Iconic as ever and more derogatory than the 1950's, Lunar C's newish album is a kicker. Full of harsh lyrics defining him as the top dog, the tracks are a mix of old-school relaxed beats and synth-laden atmospheric bangers. A step away from his better known battle-rap style, the album is full of surprises.
Straight off the bat, Pocket Full Of Fuckall opens the album with an original country-crunk style; slamming kicks and snares, warping guitar, the perfect introduction. It has that catchy quality making it stand out immediately, and the self-absorbed sexist lyrics exemplify his new found position as a vague incarnation of a ladies man.
The scene changes with 1000 Bitches, taking on a more modern sound. The hard dark beat and doubled vocals are a lot different, with Dream McClean adding to the atmosphere in his degrading rhyming style.
Running through the more reflective No Pain, with its smoky air envoloping the lyrics, Cool As Fuck is a lot less reflective. It loses the meditative feeling, substituting it with penis-talk. A lot of penis-talk. And wheelies in Ford Fiestas.
Stay Real
MOAMS, not maoams, with the fabulous Burgundy Blood is much more of a pick-me-up. The slow beat bounces along, and the flow of the two rhyming over it makes for a decent combo. It's a head bopper, and Burgundy Blood's rhythm makes it one of the stand outs of the release.
Upside Down Fly gets a grip of the trap-inspired characteristic. Shnaffleberry (link below), although the meaning is lost upon me, keeps the heavy fat bass riff to make for a great abstract piece. Following the same synth base for the tracks, Hang features lovely disrespectful lyrics slowed down so you can hear each and every syllable. One for the feminists.
The features on the album are top-notch, leading into Shag My Sister with Tommy Dockerz, of the Dirty Dockerz posse. The title isn't misleading although the theme may be. The lyrical content starts from the start. Dockerz has that unique voice representing Kettering, as always. Dirty Dike and Lee Scott make an appearance for Mate of a Mate, both sounding angry as fuck and spitting out those words through clenched teeth. Their flow is on point, both recognisable as ever.
Breakdown Rebuild, the title track, consists of an extrememly scrappy piano sample, hoarse words and (consitent at this stage in the album) angry sexual frustrations. A change of pace comes with New Beginnings, being much more upbeat and jazzy, but the breakdown switches to a doubled vocal downpitched and a slower beat. Very nice.
O.G.
Die Old, characterized by its "fair-trade cocaine", retains the scrappiness. leading into Strictly Indo. Contradictorily, Lunar makes a point to emphasise that he stays clear of Class-As, preferring to smoke up. Plot hole. Strictly Indo has that old-school groove, making it stand out from previous tracks.
Fat bass makes its comeback in Even If, with Lunar C spitting his lyrics out like a bad cocktail in a shitty bar. Heavy, heavy beats move forward into the last track, New World. A chilled entity with a funky drum line, it's the perfect ending to the mixtape.
A long awaited and highly appraised feature from Lunar C, this mixtape is sure to add life to you and your missus' bedroom life. Don't quote me. The standout track has got to be Pocket Full Of Fuckall. That cranking rhythm coupled with the catchy lyrics make it a clear winner. Overall, a very nice release. Different, and different is always appreciated.
Check it Cosmopolitan. Big reps to the fam on this one. If your sex life with the SO is lacking, take a stroll down Urban Dictionary's museum of the mind. Sure to spice up your bedroom lifestyles, here's my favorite picks. Disclaimer should warn that I don't intend on being held accountable for mishaps. I've tried them all, ask my mates. Serious shit here son.
1: The Flying Camel
When the male is upon the female eloping or simply engaging in riveting conversation, the male must carefully advance forwards and prop himself (without the use of his arms) upon his penis, while still inside. He then must proceed to flap his arms and let out a long shrieking howl much like, as the name suggests, a flying camel. The female at this point should be feeling like an unkempt farmers daughter as if she's never been submitted to such pleasures. UD defines this "strictly a class move." Take it from the best.
2: The Purple Mushroom
Soaring elegantly and gentlemanly forward into new terrain, the purple mushroom is a classic. Less sex, more impress, take a step back from your manly ways and observe your lady. Is she pleased? Is she relaxed? Is she enjoying herself to the maximum? If no to some, none, or some of none of the above, then we've got a problem. To instigate the purple mushroom, leap like a salmon off your SO, and pin her to the ground/bed/whatever. Grab your Vietnamese-Sausage like it's the axe of Thor, and draw back as far as it will stretch. You will think you see fear in her eyes; this is merely a muse. Whip your dick across her face as hard as humanly possible. This should leave a mark that turns purple and looks like a mushroom.
3: Te'oing
For the more lonely of peers, this one's for you. I haven't forgotten you. When sex simply is out of the question, one must invent other ways to stimulate oneself. The grimace as you wake up alone in the morning becomes too much. The embrace of a pillow is no substitute. How and ever, you can avoid this with the simple action of Te'oing. This is delicately defined as having sex with an imaginary woman or object. It does not discriminate.
4: The Charizard
The infamous Charizard. We all know where this came from, yet were too blind in childhood innocence to embrace it. It was right in front of us, but we could not explain. Existential in origins, it takes a true monk of the arts to engage this properly. Forming coagulated thoughts holding this process is all but revolutionary. Make sure the lady has a finely toned pubic afro; it is essential for execution. Just as you climax, light her pubes on fire. Your juices should extinguish half of the burning hair, and while she's flapping her arms around wildly, you scream, "YOU DON'T HAVE ENOUGH BADGES TO TRAIN ME!", then run out of the room. 110% guaranteed to spice up the bedroom.
5: The Donkey Pummel
A variation of the renowned time-honored Donkey Punch, it is twice as violent and a gazillion times more sexual. Not for the faint, you need balls of steel and a lady-part of equally sturdy metal. During intercourse between two peoples, you donkey punch the lady when inserting into her ass cavity, and when she is still conscious come back with a left-right jab to ensure she's knocked out.
6: The Purple Mongoose
My all time favourite, the top of the lot, the best for last. This move is something not even a WWE star would attempt, in all their training. It depicts years and years, generations upon generations, stars aligning, everything in existence coming together. No more need be said. When enjoying sex and you think you need to take it to the next level, initiate. The madam puts her legs behind her head, and the man moves to position. The lady, holding strong, must wait while the man climbs a ladder, pours Tobasco sauce all over her ass, and makes a dive penis-first into her butt. Once inserted, the man spins around like a helicopter. Perfection.
The lyricist without a clue; the freight-trainer; the
all-out anarchist. I don’t know much about him personally, but fuck it. His
music testifies that he’s a character. The lyrics show that you can’t have
wrong words for a song, while simultaneously being so deep and meaningful that
I might just tear up. Smoking, drinking, acid, freight-trains and guitar are
his best friends, with his lyrics truly conveying it. Favourite tracks have got
to be, in no particular order:
Whiskey Is My Kind of Lullaby
Probably my favourite track, if not my favourite song ever.
The lyrics are genius, in Hobo’s satirical comedic manner. Rather than a jolly
shindig, it’s a statement of depression, and word around is he won’t play these
songs due to the sad memories they dig up. There’s two versions of the song,
and although the one here features the absence of the brass section, I do
prefer it. The raw energy he conveys with the guitar and characteristic
screaming really comes through.
DIY Orgasms
Consisting of some of the best lyrics one might ever here,
again with his iconic shouting/singing, it shows a painting of a stupid society
he’s watching. In the parking lot with a forty ounce and watching people, it’s
a depression picture. Gotta love “I’m contemplating rope but can’t tie knots
that great”, I always have a dark laugh at that line. A strange look at the
world, only Hobo could convey such a theme with such a comedic depression.
DIY Gangsta (T.R.E.A.M.)
A faster one than usual, from the Wingnut Dishwashers Union
days, it’s a bit more uplifting than one may be used to. I was surprised first
time I heard it when it kicks into Hobo’s rendition of CREAM by Wu-Tang,
fittingly remade into “Trash rules everything around me, TREAM coz I’m hungry,
gotta gotta eat y’all”. Again, the light-hearted grim reality he lives is
portrayed in only a way he himself can achieve. It’s catchy, and that voice
just infects. Another take on society and her bleak atmosphere, it’s easy to
appreciate Hobo’s ability as a lyricist.
Ain’t Nobody’s Business
This one always reminds me of Metallica’s rendition of
Tuesday’s Gone by Skynyrd. The free flow of words and music swirl around with
each member having a little bit of a verse to themselves, be it a line or two,
and it sounds like one big jam session. Quite nice to hear it, as you do get
fed up with rigidity. The fact that it sounds like it’s recorded through a
single floor microphone adds to the atmosphere. The others can’t sing that
great though but fuck it, that’s what it’s about.
New Mexico
Another classic about roaming around life unwanted, and
rejection of the state. The grim, bleak, downer that is Johnny Hobo shines through
with a grey light on this track. Spitting out his lyrics, there’s fuck-ups here
and there that will have you falling in love with his singing. Getting too
drunk and smoking too much, he’s headed for an early grave and can’t wait for
it. Friends are gone and time is short. There’s no place like home, especially
when there’s no home. His lifestyle has even penetrated his dreams, where he’s
“beautiful, dirty broke and free.” Gotta love him.
If you like it, check Cranford Nix and Mischief Brew. Likeminded
revolutionaries.
I’ve seen enough and thought enough that I reckon I’ve a few
decent ideas as to why a pigeon is funky.
OG
Diseases hate you
Why fear disease when you yourself are inhabited by
everything nature can throw at you? Thems diseases run like the fuckin’
clappers when they encounter you. You walk around with half a dick hanging off
you still getting pussy like it’s the 70s. Your feet are mangled from getting
string wrapped around them, but that shit ain’t infected. You still getting
pussy and fucking up other pigeons coz you rule the tribe. Be glad that you
have every infection known; they’re battling each other for dominance rather
than your immune system.
Bad boy ask the clubs
Pussy
What do pigeons do? They breed. With who? With each
other. You’re a walking, chirping pussy
magnet. Be thankful, we don’t all sport this same identity. I heard a tale
where the pigeon problem in France (I believe Paris) got so bad that half the
pigeon population was brutally pillaged, murdered and executed, but the remaining
half cared not a fuck in the world. More food meant more babies and sex. BAM.
Problem came back sooner than spunk could harden.
Eat. Fuck. Die.
Who wouldn’t love to eat all the food you can, have a load
of sex, then die happily knowing your legacy will live on?
Numbers
These very avian heroes are testament to the fact that they
really can’t kill us all.
Tax
The pigeon is an expert on avoiding taxes. Cunt.
Time
She drifts in the air without a care. She chirps and frolics
without any bollix. I’m a mad lyricist m8. The animals in the meadows and the
birds in the trees care not for time. They don’t have the capacity to
understand it exists. It’s the very bane of human existence. Why were you late?
Where have you been? You were meant to be here. When will it be ready? The list
is fucking endless. It worries us. Creeps into our consciousness. We’ve made
devices that possess the sole purpose of fucking with us. Time is the reason we
get down in life. Not the only reason, but a contributor. We’re running out of
time. We’ve too much time. I’m so mashed time is going backwards. It’s all
infinite. The pigeon knows not of time, and she is happy. She’s happy in her
world; out of ours.
Known for his enthusiastic views on Thai monks and his milk-curdling personality, Lee Scott is, in a word, a decent guy. It came as no surprise when he arrived home from a three month stint in Shanghai training with the monks there that a new album was well underway. Grabbing a sneak peak when I shouldn't have been at this fictional release, fans are going to be surprised, charmed, and probably aroused.
Pic for reference
Releasing a fictional statement through various social media platforms, Scott himself told how the album was to be named Sacred Hybrid Sea Lion. Featuring an image, unavailable at the moment, of the iconic emblem of Scott's musical career, the sea lion endowed with a halo of light and a robe of shining silk, it's at the forefront of expression for the rap icon.
Only hearing a few tracks made for a short listening, but I'll run through to give a decent idea of what to expect. Expect the expected; it's a sonic masterpiece, a musical gem, a soulful melody of classics, the best thing since basically ever.
The first track bestowed upon me was the wonderful Thai Life. Or thigh. A heavy hitter fitted with the fattest beats imaginable, the lyrics spew forth from the page through the speakers to your head-holes and infest and breed there, making it easily a top 200 hit. Encapsulating the recent expeditions to the far East, Scott has got to be the most vivid lyricist of the era. With (a rumoured) 90 Asian elephants performing in the make-shift studio he brought with him, the chime section is a whimsical journey of a breakdown.
Coursing straight into the equally erupting Bacon and Jam, the themes and ideas encroach towards the more characteristic existential lyrics on the album. An intrinsically enthusiastic satire on the modern world and all of her corruptions, societal expressionism is in its finest moments here. The rawest lyrics on the album by miles, you can feel the saliva on your face from the ferocious spitting that advances forth.
I missed a few tracks at this point coz I had to take a leak.
Serial killa
Back just in time for a less intense release, Flurbejerb is for the more light-headed of fans. A series of gibberish and babbling layered over bongos and elephant noises, I think this is where the oriental acid kicked in. Easily one for the charts, you can anticipate hearing this at any house party worth respecting in the near future. Pretty sure there's a big budget video in the works as this is typed for this very track. Noticeable in the background is the soft jingle from the bells attached to Scott's robes, giving a very natural and organic feel. You can hear him hopping around in his gibberized state, enchanting the listener with each indistinguishable syllable.
The title track followed this; Sacred Hybrid Sea Lion. Fantastic, enormous, tremendous, immense, enormous... the list goes on. Words cannot do this justice. Lee Scott, by his very nature as is easy to see, became the most important figurehead in the newest movement in music since someone invented a guitar or something. Featuring the heaviest themes explored, the deepest meanings portrayed, and the most significant lyrics of his career, this track is sure to entice and probably arouse the listener. Consisting of five minutes and thirteen seconds of a 25Hz sine wave, this track is genius incarnate.
It was at this point I was kicked out for eating all the egg sandwiches from the buffet, but it is easy to see from these few tracks how important this album will be when it's released. I'm on the edge of my seat; I'm sure you are too. No dates, however, have been released for the moment, but we shall wait together. Already with a deep cult following, the album is going to take the world by storm, and leave a trail of destruction and semi-erections in its wake.
I did not expect this. Holy fuck, did I not. Mother of Jesus on ice-skates, I did not. A seriously sick release. Words can't do Alison justice on this one.
Easy on the eye, with an image to match; an accent to drool over; she's the perfect candidate in every and any sense. This release came out of nowhere and in the couple of days it's been on this earth it has left a trail of confusion and bloodfucking in its wake. What more can be said?
An album release party with a lady performing in front of other ladies can only mean EPIC. Not afraid to (have other ladies) get naked in front of people, it looked like one helluva party. Looking totally in place and completely in control, it shows a lot for the young artist with only her debut album sounding this incredible. Trailing behind Kendrick Lamar as of earlier today, it should probably be number one. I won't argue, I'm not about that. I'll just say that; leave it there to mellow out.
The diversity on the album is incredible. About halfway through, the album goes from the calm, laid-back atmosphere into testicle-sterilizing ferocious animosity. The only dampener I have with the album is the fact that I can't decide if the vocals are lacking, or that they're the greatest thing to ever happen. I'm thinking the latter. Each song fits perfectly, and the album consists of a perfectly steady pace throughout, pumping out classic after classic track. The whole feature deals out radio tracks with that underground edge. No one could do it better.
Speaking of le album, it opens promisingly with the title track, Run. Phazing in with huge space, the heavy beat and synths sit perfect underneath Alison's vocals. Showcasing immediate production excellence, the clarity is tremendous. Not sure where that strange wee-yew sample came out of, but hey. The build up is just enough to drop into the chorus, giving off a sweet flow. It sounds more like a festival song compared to what you'd expect at clubs, but much love.
The McLovin banger, U Don't Know, keeps the spacey atmosphere with strange clicky-claps, and the catchy intro and lyrics are sure to invade your head-space, ensuring its place among any top ten. Steady driving beat, heavy build-ups, scrappy drops; none of this was expected by eye. Sounds magnificent; the perfect combination of catchy and heavy. This quality heaviness is noticeable on the bass. Prepare your manhood, it'll rob you of it. It showcases Wonderland's individualism, and - as always - variance is key.
Slamming into Take It To Reality, again I can't say it was expected. Fuck me. One of the top tracks from the album, for sure. The ambient intro is splendid, but the beat is just marvelous, with a really sick flow to it. The vocals only complement it, coupled with the incredible production. Eyebrows were raised at the change into the synthey part. Full of surprises. The readjustment into the flowing beat is real satisfying. Breakdown strings? Check.
Taken from herself's facebook.
Naked brings in the heavy drums, gearing away from the ambiance of previous tracks. The individuality never changes though. Those heavy drums, man. Fuck me. Running. Varying it up a little bit, the trappy snare gives off a bit of ambiance, which somehow works perfectly with the percussive audio-abuse. Suddenly, a wild DnB drum pattern appears. What the fuck is this drop. Holy shit. I was nodding, then in comes the drop. Pure silence. That moment hangs longer than a 70 year old's balls. Fuck. Then slam; drop. Sick bruv. This shows Lady Alison's production skills tremendously. That DnB is sick though, would love to hear more of it. Second drop: what the fuck, again.
At this point it is dead fair to say that this is the most surprising release since the coming of wheel. Carry On, with its soft "ding", gunshot drumming and old heavy organ, you can see the album veering towards yoke-head mental. Play it fucking loud. The drums are coupled by that characteristically maltreating heavy bass; Jesus Christ dat bass. One might consider the vocals a little forward in the mix, but fuck it. Her voice adds a nice feature. Production, again, is brilliance incarnate.
Heading East, I Want U has a strange introduction reminiscent of oriental tidings. Adds a nice feature, one would think. One would be right. Tube of the You tells me whisperings that this was released a whopping ten months ago; quite a significant amount of time. Bass and vocals are on point, and that build up just brings forth an audible "Oh fuck", then the drop just fists you in the testes. It's basic, yet effective. She's a true master of production. There's so much going on, yet it's all placed perfectly; nothing sounds out. One can easily feel the power in that distorted bass. Each drop is better than the last.
Games is another elite track on the album. Featuring a peaceful yet strange start, the vocals are so clean you could hang your sins on them. Melodic, bordering DnB, there's a really sick groove going on. In comes the synth; the vocals are perfection. The gentle build-ups and soft drops give the impression of the track ebbing and flowing at its ease.
Coachella is going to be lucky to be graced with her majesty's presence. One More Hit has quite a different intro; I'm not entirely sure what's going on there. Reminds me of Tokyo Drift, haha. Initiate sterilizing bass. Wonderland's percussion is real cool, real nice.
Ignore is almost a change in dimension. Only the heaviest of vocals for the intro, and some strange effect happenings, the groove drifts menacingly on top of that heavy beat. Fuck. It's driving, distorted, perfect; words don't justify. What stood out was the fact that the reverb sounds perfectly calibrated to the track, a point not many others can boast. Heavy flow; another one for the yip-heads.
Back It Up brings forth the diversity she does like to show off. The vocals are unusually approached, but come off incredibly fitting. The rhythm of the drums, driving steadily, reminds me of jungly music. They keep the rhythm; steady and industrial, sheer incredulous. Hard, industrial, heavy, distorted, fuck, steel, iron, invading; this track just has it all. Only qualm is that it ends.
Cold would be back in familiar territory, having a video of its own released around six months ago. Big, large, massif bass and drum intro, with softly contrasting vocals make for a sick flow. Centered around the snare, there's a lot going on. Percussion is next level, the vocals are just lovely, the hats bring it forward in a perfect manner. Ambient synths gear up to the perfect gunshot-esque drop. Fuck. An all rounder. Massif beat.
The last track, a much-too-early ending, Already Gone takes a step back to leave you on a gentle note. The Beethoven intro is simply magical, along with the piano. Shows a certain someones abilities. Diversity and variance, boi. The organ gives it a relaxed atmosphere, and the drop keeps in this same space. It's a strange one; lacking drums but oddly prevailing. The normally violating heavy bass is atmospheric and chilled in the background. Taking a leap in every direction, the wah-synth sounds dubby. The outtro is perfect, albeit a bit too soon if you ask me. The album needs at least another ten tracks, then I'll be satisfied. Well, probably not.
I can't say I've enjoyed an album so much in a long time. I did not expect to hear something like this at all. Mucho Lovo, madam. Fucking hell, the album's a beauty. I think I'm in love. The album is currently available on iTunes. It's worth every cent, penny, whatever. Fuck.
Averagity rating: Mucho Above Average. Mucho Lovo.
Into the studio we go for a few words about nothing in general, or just plain nothing. Or something. How and ever, here it is.
What's the crack? Could you give an
introduction of yourself to the crowd, let em know?
I'm Badhabitz, part of the Split Prophets
collective from Bristol.
What is Badhabitz, and what is Krate
Krusaders?
Badhabitz is my name and Krate Krusaders is a production duo I'm part of with One Step. I use this for releases outside the SP group.
Is there a colab you could say you'd be most
proud of to date?
I've been privileged to work with a whole load of artists
from here and abroad, however apart from working with my SP fam this latest
project I've done with the legendary Life MC has been a real honour. I have
always rated him so when he said let's do an album I was mad hyped!
In contrast, has there been a time, maybe more
than once, when you've been in the studio just thinking 'this is a ball of
wank'?
Yep, most weeks tbh. Sometimes I feel like I
gotta get shit done but just can't get in the right frame of mind. Or I spend
an hour digging thru wax.
On a night out on the town, what would a beverage
of choice be?
Spiced rum is my poison.
Is Tupac still alive?
Of course he is.
Do you have a system for producing tracks, ie:
drums then bass then whatever, or is it let whatever happens happen?
Depends what I find first. If I got a nice
break I'll chop that then find samples to fit, or if I find a nice loop or
whatever then I'll chop that, work out a sequence then add drums later. Either
way it's the same formula really.
Have you any interest in rapping, or is it all
production?
Haha, you never know, I may drop a verse on the SP album, but in
general no I'm all about sounds. If you heard my voice it's kinda boring and
would probably send you to sleep.
Which Indiana Jones was the best?
Raiders of
the Lost Ark all day.
What vegetarian-progressive-lounge-hop artists
are you listening to these days?
I prefer uplifting vegan techno.
In regards to the samples you use, are you a
believer in found sound?
I believe if I find a sound I like I'll use it; source
ain't really a thing, it's what you do with it.
Who's the illest MC you've done a track with?
Too many, if I touch it then it'll be gold!
On a scale of 9 to 10 out of 10, what rating
would you give Aguilera's Back To Basics album?
That's a hard one, can I pass? Haha.
Peace out man, anything else?
Look out for the new
album dropping from Life MC and myself dropping March 5th. Also keep your ears
peeled for the SP album and a whole bunch of projects from the team! Safe.
Bandcamp with Life MC: https://splitprophets.bandcamp.com/album/deep-in-the-trenches Diggin Up The Past: https://splitprophets.bandcamp.com/album/badhabitz-diggin-up-the-past
Long overdue and incredibly appropriate, I first conceived the idea of reviewing this back before it was released. However, Buddhist monks and unwanted procrastination resulted in a bit of a delay, if I do say so myself. How and ever, needs must and I felt a rustling in my jimmies of creation, so today was to be the day. Sicker than sick and doper than dope, this album is a laid-back slammer.
Kicking off with Chro Logic, fittingly produced with a feature from Dub Logic, the soft intro is followed by a skimpy beat. The background flute thing keeps the flow continuous, which is contrasted with the harsh vocals. iNDEX's lyrics are real, no bullshit. The vocal diversity showcases his ability as an artist, and not just here, but through the EP. With more references to the ol' medicinal than Cheech and Chong, I think he might like zonking out a bit more than I do. Sometimes the accent changes in the song, giving the impression that it's someone else. Variance is key. The basic beat and flute just keep flowing, never ceasing, and it is perfect. The production is bliss, credit to Chro.
Breathing into Cake House, an old school introduction keeps the style. Some aul' one's talking about cooking or something, but yeah, keep it real. The groove is sweet and the soft/hard snare is just gorgeous. Reference to Fully Peng. The riff in the back keeps the swing, and the scrappy guitar notes here and there keep the vibe. Quite perfect, I must observe. Reference to the dutch. Again with the food, except this time it has a mention of guacamole. Hmmmm, no. Not for this here. The vocals are immense, and the harsh projection fits perfectly. I like his style, projection, lyrics, etc. But cayenne and crazy leaf sounds a little less appetizing to what I'd be used to. How and ever, everyone to their own. Again, Chro's production is pure perfect, and again, there's more reference to the gwokmoli. I'll leave it at that.
Get Live would have to be one of the earlier standouts on the album. The driving beat and bouncey synth really start the track off kicking. Shouts to Fully Peng. As said, it's a bouncey anthem, but still retains the chill atmosphere of the album, showcasing the talent of the duo. iNDEX's rapping suits this track impeccably, and he's really making a statement. To get fucked. A few shout outs to the likes of Squared Roots and such lets us know who's behind him, always nice to hear. That beat keeps your neck in motion, no doubt. I think he might like the herbalist mentality. Again, real lyrics, no shit. The beat is key, and variance is appreciated. Everything combined with the high piano notes dancing in the back fuses into the perfect slammer.
Peter Profit EP - by Google Image search
Drifting into Dime Bag, the list of names is endless in the sea of English hip-hop. All the list is missing is... um, English Tupac?... A true big-ups to the whole fam on this one. Eric the Red can be heard at the start, and his voice always produces a chuckle or three from me. He sounds so similar to Leaf Dog at times it's uncanny. iNDEX naturally starts her up, with a lighting of said blunt. The synth line stands out as being quite separate and unique compared to the rest of the album, but as mentioned, variance is key. The end of each bar - showcasing production - has this strange piano chord left hanging there, never resolving. Keeps you guessing. Through Eric, with his odd-as-cabbage voice, we glide to Res. Res always has this beefy voice that cuts through the mix, which can easily be heard here. A few... references to the herb. Basil or oregano? Hmm. O.A.B. has a heavier voice again, sitting in a completely different place in the mix, but still coming through and hitting heavy. Did the song take a turn towards a darker atmosphere for a while? I think so. Diversity ftw. You'd truly know Datkid anywhere. Like Res, maybe it's a Prophets thing, he cuts through very clear too. Typically giving out about bad smokers, he's quite at home. Sean Peng has his unique voice, adding a different dynamic yet again. Bring him cheese like Gromit, haha. Beaver sounds a bit different, like he was mixed differently, but it just shows a different light. Welcomed with open arms. Piff is on game, what with his new album and all, and he's no different here. His lyrics are a bit wacky though. Each vocalist sounds so different that one can easily see Chro as a top-notch producer. Much love.
One might be familiar with Weed Music from, like myself, the Badhabitz remix tape. The version on PP has the same qualities, yet sounds so vastly different it truly sounds like two different songs. Not saying that it shouldn't, but you know. The beat on PP is a lot harder, which is... cordial? The guitar just hangs there, with an air of suspense surrounding the track. iNDEX has that powerful delivery that really stands out, and aside from the suspense, there's this feeling of melancholy present. Thematic, one might discourse. Haha, Pineapple Express quotes are just too perfect. I laughed. The timing, compared to Badhabitz'zz is a lot different, in that bars start and end in different places, if you understand what I mean. Once you listen to both you'll see. Not a bad thing though, it adds impact. Shows a totally different take on a song. At least he's eating lunch, haha. Too many lolz. The lyrics are beautiful on the track, and again the production is on form. A match made on MatchFinders. More Pineapple Express quotes :D
Keeping her laid back in the shack, play this track... Lay Back, with Sean Peng, is fairly self-explanatory. A relaxed introduction, chill as a cucumber, is the perfect start. Big-ups to the fuckin' muesli bruv. The beat is blessed by the filtered synth, and it is just chill, chill. Peng sounds on form, and the breaths you can hear before the lines he spits adds a deep impact. No attempt to hide it, nor no need to. The chorus, with iNDEX half-assing it again gives a deeper impact to the words. Why force everything when it's supposed to be laid back? Another verse makes the riff pure exceptional, and the doubling of the vocals is like a homage to the atmosphere. Another strange as fuck sample. Hmm, where he get dese?
Previously released, with the vijjo at the bottom of the page, S.A.G.E. is probably the best known off the album. Is it the standout of the album? Not to me, to be fair. However, it's still a banger. The video itself is simple and effective, and shows a happy iNDEX. A peaceful intro, and a much happier atmosphere bring forth a different iNDEX. Still has his powerful delivery. A sense of reminiscing is present, if you follow my drift. Give here a listen and you'll see. The long, long snare is beauty, keeps the flow in the back. The clear-cut samples carry the flow in the front, and Chro is at one of his best moments here, keeping you moving. The strings and vocals build up, then drop repeatedly, giving an ebb and flow impression. Perfect. Fuck fame.
3Tusli would probably be the standout to me. I like that shit, more of it. The funky guitar teeters around, then drops in to a full absolute mix. The beat is delicate and easy going, and when iNDEX starts off, he fits excellently. That beat is so so nice. Too nice. Nicer than those shitty Nice biscuits you see in shops that aren't even that nice, fuckin' deceptive fascists. A few samples here and there about the herby, and another Pineapple Express quote (winning), the album fades out with a Tew Tew tew tew... Not sure why, but hey.
Fin
Great success
Chro and iNDEX pair perfectly, and although I knew iNDEX before this EP, and was quite a fan, I must indulge and present the facts that I knew not of Chro. He's on the way up though. Sick beats, or beef if you say it right. Chro on the beef.
This album wasn't really expected, in the sense that I was familiar with Appreciation and Scribble The Pen; this album is quite dark in its themes. Variance is key.
Highlight of the album has to be either 3Tusli or Get Live, personally. Nothing against the other tracks, they just hit home.
I look forward to the next release, and who knows? If I lick enough ballsack might just get an interview, tee hee.
Averagity rating: Above average. Sky high. Big ups.
It's been a while brewing in the cellar, but this one is fresh as fuck. Hip-hop legend Dabbla was in the studio-in-the-sky to have a few words about nothing. Big ups and wreck yourself.
What's the script? Introduce yourself, bru.
Hi, I'm a dabbla, I put words together to make you smile.
I have to ask, where did 'Dabbla' as a name come from?
No interesting story behind it, just sounded cool at the
time.
How did LDZ come into existence?
Good question. Started with myself and Pierre Green and grew
from there.
Likewise, what's Problem Child?
Problem Child is my latest project with Illaman, Dubbledge
and Sumgii. Get on it!
Your sound is a lot more 'industrial' than others in the
scene you work with. In a contrast, your features, 'Dabble does...' sound a lot
more old school. Do you have a particular style you prefer working with?
130-140bpm, that’s my shit.
Do you have a particular process for writing lyrics, or just
let her flow?
First line has to be killer then yeah, she just does her
thing.
If you had to pick a particular fruit to personify you,
which and why?
Melon. All round amazing. In both solid and liquid form!
Which goat from the screaming goat compilations exemplifies
you the clearest?
I'm not too familiar with the screaming goats but probably
the one that drinks heavily and tells kids to fuck off.
Is there anything happening in the Dead Players camp at the
moment?
Bare happenings! New EP in the making and another album on
the way!
Favourite artist/s to collaborate with?
Haven’t had my fingers on the pulse lately, I’m too engrossed
in my own hype.
Dead Players got great reviews for Boom Bap 2014. How was it
for you?
Illegal.
What's the furthest a tour has taken you?
Never been on a proper tour, hopefully soon I'll be able to
answer this with amazing tales!
How you start rapping?
You go ‘yo’ then begin…
You're pretty prominent in the loungekore scene. You have a
favourite loungekore artist?
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHA, Loungekore.
Can I have a fag?
Certainly.
It seems like everyone in the UK hip-hop scene is one big
family. Is there any beef in behind the scenes? Everyone loves gossip.
Fuck Uk HipHop.
You working on any projects at the moment?
Yeah, my debut album titled Madman’s Lullaby.
What about doing 'Dabbla does Miley'? I could see it.
Me too. Link it!
I'm sure fans can be a bit strange at times. Any funny
stories from tours or just randomly meeting people?
Ummm… At a festival Baxter dragged me over to this girl who
was reciting one of the first rhymes I ever wrote. It was one of those 64-bar-long-story-telling
lyrics which my mind had long forgotten… Listening to someone reel that shit
off after a decade is pretty amazing to me.
Who's the biggest asshole in the game?
Harry the Bastard.
Would you consider yourself a mad egg?
From time to time.
Aguilera, yes?
Definitely. In the face.
Anything else?
Madman’s Lullaby. 2015. Potent Funk.
Script.
As always, my brus, links are here. You heard it, new album in store. Hup hup.
Another edition of nothingness is back, although there's a sever lack of nothingness. Only three tracks made it this week, being new and all. I promise to try harder; please, stop hitting me. Jam Baxter has a new album out, as does Smellington Piff, and Leaf looks like he's gearing up for something big. An exciting week it is. I'm a walrus. Moo.
Jam Baxter - Leash
Produced by Chemo, off the new album '... So We Ate Them Whole', which is set to drop 1st Decemeber. I shall look forward. Baxter being Baxter, it's a strange release. The video is pretty wacky, and I'm sure I've missed the point of it. Fuck it. I shall let you endure and see your own meaning. Looking pretty spaced behind that desk, the video is minimal but effective. It seems to be a step away from his traditional style, being a lot more reminiscent of the American scene, with a much more industrial feel. Trap almost. Those flies coming out his ear are a bit, um, weird. And disgusting. I still have yet to decipher a lot of what Baxter says in his songs, and this one is no different. No fuckin' idea whatsoever. The girl dressed in latex makes it look like a mad freaky porno, haha. Yes, yes, quite disgusting. Being unfamiliar with the visuals of Chemo, I'm wondering is that him acting as the butler? It's a basic beat, but it works. The synth introduced later in the song reminds me of something out of the CAS back-catalogue. Baxter is in lazy mode here, with the rhyming just falling out of his mouth. It's a lot more relaxing than one might be used to; change is good. Back to the desk, or drawing board, he's happy again. What is up with that vidya?
Leaf Dog - The Man With 1000 Dice
Rapped over a Kev Brown instrumental, Leaf is back. Is this tidings for a new album? Let us hope so. Leaf dropping a new album would be the biggest thing since stale bread. I hope this is only a snippet though, as it sounds like it's cut short. With no video, it sounds like it's part of a bigger project. Oh, I hope so. That strange guitar riff is nice, sounds a lot different to the usual Leaf old-school stuff. A nice scrappy beat is a change too, always good. There's a lot more 'yo's on the snippet than lyrics, which mean it must have been cut short. The lyrics are fairly random, reminds me of Baxter, haha.
Smellington Piff - Site
Coming straight off his new album dropping 8th Decemeber, Site is a perfect example of an artist who has honed his skill. It's a suitable first release, making us expect more. It's dirty, loud, and spat at you. And viscous. A big contrast to the likes of Piff Land, Piff himself has steered in quite an angry direction. The chaos in the video only exemplifies the lyrics, and the song in general, and the copious amounts of herb being consumed keep the old familiar Piff close to hand. That Rhodes-style steel guitar throughout the song is more infectious than the latest epidemic. Look out for featured appearances from BVA and Leaf. I'm pretty sure it's them you can see. Leaf is sat around the campfire, and Beaver is in the van. Sharp eyes. Check out the dynamic rhyming on top of the caravan haha. Giggles. The way he screams 'Site' during the chorus is just perfection. The lyrics of the track are honest, with such features as 'If home is where the heart is I live on my sleeve'. With a lot of references to how shit life was for him growing up, it makes a difference to just rapping about getting stoned. Ending with a sort of half-verse, the song is the perfect introduction to the new release. The beat is simple, nothing wrong with that. The use of strings is exceptional, and it's clear Leaf is definitely back too. With the album cover saying 'Produced by Leaf Dog', it would be fucking incredible to see a whole album produced by him again. Four Owls anyone? I truly look forward.
Fuck me in the ass and call me Alice. The studio is getting a lot of action this week, one is very happy with it. Priya Panda, of Diemonds, came in to talk shit and stuff. Ya dig?
What's the script. For our readers who may not know who you
are, introduce yourself.
Hey dudes and duderellas, I'm Priya Panda and I sing in
Diemonds.
How did Diemonds come about?
We came to be because of our shared love for classic rock n' roll. I started the band and baby, it’s been a long, wild ride, but I wouldn't
trade it for the world. We’re the strongest we've ever been.
Were you involved in any other acts previously?
I personally wasn't, no. I've poured my heart, time and energy
into Diemonds. I'm a firm believer in sticking to a project and watching it
come to life.
Were Diemonds initially part of a scene? I wouldn't be
inclined to associate them with any scene anyway.
Not really, but Toronto has an incredibly strong, hard
working, and supportive network of underground hard rock and metal bands and
fans. Is it a scene? Probably not, but we’re all huge music fans so we check
out each other’s shows and like to pump up the projects of our peers. When one
band is doing well, I feel like it’s one small step overall for Toronto rock
and metal so it’s a good place to be in a band... If you can make ends meet.
It’s a constant struggle.
I'm assuming you have quite a liking for hair metal. Who
were your main influences growing up?
Growing up I liked the Beatles and Neil Diamond but after I
discovered Guns n’ Roses it sort of set the course for most of the music that
really drove me to make music myself. RATT, Skid Row, VAIN, Motley Crue, and
KISS come to mind.
From certain band promo posts on Facebook I understand you
like the herb?
That would be an accurate assumption. Roll up the moon and
the stars and inhale the creativity and the goodness.
Do you go organic and smoke the homegrown, or support the
corporate industry and buy it from suppliers?
I don’t have any connection to any suppliers whatsoever. I
like to support small, local businesses no matter what it is I’m buying whether
it’s coffee, vintage clothing or records.
Favourite dinner for when you're touring?
Mozzarella sticks. This is a direct result of touring
America for years as a pretty strict vegetarian.
Do you believe sex sells?
Yes.
Being pleasing to the eye can help an image. Do you think it
has helped the band get recognized?
I think our art, photos, and design all kind of tie into one
another and it’s deliberate. We take pride in all the images and posters and
merchandise we put out there with our name on them. Our music, our lifestyle,
our personalities is something we try to tie into everything we release. And
hopefully it looks cool as fuck too.
Has any weird shit ever happened with fans?
Absolutely it has. There’s a pretty traceable reason for
this and that’s social media. People who you meet at shows or on tour or in
life all get to stay in touch in a way that didn't happen before for bands and
musicians or actors or other people putting themselves out there. That makes
certain people take liberties that they wouldn't have been able to in the past.
The constant personal messages and emails can make it seem like they know you
or are developing a relationship in their mind that doesn't transpire in the
real world. There’s been a few scary close calls, but for the most part we have
the best fans ever that have come through for us through thick and thin. And
for the record, I love staying in touch with people who want to talk. I like to
shoot the shit and chat music and life. I fuckin' despise creepers, though.
It seems you guys have met quite a few of your heroes. Do
you still lose your shit when you meet them?
Hell yeah I do. Oh man, of course I’m floored when I meet
people I’ve idolized my entire life. Meeting people who made music that
compelled me to make music is a surreal experience. I don’t think the thrill of
being in the same backstage area as Slash or David Coverdale will ever wear
off.
I do get really starstruck when some of my favourite singers
come to see us perform though. Dudes like Davy Vain, Stephen Pearcy, and Marq
Torien have gone out of their way to come see us or treat us like gold. It’s
beyond flattering. I can’t even begin to explain how much their music changed
my life.
Where do you get your lyrical content from?
Life. Mine or someone else’s. People’s stories. Someone’s gotta
tell them. The new record has a lot of focus on the struggle to find your place
in a world that has shifted so drastically for us compared with the generation
that came before us.
Where does your wardrobe come from?
Second hand stores and thrift stores pretty much make up 95%
of my wardrobe. The whole band enjoys tour thrifting which is great for me. I
still wear some vintage Toxic Vision and some Tripp NYC I got at Trash and
Vaudeville in NY but other than that, it’s all just a mish-mash of children’s
section miniskirts, 80’s bikini tops, cowboy boots and assorted broken-in
leather.
Favourite colour and why?
White because Vince Neil used to wear it head to toe in the
early Crue days, which is something I tried to do in the early Diemonds days
until I toured for the first time and everything was gray in 48 hours.
What's the furthest place a tour has taken you?
India!
… Ireland any time soon?
Yes, please!
Manatees or Dugongs?
To be honest, I had to look up Dugongs, but I think I prefer
the manatee, based on what? I don’t know.
Anything set for release the coming year? Or any projects
lined up that wouldn't be traditional rock n roll?
The new record is coming out on 4/20!
Have you an interest in approaching other genres, maybe solo
or with the band?
Oh yeah, I’m a huge fan of new wave British and Canadian
mostly. Duran Duran, Depeche Mode, Pet Shop Boys, all that shit sits well with
my black little heart.
How about tribal-funk-step?
Probably not. Leave that to the experts.
Thank you very, very, very much. Anything else?
Smoke Beer, Drink Weed, Listen to Diemonds.
Script.
If you don't like Diemonds, I don't like you. Here's some vids. Peace.
Talkin' shit and gettin' hit, had Ghosttown in to the wonder-emporium for a quick few words. Big up and wreck yourself. Check it.
What's the script? For our viewers who don't know who you
are, go ahead and introduce yourself.
Ok, I'm Ghosttown, I'm a beatmaker and producer who lives in Hackney London.
Do you have a certain way to produce beats, like start off
with a clear idea of what you want to do? Or drag and drop and go from there?
Do you deliberately try to add variance on your tracks?
Some of the time I start with drums if I don't have a clear
idea of what I want to do. A lot of the time I hear a beat in my head or at
least a vibe and try to get it down quick before it goes away. I don't really
try to stick to a particular genre but the main thing is I got to be able to
imagine a good vocal on top after the 1st bit of the beat is down
otherwise I'll scrap it and start again.
Your Soundcloud showcases a lot of unique beats. Nice
profiler by the way. There's grimy, dirty, dinky, dubby, bit of reggae. Do you
have a favourite style?
Not really... hip-hop I guess cos it's so diverse.
You have an EP on the way with Baxter and Scissorminge, with
whom you've worked with before on many occasions. Was making the EP easy? Well,
not easy in the traditional sense, but... easy?
Well, it's been in the pipeline for a couple years... We were
making it at the same time as the Dead Players thing but we're all busy so it's
just taken a long time to finish it. But yah, for me it was easy cos the beats
were there already.
When is due for release? Can you give us any hints, like
track names, anything?
Well, I don't really deal with that stuff but I heard a
rumour that it might drop for free to avoid waiting for release schedules... It's
been ready for a while so hopefully it will drop before next year. But don't
hold me to that.
Main DAW to use?
Cubase.
You support found sound?
Yes I do.
Have you any interest in rapping?
I have done in the past and may do in the future but not
right now.
You're working with Bahia too, seems quite a distant style
from what you're used to. Where did this come about? Any info on this EP, style
etc?
She's a friend so we just linked up and made some tracks. The EP is quite diverse and now it looks like the tracks might be integrated into a
solo album for her featuring some other producers from all over the world. It's
dope. The tracks I've done on there are like a fusion of two step garage and
RnB... also there's a couple of reggae tracks but I dunno if they'll make it to
the final cut of the album.
From your releases hinting towards dancehall grooves it's no
surprise that you have Yosef [Madcon] in doing an EP. It's a big colab for you,
no?
Yah, it's a collab between me, him and Son of Light... The
project is called Underbelly... I'm excited about that one.
How often do you use the Vengeance sample packs?
I don't think I ever used them but I have a lot of unlabeled
stuff that people have given me so it might be in there.
Would you have a favourite artist to work with?
Outkast.
Is there an artist you've wanted to work with since you
started? Or a dream colab?
Outkast or Busta.
Boom Bap 14, what the fuck was it like? Dead Players seemed
to get nice reviews.
Yah, it was sik, big ups to Ivan for making it so sick. I
highly recommend that festival if you are a die hard hip-hop fan, or you just want
a good party for a weekend, its wicked.
Vinyl or digital? Choose wisely.
Digital.
Do you like chicken medium-rare or well done?
I don't eat meat. But if I did it would be well done.
Favourite Miley Cyrus song?
Wrecking ball.
But in all honesty, would you like to colab with her? It...
might work.
I would.
You know that shops here do coconut aftershave? How sick is
that?
That is sick.
Have you ever been working with an artist like 'this is well
bad'?
Plenty of times.
On a scale from 9-10 out of 10, how would you rate Christina
Aguilera's Back To Basics?
Dunno if I've ever heard it!
Denied. Anything else you would like to include?
Yah, biggups to all my friends and family!
Script.
You can hear Sir's production in the following places:
