Fall Music: Black Milk - Album of the Year

I've been enjoying the recent album by Guilty Simpson, but otherwise I have been having some trouble finding good new hip hop. Luckily Black Milk's third album, Album of the Year, is here (Sept 14). Its not that far of a departure from Tronic, which is a good thing. Snares and drums usually take the lead and the album as a whole feels more concertedly in your face than previously. That said, Black Milk's beats have some definite new jazz influences and they remain eclectic and complex as ever. You have to respect the frequent, yet subtle use of hand claps. Black Milk is continuing to work on his game, while sticking with what works in crafting interesting and also extremely rewarding tracks.

Black Milk - Round of Applause (YSI)

Black Milk - Black and Brown (Feat. Danny Brown) (YSI)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPCsTsylmJkPJIRVNne5r2iBdTz9Bh64WQpmIKBayeLwBxIcDJFM3k0mYMKpzyoHvYDLvC1JSXspMCFcyyWH8i5gOU_5dS6U8MYFbgByvMiO1wbbd3lG56wY5FmkGVrVcQZXW3c6s6gCnU/s1600/TSRE+Black+Milk.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5522328252420495602" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPCsTsylmJkPJIRVNne5r2iBdTz9Bh64WQpmIKBayeLwBxIcDJFM3k0mYMKpzyoHvYDLvC1JSXspMCFcyyWH8i5gOU_5dS6U8MYFbgByvMiO1wbbd3lG56wY5FmkGVrVcQZXW3c6s6gCnU/s320/TSRE+Black+Milk.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" /></a>I've been enjoying the recent album by Guilty Simpson, but otherwise I have been having some trouble finding good new hip hop. Luckily Black Milk's third album, <span style="font-style: italic;">Album of the Year</span>, is here (Sept 14). Its not that far of a departure from <span style="font-style: italic;">Tronic</span>, which is a good thing. Snares and drums usually take the lead and the album as a whole feels more concertedly in your face than previously. That said, Black Milk's beats have some definite new jazz influences and they remain eclectic and complex as ever. You have to respect the frequent, yet subtle use of hand claps. Black Milk is continuing to work on his game, while sticking with what works in crafting interesting and also extremely rewarding tracks.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Black Milk - Round of Applause </span>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNKM25QcGs5bEN4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Black Milk - Black and Brown (Feat. Danny Brown)</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNKM25DZ2c1UjQwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)

Three From Nicki Minaj

Nicki Minaj is an absolute beast, let's be clear on that. I think she may be the only female voice in rap worth listening to right now, with the exception of Lady Sovereign. Missy, Eve, Lauryn, and the rest have all gone M.I.A. and there just aren't that many strong female voices out there at the moment. It's a bummer.

Another female voice out there - in the non rap game - that is killing it right now is La Roux. We've gone on and on about how great she is (and how well she works for mash-ups) but more mashes and remixes keep surfacing.

Well this one is massive. Colin Munroe, who we've sung the praises of before, dropped this jam a couple weeks ago and I can't get enough of it. He chops up La Roux's "Bulletproof" and throws it underneath Nicki Minaj's "Monster" verse. The result is epic and awesome.

For a bonus, here's Trey Songz' "Bottoms Up," which sports a schizophrenic but awesome verse from Ms. Minaj, along with the original "Monster" track, which features verses from Kanye, Jay-Z, and Rick Ross, along with vocals from Bon Iver. Sweet.

Colin Munroe - Bulletproof Monster (La Roux & Nicki Minaj Revox) (YSI)

Trey Songz - Bottoms Up (f. Nicki Minaj) (YSI)

Kanye West - Monster (f. Nicki Minaj, Jay-Z, Rick Ross & Bon Iver) (YSI)

Nicki Minaj is an absolute beast, let's be clear on that. I think she may be the only female voice in rap worth listening to right now, with the exception of Lady Sovereign. Missy, Eve, Lauryn, and the rest have all gone M.I.A. and there just aren't that many strong female voices out there at the moment. It's a bummer.<br /> <br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS68yCeWRqERyKT5qDfnpRCWXVFinUQVbWJLUATNCPSchl7nTmcCz4fCYmR3rw86k9NFxs9Rj8xty5kJaP24uG4Y8LM4T_RrPJw5YNqlaVUnoGD1p1ipjVcMj2tkTQd3T4NZJ0sDqhX7Q/s1600/NickiTSRE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS68yCeWRqERyKT5qDfnpRCWXVFinUQVbWJLUATNCPSchl7nTmcCz4fCYmR3rw86k9NFxs9Rj8xty5kJaP24uG4Y8LM4T_RrPJw5YNqlaVUnoGD1p1ipjVcMj2tkTQd3T4NZJ0sDqhX7Q/s320/NickiTSRE.JPG" width="213" /></a>Another female voice out there - in the non rap game - that is killing it right now is La Roux. We've gone on and on about how great she is (and how well she works for mash-ups) but more mashes and remixes keep surfacing.<br /> <br /> Well this one is massive. Colin Munroe, who we've sung the praises of before, dropped this jam a couple weeks ago and I can't get enough of it. He chops up La Roux's "Bulletproof" and throws it underneath Nicki Minaj's "Monster" verse. The result is epic and awesome.<br /> <br /> For a bonus, here's Trey Songz' "Bottoms Up," which sports a schizophrenic but awesome verse from Ms. Minaj, along with the original "Monster" track, which features verses from Kanye, Jay-Z, and Rick Ross, along with vocals from Bon Iver. Sweet.<br /> <br /> <b>Colin Munroe - Bulletproof Monster (La Roux & Nicki Minaj Revox)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNKM25NQ1BRWUkwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Trey Songz - Bottoms Up (f. Nicki Minaj)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNLWmdnTXZwcFUwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Kanye West - Monster (f. Nicki Minaj, Jay-Z, Rick Ross & Bon Iver)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNLWmdxV3JRR2V4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)

Looking Back At Mother's Milk

Remember when you loved the album Californication by the Red Hot Chili Peppers. It was so melodic, catchy, and popular. Being a fan, I started looking for the older RHCP stuff and found Mother's Milk. WOW, that was a mind opening experience. There is such a difference between the old rough around the edges, rocking out Peppers and the mainstream hit machines they became. That was my first experience realizing that music curiosity is awesome and rewarding to boot.

Red Hot Chili Peppers - Californication (YSI)

Red Hot Chili Peppers - Higher Ground (YSI)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ukLNbXlB4LWufzGMN34ty0yWTT6D3livACGRUK89P-JlLtQukrOB53zD7JY2LftGK5XZkprqYVwvtzhFyEcDp579-CNhzCWXMyV6hB_6gwyT2ppPTJP25FVVjjgwV3sMyY6rRsJz0z35/s1600/TSRE+Mothers+Milk.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521029605537438242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ukLNbXlB4LWufzGMN34ty0yWTT6D3livACGRUK89P-JlLtQukrOB53zD7JY2LftGK5XZkprqYVwvtzhFyEcDp579-CNhzCWXMyV6hB_6gwyT2ppPTJP25FVVjjgwV3sMyY6rRsJz0z35/s320/TSRE+Mothers+Milk.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 205px;" /></a>Remember when you loved the album <span style="font-style: italic;">Californication</span> by the Red Hot Chili Peppers. It was so melodic, catchy, and popular. Being a fan, I started looking for the older RHCP stuff and found <span style="font-style: italic;">Mother's Milk</span>. WOW, that was a mind opening experience. There is such a difference between the old rough around the edges, rocking out Peppers and the mainstream hit machines they became. That was my first experience realizing that music curiosity is awesome and rewarding to boot.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Red Hot Chili Peppers - Californication</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNMS3d1dzh5Ukh2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Red Hot Chili Peppers - Higher Ground</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNMS3d0NmNwM2xFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)

Revaluating Cosmogramma

I am here to right a wrong that TSRE has committed. We did not adequately hype Flying Lotus' Cosmogramma when it came out earlier this year and for that I am sorry. While listening to it more recently, especially while driving at night, I now comprehend how expansive Cosmogramma is. Just like its title, the album really is a personal cosmology of musical influences and cosmic belief. Interweaving hip hop and jazz, Flying Lotus transcends the earthly limitations of Los Angeles and reaches for the stars on Cosmogramma. Every bounce, every beat, every horn is free of gravity and allows the tracks to move in unexpectedly fluid ways.

Flying Lotus - Zodiac Shit (YSI)

Flying Lotus - Computer Face/Pure Being (YSI)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2JsxMkJv3P2qlXqoLK3fPmQQwKFL8VZ96xgLyFfUZX48WF22aX3QrJmZ4g_gFyl17yT-Z1rdoplZQReL9jBzmMj6B4hBlpDOSmRsJX0up11UJ1z4TkziL2iINsyCtHTcM-vIVIeRAs7jN/s1600/TSRE+Cosmos.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521025400289416754" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2JsxMkJv3P2qlXqoLK3fPmQQwKFL8VZ96xgLyFfUZX48WF22aX3QrJmZ4g_gFyl17yT-Z1rdoplZQReL9jBzmMj6B4hBlpDOSmRsJX0up11UJ1z4TkziL2iINsyCtHTcM-vIVIeRAs7jN/s320/TSRE+Cosmos.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" /></a>I am here to right a wrong that TSRE has committed. We did not adequately hype Flying Lotus' <span style="font-style: italic;">Cosmogramma</span> when it came out earlier this year and for that I am sorry. While listening to it more recently, especially while driving at night, I now comprehend how expansive <span style="font-style: italic;">Cosmogramma</span> is. Just like its title, the album really is a personal cosmology of musical influences and cosmic belief. Interweaving hip hop and jazz, Flying Lotus transcends the earthly limitations of <span style="font-style: italic;">Los Angeles</span> and reaches for the stars on <span style="font-style: italic;">Cosmogramma</span>. Every bounce, every beat, every horn is free of gravity and allows the tracks to move in unexpectedly fluid ways.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Flying Lotus - Zodiac Shit</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNMS3drdGo4aVB2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Flying Lotus - Computer Face/Pure Being</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNMS3drdGpQb0pjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)

Das Racist's New Mixtape: Das Serious

When your first song is really a joke tune about fast food restaurants, it’s tough to get people to take you seriously. Good thing Das Racist isn’t too concerned with people taking them seriously. In their own words, “We could have written a structured treatise attacking corporate proliferation. Or we could just say ‘Pizza Hut Taco Bell’ over and over. That shit’s way funnier.”

Well, Das Racist has moved on from games – or at least made the games a little more coherently lyrical – on their latest mixtape, Sit Down, Man. With tracks from Boi-1da and Diplo, the tape is a step forward in the production department. More importantly, it’s a step forward in the idea of Das Racist. They’re making songs that are more easily digestible, following standard formats a little more closely. For a group that made a name by defying convention, they are a lot more conventional.

More conventional does not mean boring, though – Das Racist plays with the boundaries of their genre(s) more than most artists, enjoying the flex that poor, intelligent hip hop affords its practitioners. The result is one of the smartest mixtapes you’ll find on the corner that leaves you wondering what it’s all about – are these one-time jokers becoming a real group? You’ll have to ask them, but it won’t be much help; all they’ll tell you is: “We’re not joking, just joking we are joking, just joking we’re not joking.”

Das Racist – hahahaha jk? (YSI) (filesavr)

Das Racist – you can sell anything (prod. by Diplo) (YSI) (filesavr)

Das Racist – rooftop (YSI) (filesavr)

<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">When your first song is really a joke tune about fast food restaurants, it’s tough to get people to take you seriously. Good thing Das Racist isn’t too concerned with people taking them seriously. In their own words, </span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #232323; line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">“We could have written a structured treatise attacking corporate proliferation. Or we could just say ‘Pizza Hut Taco Bell’ over and over. That shit’s way funnier.”</span></span></span><br /> <div class="MsoNormal"> <span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #232323; line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg92NQbYp7wsLaNaQcNtqHvLs4t5Uup2hpg9mvxuO2KG1su4hAAjroTIs86ySSm5uPovFPuQ5aRx2_jLBYo2MVFGGJqoST5hq-f8G6yM9d4pS-06kXhtW77iFlqGbjE6k6DpBd9Wy3t4rU/s1600/DasRacistTSRE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg92NQbYp7wsLaNaQcNtqHvLs4t5Uup2hpg9mvxuO2KG1su4hAAjroTIs86ySSm5uPovFPuQ5aRx2_jLBYo2MVFGGJqoST5hq-f8G6yM9d4pS-06kXhtW77iFlqGbjE6k6DpBd9Wy3t4rU/s320/DasRacistTSRE.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> <span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #232323; line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Well, Das Racist has moved on from games – or at least made the games a little more coherently lyrical – on their latest mixtape, </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Sit Down, Man</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">. With tracks from Boi-1da and Diplo, the tape is a step forward in the production department. More importantly, it’s a step forward in the idea of Das Racist. They’re making songs that are more easily digestible, following standard formats a little more closely. For a group that made a name by defying convention, they are a lot more conventional.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #232323; line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #232323; line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">More conventional does not mean boring, though – Das Racist plays with the boundaries of their genre(s) more than most artists, enjoying the flex that poor, intelligent hip hop affords its practitioners. The result is one of the smartest mixtapes you’ll find on the corner that leaves you wondering what it’s all about – are these one-time jokers becoming a real group? You’ll have to ask them, but it won’t be much help; all they’ll tell you is: “We’re not joking, just joking we are joking, just joking we’re not joking.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <br /></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #232323; line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Das Racist – hahahaha jk?</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNLZEV6QzdoeVpjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/files/do_download/MDRfaGFoYWhhaGFfamtfLm1wMw==" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #232323; line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #232323; line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Das Racist – you can sell anything (prod. by Diplo)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNLZEU2U1A5RlpFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/files/do_download/MTdfeW91X2Nhbl9zZWxsX2FueXRoaW5nXyhwcm9kLl9ieV9EXy5tcDM=" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #232323; line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div> <div class="MsoNormal"> <span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #232323; line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Das Racist – rooftop</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNLZEV5SWVrYUEwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/files/do_download/MTJfcm9vZnRvcF8oZi5fZGVzcG90KV8ubXAz" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)</span></span></span><span style="color: #232323; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>

LCD Soundsystem @ Wellmont Theatre, 9/23

On Thursday night I saw one of the best shows I've seen in a long time - LCD Soundsystem headlining with Sleigh Bells opening. It was one of the highest energy concerts I've been to - Sleigh Bells rocked out as usual, and LCD blew the roof off of the Wellmont Theatre with a spectacular light set-up and phenomenal sound. They kicked off with "Dance Yrself Clean," probably my favorite track from their 2010 album This Is Happening, apparently the first time they had played that song live. Incredible.

I saw LCD Soundsystem at Bonnaroo this year, and I wasn't blown away. Don't get me wrong, they played a great set - it just didn't feel like the band was in their element. Fans were throwing glowsticks at James Murphy, who went from drunk and happy to drunk and annoyed within the span of a few songs. A fan rushed the stage and tried to bite the bassist (true story). They only played for an hour, and didn't play an encore. It left something to be desired.

Everything I could have desired from that show came true on Thursday. They played a full two hours, including a three song encore and the debut of a few songs they hadn't played before. A sped-up version of "Daft Punk Is Playing At My House" absolutely rocked, and "Someone Great" was beautiful. "You Wanted A Hit" was a high energy song when played live, and the band ended with "Home," a fitting conclusion to James Murphy's first show in his native New Jersey. Brilliant.

LCD Soundsystem is a band that took me a long time to get into. I strongly disagreed with those who thought Sound of Silver was the best album of 2007. While I still don't think it was tops of that year, and I dislike the song "North American Scum" with a passion, I have softened my stance. I have been bumping to This Is Happening all year, and have come to truly love LCD Soundsystem. One of the best releases of the year, and definitely toward the top of the concerts I've seen.

LCD Soundsystem - Dance Yrself Clean (YSI) (filesavr)

wait what - Lean Yourself Back (LCD Soundsystem vs. Eminem, Mase & Fat Joe) (YSI) (filesavr)

On Thursday night I saw one of the best shows I've seen in a long time - LCD Soundsystem headlining with Sleigh Bells opening. It was one of the highest energy concerts I've been to - Sleigh Bells rocked out as usual, and LCD blew the roof off of the Wellmont Theatre with a spectacular light set-up and phenomenal sound. They kicked off with "Dance Yrself Clean," probably my favorite track from their 2010 album <i>This Is Happening</i>, apparently the first time they had played that song live. Incredible. <br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0QnY_zmFJ9AojGGOKpb_n__9-DY97WLG5Ps2dHpdM_KjKsFShZ8eJ-khAR02WlxpCNsEdIJH6Bii9O_HiSqhUDzcJuPGpLCnR-wPvInR7oH3zDgUPEBgfJMepqboh-gByn0ZMTxr68Bk/s1600/LCD-Soundsystem-BonnarooTSRE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0QnY_zmFJ9AojGGOKpb_n__9-DY97WLG5Ps2dHpdM_KjKsFShZ8eJ-khAR02WlxpCNsEdIJH6Bii9O_HiSqhUDzcJuPGpLCnR-wPvInR7oH3zDgUPEBgfJMepqboh-gByn0ZMTxr68Bk/s320/LCD-Soundsystem-BonnarooTSRE.JPG" width="212" /></a></div> I saw LCD Soundsystem at Bonnaroo this year, and I wasn't blown away. Don't get me wrong, they played a great set - it just didn't feel like the band was in their element. Fans were throwing glowsticks at James Murphy, who went from drunk and happy to drunk and annoyed within the span of a few songs. A fan rushed the stage and tried to bite the bassist (true story). They only played for an hour, and didn't play an encore. It left something to be desired.<br /> <br /> Everything I could have desired from that show came true on Thursday. They played a full two hours, including a three song encore and the debut of a few songs they hadn't played before. A sped-up version of "Daft Punk Is Playing At My House" absolutely rocked, and "Someone Great" was beautiful. "You Wanted A Hit" was a high energy song when played live, and the band ended with "Home," a fitting conclusion to James Murphy's first show in his native New Jersey. Brilliant.<br /> <br /> LCD Soundsystem is a band that took me a long time to get into. I strongly disagreed with those who thought <i>Sound of Silver</i> was the best album of 2007. While I still don't think it was tops of that year, and I dislike the song "North American Scum" with a passion, I have softened my stance. I have been bumping to <i>This Is Happening</i> all year, and have come to truly love LCD Soundsystem. One of the best releases of the year, and definitely toward the top of the concerts I've seen.<br /> <br /> <b>LCD Soundsystem - Dance Yrself Clean</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNLZEUzcHZubHhFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/files/do_download/MDFfRGFuY2VfWXJzZWxmX0NsZWFuLm1wMw==" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>wait what - Lean Yourself Back (LCD Soundsystem vs. Eminem, Mase & Fat Joe)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNLZEU5Q1JvQUpjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/files/do_download/MDVfTGVhbl9Zb3Vyc2VsZl9CYWNrXyhMQ0RfU291bmRzeXN0Lm1wMw==" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Juxtaposed

The other day, I was standing on the 1 heading uptown. There was an older, black, drunk man sitting in front of me. He was probably in his 50s, wearing a sweatshirt and jeans, and clearly not at all bothered by the put-together, after-work crowd around him. For a while he did nothing but sit there repeating the phrase “Your boss kicked your ass today!” His tone suggested that he took some satisfaction in the fact that we were just leaving work and he was already drunk.

After a while, he gave this refrain a break and started singing in a voice that was grizzled by age and alcohol. He sang what seemed to be an endless love song. In general, it was tough to make out the words, but there was one memorable moment of lyrical clarity, when he built up unintelligibly to a climactic, wheezed, “I need you” punctuated by a falsetto sob.

As I listened to this rather lengthy song, I noticed a few feet to my left a young Asian man studying a music score. As he leafed through the pages, he fiddled with his iPod, queuing it up to the page he was looking at—not something you usually see outside of a music library. I assumed him to be an aspiring conductor. I stared curiously, trying to figure out what music he was studying. Finally, I caught a glimpse of the cover: Shostakovich's Symphony No. 10.

The conductor was clearly annoyed with the drunk, turning his iPod's volume up and edging away. I, on the other hand, was enjoying this juxtaposition. Here in front of me was an illustration of one of the biggest reasons that I love music—it can take so many forms, and mean so many different things to different people. Music can be a drunken pastime to an aging alcoholic, or the object of intense study and focus for a conducting student, and it can exist in both of these forms within a 5-foot radius. Amazing.

Big Z Remixes - No Good With Faces (feat. Jack Johnson & Too Short) (YSI) (filesavr)

Peter Paul & Mary - Early in the Morning (YSI) (filesavr)

Chopin - Prelude in E Minor (YSI) (filesavr)

<span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdXT8QMnpyjB6RqRvzBwYKeJKuys2PcLcU0l25ED-pxvh7PzD78zbDJ9oFvQCu4gdg9hkQZyngCL2uZu0tUxvo_8ZNlRd84XM2O5lRcgO9MOVnYJtA-Cywkrmiko_lpVzQeOqsWvvip7M/s1600/taste-in-music.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5520451729896016306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdXT8QMnpyjB6RqRvzBwYKeJKuys2PcLcU0l25ED-pxvh7PzD78zbDJ9oFvQCu4gdg9hkQZyngCL2uZu0tUxvo_8ZNlRd84XM2O5lRcgO9MOVnYJtA-Cywkrmiko_lpVzQeOqsWvvip7M/s320/taste-in-music.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 216px; height: 158px;" /></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:85%;">The other day, I was standing on the 1 heading uptown. There was an older, black, drunk man sitting in front of me. He was probably in his 50s, wearing a sweatshirt and jeans, and clearly not at all bothered by the put-together, after-work crowd around him. For a while he did nothing but sit there repeating the phrase “Your boss kicked your ass today!” His tone suggested that he took some satisfaction in the fact that we were just leaving work and he was already drunk. </span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;font-family:Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-align: left;font-family:Georgia,serif;"><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span">After a while, he gave this refrain a break and started singing in a voice that was grizzled by age and alcohol. He sang what seemed to be an endless love song. In general, it was tough to make out the words, but there was one memorable moment of lyrical clarity, when he built up unintelligibly to a climactic, wheezed, “I need you” punctuated by a falsetto sob. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span">As I listened to this rather lengthy song, I noticed a few feet to my left a young Asian man studying a music score. As he leafed through the pages, he fiddled with his iPod, queuing it up to the page he was looking at—not something you usually see outside of a music library. I assumed him to be an aspiring conductor. I stared curiously, trying to figure out what music he was studying. Finally, I caught a glimpse of the cover: Shostakovich's Symphony No. 10.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span">The conductor was clearly annoyed with the drunk, turning his iPod's volume up and edging away. I, on the other hand, was enjoying this juxtaposition. Here in front of me was an illustration of one of the biggest reasons that I love music—it can take so many forms, and mean so many different things to different people. Music can be a drunken pastime to an aging alcoholic, or the object of intense study and focus for a conducting student, and it can exist in both of these forms within a 5-foot radius. Amazing. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Big Z Remixes - No Good With Faces (feat. Jack Johnson & Too Short) </span>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNMRFFSSU9UME0wTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (</span><a href="http://www.filesavr.com/files/do_download/MDdfTm9fR29vZF9XaXRoX0ZhY2VzXyhmdC5fSmFja19Kb2huc29uX2FuZF9Ub29fU2hvcnQpXy5tcDM=" target="_blank">filesavr</a><span class="Apple-style-span">)<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Peter Paul & Mary - Early in the Morning</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNMRFFVdVVtUUUwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (</span><a href="http://www.filesavr.com/files/do_download/MDFfRWFybHlfaW5fdGhlX01vcm5pbmdfMS5tcDM=" target="_blank">filesavr</a><span class="Apple-style-span">)</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Chopin - Prelude in E Minor</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNMRFFVdVVnYVB2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (</span><a href="http://www.filesavr.com/files/do_download/MDhfUHJlbHVkZV9pbl9FX21pbm9yX09wLl8yOF9Ob18uXzFfLm1wMw==" target="_blank">filesavr</a><span class="Apple-style-span">)</span></p></span></span></span>

Fall Music: The Phantom Band - The Wants

For those of us not in southern California and other warm climes, its time to start packing away the airy summer jams we've been cranking for the past months. Luckily, a bunch of great new music is on the horizon this Fall or has just come out. I'm going to be doing some pretty quick previews of some new stuff that has caught my eye recently:

The Phantom Band - The Wants (Oct 19)

I really enjoyed The Phantom Band's previous release Checkmate Savage and hopefully The Wants will elaborate on The Phantom Band's crunchy indie rock sound. With big Scottish accents and a general disregard for synth-y frippery, guitars take the fore with some interesting rhythms and as they say on Food Network BOLD FLAVORS! Their new track Walls isn't my favorite (or as attention holding as some) from them, but it is not too much of a departure to frighten me off.

The Phantom Band - Walls (YSI)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGS7XZUGkKtKlRLzg828-drZc3CwrtnDIntAckuDAo8-yVnF0zRckOhzN1JWDiRovqz365RnifuO40daGVEZEYuT6fuqQIkOEXGt-qhDwK7pYNUsH9hP-WERj_zYul7ZEnHdedchtu6gU5/s1600/TSRE+Phantom+Limb.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519940472549855490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGS7XZUGkKtKlRLzg828-drZc3CwrtnDIntAckuDAo8-yVnF0zRckOhzN1JWDiRovqz365RnifuO40daGVEZEYuT6fuqQIkOEXGt-qhDwK7pYNUsH9hP-WERj_zYul7ZEnHdedchtu6gU5/s320/TSRE+Phantom+Limb.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px;" /></a>For those of us not in southern California and other warm climes, its time to start packing away the airy summer jams we've been cranking for the past months. Luckily, a bunch of great new music is on the horizon this Fall or has just come out. I'm going to be doing some pretty quick previews of some new stuff that has caught my eye recently:<br /><br />The Phantom Band - <span style="font-style: italic;">The Wants</span> (Oct 19)<br /><br />I really enjoyed The Phantom Band's previous release <span style="font-style: italic;">Checkmate Savage</span> and hopefully <span style="font-style: italic;">The Wants</span> will elaborate on The Phantom Band's crunchy indie rock sound. With big Scottish accents and a general disregard for synth-y frippery, guitars take the fore with some interesting rhythms and as they say on Food Network BOLD FLAVORS! Their new track Walls isn't my favorite (or as attention holding as some) from them, but it is not too much of a departure to frighten me off.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Phantom Band - Walls</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNKeVdxa0QxUUR2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)

Oye Loca, Mash Mash Mash

I'm a sucker for a good mash-up, that's no secret. There have been a number of good mash-up projects out this summer that have been worth tuning in for - 500 Days of Weezy, Wait What's XX/Biggie mash, etc. There have been a bunch of horrible mash-up projects, too. Pretty much anything involving Sleigh Bells that wasn't The Hood Internet was completely abominable.

One mash-up that came my way recently is from DJ Enzo, a friend who DJ'd for countless parties that Zack, Ben, and I attended. Things you should know about this mash:
1. It's dope.
2. It includes Ke$ha, "The Whistle Song," and Pitbull's "Toma"

That's all you need to know. If you're anything like me, you're already downloading this track. Good for you. Turn it up in the headphones and revel in the NOW.

DJ Enzo - When's The Last Time Love Was Your Drug (Ke$ha vs Juelz Santana vs Pitbull) (YSI)

The Hood Internet - Oh My Kids (Sleigh Bells vs. Usher) (YSI)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQzqKVW0bEGLEwdokLtkjTMq8iMqbC853rtcP_aFTfBTaPH58kR-pQ0anS2C2RjloB02WWAcfgUgoCYMzp6H4Ck9qcuSPurFHVLsQ1vDkjS56c_WdZw3G6UxX8FX-aiIesHri3VhHWTzU/s1600/mashed-potato-ck-549812-lTSRE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQzqKVW0bEGLEwdokLtkjTMq8iMqbC853rtcP_aFTfBTaPH58kR-pQ0anS2C2RjloB02WWAcfgUgoCYMzp6H4Ck9qcuSPurFHVLsQ1vDkjS56c_WdZw3G6UxX8FX-aiIesHri3VhHWTzU/s320/mashed-potato-ck-549812-lTSRE.JPG" /></a>I'm a sucker for a good mash-up, that's no secret. There have been a number of good mash-up projects out this summer that have been worth tuning in for - 500 Days of Weezy, Wait What's XX/Biggie mash, etc. There have been a bunch of horrible mash-up projects, too. Pretty much anything involving Sleigh Bells that wasn't The Hood Internet was completely abominable.<br /> <br /> One mash-up that came my way recently is from DJ Enzo, a friend who DJ'd for countless parties that Zack, Ben, and I attended. Things you should know about this mash:<br /> 1. It's dope.<br /> 2. It includes Ke$ha, "The Whistle Song," and Pitbull's "Toma"<br /> <br /> That's all you need to know. If you're anything like me, you're already downloading this track. Good for you. Turn it up in the headphones and revel in the NOW.<br /> <br /> <b>DJ Enzo - When's The Last Time Love Was Your Drug (Ke$ha vs Juelz Santana vs Pitbull) </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNMTkFsaTFRR2RFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>The Hood Internet - Oh My Kids (Sleigh Bells vs. Usher)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/WTNMTkFsaTFUMFB2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)

Apple Picking Day

Apple picking today, which means that Fall is just around the corner. I'm going to be living off of apple products for weeks as darkness slowly begins to descend on New England. Its not quite time to break out the folk yet, but here are some pretty random tunes for an almost Fall weekend.

Animal Collective - I Think I Can (YSI) (filesavr)

Black Milk - Watch Em (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc-bQKkhtlQVvPPP9Ma6r26ZaSB31-ZRoxqQ1BJPogErc4U7veefY2VFik-7-MGbcq__LPqug83EsxLIF-4a4APPWvh6OXCiOmCv5AjrJG-xA4DyqvkUgAeW6zb3_kvar7YWxYv1_INbDB/s1600/TSRE+Apple.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517698864176678962" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc-bQKkhtlQVvPPP9Ma6r26ZaSB31-ZRoxqQ1BJPogErc4U7veefY2VFik-7-MGbcq__LPqug83EsxLIF-4a4APPWvh6OXCiOmCv5AjrJG-xA4DyqvkUgAeW6zb3_kvar7YWxYv1_INbDB/s320/TSRE+Apple.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" /></a>Apple picking today, which means that Fall is just around the corner. I'm going to be living off of apple products for weeks as darkness slowly begins to descend on New England. Its not quite time to break out the folk yet, but here are some pretty random tunes for an almost Fall weekend.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Animal Collective - I Think I Can</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVvc2ZIQzNwaFN4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/05ithinkican_1" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Black Milk - Watch Em</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVvc2ZDOC9OQncwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/U1Q8ScRx" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Dominant Legs: He's Going to be HUUUGGGEEEE

Dominant Legs is just one dude, but he manages to cover a lot of ground on his four track EP Young at Love and Life. Clawing Out at the Walls features some expansive boy/girl vocals and end of the summer guitars, while About My Girls sounds like some moody 80's new wave synth band, but in a catchy, good way. Despite that though, there's a laid back and optimistic sense that pervades the EP. Phew. The guy's got breadth. Keep an eye out for more.

Dominant Legs - Clawing Out at the Walls (YSI) (filesavr)

Dominant Legs - About My Girls (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMk-EUBlJckL0DQGvq9nv_vxZvSJz9aNLMLjeI8dq28MMmylgxM7D5EN1M2L-USoxHg8dg_g52vPDM3CA8lAodIdDq6f-5xD3mGSryi3FG-8toQtUDaw_4Td2e-Sgbmg9u4az_sRy1ki0s/s1600/TSRE+Leg+Lamp.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517689905943659346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMk-EUBlJckL0DQGvq9nv_vxZvSJz9aNLMLjeI8dq28MMmylgxM7D5EN1M2L-USoxHg8dg_g52vPDM3CA8lAodIdDq6f-5xD3mGSryi3FG-8toQtUDaw_4Td2e-Sgbmg9u4az_sRy1ki0s/s320/TSRE+Leg+Lamp.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 175px; height: 320px;" /></a>Dominant Legs is just one dude, but he manages to cover a lot of ground on his four track EP <span style="font-style: italic;">Young at Love and Life</span>. Clawing Out at the Walls features some expansive boy/girl vocals and end of the summer guitars, while About My Girls sounds like some moody 80's new wave synth band, but in a catchy, good way. Despite that though, there's a laid back and optimistic sense that pervades the EP. Phew. The guy's got breadth. Keep an eye out for more. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dominant Legs - Clawing Out at the Walls</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVvc2ZEVEhnYU94dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/mq8rhe9p" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dominant Legs - About My Girls </span>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVvc2ZFQXB1Yk5FQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/iq8BJUsL" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Shabazz Palaces Rule the Corners

Impromptu hip hop week continues with this weirdly addictive cut from Shabazz Palaces. The beat stutters, the flow languid, but somehow it works. Plus, you have to respect the reference to The Wire.

Shabazz Palaces - Barksdale Corners (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOpHRg379DfQG5sexAUgB2utKJEl6dnxrNFMVPBRyXn6lauMIWy_c1ZGNqpj5NcM4D3PnD5r1rUJ94Pt1zotVHOkXS0Q6cxXltoLTdnuJTz8OXgp9q2k8-JRHe2nT0Ko4BGiHiyiZIohnk/s1600/TSRE+Barksdale.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516956763996655122" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOpHRg379DfQG5sexAUgB2utKJEl6dnxrNFMVPBRyXn6lauMIWy_c1ZGNqpj5NcM4D3PnD5r1rUJ94Pt1zotVHOkXS0Q6cxXltoLTdnuJTz8OXgp9q2k8-JRHe2nT0Ko4BGiHiyiZIohnk/s320/TSRE+Barksdale.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 200px;" /></a>Impromptu hip hop week continues with this weirdly addictive cut from Shabazz Palaces. The beat stutters, the flow languid, but somehow it works. Plus, you have to respect the reference to The Wire.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Shabazz Palaces - Barksdale Corners</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVveFlYQVM1Ujd2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/VWVF4ksM" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Will Smith's Nine Year Old Daughter Is More Talented Than You

It must be kiddie week on TSRE - after a post involving Justin Bieber a couple days ago, I'm back with a track from a 9 year old. Yes, you read that right - a 9 year old, dude.

The pre-teen in question is none other than Willow Smith, the daughter of Will Smith. She has a song out (don't ask me how) that is awesome (don't ask me how). It's called "Whip My Hair," and it's baller - the hook alone should be sampled on rap mixtapes ASAP. Not to mention that Willow Smith has a pretty good voice, especially for a youngster. Kids sing the darndest things!

"Whip My Hair" reminds me of another Philly Girl track, Lil Mama's "Lip Gloss." And if you know anything about me, you know that that's high praise. Cop it and rock out.

Willow Smith - Whip My Hair (YSI) (filesavr)

Lil Mama - Lip Gloss (YSI) (filesavr)

It must be kiddie week on TSRE - after a post involving Justin Bieber a couple days ago, I'm back with a track from a 9 year old. Yes, you read that right - a 9 year old, dude.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD1IxbFCS-plYDxQdm101ZGdb24yfTakzVcn8WE6-eAaSrYyR5tkInoTkmgVaFMCPmG3dl4tZkhyphenhyphentg7oqOrqJAkhwBUkMrhhAlHQ5XlR5C6GJx6jsWoWyftSkTrKnPYILYA2PTZwln-Xg/s1600/willowsmithTSRE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD1IxbFCS-plYDxQdm101ZGdb24yfTakzVcn8WE6-eAaSrYyR5tkInoTkmgVaFMCPmG3dl4tZkhyphenhyphentg7oqOrqJAkhwBUkMrhhAlHQ5XlR5C6GJx6jsWoWyftSkTrKnPYILYA2PTZwln-Xg/s320/willowsmithTSRE.JPG" /></a></div>The pre-teen in question is none other than Willow Smith, the daughter of Will Smith. She has a song out (don't ask me how) that is awesome (don't ask me how). It's called "Whip My Hair," and it's baller - the hook alone should be sampled on rap mixtapes ASAP. Not to mention that Willow Smith has a pretty good voice, especially for a youngster. Kids sing the darndest things!<br /> <br /> "Whip My Hair" reminds me of another Philly Girl track, Lil Mama's "Lip Gloss." And if you know anything about me, you know that that's high praise. Cop it and rock out.<br /> <br /> <b>Willow Smith - Whip My Hair</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVxak95OC9Fc0pjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/m3Vjl7Te" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Lil Mama - Lip Gloss</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVxak95OC9xRTJ4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/rKZB58O4" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Guilty of Digging Guilty Simpson

I don't know a ton about Guilty Simpson, except that he's signed to Stones Throw and he is in Random Axe with Black Milk. Anyone in a group with Black Milk gets major points from me, for real.

Guilty came out with his second album, OJ Simpson, earlier this year. It has some awesome production on it - very Dilla meets DOOM. If you like J. Dilla or MF Doom, there is absolutely no excuse for not listening to Guilty Simpson before. Straight up awesome. Although he doesn't necessarily have the same facility as DOOM's flows, Guilty Simpson's sort of sound collage production really evokes a similar mood. Experimental hip hop for sure.

Here are some of my favorite tracks from the album, along with a J. Dilla remix of Four Tet's excellent "As Serious As Your Life" that features a couple verses from Guilty Simpson. Guilty references the track in "Cali Hills," which you can also check out below. I highly recommend Guilty for any heads looking for a new fix.

Guilty Simpson - Cali Hills (YSI) (filesavr)

Guilty Simpson - Something Good (Intermission Two) (YSI) (filesavr)

Four Tet - As Serious As Your Life (J.Dilla Remix f. Guilty Simpson) (YSI) (filesavr)

I don't know a ton about Guilty Simpson, except that he's signed to Stones Throw and he is in Random Axe with Black Milk. Anyone in a group with Black Milk gets major points from me, for real.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyw1IWJSQy9mT2d8cNIPJt5xKTZ52ozLBOB71IZ4srbT0PpCd8AdY9nMGOa38EVyTGdjJSBEfxzCfGk5cU7neGHxpB_N3bhzX1dM3dMEKcI-LIMLc4c8wKBYKqR-RXA48eSUxr9LGrXac/s1600/GuiltySimpsonTSRE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyw1IWJSQy9mT2d8cNIPJt5xKTZ52ozLBOB71IZ4srbT0PpCd8AdY9nMGOa38EVyTGdjJSBEfxzCfGk5cU7neGHxpB_N3bhzX1dM3dMEKcI-LIMLc4c8wKBYKqR-RXA48eSUxr9LGrXac/s320/GuiltySimpsonTSRE.JPG" /></a></div>Guilty came out with his second album, <i>OJ Simpson</i>, earlier this year. It has some awesome production on it - very Dilla meets DOOM. If you like J. Dilla or MF Doom, there is absolutely no excuse for not listening to Guilty Simpson before. Straight up awesome. Although he doesn't necessarily have the same facility as DOOM's flows, Guilty Simpson's sort of sound collage production really evokes a similar mood. Experimental hip hop for sure.<br /> <br /> Here are some of my favorite tracks from the album, along with a J. Dilla remix of Four Tet's excellent "As Serious As Your Life" that features a couple verses from Guilty Simpson. Guilty references the track in "Cali Hills," which you can also check out below. I highly recommend Guilty for any heads looking for a new fix.<br /> <br /> <b>Guilty Simpson - Cali Hills </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVyQ1ZoZEtOMUEwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/Xro6KDrc" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Guilty Simpson - Something Good (Intermission Two)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVyQ1ZucVhTSUJFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/Svt6Ja9s" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Four Tet - As Serious As Your Life (J.Dilla Remix f. Guilty Simpson)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVxT204R3NlaFEwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/g5Py2kAA" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Move Over Meth, Ghost, and Rae - It's Biebs, Ye, and Rae Time

In one of the more out-of-left field collaborations you'll ever hear of, Raekwon and Kanye recently put together a remix of a Justin Bieber track, "Runaway Love". The genesis, as I understand it, was a Twitter joke that soon gained traction. Then it became a reality. And now it's on the internet. Bonkers.

Here's the crazy thing: It doesn't suck. Bieber sings a young kid hook, Rae and Ye plop a Wu-ish beat on top, the verses are solid. Nothing PG here - Raekwon doesn't feel overly censored. Pretty money, in fact.

For comparison, check out the Method Man, Ghostface, and Raekwon track from Wu Massacre that features Michael Jackson on the hook. The transition from the hook to the verses is AWKWARD, and I think it generally doesn't flow quite as well as the Bieber track (although I love Ghost and Meth on the track). Interesting to listen to the songs back to back.

Hilarious that the Bieber collaboration happened. Cool that it's palatable. Now let's stop this fad before it starts.

Justin Bieber f. Kanye West and Raekwon - Runaway Love (Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)

Meth, Ghost, and Rae f. Michael Jackson - Our Dreams (YSI) (filesavr)

In one of the more out-of-left field collaborations you'll ever hear of, Raekwon and Kanye recently put together a remix of a Justin Bieber track, "Runaway Love". The genesis, as I understand it, was a Twitter joke that soon gained traction. Then it became a reality. And now it's on the internet. Bonkers.<br /> <br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWWurl7oI76qS0S1MNSedWd8fy3oBX3TH0YL5w5zUXO9oWTRIW5REeHU_kQHcRnuq1tlJTBGXvfXFcU_UWecWNxrxI2jm2KniRu5thzaMX32d6tmPRcm3bViNt1UToU_lhxL-ffOmd4KI/s1600/kanyebieberTSRE.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWWurl7oI76qS0S1MNSedWd8fy3oBX3TH0YL5w5zUXO9oWTRIW5REeHU_kQHcRnuq1tlJTBGXvfXFcU_UWecWNxrxI2jm2KniRu5thzaMX32d6tmPRcm3bViNt1UToU_lhxL-ffOmd4KI/s320/kanyebieberTSRE.PNG" /></a>Here's the crazy thing: It doesn't suck. Bieber sings a young kid hook, Rae and Ye plop a Wu-ish beat on top, the verses are solid. Nothing PG here - Raekwon doesn't feel overly censored. Pretty money, in fact.<br /> <br /> <div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /> </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">For comparison, check out the Method Man, Ghostface, and Raekwon track from <i>Wu Massacre</i> that features Michael Jackson on the hook. The transition from the hook to the verses is AWKWARD, and I think it generally doesn't flow quite as well as the Bieber track (although I love Ghost and Meth on the track). Interesting to listen to the songs back to back.</div><div><br /> </div><br /> Hilarious that the Bieber collaboration happened. Cool that it's palatable. Now let's stop this fad before it starts.<br /> <br /> <b>Justin Bieber f. Kanye West and Raekwon - Runaway Love (Remix)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVyQ1ZuQVNFd2MwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/Vql2138i" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Meth, Ghost, and Rae f. Michael Jackson - Our Dreams</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVyQ1Zpd0liV3hFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/59dLsenA" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

GAATTTOORRRAAAADDDEEEEE - Water Sucks

When I first heard the new Gatorade commercial featuring the track Evolve, I thought it was some old soul gem that they uncovered. Unfortunately though its a contemporary song sung by Kermit Quinn written and produced by David Banner. What a bummer. Either way, despite being a poseur with clear corporate bias, the track is still quite fun.

Kermit Quinn - Evolve (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil5QFpwTNv-kjGSRvBRksS64qrKBKSiLlge8XDUYB07GigEud0HnkL-uHLqT7kl1ujPVi_XTGOHOtStAhegG_zjDoXira4EjnqBFr3mvBg2ZpjYQv3tzxDLR5Mp_zch8HwEVztMu5vipvQ/s1600/TSRE+Monkey.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515411616538509154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil5QFpwTNv-kjGSRvBRksS64qrKBKSiLlge8XDUYB07GigEud0HnkL-uHLqT7kl1ujPVi_XTGOHOtStAhegG_zjDoXira4EjnqBFr3mvBg2ZpjYQv3tzxDLR5Mp_zch8HwEVztMu5vipvQ/s320/TSRE+Monkey.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 253px; height: 320px;" /></a>When I first heard the new Gatorade commercial featuring the track Evolve, I thought it was some old soul gem that they uncovered. Unfortunately though its a contemporary song sung by Kermit Quinn written and produced by David Banner. What a bummer. Either way, despite being a poseur with clear corporate bias, the track is still quite fun.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Kermit Quinn - Evolve</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVwOU1aMGtIcWMwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/dBsX7fLT" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

TSRE Under the Covers: Amanda Palmer Does a Lot of Things

Amanda Palmer is pretty awesome. She founded the Dresden Dolls, she has a productive solo career, she is going to marry Neil Gaiman, she is starring in Cabaret at the American Repertory Theater in Cambridge, MA right now, and apparently she plays a mean ukulele. Palmer's album of Radiohead ukulele covers is downright powerful. The ukulele is cute and catchy, but it is her voice that steals the show. Gone are Thom Yorke's wispy murmurs and cries and in their place are Palmer's bold and plaintive pipes. Wow. She just crushes all of the seven covers on the album. Oh yeah and she went to my high school - no biggie.

Amanda Palmer - Idioteque (YSI) (filesavr)

Amanda Palmer - Creep (Hungover at Soundcheck in Berlin) (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKLzA4SWMIuWaDmGZwx7tTswNCgELAcKFMUFvzTeZ7BAOZZWI8IhK9ZAzef2X-Tc_P-IURHbNJugwAYHD8alrxTmuV8tKduMIURSbwyUE7pFvJeld5Dlve3Em2lBkA88Z8-BH0ZQxdoYia/s1600/TSRE+Amanda+Palmer.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514004287739611186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKLzA4SWMIuWaDmGZwx7tTswNCgELAcKFMUFvzTeZ7BAOZZWI8IhK9ZAzef2X-Tc_P-IURHbNJugwAYHD8alrxTmuV8tKduMIURSbwyUE7pFvJeld5Dlve3Em2lBkA88Z8-BH0ZQxdoYia/s320/TSRE+Amanda+Palmer.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" /></a>Amanda Palmer is pretty awesome. She founded the Dresden Dolls, she has a productive solo career, she is going to marry Neil Gaiman, she is starring in Cabaret at the American Repertory Theater in Cambridge, MA right now, and apparently she plays a mean ukulele. Palmer's album of Radiohead ukulele covers is downright powerful. The ukulele is cute and catchy, but it is her voice that steals the show. Gone are Thom Yorke's wispy murmurs and cries and in their place are Palmer's bold and plaintive pipes. Wow. She just crushes all of the seven covers on the album. Oh yeah and she went to my high school - no biggie.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Amanda Palmer - Idioteque</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVxaklqb0J1Yk5FQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/YHq3ZXOV" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Amanda Palmer - Creep (Hungover at Soundcheck in Berlin)</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVxaklrMVh3TGl4dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/r8JHT7my" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Tanya Morgan is a Bunch of Dudes

Perhaps you've heard of them? Tanya Morgan is a Brooklyn hip hop group who rise above the static due to their slick quotidian flow and interestingly unexpected beats. Take Don't U Holla for example. The flute and woodblock percussion really perk up an otherwise fairly standard beat. Their most recent album Brooklynati is a good listen for some solid, yet pretension and gimmick-less rap, which is rare these days.

Tanya Morgan - Don't U Holla (YSI) (filesavr)

Tanya Morgan - Morgan Blu (YSI) (filesavr)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmd4rSRd3vD4y7J8-qD5y06QeUgxmnSVeQgGbwrhd_9yAC8K3MHLB1Shy9ixwTuOJ-sbedmCelIQsFsn8R2cijP-mkm4gTAYTeJgIGGV1st4uQKCEvUGa41l63sDldSsVbt1lBBVJrFFTh/s1600/TSRE+Tonya+Harding.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513999921904873842" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmd4rSRd3vD4y7J8-qD5y06QeUgxmnSVeQgGbwrhd_9yAC8K3MHLB1Shy9ixwTuOJ-sbedmCelIQsFsn8R2cijP-mkm4gTAYTeJgIGGV1st4uQKCEvUGa41l63sDldSsVbt1lBBVJrFFTh/s320/TSRE+Tonya+Harding.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 276px; height: 320px;" /></a>Perhaps you've heard of them? Tanya Morgan is a Brooklyn hip hop group who rise above the static due to their slick quotidian flow and interestingly unexpected beats. Take Don't U Holla for example. The flute and woodblock percussion really perk up an otherwise fairly standard beat. Their most recent album <span style="font-style: italic;">Brooklynati</span> is a good listen for some solid, yet pretension and gimmick-less rap, which is rare these days.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tanya Morgan - Don't U Holla</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVxaklncG93NUpjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/fFnG5MIV" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tanya Morgan - Morgan Blu</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVxaklpVnMwZ252Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/rTuSQmDR" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Work Songs For Labor Day

It's LABOR DAY! Which, paradoxically, means most people don't work. Shazam! In the spirit of the holiday, though, I wanted to drop a few work-themed tracks to remind you how nice it is to have a day off every once in a while.

The first comes from Wale's latest mixtape, the follow-up to his Mixtape About Nothing, More About Nothing. It's called "The Work (Workin)" and has a few little digs at Rick Ross. Don't get wrapped up in the beef, though, it's not gonna go anywhere.

The second is a sweet little remix from Yes Giantess, of the Body Language track "Work This City." Both of these bands are up-and-comers worth keeping an eyes on. Body Language played a fun set that I caught at SXSW, and from what I hear, Yes Giantess are not to be missed in concert. Work this city indeed.

And finally, a bit of a stretch, but it's a dope song with the word "job" in the title - Lil Wayne's "Ice Cream Paint Job." I forgot about this song, but it's got a fun swirling beat and Lil Wayne doing his off-the-top style flow. Off the No Ceilings mixtape, it's not substantial, but neither should it be forgotten.

Wale - The Work (Workin) (YSI) (filesavr)

Body Language - Work This City (Yes Giantess Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)

Lil Wayne - Ice Cream Paint Job (YSI) (filesavr)

It's LABOR DAY! Which, paradoxically, means most people don't work. Shazam! In the spirit of the holiday, though, I wanted to drop a few work-themed tracks to remind you how nice it is to have a day off every once in a while.<br /> <br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu_znLVHIhxP32OSZyaqpkB59w0wz4ESX1TCKRRwcjgiX3IwHyhuJ-I1SEBWhpVhFgMCsBuvrdMtmpn78DyXtYsoSaLVbvmrbw2o7EShyzI64IhfqRf0eKmhiqUf92FOqogH1ClFy-fu8/s1600/grilling+obamaTSRE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu_znLVHIhxP32OSZyaqpkB59w0wz4ESX1TCKRRwcjgiX3IwHyhuJ-I1SEBWhpVhFgMCsBuvrdMtmpn78DyXtYsoSaLVbvmrbw2o7EShyzI64IhfqRf0eKmhiqUf92FOqogH1ClFy-fu8/s320/grilling+obamaTSRE.JPG" /></a>The first comes from Wale's latest mixtape, the follow-up to his <i>Mixtape About Nothing, More About Nothing</i>. It's called "The Work (Workin)" and has a few little digs at Rick Ross. Don't get wrapped up in the beef, though, it's not gonna go anywhere.<br /> <br /> The second is a sweet little remix from Yes Giantess, of the Body Language track "Work This City." Both of these bands are up-and-comers worth keeping an eyes on. Body Language played a fun set that I caught at SXSW, and from what I hear, Yes Giantess are not to be missed in concert. Work this city indeed.<br /> <br /> And finally, a bit of a stretch, but it's a dope song with the word "job" in the title - Lil Wayne's "Ice Cream Paint Job." I forgot about this song, but it's got a fun swirling beat and Lil Wayne doing his off-the-top style flow. Off the <i>No Ceilings</i> mixtape, it's not substantial, but neither should it be forgotten.<br /> <br /> <b>Wale - The Work (Workin)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVyS3dqQ0N6NE94dnc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/QRnuKPB5" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Body Language - Work This City (Yes Giantess Remix)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVyS3d1dzg5RmJ2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/g5RN0S9R" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Lil Wayne - Ice Cream Paint Job </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVyS3d1dzhTRTVFQlE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/Ig1bWzKv" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

New RAC Remix - Second Spin for Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros

Earlier this summer I posted the tasty RAC Remix of Edward Sharpe and The Magnetic Zeros' "Home," one of the suavest remix jobs in recent memory. I love that track. Well RAC is BAC, taking on another ES&MZ tune, "Janglin'."

"Janglin'," at its essence, is a very different song from "Home." Consequently, the remix has a pretty different vibe - RAC puts Alexander's voice in a synthy setting, contrasting his Dylanesque phrasing with the electronic backing. It's a cool effect, and it produces a very different vibe from the original. RAC keeps cranking out great remixes, stay tuned to his channel.

Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Janglin' (YSI) (filesavr)

Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Janglin' (RAC Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)

Earlier this summer I posted the tasty RAC Remix of Edward Sharpe and The Magnetic Zeros' "Home," one of the suavest remix jobs in recent memory. I love that track. Well RAC is BAC, taking on another ES&MZ tune, "Janglin'."<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXE85iH2kof0iHpx23pRpuCtY6gg8zPpD4qlv4ZTA-bSHpPv_xy4ZdQiHkjBRyuYUxNoDntS_jSKeTh2P0DDc7c4kMobv2xox7c6kaS1N6QeAR7-ABzKs_AxvzhazjQSlCzCpwMzeK9Is/s1600/edwardsharpeTSRE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXE85iH2kof0iHpx23pRpuCtY6gg8zPpD4qlv4ZTA-bSHpPv_xy4ZdQiHkjBRyuYUxNoDntS_jSKeTh2P0DDc7c4kMobv2xox7c6kaS1N6QeAR7-ABzKs_AxvzhazjQSlCzCpwMzeK9Is/s320/edwardsharpeTSRE.JPG" /></a></div>"Janglin'," at its essence, is a very different song from "Home." Consequently, the remix has a pretty different vibe - RAC puts Alexander's voice in a synthy setting, contrasting his Dylanesque phrasing with the electronic backing. It's a cool effect, and it produces a very different vibe from the original. RAC keeps cranking out great remixes, stay tuned to his channel.<br /> <br /> <b>Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Janglin' </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVyS3d1UzdxRTFjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/EIy10xdJ" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Janglin' (RAC Remix) </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVyS3d1Z2o1aVpjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/IXF0OiSw" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Hip Hop Your Way Through The Weekend

Happy Labor Day Weekend! What are you doing reading music blogs? Get outside and do something fun! Grill something! Wear white pants! Complain about how summer is ending! Hang out in a hurricane!

Anyway, if for some reason you're stuck inside, I have some absolute hip hop JAMS for you. These two songs dropped in the last couple weeks, and they're both definitely worth your time. On the first, Lupe Fiasco gives us a taste of what's to come on his next album (which, it turns out, won't be the oft-prophesied L-U-P-End). It's nasty.

The second track is a dynamite remix of Kanye West's "Power," featuring work from Jay-Z. Love the breakdown at the end of this track, and the first hit is something that will never get old. Jam out to them for the next 9 minutes and 48 seconds, and then get outside.

Lupe Fiasco - Go To Sleep (YSI) (filesavr)

Kanye West f. Jay-Z - Power (Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)

Happy Labor Day Weekend! What are you doing reading music blogs? Get outside and do something fun! Grill something! Wear white pants! Complain about how summer is ending! Hang out in a hurricane!<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOx0uLLL88igob2xxD09-eMlM6RnyCVeZSOz5um5mpRnxuL7DAkMh2lmrmXC6buqJ_iK-slC0T0DQ8jwHDiwn5D3GcGVUvpzbHsEqG6FOlq2eTXEYUbsCAeFPn2txJcf6Id5euptJS1BI/s1600/getoutsideTSRE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOx0uLLL88igob2xxD09-eMlM6RnyCVeZSOz5um5mpRnxuL7DAkMh2lmrmXC6buqJ_iK-slC0T0DQ8jwHDiwn5D3GcGVUvpzbHsEqG6FOlq2eTXEYUbsCAeFPn2txJcf6Id5euptJS1BI/s320/getoutsideTSRE.JPG" /></a></div>Anyway, if for some reason you're stuck inside, I have some absolute hip hop JAMS for you. These two songs dropped in the last couple weeks, and they're both definitely worth your time. On the first, Lupe Fiasco gives us a taste of what's to come on his next album (which, it turns out, won't be the oft-prophesied <i>L-U-P-End</i>). It's nasty.<br /> <br /> The second track is a dynamite remix of Kanye West's "Power," featuring work from Jay-Z. Love the breakdown at the end of this track, and the first hit is something that will never get old. Jam out to them for the next 9 minutes and 48 seconds, and then get outside.<br /> <br /> <b>Lupe Fiasco - Go To Sleep</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVyc0w5RkU4NVh2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/7eSDOWHv" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Kanye West f. Jay-Z - Power (Remix)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVyc0x6SEJEbUx2Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/qrIv8HO0" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)

Golden Axe Attack

Woah, so I'm a serious grad student now supposedly and I was thinking of an appropriate song to post as a result. All I could think of though was this pretty ridiculous song by the Golden Axe. These dudes from Australia know how to have fun and it is certainly apparent in this track that sounds like a hot room full of superballs. Just the thing for academia.

Golden Axe - Telephone (YSI)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2UM5LZUl7HVp_OT8lz3hZlKnRNWfwriHzP3ewLUWTOFUdjrznqTbJkMZZ-I9UQK06k2lKV28OIvkNEx1opooxWSh4LF7ymr_XJRIIFsnvlUooEhMfJ6BXAFukbxviBH4SSywm81qUjM5M/s1600/TSRE+Golden+Axe.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512136445282511506" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2UM5LZUl7HVp_OT8lz3hZlKnRNWfwriHzP3ewLUWTOFUdjrznqTbJkMZZ-I9UQK06k2lKV28OIvkNEx1opooxWSh4LF7ymr_XJRIIFsnvlUooEhMfJ6BXAFukbxviBH4SSywm81qUjM5M/s320/TSRE+Golden+Axe.png" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 300px;" /></a>Woah, so I'm a serious grad student now supposedly and I was thinking of an appropriate song to post as a result. All I could think of though was this pretty ridiculous song by the Golden Axe. These dudes from Australia know how to have fun and it is certainly apparent in this track that sounds like a hot room full of superballs. Just the thing for academia.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Golden Axe - Telephone</span> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVvb24wNkdEa1ZjR0E9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>)

Coming Clean About My Yelawolf Addiction

I first heard Yelawolf at SXSW, standing in line outside of Fader Fort, trying to get in to see Sleigh  Bells and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. He was on stage, rapping quickly - a rural Southern whiteboy who spent a fair amount of his set, apparently, throwing beers and jeans into the audience. From the outside he sounded alright. Nothing to write home about.

Then he dropped Trunk Muzik, an mixtape that is stellar from beginning to end. I have been listening to it basically non-stop for a month now. I cannot get enough. I listen to this album so much that I feel bad about it. It's gotten more spins from me than any album since Sleigh Bells. I don't know why I love it so much, but I can't stop.

Yelawolf has a distinctly Southern style, mixing ominous beats with silky fast flows, a sort of Twista meets Rick Ross. He's dynamic and poetic, and doesn't hesitate to embrace his upbringing with lines like "Momma's in the starter house with a hatchet helping daddy chop early morning hog." One of the sickest lines comes at the beginning of that same song, "Pop the Trunk": "Meth lab in the back and the crack smoke peels through the streets like an early morning fog." Elsewhere, Yelawolf combines speed and braggadocio, saying "I'm too heavy to carry, you don't want to bury yourself underneath the 808 I'm dropping in your face like BOOM."

It's not just about the lyrics, though. Songs like Juelz Santana remix "Mixin' Up The Medicine" or title track "Trunk Muzik" absolutely bump with beats. "Speak Her Sex" features an infectious hook line that I can't get out of my head. The whole mixtape is dominant.

Yelawolf hasn't proven that he has staying power - his November album will be a good indication if he can avoid the Great Mixtape, Bad Album problem that seems to plague many young rappers today. For the time being, though, he's got my ear. And he won't let go.

Yelawolf - Trunk Muzik (YSI) (filesavr)

Yelawolf - Pop The Trunk (YSI) (filesavr)

Yelawolf - Mixin' Up The Medicine (Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)

I first heard Yelawolf at SXSW, standing in line outside of Fader Fort, trying to get in to see Sleigh  Bells and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. He was on stage, rapping quickly - a rural Southern whiteboy who spent a fair amount of his set, apparently, throwing beers and jeans into the audience. From the outside he sounded alright. Nothing to write home about.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9mL5JfRLuX-wyw-mtaJOFMEU1hlrEwVfjk7H_S60vIXSU0-6_nAsFCP05iBCHXD905AOXCGq83tmQuHlVSnCkWX3catHRuyIGVY24dAX1ZyJysyOAJh70s4UCqGUVh14csTsDMWJv1O0/s1600/yelawolfTSRE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9mL5JfRLuX-wyw-mtaJOFMEU1hlrEwVfjk7H_S60vIXSU0-6_nAsFCP05iBCHXD905AOXCGq83tmQuHlVSnCkWX3catHRuyIGVY24dAX1ZyJysyOAJh70s4UCqGUVh14csTsDMWJv1O0/s320/yelawolfTSRE.JPG" /></a></div>Then he dropped <i>Trunk Muzik</i>, an mixtape that is stellar from beginning to end. I have been listening to it basically non-stop for a month now. I cannot get enough. I listen to this album so much that I feel bad about it. It's gotten more spins from me than any album since Sleigh Bells. I don't know why I love it so much, but I can't stop.<br /> <br /> Yelawolf has a distinctly Southern style, mixing ominous beats with silky fast flows, a sort of Twista meets Rick Ross. He's dynamic and poetic, and doesn't hesitate to embrace his upbringing with lines like "Momma's in the starter house with a hatchet helping daddy chop early morning hog." One of the sickest lines comes at the beginning of that same song, "Pop the Trunk": "Meth lab in the back and the crack smoke peels through the streets like an early morning fog." Elsewhere, Yelawolf combines speed and braggadocio, saying "I'm too heavy to carry, you don't want to bury yourself underneath the 808 I'm dropping in your face like BOOM."<br /> <br /> It's not just about the lyrics, though. Songs like Juelz Santana remix "Mixin' Up The Medicine" or title track "Trunk Muzik" absolutely bump with beats. "Speak Her Sex" features an infectious hook line that I can't get out of my head. The whole mixtape is dominant.<br /> <br /> Yelawolf hasn't proven that he has staying power - his November album will be a good indication if he can avoid the Great Mixtape, Bad Album problem that seems to plague many young rappers today. For the time being, though, he's got my ear. And he won't let go.<br /> <br /> <b>Yelawolf - Trunk Muzik</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVweVdpSWVlaFEwTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/o3Jw2SkT" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Yelawolf - Pop The Trunk </b>(<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVweVdxU1B1Yk0wTVE9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/747HPqey" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)<br /> <br /> <b>Yelawolf - Mixin' Up The Medicine (Remix)</b> (<a href="https://www.yousendit.com/download/UFVweVdwMGtCTW52Wmc9PQ" target="_blank">YSI</a>) (<a href="http://www.filesavr.com/s3aVQK6y" target="_blank">filesavr</a>)