realm's word

Friday again and to kick things off, some chilled vibes for all you real Hip Hoppers.

Hope you enjoy... :)

When I was 11 years old, All-4-One covered a song and it was a global hit.
The song... 'I Swear'. I don't know a single person who doesn't either know or love the track. I listened to the LP on rotation for a long time and to this day know every single word to the album. They were in direct competition with Boyz II Men.

All-4-One had more success with 'I Can Love You Like That'.

Both hits were cover songs of country singer John Michael Montgomery. It seems that Rhythm and Blues works well with country music - just ask Whitney Houston who had major success with 'I Will Always Love You'.

All-4-One seemed to do most of their best commercial success whilst covering other writers' songs.

But they're back in a big way now, mature and a polished act.
'No Regrets' sees the group make a very welcome return, albeit they are making typical soulful ballads, but who cares...any group who've given so many people years of musical happiness from such classic previous material, deserve your attention and the new LP delivers.

Support good music, buy the album.

I mentioned a while ago that Toni Braxton is due for a return this year - one of my first ever posts in fact.

Well, seems that true to form, songs are being 'leaked'.

Leaking songs seems to be artists way of providing a viral form of free PR.... let the world have some free music and think it's exclusive. The idea works.

Thanks to our friends at Honey Soul, here are two of the forthcoming songs.

I like them both and they really are vintage Toni.
No doubt she's making this album for the same reasons as the last album - she's broke. As I understand it, Toni makes music for the sole purpose of being able to eat, which is fair enough - although a bit of passion for the art form wouldn't go amiss.

Here you go are the two new tracks and a couple of classic Toni cuts for good measure:

It's about time I had a rant and recent music related news has certainly fuelled the fire.

Kanye West.
Beyonce Knowles.

Two of the biggest artists probably on the planet at the moment. Recent happenings at the Mtv VMA's have propelled both artists to the news headlines. Kanye disgraced himself by barging on to the stage when country newbie Taylor Swift was collecting her award. Kanye swiped the MIC and talked of how wonderful Beyonce's video was, whilst Taylor stood in disbelief as some arrogant rapper ruined what should have been the highlight of her career. The camera's panned to Beyonce who also looked shocked and embarrassed - later Beyonce in fact called Taylor to the stage whilst collecting her own gong so that Taylor could finish her speech.

Next day, Kanye appeared on Jay Leno and instead of performing only (as already planned), he briefly spoke with Leno, who in turn asked all sorts of questions to which Kanye 'appeared' choked, remorseful and upset at his actions the previous night.

I still think that Kanye told Leno what to ask, bringing up 'what would your mother think?' as a question. Now, given Kanye had to stop a recent show in Manchester after becoming tearful about his mother, I find it highly unlikely that Leno would ask such a thing without being told to. Therefore, I think the award ceremony debacle was a PR stunt by and for Kanye where he'd be able to get lots of publicity and then show his 'real' side next day during a public apology, thus maintaining his wild persona as well as his human side.

For what it's worth, Beyone did well to show her disdain for Kanye's actions. To boot, I know how talented she is as a singer. But that's all you'll get from me when it comes to Beyonce positivity and praise. She is to me, the culprit for the demise of the original Destiny's Child - it was Beyonce's ego that lead to the original members leaving the group and again it was the Knowles family intervention that further split the group, leaving us with the trio; Knowles, Rowland and Williams. Their music got progressively worse and more irritating and Beyonce increasingly made herself the lead singer of the group. I understand that her voice is reason for her lead singer status, but the original group managed without her in this position very well indeed.

Kanye's said Beyonce made one of the best video's of all time.
I couldn't care less about meaningless music videos - ever notice how the worst songs have the best videos?

Good videos don't constitute decent music. I'm sick of this 'independent woman' sh#t she constantly spouts.
The lyrics: 'if you liked it then you shoulda put a ring on it' totally contradict her message... Beyonce refers to herself as 'it', an object. I'd respect Beyonce's talent if she didn't act like some diva b#tch with a giant chip on her shoulder.

The only one creating gender inequality is Beyonce - making issues out of subjects that were only pertinent 50 years ago. If you think that men always treat you badly, find a different man - you're an attractive and successful person - what are you scared of?

As for Kanye West - he was treading on very thin ice in my view...way before the VMA stunt after releasing the musical atrocity that is 808's and Heartbreaks.

My money's on Kanye releasing a collaboration track with Taylor Swift in the future. If that happens, my theory that this was a purposeful PR stunt will be proven. I'm done with Kanye for good.

I’m not biased when it comes to the geographical origin of my musicians, nor am I patriotic for my home country, England. That said, let’s take a look into British Soul and why it stays true to Soul roots.

Clearly, soul as a genre does not originate from the UK and is certainly a more niche market for the UK than it is in the States. With smaller audience numbers comes less money, with less money in turn comes less desire for newcomers to make it and so the cycle continues and the filtration system is ongoing. What this has done for the UK soul scene is in fact a blessing, in my opinion. You see, those Brit Soul ‘originators’ from the 90’s era are all still around – not half bad for ‘copycat’ Soul artists. The reality is that yes, influence was taken from USA based music, but where did the USA music take influence from? It certainly didn’t just appear out of nowhere and given the USA’s relatively short history as a country, their music in fact is a blend of various cultures – Europe, Africa and more. So the UK Soul scene is therefore not a copycat and comes with full credibility. Writing this, and thinking about the pre-millennia music, the amount of talent in the UK – a small island – is quite frankly, astounding.

Beverly Knight, who last night launched her latest album, first cut an LP in 1995. Bands such as Soul II Soul and The Brand New Heavies have both recorded some benchmark tracks and solo artists: Seal, Omar, Sade and Mica Paris all continue to make fine music. Other contributors such as the late (GREAT!) Lynden David Hall, Des’Ree, Maxi Priest, Incognito, Tony Momrelle and Young Disciples also get major credit, not to forget Jamiroquai. What makes me most proud is that every artist listed above stuck to their original game plan, making great music and conforming as little as possible to the media hype which so often places strain on musical integrity.

So, what keep the UK’s soul scene pure? Clearly, the 1990’s were dominated by Brit Rock and the emergence of Hip Hop, not forgetting the wave of Boy and Girl Bands. Music was taking a new direction and the Jazz, Funk and Soul derivative genres were given room to breathe, cross pollinate and bloom without ulterior motive. Acid Jazz became prevalent and cool vibes emanated from the quiet corners of the UK’s music scene – those ‘in the know’, knew something. Thankfully, good music always gets its reward and some UK Soul got critical acclaim, filling the pockets of the necessary record companies and subsequently allowing the Brit Soul scene to be credible enough in the music industry for major labels to sign up artists.

Yet today we still see these artists maintain their original essence, for this I personally am thankful and respectful of, not to mention full of admiration for the hard work and perseverance.

Enjoy a selection of UK soul music and other derivatives on my Happy Friday Spotify playlist album... clearly Spotify limits the options, but there are a few gems there... simply open Spotify, and paste this into the search bar: spotify:user:gavvyb:playlist:4zhIG7Z21pZ4j0UzxZ7VXY

When I was five years old, De La Soul started making hits. They’re still touring and still recording. I remember seeing them live and was impressed by their ability to get the crowd going, their understanding of one another and the sheer skill involved when they would rotate the DJ!

As a 20 year anniversary, Mike Boogie & Terry Urban have put together a tribute album.

A more recent track by De La is ‘Baby Phat’ and I’ve always listened, enjoying the beat, the way the rap flows with the stop-start beat and the humorous lyrics. Their music is never too serious, always tuneful and true to their original form. They’ve influenced Hip Hop in a way which few else can claim and it seems they will carry on forever.

Emcee ‘Skillz’ has been enlisted along with one of my ‘ones to watch’ for 2009, ‘Colin Munroe’ to give their own rendition of Baby Phat.

I’m not breaking any news, the good folks at illRoots already leaked this, but I cant get enough of this track. It’s been reworked extremely well and is more cover-version than remix.

Download, listen and enjoy.

Anyone alive and conscious in the 90's will have at minimum heard the music from songstresses 'Brownstone'.
Tracks like 'If you love me' and 'Grapevyne' put them instantly on the map but after some group politics, the trio's shelf life was hit hard, never to fully recover, try as they did.

For the full story, hit up Wikipedia to get a full insight.

Today I've been on a 90's nostalgia frame of mind and with thanks to YouTube who in my opinion doesn't get the thanks that it deserves - lets be honest, how lucky are we to be able to access all this old lost video footage - I've got some nice old-skool (ish) vids for your mind.

Enjoy....

CRAZY vocals from Brownstone..


Ginuwine for your mind


Blaque Ivory - who are apparently recording NOW, ready for a 2009 release!!!!!!


702

Xscape


SWV


Whitney, Kelly and Faith


Mary J. Blige

I gave up on 'Rap' some years ago for a combination of reasons which all retrospectively seem to point towards my seeming accelerating age.
That said, I still listen to the Rap music from 'my day' and prior whilst attempting to remain open minded to the new stuff, but I cant help but feel like Rap music reached its peak about 5 years ago and the newer stuff is regurgitated carbon copy music. Substance went out of Rap a long time ago and that's fine, most music starts with good intention and develops into something else as demand presents money making opportunity.

Based upon my ears being tuned into alternate stations, it's no surprise that much of the current work bypasses the Dj Realm radar. I stay in touch up to a point.

Today I discovered Slaughterhouse thanks to Talib Kweli's Twitter. I respect Talib and he said Slaughterhouse are dope, so I thought I'll give it a go most especially as he had mentioned other 2009 releases of high quality including Sa-Ra and Maxwell - therefore he and I are on some sort of similar wavelength.
The name Slaughterhouse indicates a not so fluffy musical direction. Fine by me.
Turns out Slaughterhouse is a group formed of Royce Da 5'9'', Joell Ortiz, Joe Budden and Crooked I. All of the above artists have style, experience and undeniable ability in their own rights - whether you like them or not (and I for one never bothered listening to Joe Budden much or Crooked I for that matter. But Joell Ortiz and Royce are both awesome, by anyones standards.

The album hits hard, yes its aggressive but it's full of beats that scream that Slaughterhouse weren't looking for the generic formula and of course the lyrics, whilst 'gansta' are well written and delivered with fury.
Yes, it's full of your 'Ho', 'Bitch', 'N...' and the usual terms associated with Rap music. This isn't Hip Hop, it's Rap and designed to get you hyped...and it works. It's the first Rap album I've enjoyed in a while, for all of the wrong reasons, but it is what it is. I for one was entertained.

Spotify URL (paste this in your Spotify search): spotify:album:3to46oYyRXJq3TPZNr7MVk

Yes, I’ve given Vikter Duplaix enough ‘props’ on this blog.
But given my recent disappointment after a certain new album by another of my most favoured Neo Soul artists, I’ve decided that I wish to keep positive.
After all, I’ve written of my acceptance for artists who are ‘indie soul’ and make the crossover to mainstream – everyone’s got to eat.

More on the above matter to follow, no doubt.

For now, it gives me great pleasure to see that one of my bestest artists has provided a soothing relief to his fans fears by allowing for a FREE download of his newest track which continues to follow his non conformist form of music. Thankfully, Vikter Duplaix couldn’t care less about conforming to mainstream sounds, instead opting to be himself.
I know Vik is recording a new album and the single ‘Electric Love’ makes me think that I won’t be disappointed upon its immanent release. Although, I thought the same thing when I heard a snippet of Eric Roberson’s ‘Borrow You’ a few weeks ago...
‘Yes! A good new album this way comes’ my mind told me.

Alas last week, my ears disagreed, regretting to inform my brain that ‘Music Fan First’ was a massive let down, despite a few decent tracks. I don't blame Eric Roberson, he deserves commercial success. I'm just disappointed as a long term fan.

Eric Roberson review to follow, if I can bring myself to go through the hurt of listening to it once again – having done this a few times over the last week, I’m inclined to give it a miss, along with the October gig of Erro which I had intended on attending.
Sigh... It seems that I've managed to contradict my earlier statement, Eric Roberson clearly upset me enough to discuss him on a post initially intended to inform of another artists newest effort. Apologies. I digress, by nature.

Go to Vikter Duplaix’s website for a free download of his great new single... you won’t be disappointed, this I can assure you.

Click on www.vikterduplaix.com for the free download.... then buy his album when it's out.

Time to make this blog more credible, today we’ve been pretty mainstream orientated and for that I must apologise to those readers who prefer Realms Word when it’s focus is on that which has Soul, heart or an iota of social awareness.
In my defence, my first blog for the day was based on some substance. After all, Nas was and is a very gifted MC and has been a major influence on Hip Hop for a very long time. Remember Illmatic? No? Well then this blog (in general) is most likely not for you. Illmatic, Nas’ first commercially successful LP was and remains a genre benchmark. Admittedly, he’s yet to repeat work of that consistently high level, but that’s normal. My point being, talk of forthcoming, experimental Nas work with Damian Marley is exciting, for me!
To pay just dues to Nas, click play on Jay Electronica’s Nas tribute track... Jay is a gifted man.

It's official, Drake has made the full mainstream crossover. He was always a part of Lil Wayne's crew, so nothing new there...but to have a new track with Kanye West AND Eminem on it.... the dudes career just stepped through the door of a totally new world.

And you know what? I like the track, despite the Vocoder on Drakes voice. Eminem kills it, clearly.. and Kanye looks weak in comparison to the others...

Listen here...

I'm finally back after taking a Blogging break, sorry about that - had things to do!
So to play catch up, I'll be reviewing some new Ultrasone DJ Pro Headphones very soon, letting you know my opinion on the new Erro album and a few other bits... and if I'm not mistaken, Happy Friday last week was, well...not Happy at all... seems I owe you.

News wise, Erro's Music Fans First' album went straight into the RnB Chart top 10 in its first week, credit where it's due, he deserves commercial success after so many years hard work.

Nas and Damian Marley are to release an album together, which I'm looking forward to, watch more here...

Mariah Carey has finished recording a new album, the same can be said for Ludacris.

'Somehow' (yeah, like we're naive enough to think that new recordings of songs actually 'leak' within minutes of being recorded - EVER NOTICE HOW ARTISTS NEVER SUE THEIR PRODUCERS/RECORD COMPANIES ETC FOR LEAKING THEIR LATEST SONG? PERHAPS ITS SOMETHING TO DO WITH THE FACT THAT THEY DO IT ON PURPOSE, STOP INSULTING OUR INTELLIGENCE. JEEEEEEEEES. It would be a lot more truthful if they said 'here's a demo of one of my new tracks, do you like it?') Monica's new song is ready for the listening... Click here for a snippet
It's OK. Good vocals but a bit annoying and 'too much' They you go Monica, that's what I think, now stop over complicating your music.

Nivea is a type of moisturizing face cream and a name for an RnB singer who shot to short term fame on Mystikal's 'Been So Long'. Well, here's her latest track, sounds a bit Mya, a bit Rihanna (puke) and clearly somewhat meaningful to Nivea lyrically. Judge for yourself here

Speaking of Mya.... I always liked her, she was sweet, playful and had a nice voice.
This comeback from her is just a let down in every aspect, sorry to say so. I can't bring myself to review it.

Hi Folks! After a busy week where the posting is admittedly somewhat lacking, it is once again Happy Friday.
This is however, not the Happy Friday post.
This morning I felt the need for something abstract, upbeat, contemporary and jazzy. Most would say that it’s not an easy task. I beg to differ. The difficulty in such a task is having the artistic creativity to compose and construct such an unforgiving musical concoction.

Step up step up IG Culture. I’ve been a fan for some years now and am more than happy to pronounce my admiration for him – a true master of his trade.
Now press play on this and continue reading...

Trust me when I say that the creation of fusion music is no mean feat. Aside from having to satisfy a variety of audiences who are by nature, sceptical of manipulating their beloved art form, but to stay within the limits of normality so that you do not ostracise all audiences is a whole other kettle of fish.
IG Culture has been doing his thing for a long time now, be it solo, as part of a group, as guest producer for other artists or any other way he sees fit.
He tends to surround himself with the right people which in turn allows his music to remain grounded and maintain its original integrity.
I’d like to hear him live and I plan to as soon as he’s around next.
It doesn’t matter which of his albums you buy first, they’re all good. Take a listen to his broken beat style and judge for yourself. Then perhaps go find some stuff by the New Sector Movement for a slight flip on styles.
If this is too much for you, but you’re intrigued by the genre, perhaps take a look at Mark De Clive-Lowe who makes great music, albeit slightly more user friendly for broken beat first timers.

Andreena Mill is a name that most of us don’t know.
I first came across her when listening to Drake’s version of ‘Closer’ (as mentioned on a previous blog entry).
At 1.26 into the song, Drake says: ‘‘Gimme 20 in the tank on 3, I'm in the Range bumpin Keyshia Cole
Singin off-key like...’’ and then we hear Andreena’s beautiful vocals and then throughout the rest of the track.

Hear for yourself


It was that first vocal hit that got me thinking I should learn a bit more about her.
As you may expect, her affiliation with Drake makes her a Toronto based Canadian and serves as futher proof that Canada’s music scene is not to be ignored.

I will say however, that she’s way more R’n’B than Neo Soul, which is a shame as her vocal ability would take her far, however that’s her prerogative. Vocal talent is vocal talent.

Style wise, perhaps think 702 meets Blaque (Ivory) meets Brandy meets Left Eye.

The following link will take you to her mixtape download, judge for yourself. I’m not saying that I enjoyed her own tracks, but I do think that with the right direction and focus, this girl is talented.

Click Here

I know that this is a somewhat simply post, but I'm too busy to be playing today.

Simply put, whilst working today, I've been listening to a few albums, end to end. This is something that I seldom do, as there are few albums which allow for continual playback without interferences of skipping or leaving out a couple of tracks.

I’m gratefully reminded today of two facts.

The first being the Jill Scott, whilst a talented and consistently good musician, will likely never repeat her 2000 release ‘Who Is Jill Scott?’. IT is flawless, Jazzy, Soulful and full of attitude. Yes she’s done plenty of good work since, but this album was recorded on another planet. Listening to ‘A Long Walk’ for the millionth time since I first laid ears on it (?!) I’m reminded of the sheer amount of work that went into recording the ever changing layers of vocals – every time you listen, you notice a different vocal. Genius, pure and simple.

The second fact was that Hip Hop today should model itself around Kero One’s musical blueprint. Today I pressed play on ‘Windmills of the Soul’ and when that was done, straight onto 2009 release ‘Early Believers’. I don’t tire of his music and there’s simple nothing to dislike.
Granted, there will be people who disagree, but those are the same people who are either listening to Lil Wayne or perhaps Asher Roth, thinking they know and understand what’s actually important the Hip Hop world.
You need to have a flow, you need to have lyrical content, you must move in credible circles, you must think of musical creativity and purity ahead of what will make sub woofers pound... do you follow me?
Kero One is to me, a hope, a glimmer of real light in an otherwise dull musical genre... Hip Hop has been fighting for the full 12 rounds and is in a daze, Kero One should be considered as the smelling salts that wakes the World up and allows Hip Hop to fight another day.
Pressed and released his own first single and continues to release music independently, I’m not doing freebie’s on this post, support good music.

Kero One - Welcome to the Bay (Official Music Video) from plug label on Vimeo.

Too much is never enough... and so with this in mind I give you the second part to the Happy Friday compilation download....

This one has some more up to date stuff, decide for yourself whether you like the direction Hip Hop is taking – Of these artists, do yourself a favour and make sure you check Kero One’s solo work, Wes Felton and Colin Munroe – who I find very intriguing as he’s not an MC...but hangs with them?! He's talented for sure...check out this rehearsal video where he sings and plays the drums at the same time..


Enjoy, Happy Friday

Click here for the link

Well, it’s that time again. Today’s the day where we celebrate having nothing to do for 2 days.
Although I’m technically ‘working’ on Saturday night (if DJing counts as work?), Friday’s are the day where we try not to take life seriously and so with this in mind, I’ve compiled a TWO PART Happy Friday playlist for you.
And as I mentioned last week, this week is Hip Hop and Rap orientated.

The first is a mixture of some older Hip Hop and Rap, some ‘credible’, some not. But who cares about credibility on a Friday really? Some head banging gangster sh@t, some west coast, some east coast and a couple of randoms for good measure. One thing’s for sure, you’ll be nodding your head to most if not the whole thing.

Here’s your artist list for Part One of Today’s Happy Friday, in no particular order:

Dr.Dre (its only fair to include this after my ‘translation’ this week!)
ODB
Jaz-O
Jay-Z
Trick Daddy
Ludacris
A+
Crown City Rockers
Souls of Mischief
Young MC
50 Cent
AZ
The Game
Busta Rhymes
Snoop Dogg
Jurassic 5
Digable Planets
DMX
Jayo Felony
Method Man
Krayzie Bone
Angie Martinez
K-Os

Click here to find the link and... enjoy...part 2 to follow this afternoon

August 25th 2009.... twelve days.
That's how long we have to wait until 'Mr Neo Soul' - Eric Roberson - releases his next, brand new album entitled 'Music Fan First'. It's a project that Eric/Erro has tried to keep his fans involved in, even sending attendees of a show 2 versions of the same song and asking them to vote which one to put on the album.

No matter what you love about Neo/Nu/Soul, Eric's style will have something for you, be it raw vocal ability, the use of live instruments, lyrical content or for those of us lucky enough to have caught his show, his charisma on stage. I've yet to see any other performer put so much effort and energy into a show and whilst I'll admit that on occasion he may over indulge in Live song preludes and interludes and any other 'lude' you can think of, he has the right, because he may well have single handedly carried the genre since D'Angelo went on hiatus.

The first track I ever heard Erro on (and he went by that name - Erro) was with DJ Jazzy Jeff on a track called 'Rock With You', which is in my view, smoother than silk...take a listen for yourself:


If 'Rock With You' is up your street, you should without doubt pick up his back catalogue of music... start with his most recent album - 'Left', follow its story within which will give you an idea of his past years of trials and tribulations. Once you're into 'Left', go deeper, get 'The Appetizer' and 'The Vault'. You wont be sorry.

I was in fact worried that his new album would be a disappointment, however, his blogging has eased my mind.. You can keep up to date with Eric's daily video blogging in the lead up to his album launch where we hear snippets of each track and the reason behind why he wrote them...his official YouTube page can be found by clicking here.

Realms Word wishes Eric every success for his forthcoming album... support good, independent artists, buy it!

Embracing ‘new’ technologies and fads is what our generation are all about. After all, it’s the communication age.

I think it must have been in January 2009 when I started using Spotify although I can’t and won’t become a premium user for a few reasons. The first and main reason is that the library of music which I know to be rapidly increasing, does not extend to the music that I would like to feature. As an example, even Anthony David – soul singer from Georgia – who recently signed to friend India Arie’s ‘Soulbird’ label which is linked with major label Universal Republic, is not on Spotify’s roster. Another reason is that there tends to be a great deal of what appear to be bootleg style albums. Of course, even if the song you want to hear is on the bootleg, it just doesn’t feel right.
Another reason is that if I’m paying – I like to keep the music all to myself, put it on my iPod etc.

That said, what Spotify allows for and I think, does very well – is the sharing of playlists.

I have compiled a collection for you to use freely and it’s full of some good and some not-so-good Rap, R’n’B and Hip Hop – mainly of the commercial variety.
Let’s just say that it’s a user-friendly, easy listening intro to the world of Pop style Rap and R’n’B music.

It’s got no soul, no credibility, but it’ll get your head bopping nicely.

Simply click on the following link whilst your Spotify programme is running and it’ll load up!

Put this link into your web browser address path:

http://open.spotify.com/user/gavvyb/playlist/0r5tTgjWYMDZS524m4GS41


Enjoy!

As loyal subjects of Realms Word, today you've surpassed yourselves and have in fact achieved a record amount of daily hits to this blog since...ever...
And so, as ruler of this Realm, I thought I'd reward you with some nice Michael Jackson remixes that, well, you just cant find in any old place.

I've already said my ode to the King of Pop which you can find via clicking here..

If you're a DJ, you may like a couple of these and if you like to do as I do - play people rare songs and then not specify where you got them so that you have the upper hand - you're in for a treat.

Click the link and download!!!!


I'm signing out for the day but will be back soon...

Michael Jackson, rest in peace.

Dj Rahdu, thanks :)

I’m willing to bet that none of the following names mean anything to you:
Leeroy Kesiah, Sly the Mic Buddha, Vicelow, Specta, Feniksi, Sir Samuel, KLR, DJ Fun, Alsoprodby, Eddy Kent and DJ Karve?
No?
Well, all of the above are current, ex or deceased members of French group ‘Saian Supa Crew’.

My experience from DJing and simply playing ‘new’ music to people is that music with certain quirks will either get more air time, be more accepted or even end up with greater commercial success. By ‘quirks’ I refer to the use of catchy, classic samples (e.g. Jay-Z’s ‘Can’t Knock The Hustle’ which heavily sampled ‘Fool’s Paradise’), perhaps a beat-box break or intro, perhaps some well written one liner hooks which the crowd can easily remember, a dance more (such as Usher’s ‘U-Turn’ – I know you’ve done it!)...you get the idea.

The Saian Supa Crew are arguably the most popular Hip-Hoppers to have hailed from our European neighbours, France. Yes, MC Solaar comes close and NTM are France’s version of East Coast USA gangster rap, but Saian Supa offer more. Their style is individual and although it’s in French (and dialects of), such is their individuality in delivery, ability to create awesome beats and add their own twist, that anyone can (and does) listen.

Click here

To help you along your Saian Supa Crew introductory journey, the following link will let you have a copy of their rather hard to get hold of ‘Stand Out’ version of 2005 album ‘X-raisons’.

This will be music to the ears of already fans who cannot find this illusive album and for the newcomers, it features: Roots Manuva, Brand Nubian and The Arsonists..

Honestly, very few Hip Hop artists are as creative and diverse...give them a try... some of my favourite tracks are:
‘A Demi Nue’, ‘Hey Yo My Man’, ‘Ils etaint Un Fois’, ‘Maladie’, ‘Soldat 2’ and dig a bit deeper to find classics like ‘Angela’ and ‘Darkness’ from their KLR album
Saian Supa Crew, Angela:


Some cool beatbox stuff to feast your eyes on too...

Ever had problems understanding what these Rappers are saying? In reality, nobody actually knows the meaning of what they’re saying and that rule extends to those actually using the language.

‘Ebonics’ might be a term that most would not recognise or some might remember from the Big L (RIP) album – but it strikes me that most people certainly don’t know what it means. Cue the Wiki search... You done?

So, now you’ve Wikipedia’d ‘Ebonics’ and I don’t need to explain what it means. My personal concern is that somewhere, most likely in the 1970’s when people evolved Ebonics into Jive talk, the water became so muddied that words got lost in translation.

In order to partially clear this issue up, this is the first instalment of a lyrical translation of a famous Rap track by West Coast Crip gang members Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg from Dr. Dre’s ‘The Chronic’ album:

Black text is the original lyric, Red Text is the translation of previous line or paragraph

One, two, three and to the fo
One, two, three, Four
Snoop doggy dogg and dr. dre are at the do
Cordazar Calvin Broadus and Andre Young are at the door
Ready to make an entrance, so back on up
Stand aside as we’re about to walk through said door
[cuase you know we bout had to rip shit up]
[by now you should be aware that we will cause a scene]

Snoop Dogg:

Gimme the microphone first, so I can bust like a bubble
Please allow me to commence, I’m raring to go
Compton and long beach together, now you know you in trouble
He’s from Compton and I’m from Long Beach
Aint nothin but a g thang, baaaaabay!
Please excuse our baby like ways, but being Gangster’s is all we’ve ever known
Two loc’d out gs so were craaaaazay!
As do most Crip Gang members, we are wearing Loc sunglasses, which means we are mentally unhinged
Death row is the label that paaaaays me!
We’re signed to the Death Row record label
Unfadable, so please dont try to fade this [hell yeah]
Please do not switch this song off, nor indeed kill me (I concur)

But, uh, back to the lecture at hand
Perfection is perfected, so Im a let em understand
From a young gs perspective
What was my point before? Oh dear, I digress, to date I’ve had an important life lesson
Let me tell you, practise makes perfect
I learnt that as a child

And before me dig out a bitch I have ta find a contraceptive
You never know she could be earnin her man,
And learnin her man, and at the same time burnin her man
It is imperative that one should practise safe sex
There are ladies who try to take advantage of men
These ladies appeal to a gentleman’s’ ego, all the while hoping to mislead and ultimately conceive a child
Now you know I aint wit that shit, lieutenant
Aint no pussy good enough to get burnt while Im up in it
I agree, I too am against ladies who do such things
I’d be disappointed if any ladies I know did that to me
Now thats realer than real-deal holyfield
And now all you hookas and hos know how I feel
You’re quite correct in your opinions on this occasion
And all you ladies listening, I think I’ve voiced my concerns, but to confirm
Well if its good enough to get broke off a proper chunk
Ill take a small piece of some of that funky stuff
You know, as opposed to finding a lady of such ill intent
I would prefer to participate in the consumption of illegal narcotics

Its like this and like that and like this and uh
Its like that and like this and like that and uh
Its like this and like that and like this and uh
Dre, creep to the mic like a phantom
We cannot think of a chorus to what is admittedly, a strange subject of song
We cannot think of a chorus to what is admittedly, a strange subject of song
We cannot think of a chorus to what is admittedly, a strange subject of song
Andre, stop being shy, it’s easy, have a go

Dr Dre:

Well Im peepin, and Im creepin, and Im creep-in
I’m spying in preparation for a drive-by shooting
But I damn near got caught, cause my beeper kept beepin
That was close! My victim almost saw me, I shall switch my Pager to vibrate mode
Now its time for me to make my impression felt
Now’s as good a time as any to make my move
So sit back, relax, and strap on your seatbelt
Car safety is of the utmost importance to me, please buckle up - did you know that even if my passengers dont ear i belt, i can get points?
You never been on a ride like this befo
I’m willing to bet that you have never been on such a metaphorical ‘journey’
With a producer who can rap and control the maestro
I can multi task
At the same time with the dope rhyme that I kick
On one hand, I am able to speak in rhyme form
You know, and I know, I flow some ol funky shit
All whilst maintaining a funk like disposition
To add to my collection, the selection
I select music from a wide repertoire
Symbolizes dope, take a toke, but dont choke
My repertoire tends to be narcotic driven, but don’t let that surprise you
If ya do, ya have no clue
If you are surprised by this, please see the previous verse where my colleague mention the narcotic side of things
O what me and my homey snoop dogg came to do
Both of us enjoy music and narcotics, we see them as our calling

Its like this and like that and like this and uh
Its like that and like this and like that and uh
Its like this, and we aint got no love for those
So jus chill, til the next episode
We cannot think of a chorus to what is admittedly, a strange subject of song
We cannot think of a chorus to what is admittedly, a strange subject of song
We cannot think of a chorus and we dislike various individual people
The song is almost finished, feel free to relax


Snoop:

Fallin back on that ass with a hellified gangsta lean
I shall take a seat for this verse, similar to a car with custom suspension
Gettin funky on the mic like a old batch o collard greens
Much like green vegetables which are past their ‘use by’ date, I shall now make an awful aroma on the microphone
Its the capital s, oh yes, the fresh n double o p
I am able to casually spell out my stage name with whimsical basic rhymes
D o double g y d o double g ya see
I told you I could rhyme my stage name, that’s why I chose it
Showin much flex when its time to wreck a mic
I can really show my abilities when I want to
Pimpin hos and clockin a grip like my name was dolomite
I run a human traffic empire and I’m a big man, a superhuman if you will much like Dolomite,
Yeah, and it dont quit
Did you think I was a quitter, let it be known, I’m not.
I think they in a mood for some mothafuckin g shit
The audience are clearly in need of being taught more about us Gangsters

So dre. [what up dogg? ]
So, Andre.. (you rang, Calvin?)
We gotta give em what dey want [whats that, g? ]
People want things (I don’t follow you?)
We gotta break em off somethin [hell yeah]
We’ve not made much sense as of yet, we’re merely talking around the point (so we are)
And its gotta be bumpin [city of compton!]
Let’s tell them more (yes, more about my home town of Compton)

Its where it takes place so Im a ask your attention
Geographically, Compton is a vibrant place
Mobbin like a mothafucka but I aint lynchin
I’m part of a local group of misfits with the Oedipus complex, but we do not participate in drive-by shooting
Droppin the funky shit thats makin the sucka niggaz mumble
Once again, back to my abilities as a musician, I do enjoy funk
When Im on the mic, its like a cookie, they all crumble
When I perform, people around me seem to fall over
Try to get close, and your assll get smacked
If you get cheeky, I shall bend you over and smack your bottom
My mothafuckin homie doggy dogg has my back
My friend Calvin who too has the Oedipus complex is also a masseuse, which is a plus
Never let me slip, cause if I slip, then Im slippin
Calvin never lets my back go untended, he takes massage oils wherever we go
But if I got my nina, then you know Im straight trippin
As a precautionary measure, I bring my gun with me, as the USA allows such things legally
And Im a continue to put the rap down, put the mack down
I intend to carrying on with my music career for the foreseeable future
And if your bitches talk shit, I have ta put the smack down
I’ll be most displeased if people don’t like my music as I work so hard on it
Yeah, and ya dont stop
This is a grey area for me, not much I can say after that previous comment
I told you Im just like a clock when I tick and I tock
Life goes on, much like time
But Im never off, always on, til the break dawn
I’m an insomniac
C o m p t o n, and the city they call long beach
To remind you, I’m from Compton and Calvin is from Long Beach, both of which are in Los Angeles, California
Puttin the strength together
Between us, we have twice the muscle power
Like my homey D.O.C., no one can do it better
I have a friend called Tracy Lynn Curry, if I was named that, I took would change my name to D.O.C., he once made a record called ‘No one can do it better’

Like this, that and this and uh
Its like that and like this and like that and uh
Its like this, and we aint got no love for those
So jus chill, til the next episode
We cannot think of a chorus to what is admittedly, a strange subject of song
We cannot think of a chorus to what is admittedly, a strange subject of song
We cannot think of a chorus and we dislike various individual people
The song is almost finished, feel free to relax

Those who know me will know I love all forms of music, no matter the genre. So when I was approached to review the new Imperial Vipers album, I jumped at the chance.

I place ‘Broken’ into my computer CD drive and my brand less, generic media playing program as developed by a fruit company loads the track names, times and other bits of information and my eyes are drawn to the seemingly short song times. All but one are below four minutes in duration, OK – Sennheiser HD25’s at the ready, volume up, just click play.

The anthemic ‘Sickness’ starts things off and I’m glad to hear whimsical FX and a bass Guitar solo to warm the ears up for the heavyweight cymbal laden drum pattern. There’s a feel of retro Rock drama here and the 80’s style synth organs hit us at the two-minute odd bridge, neatly building the track into crescendo. Meatloaf would be proud and I mean that in the best possible way.

I check my forearms where the hairs are on-end, I decide that this shall become my new measure of a decent rock album. Criteria passed with flying colours, therefore I’ll continue – I’m in this for the long haul.

‘I’ll Guess’ has a purposeful feel right from the get go. Distant guitar riffs add layered elements and some pretty hard panning which really splits you’re concentration providing subconscious interest, this track is instantly starting to... finish, it seems. At two minutes and thirty-five seconds, I’m left wanting, although some would argue that short is sweet...and I agree, being one of diminutive vertical stature myself.

An atmospheric, eerie sound is cut through by a shrill guitar drone and the drums start. ‘Broken’. Label should read: “WARNING, NOT SUITABLE FOR PEOPLE WITH FRAGILE NECK CONDITIONS, THIS WILL MAKE YOUR HEAD BANG”. This is the Imperial Vipers’ epic, perhaps that’s why they gave it over five whole minutes of air time? Back on point, these guys have managed to pack so much into this song from up-tempo chorus that hits hard to the melodic end which calms things down nicely.
Listen to Broken here:

Note to self: check their site for tour dates, I need to hear this Live.

As I continue through the rest of the album, I notice how that aside from the mass-appeal feel to ‘Victim’, the Imperial Vipers sound is full of confidence and bravado, the kind that I’d associate with the sort of band who’ve done the rounds in such places as Camden and Hoxton.

‘Self Medication’ is clever bit of stuff when all broken down, said and done. The use of vocal filtering at poignant lyrical milestones followed by the removal of drum hits to give the illusion of a temporary reduced tempo allows the point to drive home. Some may argue that the glorification of self medication isn’t a good move, but this is Rock’n’Roll, not an episode of Songs of Praise. However for good measure and perhaps in an attempt to please a diverse clientele, Jesus does get a mention in the lyrics.

‘This is the Way’ reminds me of the Mad Caddies. Fortunately, I’m a fan of the ‘Caddies. Clearly there is a vast difference between the two, but whilst this track has serious lyrical content and a message within, the way in which the track evolves and maintains a whimsical feel throughout keeps this one from overwhelming with any seriousness.

Essentially hailing from Luton - a place that’s main claim to fame is its convenient accessibility to the M1 motorway – somehow ‘Another Suicide’ and ‘Into Forever’ manages to capture that sound most commonly associated with East London Indie scene and the lead guitar solo in the latter adds that extra bit of spice.

The last three tracks are reminiscent of an older form of Punk based Rock which is further demonstration that the Imperial Vipers are respectful to the original art form and have the ability to do the ‘old stuff well’. They’re not one trick ponies but they’d do well to give us a few minutes more music.

At risk of sounding like my Great Aunt Mildred after drinking a lukewarm cup of milky would be tea (the elderly seem to insist on their teabags merely flirting with the hot water, after all – teabags can be re-used if they’ve not yet fully seen the depths of a teacup)...I thoroughly enjoyed that!
Realms Word would like to thank Katy Scott at Full Portion Media for the following:
-the opportunity to do the review
-opening my eyes to this great new band
-the free music!
Feel free to click and contact Katy... ( www.fullportionmedia.com )

In the immortal words of an old UK Saturday morning kids TV show... M.I.M.O.... Miss It, Miss Out.

The 'Happy Friday' compilation was downloaded by 50 lucky people, after that cut-off point, I took it down.

Keep your eyes peeled next Friday, as I said, it's a gift. First come, fisrt served...once 50 go...the link is deactivated.....

So, make sure you subscribe to the RealmsWord RSS feed and keep up to date with what's happening and when!

Happy Friday!

Realm

Starting a tradition requires innovation.
Someone, somewhere at one point in time coined a phrase similar in meaning. Only, their version was written differently and will be remembered for years as being an insightful, profound piece on language.

I on the other hand am not innovating here, I’m enlightening and sharing my love of music with you in recognition of the fact that it’s Friday.

From this point forth, every Friday will come with a Download treat of some sort.

This week I bring you a compilation of audio files from the likes of:

Lynden David Hall (RIP)
D’Angelo
Reel People
Yolanda Johnson
Erykah Badu
J. Rawls
Middle Child
Sharlene Hector
T3
Laura Izibor
Brotherly
Eska Mtungwazi
Rudy Currence
John Forte
Van Hunt
Ebrahim
Nneka
Eric Roberson
Dj Jazzy Jeff
Raheem Devaughn

If you know all of those artist, you’ll love this....

If on the other hand, you know a few, but there are some question marks next to a few... well... take a listen.

Remember, the music industry is changing. By all means download and listen to this compilation.
But remember, to continue making music for us to enjoy and to keep food on their tables, artists need to sell music, so I implore you – if you enjoy this, go and buy the music.

Happy Friday people, happy damn Friday!

Today Realms Word says Happy Birthday to Renee Sebastian.

Summer 2008 included a pleasant surprise. With the intention of seeing UK soul man Nate James perform at the Jazz Cafe, I happily stumbled across someone new (well, new to me) – it turned out to be Renee – who’s soulful, sometimes playful and always high energy performance managed to turn the heads of pretty much everyone in the venue (Jazz Cafe).

A talented Singer, Songwriter, Dancer, Performer and Clothes Designer.
Renee manages to capture the soulful sound and seamlessly mould her abilities to ballads and up tempo tracks all invariably with meaningful and often witty lyrics... as heard at the beginning of her track ‘These Are The Signs’.


Keep your eyes and ears alert, as the UK is sure to see a great deal more from this one!

Be sure to check out her site for more information – it say’s everything I would’ve said myself

Click here for her official site
and
Click here for her clothing label

Q: What do you get if you cross a Canadian-Indian, Jamaican, French and Swedish genetics?
A: Kinny
You can pigeonhole her heritage as much as you can pigeonhole her music. That’s the best way you can describe her style – yes, she’s a Neo Soul artist so to speak, but in reality she’s a great deal more.
Take a journey through her album ‘Idle Forest of Chit Chat’ and you’ll hear music which has taken influence from, well, everywhere.
Her confidence in delivery is perhaps a derivative of paying her dues on the Live scene – only singing to live, unforgiving audiences can allow you to produce a solo debut of such individual style and confidence. She takes on raw funk tracks in collabo with the likes of the Quantic Soul Orchestra who add their trade mark instrumental sound – Kinny duly steps up to the plate.
She exudes this expressive attitude consistently – being soulful, angry and cheeky all at once, whilst seeming to ride beats with effortless grace. In some cases her timing makes me feel like she laid her vocal down first and the musicians used her acapella as a metronome to record their respective instrumentals.


Elements of contemporary jazz resonate throughout the entire album and no one song sounds the same.

I don’t feel it’s necessary to go on, suffice to say that you should hear for yourself, and as luck would have it, this link will take you to a place where you can get your own album sampler... just remember to delete once you’ve heard it and buy it yourself, support the artist.