I think that might be the most extensive and easily abbreviated information about him on the web, so no need for me to transcribe. I'll be straightforward: I simply was trying to find the sample to a slightly recent (2003) track by Big Noyd.

But first thing's first.

Phil Hurtt - Giving It Back (rapidshare link)

As soon as that piano riff comes in it's a hot song. The base drum comes in, it's a head nodder. Then the bass starts getting serious, and you know where this is going. Disco/pop sensibility, but unlike, say "Funky Town" for example, it's an epic and upbeat soul number that never comes down from its cloud. Feel Good Music, literally.

Then that motherfucker Alchemist had to go there, didn't he. Didn't he. Motherfucker, he did.

Big Noyd w/ Havoc - Air It Out (rapidshare link)

Typical fanfare, considering Noyd was a Mobb Deep affiliate from the get-go. But goddamn I can't front on that beat, an excellent choice for sure. The song executes its mission of that pure unadulterated East Coast rap I've grown to appreciate even more. You come to learn that each borough has its own sound, for the most part.

Of course, the majority of credit for the quality sound really goes to our boy Al, who never seems to cease in showing his ability in finding the essence of the rapper's known environment with every track he makes. They say the proof is in the pudding--- need more convincing? Well he gave T.I. and Lloyd Banks, among others, some SERIOUS BANGERS for his 1st Infantry album, that's truth. Listen to that whole album if you can, I'm so surprised how slept on it got outside of "Hold You Down" (which wasn't even close to being the album's best track).

Point is, Alchemist is one of the few dudes I see producing who is constantly going all over the map, geographically and musically. Maybe I'm going little over my head in this regard (really, when am I never though), but could he more in demand than ever before? Al doesn't know any boundaries. After all, he's been Eminem's official in-house DJ for a minute now, and yet he's still cooking up Dilated Peoples some true headnodders like, most recently, "Back Again" (love that video too, Krondon and all). Am I missing something here? I mean c'mon, remember "Searching For Bobby Fischer"? I guess beef got squashed under the radar.

Okay, I'm getting waaaayy off track. My bad. Enjoy the tracks. Summary in three parts: Alchemist is one of the better producers of this new millenium. Big Noyd is limited as an artist, but thankfully his guest spots are always dope. Phil Hurtt needs more funny pictures of himself. The end.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Peas and Corn.

2006-02-16T20:18:00.000-05:00

My sister turned 19 yesterday. Since I was basically out the entire day due to work, class, Project Runway (shut up), and partying in Dub-burg, I didn't get much of an oppurtunity. So let this be the time that I belatedly issue a special edition of The Most Compressed Birthday Presents Ever.

Last night while at Savalas off of Bedford and South 2nd, this stupid bitch of a DJ refused to play any Talking Heads despite the fact that I showed complete friendliness without being over the top. I would've offered her a drink to coax her more after all, but I didn't want to distract her too much from her deep concentration. Beatmatching those punk rock songs must be tough.

I was pretty broke in any case. Naturally, I bought my sister a drink since it was only proper (and illegal but SHUSH). I wanted to have a Talking Heads song played since she requested it. But oh well, it didn't happen.

Fun times still commenced. And now I'm gonna make it up to the kid by upping a live version of probably my favorite song ever, covered by one of my sister's favorite new bands, featuring the vocal talents of my personal Jesus.

The Arcade Fire w/ David Byrne - This Must Be The Place (live)

By all means, certainly not a great rip, but if you can find a better one you let me know, aight? Yeah, good luck.

This took place about a year ago. Nothing more needs to be said. It's an amazing song, and this is an interestingly well done cover. Dope band.

Happy birthday, sis!

Cheers,
~*E*~

I've never been in love during the winter.

2006-02-14T23:29:00.000-05:00

If only Valentine's Day was in August...

Matthew Sweet - We're The Same

I can't listen to this track right now. I just can't. Not now.

But you can! By all means...I'm sure you'll love it if you haven't heard it. But on the other hand, you've obviously heard it if you're an indie kid or likewise, in which case you can just sing along.

Maybe it's the association that comes with this song that makes it hard for me to give it a shot anymore. Just a hunch.

Maybe it's me.

(Maybe it's you.)

Cheers,
~*E*~

Don't let the weather get you down.

2006-02-13T03:14:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Young Jeezy, all snowmen now look like drug dealers.

Another week starts. I sure hope navigating through the winter wonderland during the work week will be easy enough, since this is really my first experience with the city under snow. Of course, being from upstate I am used to driving through the snow aplenty. Thank god I don't have to worry about having a car here. It took long enough commuting around yesterday. I can't imagine how long I'm going to be outside today. Maybe I should invest in those galoshes I have collecting dust in the closet.

Rule of thumb: gloves, gloves, gloves. Yes, three times. Because who knows, you might lose a pair or two. I know I have. All in all, I suppose this would theoretically cover the bases for all ten fingers.

Actually you know something, I had a discussion a week or two ago about the ups and downs to both mittens and gloves. Whereas mittens make your hands warmer, gloves allow more grip. But what is there to grip except for railings when you're walking around and taking trains? Mittens, it might be then.

Okay, enough of the small talk. Valentine's Day is tomorrow, and could I be more prepared? All the typical vices are in tact, including iced devil's food cake, and these chocolate popems which I guess might as well be like those Dunkin Donuts munchkins. That's right kids, I'm doing nothing as of right now. Call it retaliation, call it typical, but I''ve had nobody to impress on a Valentine's Day for years now. Except that this year, given the nature of this blog, I figured I'd do the next best thing to cheering myself up. I'd cheer you all up. What else can I say, I'm a giving kinda guy. Consider this a little pregaming for tomorrow's festivities, or lack thereof, or well, whatever ends up happening.

Love - Everybody's Gotta Live

It was released on the band's last album before they disbanded in 1974. They were an obscure, lesser known psychadelic rock band from the 60's, who managed to create an absolutely timeless and joyous singalong, for all you pessimists in the world. Most of who are probably living in the same city as me. Don't tell me this song doesn't make you smile a bit.

Listen to this as you start your day and I can make a promise you won't feel as crabby. No one likes to come down with a case of the Mondays, despite how inevitable it might be. Mixed with a heavy overdose of V-Day preparation withdrawal, you may need a little more conscientousness. Just a thought.

Welcome, Winter. Took you damn long enough. Now get outta here!

Cheers,
~*E*~

My Tribute to Dilla.

2006-02-11T15:38:00.000-05:00

Obviously after the devastation of yesterday's news, the weekly institution I have implemented had to take a back seat. Next week we'll commence with Throwback Friday and Headphone Masterpieces, but for now, I'd like to take this weekend to reflect on the passing of one of music's most talented producers, my favorite producer, James Yancey, otherwise known as Jay Dee, or J Dilla when he was on the mic.

For today's entry, I decided to up a bunch of my favorite tracks that he's produced. It won't do any justice to his legacy, but its the most I can do. I am but one fan. If you want to do justice yourself though, buy his recently released album Donuts. It's easily one of the best of this year simply based on how rich with life it is.

Now without further ado, I bring you an assortment of my personal favorites from my own collection (all Rapidshare links).

A Tribe Called Quest - Get A Hold/1nce Again feat. Tammy Lucas/Stressed Out feat. Faith Evans/Find A Way/Da Booty (easy top 5)
Jaylib - The Red/Raw Shit feat. Talib Kweli/Starz
De La Soul - Stakes Is High/Verbal Clap/Much More
Common - Doinit/The Light/Questions feat. Mos Def/Nag Champa/Love Is... (Had to pick one from BE. I could upload so much more, but this is a good enough top 5, I'd say. Like Water For Chocolate is easily my favorite album of Common's, especially due to the production)
The Roots - Dynamite!
Bush Babees - Three MCs feat. Q-Tip
Talib Kweli - Where Do We Go feat. Res/Stand To The Side feat. Novel & Vinia Mojica
MED - Push/So Real
Oh No - Move feat. Roc C
Spacek - Dollar
Big Tone - Party Crasher (from DJ Mekalek's Killer Tape Part III; don't mind the mixing near the end, just focus on the song itself...a total sleeper!)

And, of course, my all-time favorite Jay Dee beat...

The Pharcyde - Runnin'

Aaaand, just to show I'm an even better sport, to make up for not having our traditional Friday fun, the source of the Spanish guitar loop:

Stan Getz - Saudade Vem Correndo

Make sure to remember to ID most of these songs yourself. For some reason my ripping software's CDDB is screwy. Obviously this might end up being the least of your problems since you still have to go through the whole rapidshare process as it is. My sincere apologies to those with slow computers. I figure that most of you have heard these tracks before so I didn't bother with putting them in a whole zip file in case you just wanted individual tracks. Thanks for being patient, guys.

The truth of the matter is that Jay Dee's music goes so beyond hip-hop. With his amazing catalog spanning over a decade, he's managed to create some of the most beautiful music ever. There are very few producers who's work I can listen to over and over again, because the production is just so hypnotic. Jay Dee was probably top of the list of accomplishing such a goal.

It's very telling how dedicated he was to his craft. Having been sick for a few years due to kidney problems, he would stay relentless regardless and lock himself in his studio to churn out some amazing pieces of work. Unfortunately all the unhealthy living got the best of him. But his music lives on. You can hear in all of his music just how much detail he wouldn't let go to waste. The most fascinating observation is how he can make something so simple on paper sound so radiant when recorded. Likewise, when he wants to make a banger as oppose to a soul number, he can really get tap into the right elements: bass, synth, you name it. He really in essence was the guide to the soul of the track's aura, managing to bless a normal track with a life of its own.

Thank you Jay, for making music that inspires. My sincere condolences to all of your closest friends and family, and may you forever rest in peace.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Rest In Peace.

2006-02-10T17:22:00.000-05:00

1974-2006

The Bard Rapper.

2006-02-09T21:09:00.000-05:00

The Don.

They really need to press new versions of The Ruler's Back and Behind Bars. I can't find them anywhere. It's easy enough to find the undeniably classic debut album The Great Adventures of Slick Rick, and last studio release The Art of Storytelling (which is from like, 1999), but no sign of the others. Could there be a lack of demand? Or a tougher time getting ahold of the masters? Is Slick Rick even out of legal trouble? I would hope he is. I've been out of the loop, someone put me up on the scoop.

Anyway.

Slick Rick feat. Doug E. Fresh - Sittin In My Car

This is an old, lesser known track, stemming from the Behind Bars album. Teaming up with his beatboxing partner in crime, Doug E. Fresh, they manage to create another perfect collaboration. Unlike "La Di Da Di" (one of the most quotable rap songs of all time by the way), this track is sprinkled with some lush piano, instead of just the simple and sparse beatboxing, to back the excellent storytelling Rick is so renown for. In this story, Rick is merely trying to get a little play on the side with a girl's best friend. Like any respectable pimp. Highlights include Ricky D singing the chorus and hitting all the right notes, and the nostaglic feel that this track was recorded seven years earlier (it's from 1994, in actuality).

Oh boy, in other news...four years of my old journal all gone. Nothing was saved. Stupid bolt.com + faulty computer x X many days that I could have actually used to save the entries before the server inevitably switched, but was instead too sidetracked to remember = Deserved Fate. I tried my best to keep whatever I could, but by the time I found out that the problem wasn't an overstocked hard drive but merely a shitty laptop mousepad, it was simply too late. The Past Is Full Of Answers...no more. The past is dead, officially. All I have left are the memories in my head.I found it. What a fuckin' scare that was.

Ooh! Also...I forgot about watching the Grammy's last night but I guess that's fine because I DON'T CARE. But thank god for the Internet, which in record time accumulated a video of the Gorillaz performing "Feel Good, Inc."...with De La Soul, of course, live and totally in effect! Talk about awesome. I mean, De La performing on Carson Daly's Last Call show was pretty sweet even though it was MF DOOM performing that was the bigger deal. Still, these are the Grammy Awards, not a late night talk show! Dope exposure tactic, boys.

If you didn't see it, "get it get it" right here. Don't mind the second part with that bitch Madonna. I didn't, at least.

Throwback Friday on deck. Later.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Sometimes a line needs to be drawn.

2006-02-06T23:26:00.000-05:00

Seriously, I hate that dude.

Fuck Tony Parker. And no, I ain't hatin' cause he's French. I'm hating because reportedly he admitted to actually melting one of his two championship rings, for his girlfriend's necklace. His girlfriend, as well as my future girlfriend in an alternative universe, Eva Longoria. I guess I missed the boat on this tidbit about the necklace, since looking back this factoid has been available to the public domain for a couple of months.

Still though. I'm starting to think this hot celebrity dating fad brings a certain degree of douchebag out of the the player. Kinda like Rick Fox. Likewise, it brings a softbatchness that can only be rivaled currently by Doug Christie.

Parker, if this is a is a sign of things to come, I sincerely hope you can take solace in the hard truth that vous, mon ami, êtes puss-ee-whipped. And that you're a disgrace to your team legacy over a girl. The hard part for me to swallow is that if it was me going out with Eva I'd probably do something stupid like that too. Love is pretty stupid when you get stuck in it like Tony did.

I decided to upload the first song that I felt went along in the vein of this resentment/pity.

Louis Logic - The Rest

Okay, so the premise of the song has only a little to do with the entry. But it totally does mirror the whole farce of being head over heels for the dopest female. Louis has the tendency to write those songs about relationships which totally pass as acceptable and relatable to even the average alphamale. And is it any surprise that some jocks actually are closet emo fans? Thank god Louis Logic knows better than to cater to that style. His influences come from a more indie-sensibile approach, anyway. So though it may not sound anything like your typical rap love song or, likewise, your typical mysognistic rap about sex, it definitely is not a sad bastard lament. It's simply good satirical music. And, it retains the ability to be listened to, past novelty status.

As usual, the JJ Brown production is excellent. In fact, it's great throughout the entire album. You should check it out if you haven't yet, its a pretty great debut to come from the left field of the underground realm. Sin-a-matic is the name, it came out in 2003. Three years later, this spring, Misery Loves Comedy will be dropping on Fat Beats Records, so look out for more new Louis to drop. Or, if you're so inclined, why not take a gander at his superbly abundant website.

Moral of the entry: Compared to Eva Longoria, the rest to Tony Parker are la doo-doo (Look out for the Charlie Brown homage near the end of the song). My advice? Marry her already, you jackass. Save us the frustration while its still early enough.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Headphone masterpieces # 2.

2006-02-04T15:27:00.000-05:00

For this time around we're gonna pick up the pace. I am proud to drop this on all of you after I've had it lying around for over a year in my collection. The Changes are a group from Chicago and have so far only released an EP called The Machinery. They definitely have the sound of a buzz band but don't necessarily sound like a flash in the pan. The lead singer sounds a bit like a certain Ben Gibbard but not nearly as wussy. The music on this track sounds excellent and the breakdown reminds me of something The Police would do. Listen to this while driving down the highway at 75 mph, or likewise, taking the 7 through Queens. This is what we call prime private listening. Rock out, people.

The Changes - The Machine

If you are interested in finding out more and hearing a few more tracks, check it.

Other musings....I finally shortened my beard...eh, a smidget, we'll say. Now I don't feel like as much of a lumberjack at least. As for last night, it was a great show down at CBGBs. I never realized how short Vinnie Paz is. Highlights were Sabac Red and Q-Unique, for sure. It was jam packed and I think I may have forgotten how hot the Uncle Howie female groupies are. Props.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Throwback Friday #5.

2006-02-03T20:52:00.000-05:00

There are two diners around my way. Both establishments set their radios to play smooth jazz. But only one has better atmosphere, and I'll give it to the one on my block. Better cheeseburgers, and their matzoh ball soups at least have noodles in them. While getting some food from said diner sometime last week, I overheard "Caught Up In The Rapture Of You" playing. It was actually, admittedly, the first time I had heard the song in its entirety. It was also the first time I heard the track as an actual song as oppose to being treated as a sample.

Today's Throwback Friday focuses on a lush soul track, and the white label rap track that loops it. When I think of Anita Baker's name, I instantly think of Adina Howard for some reason. But that's just silly, you might say. See, Anita Baker is synomonous with that reeeeally smoothed out soul music. Not so smooth that its flat, smooth that its like a nice delicious booty. Booty like Adina Howard's.

Listen. This track is THE track that defined Anita Baker's name. And believe me, I don't know much about it, I won't lie. Bear with me here though: even without doing much research, it's fair to say that this definitely is one of those timeless numbers. The production is minimal, its her and no one else on the vocals, and the melodies she creates...are totally goddamn sappy.

And sappy is good! It was recorded in 1986--- was anything sacred at the time? It probably wasn't meant to be the same kind of sappy we think of now (turns out even "Return Of The Mack" is considered classic now). The irony of pop music has been thrown out, rules are being rewritten as we speak. Shit, I have no idea what's going on. I'm rambling. Forgive me. I just found out that my electric bill wasn't paid when CLEARLY I sent it out last week.

Right. So like I was saying...this is a song I might hear over the phone while waiting to speak to those assholes at Con Edison. But unfortunately, waiting music is never cool anymore. Neither is being on hold for over an hour. And, furthermore, neither is sending checks in non-ConEd envelopes, apparently.

Anita Baker - Caught Up In The Rapture Of You

Speaking of "totally not cool", let's talk about Ras Kass. Don't get it twisted though, I've been dying to hear Soul on Ice for a minute now. Maybe even Rasassination too. But you know what my problem with him is? His newer material is not a very flattering gesture to convince me of purchasing an album of his. I suppose this is like assuming that since Kool G Rap is not really too great of a rapper right now, I shouldn't check for Wanted: Dead or Alive.

Feel me? No? Okay, check it....obviously at some point Ras Kass was great too, in his prime. But...I dunno, even his voice kinda irks me on his newer material. At least Kool G's growl will never get old. In the long run, for me, it's all about the lyrics.

And so brings me to "Understandable Smooth," a track that never got officially released. Going back to 1998, Ras was still on Priority, and could have very well put this on any one of his first two albums. However, I guess after what happened with Lord Tariq & Peter Gunz over the "Deja Vu" track due to illegally sampling Steely Dan, I'm sure any small hip-hop label at the time was trying to avoid the politics of clearing such popular samples. So it goes. Shit goes unearthed for years but thanks to the lovely Internet, everything is fair.

Ras Kass - Understandable Smooth

All you need to know is: simply great wordplay, guaranteed. Rassy puts the right amount of enunciation in his lines when needed, and the lyrics are actually quite inviting if you listen hard enough. As for the production, the drums are hot and those synths are key! So key!

Oh Ras Kass, if only you were still that stellar lyrically. And for god's sake man, step up your live show too.

Tomorrow on Headphone Masterpieces, we're turning up the tempo. Stay tuned. Tonight though, I might just travel downtown to the East Village to check out the debauchery at CBGB's (first and apparently last show I'll ever go to there if it ever decides to shut down that is). On stage will be Ill Bill, Sabac Red, Q-Unique, Slaine, and VINNIE PAZ DADDY.

1 am. 5 dollars. 1 hour of sloppy drunk performing with a crowd of Uncle Howie heads amok. I'm gonna love this.
...I could for a burger and soup first though.

Cheers,
~*E*~

A Tale of Two Beats.

2006-02-02T21:36:00.000-05:00

Fuck a groundhog, wer'e gonna bring back summer one lick at a time!

Sometimes you just have to go with your best intuition. When I hear two songs with the exact same production but created by two different producers, I can't help but just scratch my head, shrug, and not show allegiance to one more than the other.

C-Rayz Walz and Bahamadia are both excellent rappers. But C-Rayz is kinda one of my favorite working rappers of the moment, and what's more is that I haven't heard Bahamadia drop anything in a minute. If this was a Project Runway challenge, C-Rayz would be using a lot of denim, while Bahamadia would go straight for the silk.

All praise to me for fitting in a Project Runway reference. Scoooore. Moving on...

Not sure how much you've heard of her, but Philly's First Lady can flow. She's excellent at wordplay, though certainly not as crafty as Jean Grae I would venture to say. What she may not have in memorable and distinguishable one liners she makes up with probably one of the most distinguishable female rap voices. This is a remix of one of her original tracks from her 1996 debut album, Kollage. The remix however I believe is quite new, from 2004. Who the other female emcee is, I have no idea. All I know is, this shit is butter.

Bahamadia - Uknowhowedu (Ski Remix)

Meanwhile, in the other corner, we have our creamcheese; the Sun Cycle Emcee with a track from 2001, one of his earlier joints laced by 4th Pyramid, "Make It Happen". Incidentally, this track inspires me to go back to Ithaca and do a cover: because this shit would sound great with live instrumentation.

C-Rayz Walz - Make It Happen

C-Rayz rides the beat better in my opinion. It just feels more filled up with those guitar jabs during the hook, exemplified by the Biz Markie Syndrome; rappers who think they can sing. Like Biz, the lines in this song are comedy or at most times just plain clever such as: "Life is funny but I'm dead serious when I laugh/underground lines like Jersey that stay on PATH." I would totally remake this song if I had any shred of...ooooh I dunno...cadence, maybe? C-Rayz and Bahamadia definitely are two emcees who are known for that anyway.

Okay, some good shit coming tomorrow for Throwback Friday. Get ready. Otherwise, I'm still in awe of how quickly this week went by. Now that its February, let's hope that nothing bad happens (this month isn't very nice to me usually, V-Day and a certain sister's birthday aside).

Cheers,
~*E*~

No tricks in '06.

2006-01-31T22:25:00.000-05:00

The attempt was to be "as awkwardly separate from the crowd as possible."

If BB King's wasn't such a can of sardines, maybe I'd be able to take a decent picture once in a while. Of course I was also under the ripping tide of a stomach virus which gave me no desire to stand up, which is essentially all you can do in this overpriced bombshelter fuming with hot wings, mixed drinks, and secret stash blunts from the core of the crowd. Ah, the signs you're at a New York hip-hop show in Midtown. Gotta love it.

But thankfully I found a place to sit, and in fact sleep for about forty-five minutes, on a bench near the door while I waited for pretty much the most influential emcee to bless the mic live on stage for the first time in, well...who knows really how long. But mark it on your calender: January 30th, 2006. The concert that would go down in history....kind of. Rakim, the motherfuckin' legend. If you missed him this time around, you have another chance.

The openers sucked for the first hour, I won't lie. But then Grandmaster Caz and Raheem from the Furious Five showed up to rock a few joints. Immortal Technique made an appearance too. And Pete Rock hyped up the crowd with "The Creator." Daaaamn. The surprise guests made the listed guests pale in comparison.

Then Kid Capri took the stage to rock the ones and twos for Rakim, who finally showed up and played for about roughly under an hour, probably more like forty-five minutes without any noticeable mistakes. "No mistakes allowed"....but the sound guy actually fucked up his mic at the beginning. Easy to fix. Ra stormed through all of his hits. It was definitely nuts. He had the crowd danglin' off his gold chain, hanging on his every verse, rapping along like it was an Evangelist telethon.

Man I wish I had more energy, to be healthy enough to move with the crowd's hype. I suppose this is a blessing in a way because it's nice to not have to feel so claustrophobic every now and then when seeing a show you actually want to enjoy.

Also, BB King's is notorious for awful overpricings on even the simplest of drinks. Three dollar sodas, seven dollar draft beers, and four dollar bottles of water. Get the shit outta here, c'mon. Who that is sober will actually drop that much money there? Fuck Times Square.

Done with venting. Good show overall, worth the money indeed. Now here's a song for you.

Eric B. and Rakim - "In The Ghetto" (Drums and Rakim mix)

This was on the flip to the original "In The Ghetto" single released back when Let The Rhythm Hit 'Em was fresh for 1990. Hate to say it, but even after seeing the song's video, this here mix completely obliterates the original. All you need are simple and hard hitting drums like these to back a vocal dominance like Rakim, and the track will be completely obliterated in correct fashion. Props to the Godfather for coming out of the woodwork. It's been a long time.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Headphone masterpieces # 1.

2006-01-28T14:48:00.000-05:00

Practice what they preach, maaaan.

I would love to make another weekly institution, just to motivate my sorry ass to writing more. But this formula might run thin. I suppose I could do my best for a while and see where it goes. Indulge me.

Sometimes the best moments in listening to music outside is that moment that you actually start walking. Like if you're coming out from the train station to be blessed with a sunny sky, or leaving your apartment for the first time to go greet the day. Hell, maybe this is one of those songs that can be just as effective as you're pulling out of the driveway to go to work on a cold winter morning. But the point is, its private listening while you're mobile. This is one of those songs.

The Radio Dept. - Pulling Our Weight (mp3 link)

Gentle guitar, pounding but subtle rhythm, lush harmonies. It's all you need, nothing fancy. I listen to this track and feel the urge to just raise my head up and look to the sky. Not to be tacky, but sometimes you just listen to tracks like this, and they make you smile without going "awww" to yourself, you feel?

Plans? Let's see. Tonight I'm going to see more of my fellow alma maters at Paul Canetti's birthday party down in the Murray Hill area. He'll be also playing some music, so it should be a good time.

Right now I'm gonna enjoy this beautiful day. And eat somethin...

Cheers,
~*E*~

Throwback Friday #4.

2006-01-27T20:42:00.000-05:00

Yeah, you could say that I've been going through the motions this week. You know, since there are no more days off for a while, and the weeks have become chockful of business from here on out, it makes sense how I could fall victim to the tide of forgetfulness. I didn't even download music, or even as much as listen to any music outside of the iPod while travelling throughout the metropolis. Considering I am a music nut, this should essentially clue you in to where my mind has been.

On the computer, yes, but more so in front of the TV. And boy do I hate it.

But let's digress, shall we? Thank Ghostface its Friday. Did I just say that? Well, why not. Right now he might as well be God since both the streets and the messageboards are more hyped than ever over Fish Scale, which officially comes out a month from now. Get ready, its about to go down.

No, I'm not thinking about Cam'ron. Not thinking about Jay-Z. That's for the fourteen year olds to dwell on. I'm just thinking about dope old school mixes and how much I wish I was born ten years earlier. Adrien Brody and I would have rolled together, that's my word.

You guessed right: I read the Mass Appeal interview. Thirteen years it took to win an Oscar, damn. Am I willing to wait that long? If I start tomorrow I probably won't win an Oscar until I'm fuckin 50, and yes, that is plenty of time I am willing to take to have my dream come true.

On with the entry. Today's Throwback Friday covers one of the all-time greats. We're also gonna take a trip down south, and backpeddle a few months to a REMIX to the hottest damn song of 2005.

But first the meat of this dish. YSI this time because, eh whatever, I'm STILL lazy after this week.

Willie Hutch - Tell Me Why Has Our Love Gone Cold (mp3 link)

A-ha! Sounds recognizable, right? This song is great though. Rest in peace to the god, he just passed away last September at the age of 60. And what a voice he had. Like for real, it's definitely its own instrument. He really knows how to do more than just sing, laying the smack down on the funky rhythm, violins and all. I also am fond of Willie's guitar work on here, as I think it is absolutely is the secret weapon to making this song so desirable to Juicy and Paul. Presenting....

Three 6 Mafia feat. Trick Daddy, Slim Thug, & Project Pat - Stay Fly Remix (mp3 link)

Now, I know my audience. Aside from a few exceptions (hi, mom), I know that everyone reading this right now has more than likely heard the original version of this song. And likewise, I'm sure that a good majority of those rap fanatics have also heard the remix. But, we had to make choices, people!

Besides, how could I not give my props to Project Pat? I know nothing about this southern crunk shit like a lotta other bloggers do. Definitely not the best source for that. But if I learned anything from J-Zone's Ig'nant mix CD (the first one anyway, oh shit cousin I don't see you owning it!), I say, simply put, learn to appreciate. I ain't gonna be on no Three 6 dick now, that's not my style. But I definitely appreciate when a great song comes around. The production is obviously one of the best of 2005, whether its flipped for a remix or staying the course of its more familiar form. And what's more, it allows Three 6 the recognition among new and old heads alike that they're still in the game. Excellent choice of sample.

It's now time for me to part and stop rambling on about fluff. Gonna get my drink on down on Delancey (props to J-Logic---good lookin' out). Also, visit The Get Right again! Updated like craaazy: Copperpot interview and a conversation between Jive and Syl on beatmaking. Don't sleep.

I'm gonna write more this weekend, believe it!

Cheers,
~*E*~

WHAT THE FUCK.

2006-01-23T03:36:00.000-05:00

The word of the day is "possession". Where as Kobe possessed the ball for basically the entire game, the more glaring fact was that Kobe himself was possessed. On your 666th game, I guess the deal has to go down, right?

Well, see you in hell, Kobe.

Cheers,
~*E*~

P.S. - Go Steelers!

Throwback Friday #3.

2006-01-20T16:48:00.000-05:00

Oh shit, are those the feds looking over your shoulder? Ha! Made you look!

Damn it. I don't have much time to post right now, since I have to catch a bus back home and want to bring this in today as promised. Consider yourselves lucky this time around!

On this edition of Throwback Friday, we'll be taking a look at a throwback that isn't a funk or soul track, and a neo-soul cut that can actually make the heads nod. Props to my man Syl for digging this single up. I don't remember much about this band since I didn't grow up in the 60's, but I do know that they played at the original Woodstock Festival. John Sebastian ended up moving to the hills of Woodstock too, oddly enough, and started his family there. I probably met his son somewhere along the way but forgot to put a face to the name.

Lovin' Spoonful - "Didn't Want To Have To Do It" (mp3 link)

A great homage to this track's lovely guitar work is found sampled in a new track by J. Rawls off his latest and probably best official solo work to date, The Essence of Soul.

J. Rawls feat. Middle Child - "What If" (mp3 link)

Middle Child actually shows up four times on this album. Good choice, J. The album also features Wordsworth, Eric Roberson, Jonell, and Aloe Blacc, who in my opinion steals the entire album with his one contribution, the closer "Bailar", which I may have to put on here somewhere along the way. Do yourself a favor and pick up The Essence of Soul if you're in the mood to put your loved one in that perfect Valentine's Day mood (don't run away, it is coming up after all).

I'm out!

Cheers,
~*E*~

Remember 2002?

2006-01-19T01:02:00.000-05:00

Using the right touch of purple! On the next Project Runway...

I do.

It was the year after 9/11. I had just finished up my freshman year of college, academically getting by with the skin of my teeth. It was the year I learned from a play I was in, Icarus, the infamous adage that has stayed with me since: "Don't look back. Don't ever look back."

It was also the year I started to learn, after a random conversation with a fellow student, to never regret anything. And although I shaped it over time to work within my own set of morals (which do exist, believe it or not), I never forgot that moment, and I began to have the personal epiphany about what I really wanted.

Digressing now from here on in....

2002 was the year when I started foolishly working for Vector Marketing as a summer job, selling Cutco knives to families who didn't know any better. Thankfully, I didn't get past the second week because I realized I had no heart to scam people I didn't know: see, after the first two weeks you simply can't just try selling to your parents or your parents' friends, you have to sell to your parents' friends' friends.

Yeah, so I got paid some money but the method of conduct this business practiced in was too....not unethical, but definitely a bit much. Kinda like if Evangelism translated into a summer course on business. And although the people who stuck with it whom I know quite well have made a buttload of money, I myself knew in my overly enlarged heart that I simply couldn't seriously go forth with this practice. It wasn't me.

But that was fine! Because shortly after, starting in June, I went into NYC to move on with my accredited internship at a small production company. My parents managed to find me a sweet sublet apartment in Chelsea for me to stay at for six of the eight weeks of my internship, making it officially the first time I would ever really stay in Manhattan for any long period of time at all. The first and last weeks were spent crashing at my cousin's apartment in the Upper East Side area.

You could say I learned a lot in those eight weeks: I got my first taste of the trains, got lost in Harlem, experienced first hand how awful New York summers are, became exposed to the retardedness of Hot 97, oogled over the beautiful women (at FIT), got served with the reality of rejection in the working world, and fell victim to the madness of losing my only set of keys. All in one summer. It was a nice crash course.

It was also the summer when I first heard of this character called Cam'ron. That summer he would be all over Hot 97 and MTV with songs from his critically acclaimed and recently released Come Home With Me. Songs like "Oh Boy" and "Hey Ma", you couldn't escape hearing them. Though these songs were indeed dope and the videos were entertaining, I wasn't buying the steez at all back then cause I wasn't into his pretty boy pink-outfits and staggering flow.

But there was one track I enjoyed. One of the first songs of his I heard on any radio station, and it was actually before I even arrived into Manhattan to begin with.

See, the Vector people made all of us recruits at the first meeting sit in these grade school chairs inside a barren office space located in what probably was otherwise a drug trafficking center in the heart of Kingston, New York. While all of us sat waiting for the meeting to start, the radio hummed in the background. An awful pop station that had been marketing itself as "The All New" for three years, K104. A trashy bimbo and I were arguing about Eminem (who at that point was still too busy rapping about pajama time and beefing on Moby and a few other dated idols of the early aughts) and the quality of his music. Annoyed that I actually allowed myself to get into an argument with someone who didn't think, I slumped back into my chair and attempted to tune out and shrug off the ignorance. And then this song came on:

Cam'ron w/ Jay-Z and Juelz Santana - Welcome To New York City (mp3 link)

This is what they call "fighting music". Fuck R. Kelly; this track is what really went down as the Best of Both Worlds. Here you had BK's own banger and Harlem's own gangster, supplement with the gangster's second banana who was still ripe at the edges waiting to open up. While Juelz brings the hook, Jay and Cam go back-to-back rhyming over what might go down as the best Just Blaze production of all time. If not the best, certainly one of the best, and certainly capable of going down as one of the best beats to come out of New York this decade. Just Blaze is the truth and its essentially one of the main reasons I check this song as certifiably definitive. Not only because it was a dope track laced by one of New York's premiere commercially succesful producers to come out in a hot minute, not only because it was the unification between president and secretary-of-state, but because of this:

After 9/11, riding on U2's dicks for emotional support was getting totally played out. The band wasn't even from America. And falling in line with the masses by parading around quoting Alan Jackson was simply too patriotic and a little bit hokey if you want my honest opinion, espeically if you were from the east coast. New York needed an anthem, that spoke to the streets and carried a triumphant sound underneath a confident, precise chorus. This was it.

But unless I failed the Billboard chart history test (completely possible...), "Welcome" was never an official single. It just happened to be one of those tracks that could be played on the radio. So I suppose I was lucky that hot day in May, as the fan whirred from across the room and my peers conversed in clumps, to listen to the anthem that never was.

"Welcome to New York City" eventually saw its way as the theme song to some video game (I remember seeing the commercial and all and being like, wait, this isn't the 50 Cent game?), but it would have been cooler if the song picked up when it was still fresh. It stands the test of time as one of the all-time Killa Cam fan favorites.

A little bit more about Cam'ron and then I'll wrap up. I have heard all of Purple Haze. Nothing on that album lyrically comes close to the velocity that Cam takes it on this track. Very few times does Cam keep it somber and sensical in his songs without talking smack. Something tells me that its these few chances he takes to keep away from being flashy and pun-driven, is what makes him so notable as a rapper nowadays. It's all in perspective. And though he really will go down as one of the best lyricists in the game, there is no way I could see Cam'ron going down in hip-hop history as an "emcee". There's just no way. Whether he sounded intelligent compared to Bill O'Reilly or not, duke has more stuffing in his head than the teddy bear I got back upstate.

And so that's why I don't take this recent dis of his to Jigga too seriously. Cam is otherwise all jokes---he just knows the right way to be clever and clear and still "talk to the streets" at the same time, is all.

Right...but so does Jay, and whether you like it or not Dame and him were business partners. So technically were it not for Hova stepping into the fray once upon a time when R-O-C was a force, Cam would arguably not be in the position he is in the game (but most importantly, I wouldn't be posting this entry, heh).

If you want to hear what Cam has to say about Jay in his ridiculously cumbersome seven-minute dis track, go ahead and go to any of those hip-hop links I have on the side. I'm sure they'll talk about how Cam'ron is the truth and all that, but in the end, I'm not too impressed. Politics to this degree never really impressed me, to be perfectly honest.

But a triumphant track with an all-star cast? Sure as hell gets my nod of approval.

Man, its these kinda factors put into account that make me kinda miss 2002.

Cheers,
~*E*~

No clientele to sell it to? Internal revenue!

2006-01-17T18:36:00.000-05:00

Cleanest subway car ever.

A big shout-out to my boy Sky celebrated the big 2-1 today. On this edition of The Most Compressed Birthday Presents Ever, we're gonna take a trip down memory lane for you New York heads, all the way back to 1998. The A-side was a certified heater called "Sleepwalkers", and the B-side went down as probably every Non-Phixion fan's favorite song of all time, a De La Soul semi-homage entitled "Thug Tunin'".

Certainly not a fledgling group by the time the album was finally released, Non Phixion took FOREVER to come forth with their official debut to the world. Finally in 2001, The Future Is Now dropped after five years of pressing wax. The "Sleepwalkers" 12" was one of the very first. So it made sense that, due to how aged the tracks were, neither cut made it on the album. Eclipse (Non Phixion's producer) probably wanted to make more room for the cuts produced by Primo, Pete Rock, The Beatnuts, and of course, Large Professor (two joints!).

That being put into account, I'm still waiting for an official follow-up, now that all three members--- Ill Bill, Goretex, and Sabac Red ---have released solo albums. But Uncle Howie doesn't end at the guys from Non Phixion. There's so many frickin' side projects I can rattle off right now. Keep your ears peeled, and if you really want to know what's new, I'm sure I'll probably post it here. Except if it involves this other artist on Uncle Howie, Mr. Hyde. That's where I draw the line. Sorry, guys.

ANYWAY:

Thug Tunin' (mp3 link)

Calling it a straight jacked beat would be an insult. It's definitely much grimier and the drums hit with a pound of dust instead of a packet of sand like it was when it was better known as a Prince Paul beat (all respect due). Flawlessly spit verses, especially Ill Bill's at the end.

Happy birthday, Sky!

Cheers,
~*E*~

Dreams are like fish, you've got to keep on reeling.

2006-01-16T12:31:00.000-05:00

Revolution!

I have a dream that, one day, we will all flip the system off and rebel against the codes which we are told to live by.

I have a dream that nearly 100 rap albums will make their way onto the web for free download on some random blog.

Folks, that dream has come.

Mustafa Goodprose Day has commenced. (refer to 1/14 and 1/16)

Do not stop dreaming.

(btw, happy martin luther king jr day everyone)

Cheers,
~*E*~

Dorky and Dorkier.

2006-01-14T21:59:00.000-05:00

"This is how we do it..."

Oh I'm a happy boy. Links are finally updated, look right there! Now with special groups! Hurrah for organization! Hooray for.....

PETER PUMPKINHEAD. (CTD, not XTC)

I'm gonna go out and drink now. I love this fuckin' song.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Throwback Friday #2.

2006-01-14T12:19:00.000-05:00

Friday was kinda busy and what's more, my computer wasn't really being cooperative last night, so sue me. I'm not one known for deadlines, but I can assure you this won't happen again. I have just the perfect song for this weekend. If you're looking outside at the same weather I am, this song will be perfect for you. On this edition of Throwback...er, Weekend, we cover some timeless jazz. Once again, I'm gonna use a rapidshare instead of a yousendit link unless someone says otherwise. I'm not looking to make these joints expire anytime soon.

Grover Washington, Jr. - Moonstreams (link)

The bookending wind effects make this song extra eerie, and it's simply a beautiful track. I don't know what I can really say about it. I guess I should point out it's one of those songs I can play over and over again and I would never get tired of it. I think I even played it on repeat while I went to sleep one night. Fuck those Mind Food tapes, gimme this song and I'll be set. Washington's sax has a somber voice on here that can make anyone chill out.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the spectrum, we have our boy DMX. From his second album Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood, comes probably one of the best and introspective tracks of his entire catalogue. And it samples our good friend Grover!

DMX - Slippin' (link)

Keep in mind I'm not the biggest fan of DMX. I have distinct memories of hearing his first album ad nauesum during my days of sleepaway camp at Frost Valley way back in '98, when the album was the hot commodity). Courtesy of this guy named Eric (what up kid), whom I've known as a rap head before I was even really becoming knee deep in the genre, the entire bunk was blessed nearly all the time with the raging sounds of Swizz Beatz layered under the growls and barks of the Dark Man.

Lucky for me, that association made me not so interested in checking for X's music after the summer ended. Which was a shame because, speaking on the present tense tip, I can totally see myself checking for songs like the one I just upped. Dare I ask my audience, if I like this track, what else has he put out that speaks in this manner?

As it turned out, DMX kinda fell off his rocker after about the third album (the last real big hit he had was probably "Party Up"), slippin' (hardy har har) into a trite territory of thug rap, getting arrested for really stupid shit, and talking about being a preacher thanks to a talk with that sneaky zealot Mase. He's also coming out with a new album on Sony Urban this year after three years of all his insane shenanigans. I think he's hit the crackpipe too hard. We'll see though.

I suppose I wasn't really missing much. Props to the boy DMX though for putting out a song that uses a great sample, instead of the usual Swizz Beatz style. Switchin' it up like any good artist should.

Now if only I could find out who the hell produced it. (update: DJ Shok, who produced a lot of shit in the Ruff Ryders camp. Also, for the visually stimulated: a video.)

Enjoy your weekend, I'll try getting to this again if I get the opp.

Cheers,
~*E*~

One day, I had a taste for trout...

2006-01-12T20:25:00.000-05:00

Okay, so I'm being a little unfair. Not like Jive Alive isn't my friend, comrade, fellow DJ, and sole influence of about eight different acts which I wouldn't even have given the time of day early on in my college years were it not for his intuition and knack for having a good ear towards almost everything. Basically, we're like the same person.

But the difference is, Jive can actually spin. And, furthermore, he can make mixes with a startling display of specific selection. So though it may be unfair that my immediate connection gets in the way of an unbiased opinion, keep in mind the simply yet trite adage: "When you're hot, you're hot, and when you're not, you're not." And after years of waiting for the sequel to all his rap mixes, he finally comes correct with this excellent mix of swing and vocal pop. Quoth the DJ, "This disc is the result of about a years worth of digging through dollar bins and trying to work older tracks into the playlist of the Humble Drums radio show."

Good show too, currently being held down by a frequent collaborator Altruistic? every Sunday night from 8-10 pm EST. You can listen here (when you remember that is). It's my favorite show on the radio, simply because I have yet to hear anyone else doing what he's doing on the airwaves.

And likewise, Jive Alive keeps the spirit of being unpredictable in music selection going on this mix. Which you should all check out! Due to all the sample issues, Jive Alive is giving them away as promotional items for The Get Right, his website which you may notice as already one of my standard links on the side of the page. My advice? Do yourself a favor and check it out. Dare I make this any more clear once again: THE ALBUM IS FREE.

And here's a sample track in case you need some more convincing:

Gale Garnett - "So Long" (mp3)

Just what you might need for those lonely winter nights when the snow is falling and you don't even feel like looking outside. There are quite a few other surprises on here which will definitely put you in that lethargic mood. And then some gems which make you want to shake up a martini and wear your best fedora. Something for everyone. Tony Bennett, Fifth Dimension, Sergio Mendes...hell, Jive even throws in some newer joints to keep the bread fresh.

Before I head out, I'd just like to say, I have no idea where my head was this week. First this guy comes into New York for his first time and crashes at my pad until Monday, then a friend comes through last night as soon I'm getting out of my acting class. I suppose I'm quite a popular person, but that's open for interpretation. All I know is, when things like this spontaneously happen, at least I have family members who watch Project: Runway to keep me posted on who's eliminated.

So now that I'm finally alone, I'm back just in time for tomorrow's weekly institution, Throwback Friday. I suppose I'm doing something right, I've been getting some positive feedback thus far, and I've barely started. Keep it coming, people. I'll be back tomorrow with updates and a whole lot of other goodies.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Throwback Friday #1.

2006-01-06T18:50:00.000-05:00

(L to R): Rawls, Axelrod, H.B. Barnum, circa 1966.

Every Friday, I'll post up a classic track that has been sampled in rap. If ya lucky, I'll post up more than one. For the first Throwback Friday, I have some unfortunate news. The artist of this week's pick died today. Lou Rawls, the Grammy Award-winning soul singer, succumbed to cancer earlier this morning. He was 72. Read more here.

Rest in peace, Lou.

Now I'll be honest with you. I'm still learning about music. Constantly a student of the music I love and have yet to hear, I feel no shame in my lack of knowledge of certain things. That's the whole point of being an appreciator of music. That being said, I only know one Lou Rawls song. And for those in the know, O-Dub, from Soul Sides, was the guy who put me on to him last month when he presented a track from David Axelrod's The Edge, released last year on Blue Note Records. It's the track that got Lou Rawls to go gold, a beautiful track with Axelrod at the musical helm. And I've got the YSI as my only testament for a tribute to a man with such a wonderful voice.

Lou Rawls - You've Made Me So Very Happy (mp3)

I wish I could do more justice. But it just doesn't seem suiting for me to talk about an artist I'm not really that familiar with. However, I will share a little story with you...

Last night I went to Lombardi's on Mott & Spring. Pretty damn great pizza if you ask me, if not a little on the expensive side for one person (12 dollars for a small pie, they don't serve any single slices). But damned if it's not an excellent steal for a group dinner. All in all, there's nothing more therapeutical to the empty stomach than pizza with a beer. Nothing.

So I'm listening to the satellite radio station while eating. Not sure which provider, but the music played was straight 50's and 60's rock. One song that was played near the end of my meal was some unidentifiable cover of the Lou Rawls joint you have right there. So many people have covered it, so I'm not really sure. All I know is, it wasn't nearly as great to me as the original stands. The fact that it didn't have the ill piano loop that Axelrod put in there was just not enough for me to really get into it. Polishing off my Brooklyn Lager I thought to myself, "Wouldn't it be amusing if the Lou Rawls actually came up on the shuffle before I got home?"

Sure enough, on the last block before arriving to my apartment, the track actually came on! So I suppose more than usual it had more of a lasting effect on me. It really drew me in initially because of the production--- the piano loop has been used on one of De La Soul's earlier albums, Buhloone Mindstate, on two songs that really make the album for me incidentally: the lush instrumental "I Be Blowin," featuring the amazing Maceo Parker, and Part 2, "I Am I Be", showcasing one of Pos's best all-time verses (the first one). I've gone ahead and upped the latter of the tracks for those looking for the perspective. Prince Paul laced this one right as a testament to both Rawls and Axelrod (another artist whose music I really should sink my teeth into this year).

De La Soul - I Am I Be (mp3)

All that being said, another RIP once again to Lou Rawls. If you or anyone you know have any suggestions for what I should bring to the table for next week's installment of Throwback Friday here on Beta-K, drop me an e-mail at betakerosene@gmail.com!

The roommate comes back tonight, so time to tidy this place up a bit.

Cheers,
~*E*~

The Struggle Continues.

2006-01-05T18:42:00.000-05:00

Damn it, I knew I was forgetting something. Sorry, Bluepint. I am such a bastard. This album was so dope, and I totally forgot to give it the recognition it deserved. It came out last year and should have easily made my top 20 for 2005. But it didn't, because I flaked out and forgot its entire existence while compiling the list. Because there's always that one, you know? That one you bump incessantly and hope it will grow on you and then it disappears when you make the shift outward.

Truth be told though, 1988 wasn't a very memorable album. But it's still a very stellar album. I can only think of a few tracks I really enjoyed off the top my head. Like the title track, and "Big Girls Need Love Too" (it had to be done), and of course, "Fresh". I guess a few factors came into play here to why I slept...

1. I have apparently misplaced the album, and when I was finally getting to moving in all of my CDs into my apartment, the absence of 1988 caused me to oversee its presence as a contender.

2. When I got my iPod I was so entranced by the song I'm about to post in moments time, that I nearly forgot about all the other songs. Maybe this is why it is indeed useful to put entire albums on iPods anyway (something I normally don't even entertain the possibility of---I still got a discman, bitches!).

Blueprint is a good cat. Tours constantly with his Rhymesayers fam, really easy to approach in casual conversation, and has a very good handle on how to eclipse past the nuances of a normal battle rapper. At his live show he did a freestyle over "Billy Jean," and when I noticed the crowd reaction, I was pleased to see that young fans are being able to appreciate the lesser known cats, as oppose to clinging onto Slug for dear life.

Let me backpedal here for a second. Another Rhymesayers stablemate, MF DOOM, for example, doesn't tour really that much, he just gladly gathers up all the checks Cartoon Network's been cutting him so he can raise his family in between what I'd like to call The Next MF DOOM Collaborations. Right now these are his album with Ghostface, and Madvillain 2. You could say he's one of the few who can stay in the studio and still make quite a bit of money off it. Meanwhile, the rest of Rhymesayers doesn't have the luxury. Nor the patience: it's all about touring when you're the typical starving artist. It's a good thing that at least Rhymesayers is bar none, if not the most successful, up there with those Jef Dux hipstahs as the most successful underground hip-hop label of the 21st Century.

But I'd still wager on Stone's Throw bringing more realness to the table when all is said and done at the end of this decade.

By the way, in case you were wondering if I've got some proof with the dee-licious pudding, the Kork Agency released some numbers this past fall about the Atmosphere tour. The link to the statistic has since gone astray, but the facts still remain: $500K, and that's NOT including what was made off of merchandise (and they sell a lot of merch, believe me). They obviously are doing something right, and they've got plenty of the right artists to keep the grind steady.

Whoa, I got off topic faster than a plane to the tropics. Do yourself a favor. Let's refresh, ok? If you haven't picked up that Blueprint album yet, go to Amazon or any other site you frequent to buy albums, and check it out if its your thing. The track I'm about to post did not make the album. Instead it graces the b-side to 1988's first single, "Boombox". That track is alright I guess, but the b-side is what keeps the wax worthwhile in my opinion.

"Dead Presidents" (mp3)

Unless someone is vehemently opposed to Rapidshare, I'm going to use it instead of YouSendIt. Mainly because the YSI website was all crapped out when I tried getting to it just now, so in any case, let me know your thoughts and I can adapt to your needs. You picky little bastards.

Apparently, at this very moment, somewhere in this big city (most likely in Midtown), my alma mater is hosting a Network Night like I went to last year. I am so glad I don't have to be there. If only I could lie. If only...

And so, on a final note before I wrap things up for the night.....well, simply put, I had this idea in mind. Tell me what you guys think. Today is the birthday of my good friend Mel the Canuck. I was thinking....every time someone I know (WHO READS THIS) has a birthday, I will post up a song from my collection to serve as their birthday present of sorts. I figure at the end of the day, music is probably my greatest asset to make someone out there happier.

And so for this sparkling occasion, which I will hearby dub from now on The Most Compressed Birthday Presents Ever (*ahem* working title), I have decided on posting up a rare Charizma track I got off Freemotion several months ago (ah! another link to add to my site. visit them, they've got the ill goods to last you until next year, including *ta-da*, an excellent new Blueprint track, whaddyaknow). It's called, aptly, "Phone Ring Track." Being that our beloved Canadian is a closet PB and Charizma fan, this will do just the trick. Teach your kid well when they enter the world, Mel. It ain't all about metal.

Happy Birthday!

Cheers,
~*E*~

I've always wanted a flying umbrella.

2006-01-05T04:03:00.000-05:00

Rubber spoon, rubber spoon...

Allow me to go on the record to say that this doof with the rabbit hat should have been nixed from the final cut, plain and simple. I have no idea why he's in this, but if he's supposed to be a supposed fellow classmate of those other hysterical hooligans, it's simply not going to work.

Otherwise, allow me to fully support my fellow comrades at The Dutch West Internet Comedy Troupe for their brand-spanking new webisode (the first of 2006) which officially debuts...today. Which means you are watching something that probably everyone else is watching at this very moment. O_O

Oh, uh, that reminds me.

You deserve choices. Pick your preference, and happy viewing!

If you are interested in seeing the rest of what the Dutchie's got to offer, you'll be happy to know I've supplied a direct link to their homepage on the side of this page. It's funny stuff for sure.

Also: If you're interested in seeing what these rabble-rousers are all about in the flesh, a handpicked few can be seen at Identity this upcoming Saturday night. It's the God Freedom improv show, only $10 to see. A ticket for one free beer comes along with it; a steal I say. Doors open at 8 pm, and the show starts at 8:30. Usually goes on about two hours, tops. Location is: 511 E 6th St btw Ave A & B. The gigs are always downstairs in the lounge area, and boy are those couches awesome. And the acoustics are perfect.

Ehh, okay. /end plug.

Cheers,

~*E*~

You're In Big Trouble Like Tucci.

2006-01-04T23:43:00.000-05:00

There's a very little known quotable circulating deep in the core of hip-hop obscurity. Its founder is identified as rapper Celph Titled, aka The Rubix Cuban. A flagship founder of the Demigodz Crew, Celph safely has many well known quotables already. For example: "The closest that you ever got to a punchline/ is waiting for refreshments at the prom in '89" or "Real gangstas don't say much, we talk with our hands/ And keep a surplus of Ziploc bags and rubberbands". Got the picture? As clever as these and many others I could cite are, they just don't pertain to the direction I'm trying to take this entry.

"Don't ever call me a producer behind the mic/ I'm an emcee behind the boards, you better get it right." - Celph Titled, "Makin Music Remix" featuring Lexicon and Apathy, 2002

Enter J-Zone aka Captain Back$lap, who essentially is the exact opposite of this statement: a producer who accidently ended up getting on the mic, more than he expected anyway. A graduate of SUNY Purchase, 1999's Music For Tu Madre(one of the best album titles ever, haha) was his senior project. And for the most part, every single one of his last albums have presented him as the star of the show, along with occasional guest emcees. With each consecutive album, the roster gained more familiarity with his audience, peaking in my opinion with Devin The Dude on last year's A Job Ain't Nuthin But Work, a track called "Greater Later". But Zone's best beat in my opinion will always be "Gimme, Gimme, Gimme" featuring New York veteran Masta Ace, off of 2003's $ick of Bein' Rich. With each album he releases, J gets nuttier and nuttier. It also has been good for his career, because with Celph Titled, it looks like the nutshell is about to explode.

You see folks, luckily for Celph and Zone, they do share the same thesis in life: not giving a fuck about anyone or anything in their path. So after many song collaborations, they are finally joining forces for an entire album. Together, they are the Bo$$ Hog Barbarian$, and are set to drop their full-length in stores in March. Their single goes on sale in a few weeks, and although this is not the single ("$teady $mobbin"), this shit is a straight burner, and should not be dismissed lightly.

"Celph Destruction" (mp3)

I mean, it's like right out of...shit, I just tried pigeonholing a J-Zone beat. Zone's shit is so easy to identify though, he chops shit up meticulously like a young DJ Premier, and that's truth (yup, I said it). But instead of finding the perfect headnodder like Primo is best known for, Back$lap is obsessed with disecting the less-than-ordinary sounds you'd expect in a rap track, like a piano without ritalin (sorry, Madlib), or a triumphany organ grinder (once again...). Even better, on this, Zone brings up something straight out of a middle school laser tag match. Am I not right? Seriously. And furthermore, among the many signature sounds on a J-Zone production are his sampling of conversations found on rare tapes he gets out of the frickin' library, or simply silencing the music so he can highlight the obscure dialogue gems (keep an ear out for the one at the end of the track).

As far as the emcee goes, the guitar sounds fittingly gritty over Celph's endless two minute rhyme marathon. Which is dope in itself, because its the tightest verse Celph Titled has probably ever spat. If he manages to keep it diverse on the album, The Rubix Cuban won't necessarily be known as the emcee with punchlines. No...because like he said on that Lexicon joint, "Punchlines are just bad jokes." So, enough with the humor I guess, time to get a little more serious, and a little more "ig'nant" as Zone calls it. No survivors left, in other words, except for the heads that knew the time all along.

Speaking as a fan of Zone's, but more so as someone interested in hearing what Celph can really bring to the table for an entire album, I would venture to say this new album is gonna be on the money.

*BLING!*

Coming up tomorrow: I get to start nursing/catsitting a cat with cancer for the next four days! Among other awesome miscelleneous money making tactics to make all my friends still in school jealous! Wake up call 8 am! YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSDARETOBEONCRACK.

Also on the way, a surprise. And it involves me. Humuliation may occur. Stardom...unlikely.

Cheers,
~*E*~

A little bit of this and a little bit of that.

2006-01-04T05:18:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I have this strange sinking feeling I need to make more resolutions I know I can keep, without questionable distortion of the original intentions. So, I opted to leave the inevitable desires and necessities out of my resolutions this year. I soon plan on buying a lamenated map of NYC, including one with the subways on it, along with carefully chosen color pens/highlighters. I've decided, due to my ever increasing curiosity and wonder about the place I now call home, to mark my path. Everywhere I go, I'm gonna document through my map by colors, according to what mode of transportation I use, be it taxi, bus, subway, or just the ol' shoes on my feet.

New Year's Resolution for 2006: Explore as much of this city as possible with purpose, intent, and motivation. Even if I don't make it through all of Manhattan, exploring Queens, The BX, Brooklyn, or hell, even Staten Isle will be a feat to make up for that.

Maybe I have too much time on my hands. Maybe I'm in over my head on this one. But if I can't show a sense of coverage by the time half a year has gone by, I'm definitely not trying. Because considering the span I've covered in over four months, this game may prove pretty worthwhile.

I'll have plenty of time to do this tomorrow. I can see Murray Hill being covered in abundance, for one.

Meanwhile, not to make you think I posted a picture of one of my cats for no reason whatsoever, I'm posting a video on impulse because I just came across it after it apparently has been online for MONTHS. WHY DIDN'T ANYONE TELL ME. A PIECE OF MY okay I'll stop yelling. A piece of my childhood, and it was not brought to my attention! Nor to the attention of anyone else with such a good memory as mine.

It's baaaack.....The Cat Came Back! (short animation, 1988)

Who would have thought I would ever actually gotten the opp to see that awesome animation and Canadian sense of humor at work for the six year old in me? And what the hell were they smoking when they put eight to ten women tied up on train tracks. Genius, I tell you. All the way to the cow, even. Thanks, Cordell Baker.

Coming up later tonight if you're all good little Internet nerds: New J-Zone and Celph Titled. Together they are the Bo$$ Hog Barbarians, and if you're a fan of the Neptunes' hard-on for video games, well you're in luck, scenestahs. Stay tuned.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Who's got the "skillz" now?

2006-01-03T13:22:00.000-05:00

Ahhh, who thought it would kick off this way? Oh well. My boy PackFM, for all my rap fans out there, has started something a little new. See, VA's own Skillz has kinda fallen off on his yearly wrap-ups (still dope though, don't get it twisted). Last year, Pack even beat him to the chase cause Skillz didn't want to even do it for 2004. And this year was the same damn thing for S-k-i, and what do we get, a 7 minute track? Damn, man.

Enter the "Rap Preview 2006" by PackFM, the rapper who stands 5'7, but fights like he's 6'2. Known for packing a punch without going over the top, Pack is one of New York's most crafty and entertaining emcees, a figurehead at QN5 Music, and is soon to be dropping his debut album on the label sometime this year. Tonedeff already dropped his epic Archetype last year, and now Pack is set to release WhutDoesFMStand4? Regarding this song you're about to hear, consider FM standing for "Freakin' Malicious." Er, or something. All I know is, someone had to say it about Mike Jones, Lil' Kim, Akon, and more names you probably heard too much of in 2005. I know I did.

Onward! "Rap Preview 2006" comes in two nifty download packages!

Street Version (Dirty) [192k Quality]
Radio Version (Clean) [256k Quality]

Props to the homie Pack for more entertaining shit, and let's hope the album is as hot as I think it's gonna be! If you want to learn more about the label, redirect your browsa, bowsa: peep the links on the side of this page and click "QN5 Music".

Meanwhile, I'm gonna nurse this mild fever and get some air. I can't wait to reveal my New Year's Resolution, heh.

Cheers,
~*E*~

Behind the name.

2006-01-01T15:24:00.000-05:00

First off, thank you for finding this. If you were an avid reader of my first journal which I kept for nearly four years, this is probably going to be a change of pace for you. Not really a free-for-all of emotions, but rather a free-for-all of thoughts. YES there will be funny pictures, YES there will be occasional mp3s, YES there will be links to news articles and funny stories, but most importantly YES I haven't sold out to the typical attitude of most blogs on this site. Even though I read them all the time, and gain much inspiration from them. That being said, all of you do yourselves a favor sometime, and click some of the links on the side. It's a start right now, but soon I will have more links up. And what's more is that, uh, they will actually be grouped together properly. But suffice with the substance for now, aight? I promise that through all these inspirations will come something completely archetypal. Believe dat.

Now about the name, "Beta Kerosene". Beta obviously refers to the second item of any system. Kerosene is the fuel for heaters. And beta carotene was a vitamin I used to take for years when my chemical inbalance was in full swing. It's converted to vitamin A when inside the body. As if this was any nerdier of a name idea, I figured putting it all together would make one nonsensical but memorable name. It's short, catchy, and well, I couldn't think of anything else besides "Let's Be Friends". Which in all honesty, is kinda hokey if you don't get the inside joke that probably only Jive Alive and I get.

Oh yeah, and the other thing I wanted to mention...in case you're not familiar with this site and have been living under Kristie Alley's hips this whole time, anyone can post comments now, even if you're not a member. I'd prefer if you don't be a stranger though and at least identify who you are when making a comment. I really want to get A LOT of feedback. Because this blog is gonna be my baby for 2006 and hopefully beyond, and I know most of you who are going to read this are going to want to have something to say.

I hope everyone had a great New Year, and that you're all nursing your hangovers carefully. Stay tuned for more great shit coming your way.

Cheers,
~*E*~