Favorite Albums of the year (non hip-hop)

It is that time of the year when all of us who think we know music decide to shove our favorite albums down the throat of the general public. Well, I decided that I should make a rare appearance and do the same thing. First shall be my top albums that are not hip-hop (because that gets it's own list.) Now I will not say this is anywhere near a definitive list of the greatest music this year. While I have heard a good chunk of albums, there is a lot that I simply have not had the pleasure of listening to, so yes feel free to tell me that I missed, so and so's album and I will be glad to tell you why I didn't make the list, either because I didn't like it as much as the others or I didn't hear it. But enough of that. This year was a pretty good year for albums for a rather wide variety of music, and artists. But you don't want to hear my ramble you want to read my list and tell me how much you disagree, because that is the fun of lists.

Let me start with the honorable mentions:

Todd Clouser's A Love Electric "Entre: Selections in Garage Jazz"
Great funky, guitar driven jazz. No standards here, just a selection of some of the groups best work to date.

Leonard Cohen "Old Ladies"
What can I say about Leonard Cohen that hasn't already been said, the guy is a genius and a true original. "Old Ladies" does not disappoint at all, you get what you expect from the poet, singer, songwriter, etc.

Hawthorne Headhunters "Myriad of Now"
Coultrain and Black Spade come together to give you one hell of a soulful album, that pushes genre boundaries and some how they continue to get overlooked.

David Byrne & Saint Vincent "Love This Giant"
David Byrne is awesome...End of story.

Robert Glasper Experiment "Black Radio"
This album almost cracked the top 10, it has a great mix of jazz, hip hop, r&b, just everything. It has the mix of music that a radio station should have, and comes together pretty well as a full album concept too.

Now onto the top 10

10. Wadada Leo Smith "Ten Freedom Summers"
This album is something truly special. 4 CDs worth of near genius level music by Wadada Leo Smith, covering the Civil Rights movement in America. It has everything you could ask for in statement album. The ONLY downside (which is part of what makes it amazing at the same time) is the length of the project. But it is a must experience for any music lover.

9. Norah Jones "Little Broken Hearts"
There was a time when I debated who was better Alicia Keys or Norah Jones, and it went back and forth for a while, but while Alicia Keys has abandoned what made her, her, Norah Jones is continuing to create her own little niche in the pop world, never afraid to try something a little unusual. A beautiful album that just makes you want to sit back and enjoy it.

8. Computer Jay "Savage Planet Discoteque Vol. 1"
A am a huge fan of Computer Jay and often struggle as to what genre he fits into and I realize that is because he doesn't fit into one. He makes music that some how is both so soulful and robotic and funk-filled and what not. This album does have a major flaw...it is an EP. Yea, not really a flaw at all. Great futuristic modern music.

7. Amanda Palmer & The Grand Theft Orchestra "Theatre is Evil"
If Robert Smith, Depeche Mode, and Freddie Mercury had a bastard love child, it would sound like this album. It gets under your skin and makes you love it and then the songs borough into your head and they will not leave.

6. Fela Kuti "Live in Detroit 1986"
Yes, the concert is from 1986, but it has never been released and arrived this year. And it is Fela Kuti...do I have to say more? Some of the most alive music you will ever hear and you will wonder how a 30 minute track can seem so short.

5. Steve Lehmen Trio "Dialect Fluorescent"
Steve Lehmen on the sax is masterful. This album takes you places, and you just want everything else to disappear so you can sink into it.

4. Jimmy Cliff "Rebirth"
I cannot claim to be an authority on reggae, and especially not anything that has been released recently, but have always enjoyed the style and when I stumbled across this album I was blown away. The reggae legend (I don't think that is a stretch) sounds as good as he ever has and I dare you to listen to this album and sit still.

3. Willie Nelson "Heroes"
Anyone who knowns my musical taste, knows I have a soft spot for the original outlaw country artists, especially Willie Nelson. He is one of the best song writers to ever walk this earth and a technician on the guitar. "Heroes" shows Willie in top form, both on ballads and his more upbeat tracks. I got lost in this album many times.

2. Vijay Iyer Trio "Accelerando"
You will be hard pressed to find any jazz artist putting out the quality of music that Vijay Iyer has put out in the last few years and it just seems he gets better with each album (well...his albums with Mike Ladd are still my favorite.) In a time when it seems so many jazz artists are unwilling to take risks, Iyer is constantly pushing himself and others around him to create something new and memorable and that is exactly what he does here.

1. Jack White "Blunderbuss"
When I heard the White Stripes were done making music, I was severely disappointed. Yes, his other groups are ok, but they really aren't his ideas, they are more collaborative efforts, and really he isn't the lead in any. But then "Blunderbuss" arrived and let him go where he couldn't always go on the White Stripes. This is blues, rock, maybe even some pop (depending on your definition) but it is great. I never tire of this album, from start to finish it has me and will routinely repeat it wanting more.


So there you go, my favorite albums of the year, yes I didn't do a great job explaining all of them but just wanted to get the ideas out there. Curious to see what you guys think, hope it was somewhat enjoyable and let the arguments begin.

Agartha Audio & Taiyamo Denku "Quadrofiendia"

I feel there is no need for me to say how much I enjoy when one MC and one producer work together and actually collaborate on an album, but I will anyway; I LOVE IT. When done correctly they are incredible pieces of art. I won't lie, when I first heard that Denku was doing an album produced entirely by Agartha Audio, I was little nervous. I wasn't sure how the two would sound together. I don't know why, but I was just uneasy about the pairing, would Denku be able to handle Agartha Audio's left field beats, would Dig Dug be able to create beats that allows Taiyamo Denku's lyricism to shine? I can tell you right now that I have NO IDEA why I was worried. I mean you take one part Agartha Audio aka Dig Dug, who if you do not know is one of my favorite producers out, and one part Taiyamo Denku, incredible lyricist and member of W.A.S.T.E.L.A.N.D.S., and sprinkle in some monster guest verses from a variety of top tier MCs and you get the beast that is Quadrofiendia and this album is a living, breathing, mind fucking, sonic creature. But you probably want a little more detail than that possibly disturbing image, so here it goes.

Right away your ears find out that this album is something different, a real mesh of the instrumentation of Agartha Audio and the lyrics of Denku as "Welcome to NeverLand" is a mixture interlude and song, depending on how you hear it, before Denku takes over. And really, that sort of idea continues throughout the album, it could work as a straight ahead boombap album if you change the producer, you know Denku could alter his flow to work beautifully and Dig Dug could let this breathe as an instrumental piece but together it is something extra special. This is very evident in the almost call and response between Denku and the beat on "Here Lies Lyricism."

Even what I usually see as a negative in such a tightly knitted sounding album, such as guest verses, works perfectly on this album. Whether it is Masai Bey and Atari Blitzkrieg obliterating the masterful beat (picture a Just Blaze track on acid) on "Predator" the perfect mix of Bey, L.I.F.E. Long, Teddy Faley and Denku (talk about four unique voices that know how to body a verse) on "Storm Drain," or when the legends Sadat X and Craig G close the album with "Road is Ruff." The guest verses are wonderfully done, you don't feel like you are being ripped off because Denku isn't on the songs enough or wish there were more guests.

Quadrofiendia is that rare collab album that lets each artist really explore what they love and put their stamp on it without one artist dominating the discussion (think Madvillainy, yes I know that may sound crazy to some of you, but the comparison is apt.) Each time you find something new and different to really enjoy about this album, sometimes you find yourself getting lost in the production, other times the lyrics are the stars, then eventually you will hear it all together and realize just what this album is, so put on your headphones, or turn your speakers up and let this monster really live.

You can stream and download the album here.

Megabusive "Study the Breaks"

While we wait on his next album, Megabusive graces us with a new track, "Study the Breaks" that he also produced. On "Study the Breaks" lets us know in under 2 minutes that he doesn't care what other rappers are doing or what the industry says is the "right way" to do things, he is going to do what he does on his terms, and "study the breaks." So check out the track and enjoy, hopefully the album will be coming soon, but as long as Megabusive keeps dropping quality tracks I can forgive him (sort of) for making us wait for the LP.

Black-Tokyo Musik "Above De-Skies EP"

I feel like every time Black-Tokyo releases a project, I say, "This is his best work yet." And this time is no different, in fact, I am damn sure Above De-Skies is his best project to date. The album is filled with his best tracks, including my personal favorites, the mind altering, vertigo inducing, "Gravity Boots" and "Lamination" with its off beat drums that some how find the magical place in an almost avant garde jazz instrumental. I really hope that Black-Tokyo holds off releasing a new project for a while, not because I don't love hearing his music, but I want to really enjoy and dissect this before the next one drops and I recommend you do the same. Put your headphones on, turn it up and prepare yourself for a feast of music, hopefully you will be ready when the next Tokyo creation is released.

You can stream and download the album here.

TeV95 "Crime Loops 3"

Not too long ago, I posted a video for TeV95's "Color Code Pistols" and stated that once it reached 2,000 views, he would drop Crime Loops 3. Well, shortly after I posted that (possibly even before) the video got the needed views and a few days later, TeV95 kept his word and unleashed his newest project on the world. The best part, Crime Loops 3 does not disappoint, in fact, it shines as it further investigates the concept of what are now stone age copyright laws. In a world where so much art (in all forms) is being created by altering previous works, artists have to decide whether it is more important to create what is in them and what they experience or make money. This leaves us with a world of starving artists and rich frauds, so it is time that we all examine what is truly art and what the laws should be. In the mean time sit back and take a journey through the world of Crime Loops 3 with your guide, TeV95.

You can stream and download the album here.

Random (aka Mega Ran) "Language Arts: Volume One"

Often people call themselves artists but are just trying to do the same thing that has been done many times before and not attempting to actually create something larger than themselves. Luckily, Random (aka Mega Ran) is not one of those people. Whether it is the creation of the alter ego Mega Ran, the incredible Black Materia or his latest endeavor Language Arts, Random keeps bringing original ideas to the music and makes sure to push his creative boundaries on each outing. Language Art: Volume One is the beginning of a multimedia journey that includes three EPs, a video game, and a comic. But, I am getting ahead of myself, first let us discuss Volume One, here it goes.

"Introduction" kicks off the album and acts as an, get this, introduction, to the lead character, Raheem Jarbo, or Mr. J "a language arts teacher in the roughest neighborhood in town" with "dreams of becoming a successful musician." Sound familiar? It almost has a movie feel (as it should considering the epicness of this endeavor.)

The first actual song, "City of Angels," features a very somber beat by EOM, where Random paints a picture his city as he looks out his window. Imagine, a black screen slowly fading into a man waking up and contemplating the struggle of his neighborhood "full of heroes and villains, good seeds, bad seeds, most of them is in-between." The images that really stick for me are when he is addressing the problems of teaching and reaching the children (his students) because of all the problems around (from drug dealers, jail, school system that often doesn't care, etc.)

As depressing as "City of Angels" feels, "Wake Up!" sounds that uplifting. But, the instrumentation masks the idea that both tracks are just as true and real. Now, Raheem Jarbo is faced with a trouble any teacher and rapper faces (really any rapper who also has a 9-5, which is most), balancing between your job and your career. Random's first verse features one of my favorite lines of the album (warning, Nerd Alert coming up), "my lady thinking I don't show her respect, but she don't know, I have games I haven't opened up yet, now that's love." MC Frontlot makes an appearance on the next verse, almost sounding like Jarbo's inner thoughts "you wanted to be a rapper, now you got what you were after, wouldn't rather, well you know you have to, grab the mic and make noises into it, you and the beat get intimate."

The character of Jarbo really starts to become clearer and take center stage on "Language Arts (1st Day of School)" when he uses a song to introduce himself and basically present his syllabus to his students.

First off, I'm Mr. J, I've been teaching five years and in my spare time I hold a nice career, I make music, but not just anytime, I'm a poet who combines dope rhythm with rhyme, and in most circles that would make me a rapper, but I don't call myself that, not what I'm after, so don't ask for my super dope ride, because I'm pushing that black Kia right there outside.

As Random often does, he is great at creating the picture of the moment and making you feel like you are right there as a student in the class.

By far my favorite song off the album is "Buggin' (The Metamorphosis.)" While yes it does have a very cool beat (and transforms beautifully on the chorus) and Random does what he does on the mic, what blows me away about the track is that it is Kafka's masterpiece in just over 3 minutes. So yea, it is probably my literary nerd that makes this so incredible. But it also works perfectly for the story, because it is Mr. J teaching to his students. I could ramble about this track for a LONG time, but it would be more a dissection of the track compared to Kafka's and no one wants to read that.

Ariano and Punchline each make appearances on "The Constant" an ode to all things hip hop (good and bad) while reminiscing about way back when. The chorus does such a great job of summing up the feelings of so many hip hop heads "Every day I rise, hip hop's on my mind, because its my constant."

Every time I hear the beginning of "KillCount" it sends a jolt through me because of the sounds of video games gun shots and car crashes. A student addicted to the latest ultra real game, that mirrors the city and area they are in. It does a great job of subtly making you feel uncomfortable about enjoying similar games and makes you question why we want to play ourself in a world that so many people try so hard to get out of everyday.

The student from "KillCount" kicks off "Classroom Blues," itching to cut class and go back to the game, Dr. Awkward plays another student wanting to leave as well. After the chorus, Mr. J speaks to the class only to find out about Joshua and Kareem (the two students) cutting class. Then things get very interesting for the star of the trilogy, as he is warned he may be fired if his students don't improve. The album ends with "Volume One Ending" which acts as a teaser for Volume Two.

It is tough to really get an idea of the breadth of this project by just listening to this album, because it isn't just a single album...no it is three albums, plus a video game (which has a soundtrack) and a comic. But, even if this was a standalone piece it would be spectacular (minus the cliffhanger ending.) Random once again shows that he knows how to craft an album (or at least the beginning of this trilogy) and if he keeps it up with the next two volumes, the musical side of this alone is going to be something extra special.

You can stream and download the album here.

TeV95 "Color Coded Pistols" (Video)

Producer extraordinaire, TeV95 is holding out on releasing his latest instrumental project Crime Loops 3 until the video for the first single "Color Coded Pistols" reaches 2,000 views (about half way there right now.) I selfishly feel the need to share this video with you as a fan of his previous solo work (you can check out Crime Loops 1 & 2, plus Loop Language at his bandcamp page) not to mention his work with Shottie and Admiral Grey to name a few. Take a look at the video, which really is a wonderful piece of art, and check out the credits to, because this is one of those beautiful videos, that should get some recognition (and the music is top notch of course.)

Task1ne feat. Yae "Villain" (Video)

A while ago, as in almost a year ago, Task1ne dropped a video for "What's That Sound" in preparation for his album District 916 (which if you haven't picked it up you NEED it.) Well, Task1ne decided it was time for another video off the album, this time it is for the track "Villain" featuring Yae and the video absolutely kills so much of the competition before it gets a chance to regenerate. It honestly is one of my favorite videos released in a long time and certainly one of the most fun. Sit back, turn your speakers up, and get ready to be introduced to the Villain, Task1ne.

Agartha Audio & Taiyamo Denku "Unhandled Crossings"

In case "The Road is Ruff" did not get you excited for the new Agartha Audio & Taiyamo Denku album Quadrofiendia they decided to let us have another track entitled, "Unhandled Crossings" with no features, just Denku and Agartha Audio, which is plenty. As to be expected (well at least by myself) both of them kill it (if you picked up the Uncommon Vs SXSW sampler you may remember this.) But enough of me rambling, check out the track below, and get ready for Quadrofiendia which is dropping June 19th.

Us Natives "Used Vinyl Review"

When you hear that two producers are coming together to form a duo, you wonder why? Not just about the functionality of it, but how can multiple producers actually help a sound? Won't it get too muddled and lose what makes you a fan of them individually? While this might be true in some cases, Us Natives (Ill Clinton & John E Cab) some how make it work and make it work incredibly well. While listening to Used Vinyl Review a few things came to mind. The first was, holy fuck this is incredible, it sounds like a strung out, drum infused orchestra that pounds in my head and lets me fly away. The second being just how well these pieces stand on their own, in fact, I think I would be disappointed to have an MC over top of any of these tracks, they need to be enjoyed as is and loved for what they are, great pieces of music that come together and make a mind blowing album. Us Natives did something very special with their layering of elements, often having an instrument acting as a vocalist for a track, such as the trumpet on "Royal." I really cannot say enough about this album, it blew me away on all levels. You NEED to download this album as soon as you can, put your headphones on or your stereo, turn it up, and get ready for one of the best hip hop albums of the year, instrumental or otherwise.

You can stream and download the album here.

Philavibe (Phil G the Knowbody & Ill Clinton) "Rare Phorm"

40 tracks? That is quite possibly the first thing you will notice about Rare Phorm and that is understandable because that is a whole shit load of music. But do not let that overwhelm you, really it is sort of an anthology of Philavibe's music so far, with some tons of unreleased tracks as well that do not fit into any of the albums the group is working on. It is a great place to start to familiarize yourself with the Phil G the Knowbody (who in case you do not know is the MC of the group) and Ill Clinton (who is the producer) and the duo that is Philavibe. So check out the project and enjoy, while you are it at, go back and get the group's previous efforts and get ready for what they have cooking next.
You can stream and download the album here.

Black-Tokyo "Strange Bologna EP" & "The Canvas Animals EP"

After a brief one month hiatus (which to most artist would not be a hiatus at all but I digress) Black-Tokyo returns with not one but two EPs of sonic symphonies to unleash open our ears. Strange Bologna seems to be the more fun and nerded out album (filled with bangers of course) while The Canvas Animals seems much more introspective and serious. Now, I could of course be hearing this albums all wrong (but to my ears I am not) but no matter what you hear in these albums, one things is clear, Black-Tokyo returned with a big bang (20 to be exact) and he shows no signs of letting up any time soon.
You can stream and download Strange Bologna here and The Canvas Animals here.

Anthony Valdez "Jesus Loves Me"

If you are unfamiliar with Anthony Valdez, you need to catch up. He has a great show on KCRW, routinely puts out incredible mixes, plus there is his own music. Basically, the guy is a musical monster and you can see a check out a bunch of his work at his website. But this post is about his latest mix, entitled Jesus Loves Me featuring some great songs that you know, some you don't and some remixes that will blow your mind. Check out below and keep up on what he is doing, because he is always up to something. Tracklist: Stevie Wonder - Superstition (Obol Remix) Maylee Todd - Hieroglyphics (Tall Black Guy Remix) Hiatus Kaiyote - Nakamarra Erimaj - Conflict Of a Man Cousin Culo - Enemies Get No Water Seven Davis Jr - Thanks The Weekend - Coming Down (Sango Mix) Bondax - You're So Jay Electronica - Dear Moleskine Jai Paul - Jasmine Kanye West - Mercy (Feat. Big Sean, Pusha T and 2 Chainz)

The Fucking Mutants (Dave Dub & Megabusive) "Mutation"

The good people over at Isolated Wax Records just released the Fucking Mutants (aka Dave Dub and Megabusive) from their cages to drop the new track "Mutation." Hopefully this means an album is coming from the group, but we shall see. If not at least we have this great track to imagine what could be and I highly doubt this won't be on some album in the near future. So press play and prepare for your ears and mind to mutate.

Zilla Rocca & Curly Castro "Monty Hall Expo"

Some in the near future (hopefully) the Wrecking Crew "Curly Castro x Has-Lo X Zilla Rocca) will be releasing Wu-Tang Pulp their tribute to the Wu-Tang Clan (no shit) to hold us over until then, Curly Castro and Zilla Rocca have released the track "Monty Hall Expo." The song features Zilla Rocca's flip of Ghostface's "Mighty Healthy" while Curly Castro takes you on a trip through the world of the Wu. What is really cool about this track (and probably the whole album) is while it is an homage to the Wu and is dope by itself, you will just catch more if you are a fan. So put your headphones on, take a walk through the city and prepare for Wu-Tang Pulp.

DK and Trin "freeEP vol. 1"

Hooray once again for MCs and producers getting the memo that a great collab can do something special. This time, it is MC, DK and produced, Trin (aka MegaTrin, etc) who joined together to bring you freeEP vol. 1. The album shows a little bit of everything from the duo, ranging from the heartfelt and emotional, "Keep It Real," to the hard thumping "My World." This is a project that once you press play will take you into it's own little world and everything else will fade away, in other words, it will do what great music should do. Check it, download it, and get ready to zone out.

You can stream and download the album here.

maticulous "In Transit"

You may remember the next contestant on the blog from his project Mello Instros, this time, meticulous joined up with kevinnottingham.com to bring to you his latest project In Transit. The project is the quality instrumentals one expects from meticulous who is never afraid to mix up the sound and feel of beats throughout an album, or even throughout a song. In case a meticulous instrumental project wasn't enough for you, he got DJ Brace to do the cuts on it as well, in other words, check this out now and enjoy it, you will not be disappointed.

You can stream and download the album here.

RoQ'y TyRaiD "Year Round School" [Official Video] produced by DN3

RoQ'y TyRaiD just dropped a video for his song "Year Round School" produced by DN3, and it is dope as hell. The video is a little trippy, Brady Bunch, classic hip hop, and just fun, while the track features a banging beat and great rhymes by RoQ'y TyRaiD. Really, it is just all around cool and enjoyable, so check it out below and vibe out.

junclassic "Rhymes Written" produced by Karl Lazlo

Far too often, and MC or producer looks to work with a big name just to be associated with that name instead of looking to find someone to compliment and enhance your sound. Well, junclassic and Karl Lazlo found that person, that one that plays so very well off of their vibe and sound. The somewhat creepy, but laid back beat of Karl Lazlo fits perfectly with junclassic's voice and rhyme style which to me have always had a tinge of horror to them and laid back but still hits hard, and together it just enhances those elements. On the bandcamp page it says "Rhymes Written" is the first collab between junclassic and Karl Lazlo. Now, to me what stands out in that sentence is "first," meaning there will hopefully be more on the way, possibly even a full album. Take a listen to the track, download it, and prepare for whatever else these two are cooking up.

Corina Corina "The Familiar" produced by Willie Green

It is not often that I post songs that are not hip hop or jazz...just seems to be what I hear most, but occasionally I will stumble across something different, one way or another. This time it is the singer Corina Corina (if you listened to Jesse Abraham's One Day you heard her probably without even knowing it like myself.) I will be honest, what caught my attention first was that the song is produced by producer extraordinaire Willie Green. But after giving it a listen, I thoroughly dug the voice and writing of Corina Corina. So do my a favor, take a listen to the track and keep your ears open for her debut album The Eargasm.

Agartha Audio & Taiyamo Denku ft Craig G and Sadat X "Road is Ruff"

Anyone who pays attention to what I say on the subject of music knows that Agartha Audio is one of my favorite producers out there right now. So when I heard he had a knew project coming out I was thoroughly excited, even more so when I heard the album would be a collab album with Taiyamo Denku. The album, entitled Quadrofiendia will not be released until June but they have been nice enough to offer us a taste of the album. The first release from the album, "Road is Ruff" features two legendary MCs, Craig G and Sadat X. So not only do you get the production one expects from Agartha Audio and the quality bars of Taiyamo Denku but you get verses from Craig G and Sadat X...really there is not much else you can ask for. So check out the track below and get ready for Quadrofiendia to drop with features from Masai Bey, Teddy Faley, L.I.F.E. Long, Shyheim and more.

Autolect "The Prestige"

Less than a month ago, Autolect released The Altruistic Adventures of Sleep Walker after being rather silent on the scene for a while, going so far as supposedly retiring. But now, he is back with another project, this one titled The Prestige, which is almost like a sampling of some of his demos mixed with new stuff, but has a rough or organic feel to it. As expected, the rhymes are top notch as are the beats, honestly I do not know what else I can say about Autolect that doesn't sound like I am being a stan. He is a top notch MC who has his own voice and perspective, if you haven't heard him yet, The Prestige is a great place to start and then delve into his other recordings, you shall not be disappointed.

You can stream and download the album here.

Chief Megatron "THE LEADER EP"

Shortly after releasing XL, Chief Megatron returns with THE LEADER EP. While the the project comes in at just over 10 minutes, it has a whole lot to say and digest. Chief Megatron's flow may be characterized as laid back, but I see it as more conversational, almost like a teacher lecturing his or her students. At first you are taken aback...but then with each listen you see just what he is doing and you end up getting lost in his words and the music, forgetting what is surrounding you and just surrendering to the art. But that is a whole lot of rambling that probably will not make any sense unless you get THE LEADER EP and experience it for yourself.

You can stream and download the album here.

Pistol Opera Agency "1.5 The Remixes"

It has been a minute since Pistol Opera Agency (Black Tokyo on the beats and LAMEBOT on the mic) dropped Vol 1 their debut of sonic chaos unleashed on the world. While they work on the next project (which I assume will be Vol 2) they give us 1.5 The Remixes. I am always leery when a producer/MC combo release a remix of their projects, mainly because they tend to lose a lot, but when you bring in producers like Blockhead, Waatu, A.I. Beats, Chopzilla, and Mad Savvy, you are presented with something that is anything but a failure. It is able to both work as an extension of Vol 1 while being it's own project as well. They also do included two LAMEBOT productions, a remix of "I'm on My Way (Dreams Are Real)" and the unreleased track "The Watering Hole." So check out the 1.5 The Remixes, enjoy it, and get ready for when Pistol Opera Agency returns again.

You can stream and download the album here.

Random (aka Mega Ran) "Awakening"

You may have remembered the review I did at the end of February for Random's TOUR: Date with a Dream that was released for his tour. Well, he recently decided to offer up my favorite track off the project "Awakening" as a free download. In case you forgot what I said about the track, here it is

"The highlight of the album for me is the track called "Awakening." It is one of those inspirational songs that at the same time makes you angry. He is able to sum up the feelings of many quality MCs (and really all artists in general" with the lines:

These critics judge me on the revenue I generate, it seems the only way to blow is to imitate, I wanna innovate and stimulate minds, travel the universe, penetrate time, hurts when your worth is defined by your purchase, worse is walking the earth without a purpose

Those lines alone, make the song incredible. But he does not stop there, honestly, it sounds like an artist on the verge of a major break through, getting ready to do something extra special."

But what is really cool about this download, is if you pay for it, you also get the entire TOUR: Date with A Dream album, and trust me, you want it. So check out the track below and support the artist and get a dope album in return.

Carl Kavorkian "Uglyass Music Vol. 2"

Last month, Carl Kavorkian unleashed Uglyass Music Vol. 1 upon the world and decided that the world was still too pretty so let Uglyass Music Vol. 2 free to terrify the masses. This time, Kavorkian offers up 15 instrumental cuts from Earbleeders and Jimmy the Greek's Smell My Talent and Mommie Sez I'm Speshul. As you would expect (assuming you are aware of the talent that is Carl) the beats are dope as hell, and in some cases just as creepy. So I suggest that right now, you go get this project, turn up your headphones and while you're at it get the albums that these beats are on, because the final projects were just as good.
You can stream and download the album here.

billy woods ft Roc Marciano & Masai Bey "Body Of Work" produced by Willie Green

In one week on April 10, 2012, billy woods will release his long awaited album History Will Absolve Me on Backwoodz Studioz. If you are unfamiliar with him I HIGHLY recommend you download Cowardly Threats & Hideous Cruelty: The Best of billy woods and of course check out the track below, entitled "Body Of Work." But before you do that, let me tell you a little about why this track is so damn good. First, there are the two other MCs on it besides billy woods (who kills his verse,) Roc Marciano and Masai Bey, both MCs that you also need to know if for some reason you are unaware of them. Then there is the producer, the one and only Willie Green. As expected from the cast, this track is something special, I could keep telling you why, but let's be honest, it would be much better for you to just take a listen to it, enjoy it, and get ready for History Will Absolve Me.

Ill Clinton "SKYWALKEN Vol 2"

Ill Clinton is back with a sequel to his creation SKYWALKEN entitled SKYWALKEN Vol. 2 (ok so the title isn't mind-blowing, but that's the only thing that isn't dope as fuck.) At a time when so many beats sound the same and so many artists play it safe, Ill Clinton is pushing the boundaries...hell he isn't pushing them, he jumped over them and is 20 feet beyond. Need some examples, how about on "Fog" where he uses an extremely slowed down guitar (I think it is a guitar) with knocking drums and some random noises that tend to creep you out, really, listen to this track with the lights out and you will be checking over your shoulder...I am very curious to hear an MC attempt to rhyme over this. Or how about "Transmissions", where you have so many layers that enter into your ear at different pitches you find yourself a bit disoriented, while being sucked in so much and so intrigued you cannot take off your headphones. Oh and by the way...you need to check this album out with quality headphones to really get the effect, if you play this through your computer speakers you are missing out (that goes for most music.) The entire album takes you off to some very odd places, dark, funny, and fascinating...I fear Ill Clinton is trying to take us inside his own mind and an artist's mind is not for everyone but if you give it the chance and dive in without fear you will find it is a wonderful place. So enough of my rambling, go get the album now and prepare yourself.

You can stream and download the album here.

Collectible Humans "String Theory"

When I hear String Theory I feel like I am transported back to the late 90s when I listened to a ton of nu metal (or whatever you want to call it) but it isn't because Collectible Humans are nu-metal...it is the feeling, that anger and frustration being released through music. Really, the feelings are similar to those that I got when listening to early Korn, Rage Against the Machine and Tool. It an odd feeling, one that I think has been missing from a lot of music lately, you can actually feel the emotion going into the words and music, it isn't just to make catchy songs or to make an artistic piece, both Adam Selene and Joshua Coberly (yes I waited this long to tell you who Collectible Humans are, what is your point) use their music as a form of therapy, a release. Some people may view that as a negative but I think that is one of the purest reasons to create art (yes the songs are also catchy, in a slightly disturbing and fun way, and are also artistic.)

Now let me tell you a little bit about the album, the opening track, "Pulling Wings," is what I like to call baby punching music (I do not condone the punching of babies) but it has that pure adrenaline feel to it and it even features George Carlin (according to Kanye and Jay Z he should get a feature so there it is.) But it isn't just angry rap music, they are actually saying something, and that sort of sums up the feeling of the album, pissed off music with a message. But they do a great job of balancing the pure anger with some more upbeat instrumental work (such as "Devil Do") but still has the same punch on their lyrics.

The most fun track on the album easily goes to "Rocket Surgery" with an infectious beat (made more infectious by the work of DJ Addickt,) a Spider-Man/Iron Man spoof, and a dope ass chorus (I use that term loosely), "It's only Hip Hop stupid, it's not rocket surgery." The track ends with a guest appearance from Adam Selene's son, Deacon. I noticed that already I am writing and rambling a lot, but that is because this album holds on to you and gets inside of your brain (for better or worse.) String Theory continues its wonderful job of track sequencing by placing, "To Eat a Human" next, which as you can guess as not exactly a fun song.

The nu metal feel really picks up on the next two track, "Slippery Slope" (which reminds me of a Tool track, you know, if Maynard was a rapper and not one of the best vocalist in the last 30 years) and "She Loves Me Not" (Rage comes to my mind for this one...actually both of the tracks feel as if Rage and Tool came together and created something magical.)

The album concludes with "Blood Plus Grass" which once again features DJ Addickt on the ones and twos. This is easily the most artistic track (in my opinion of course) both with the instrumentation and vocals. You will be listening to this again and again out of curiosity if nothing else. What is going on here between he constantly shifting beat and the range of vocal treatments and total disregard for standard song structure...in other words, this track is amazing and everything you want if you enjoy progressive hip hop.

So yea...I meant to just do a short write up on this but became a bit more...I blame the album for that. If it made me ramble this much, just imagine how much you are going to enjoy it once you press play and let it invade your mind, so do that quickly, think about it later, and thank me in the not to distant future...and of course watch out for the puppet masters.


You can stream and download the album here.

ADAM "Early Life of ADAM"

ADAM (formerly Adam Warlock) has just released an album of his previous material with a few new tracks, sort of a best of appearances before his new album drops. If you are new to ADAM or have been with him from the "Woke" days this is a project you will enjoy. So sit back, put on your headphones and go to school to learn about the Early Life of ADAM, and get ready for the full length dropping shortly.

You can stream and download the album here.

Shottie & TeV95 "Delorean"

You may remember me discussing Shottie & Tev95 joining forces to release the album "Delorean" when I posted the track "Biff Tannen," well the time is now here for the full album to drop. I thought I knew what this album would be about and what it would sound like...and I was wrong. But I am not at all disappointed that I was, it is much more diverse and rich than I was expecting. Part of me thought it would be rather straight forward and be filled with "Back to the Future" references. Instead, this is an album that has a little bit of everything, showing the range of both Shottie and Tev95. When I say a little bit of everything I do mean just about everything and not just hip hop (although there certainly is that and all sounds.) What this album really is, is dope. It will keep your head nodding from beginning to end and keeping your ear open for each rhyme. This isn't just a headphones album either, it definitely has a bit of that Miami feel, so get ready to pop this in your car and ride. But before you do any of that you need to get this album and enjoy it.

You can stream and download the album here.

Dam-Funk "Serious"

It is not a secret that Dam-Funk is one of my favorite artists out there right now. A few days ago, Dam shared a track, entitled "Serious" that did not make the cut for the new album. He describes the song as "my kinda' Jazz" that samples only his mind. If this track did not make the cut for the album, then I am almost worried about how good this album could be, but we will just have to wait and see and until then we might just have to get "Serious."

Audimatic (The Audible Doctor & maticulous) "Horse / Broken Cup remix"

Almost a year ago, meticulous dropped "The maticulous- EP" a very cool project that features a variety of MCs over his beats (as well as the instrumentals to the tracks.) Well one such track, "Broken Cup" features the Audible Doctor, best known as one of the producers of the Brown Bag All-Stars, but this time Audible Doctor shows he has skills on the mic as well. Apparently the two got to talking and decided that more of this combination had to be heard, so Audimatic was born and here is the first single from the duo. It features the new track, "Horse" and a remix of "Broken Cup." The duo was even nice enough to let you stream the single on soundcloud before buying it on iTunes (which I recommend you do and you will also get the instrumental of the "Broken Cup" remix.

Kone "Inverted Audio Mix"

Kone (creator of the incredible album "The Tractacus" and LA based DJ) did an interview with and put together a very cool mix for Inverted Audio. If you are not familiar with Kone, you need to be, and this mix is a great place to start because you get some new Kone music and get a taste of his mixing skills.

You can download the mix here or stream below.

IA MIX 54 Kone by Inverted Audio on Mixcloud

TRACKLIST

1. Fat Albert Einstein – Horror
2. Octagon – Dnaebeats
3. Jincallo – Kickits
4. Young Jeezy – Way Too Gone
5. Schoolboy Q – Tookie Knows
6. Walter Gross – Collide Scope
7. Kone – Black Hole
8. Pure Filth Sounf feat. Busdriver – Nails In The Coffin
9. Elos feat. Zackey Force Funk – Bloodstain Burial
10. Jansport J – Skinny Niggas
11. Zack Sekoff – Belly Beat
12. House Shoes feat. Quelle – Golden
13. House Shoes feat. Danny Brown – High
14. Lo Fi – Let’s Go
15. Kone feat. Haz Solo – 2nd Night Back
16. Kone – Funk #1687
17. Post98 – MNDSGN
18. Kone, Knxwledge, & MNDSGN – When You Move
19. Kone, KNX, & MND – She Was Here
20. Nocando – Westside Rentals
21. Dave Betamax – Sex Tape
22. Virtual Boy – Sandias
23. Mast – The Great Wave
24. AADM Our Hatley – Compliments

Doodlebug (of Digable Planets) ft DOR "Sweet Music" remix featuring The Tones and Blame One

Late last year, Doodlebug released a dope album called "Futuristic Sci-Fi" and if for some reason you do not have it, you really should get that as soon as possible (iTunes or Fatbeats.) As a thank you to fans of the album and to get more people interested, a remix of the track "Sweet Music" (which originally featured the Tones) was released. The remix was produced by DJ Alex J & J-Bizness and along with the Tones, it also features Blame One. So check out the track, download it, and if you haven't yet, go get "Futuristic Sci-Fi."



Get the album from iTunes or Fatbeats.

Jasiri X "Trayvon"

By now most of you have heard the story about Trayvon Martin, the 17 year old, who was murdered by George Zimmerman in Florida and how Zimmerman has not been charged with any crime because "he went to college" and doesn't have a record (ignore the fact that he hit a cop and the charges were dropped.) Really there is too much about this story to write about on here, but I highly recommend checking out Rusty Redenbacher's blog where he posted the 911 recording and a link to sign the petition to have Zimmerman prosecuted.

Not surprisingly, Jasiri X decided to create a track about Trayvon and as usual, it hits you hard, as Jasiri X does a great job of painting a picture of both Trayvon and Zimmerman and the murder scene. Please check out the track and sign the petition. I also posted the lyrics to the track, let us make sure that the child killer is prosecuted.



It's Sunday the God's day a day of rest
The Nba all stars are playing next
But right outside that same city
The celebratory atmosphere would change quickly
Who watching the game with me you know lil Trayvon
Was reppin his home town D Wade and LeBron
He had just came up from Miami to see his daddy
Who knew such a great weekend would end so badly
In a place where you move because it's safe for your family
But some people got a ingrown hate for your family
Halftime just a short brake from the slammin
Bout to go to the store lil cuz you want some candy?
Bet I grab you some skittles kid
I'll be right back in a little bit

Paid for lil cuz's skittles and a ice t
walked out the store and felt the chill of the night breeze
it seemed a little colder than before
he didn't know it was a boy like a soldier in a war
that was watching him clocking him thinking about stopping him
nine milly cocking them who's this nigga walking in my neighborhood
he fits all the specifics of criminal statistics he looks suspicious
911, what's your emergency
A black man's walking through my hood purposely
stay clam, it's just little Trayvon but he wanna be the hero so he put's his cape on
George Zimmerman neighborhood block captain
loaded glock strapped in fake cop has been
got out the car ignoring what the cops asked him
They always get away this time that will not happin

George Zimmerman didn't take his Ritalin
drunk off adrenaline says he making a citizens arrest
Trayvon looks at him vexxed
I just walked to the store nothing more nothing less
Just steps from his home he ignored his request
George grabs him, Trayvon swings and connects
Starts screaming out for help but Zimmerman see a threat
so he pulls out his gun and he points it at his chest
He fires but he misses Trayvon pleads for forgiveness
I didn't do nothing this is senseless
but George Zimmerman was so vicious
he made sure the second shot hit em no survivor no witness
Trayvon never gave his cousin his skittles
missed the all star game didn't see another dribble
And George Zimmerman wasn't even arrested
the message is only white lives are protected
in America

Autolect "The Altruistic Adventures of Sleep Walker"

I won't lie, I was a little upset when I first heard of Autolect. Not because I did not enjoy his music, no, just the opposite, I thoroughly enjoyed it, when I heard him via "Autology Vol 1" a very dope mix by elmattic. No, I was upset because I found out that he was going to stop rapping and focus on his instrumentation work as Bil Basmala (also very dope) but a funny thing happened not too long ago, Autolect made an appearance on Bil Basmala's self titled debut album. Then something even better happened, I found out that autolect was back working on demos and then noticed he just dropped a new project entitled "The Altruistic Adventures of Sleep Walker." Guess what? It is everything I was hoping for, that mix of laid back, thought provoking rhymes, that can quickly change up and alter speed and delivery at any given moment and of course great beats. So sit back and get lost in "The Altruistic Adventures of Sleep Walker" and prepare yourself for whatever the people over at Urban Sufi Music have coming next.

You can stream and download the album here.

PremRock & Willie Green "PremRock & Willie Green: Reassembled"

Last year, PremRock and Willie Green joined forces to create one of my favorite albums of the year (#7 on my hip hop list) with their self-titled debut. Now they are back, this time the entire album, each track handled by a different producer. It is incredible how new the project sounds, and you find yourself forgetting you have heard the rhymes before. It is always a risky move in my opinion to do a remix album, but "PremRock & Willie Green: Reassembled" knocks it out of the park, with quality producers who are not trying to do a Willie Green impersonation. But that isn't all that you get with this album, you also get a bonus track featuring Warren Britt, a live version of "How'd You Get So Fresh," and the instrumentals to the original album. This project would stand on its own very well, but when you combine it with "PremRock & Willie Green" it becomes something even greater, go download this album now, you will to be disappointed.

You can stream and download the album here.

Chief Megatron "XL" and "Brain Wont Die" (Video)

The villainous Chief Megatron unleashes his evil on the world with his new album"XL" and even offers some visuals with a video for the track, "Brain Wont Die." "Brain Wont Die" is produced by Eprom Be PF, who also handles production of five other tracks. Check out the video and then download the whole project and get ready for some raw and laid back flow to invade your ears.



You can stream and download the album here.

Lyle Horowitz "The Last Dance"

Late last year, Lyle Horowitz released 5 albums in one day (check my original post) and believe it or not, there were songs that were cut from some of these projects. One such track was "The Last Dance" which was suppose to be the final track on the album "The Dance." But before it was released, an MC claimed the beat so Horowitz kept it off the album. Well, the MC didn't do anything with it, so the instrumental has been released, and I am pleased to provide it to you below. Enjoy.

Uncommon Records "Uncommon Vs SXSW" mixed by elmattic

Uncommon Records has put up a special mix of mostly unreleased tracks for consumption at SXSW. While the only way to get the physical copies is to actually be at SXSW, the good people at the label decided to offer the digital version on their bandcamp page, the days of the festivals...March 13-18, in fact they actually released it a day early, i.e. today. So download this quickly before it disappears and is gone forever.

Tracklist:
Milk & Bullets by Aeon Grey / Unhandled Crossings by Taiyamo Denku & Agartha Audio / Spirits (feat. ADAM, Produced by Willie Green) by Atari Blitzkrieg / Repeated Questions by Pruven / Two Days (feat. DJ Addikt, Produced by Goodman) by ADAM / Odd Future by Short Fuze & Nasa / Live From Tent City by DCK VNNGT / The Grind by Acid Reign



You can stream and download the album here.

Illingsworth "Bread Winner"

Illingsworth handles all the production and rhyming on his latest project that answers the question, What do you win when you become an independent musician? Answer: You win the right to eat bread, for every meal. That is right, indie musicians do not make a lot of money, but guess what, luckily they often make very dope music, and that is exactly the case here.

You can stream and download the album here.

Megabusive, Passive65ive & Lou Cypher "Dead On Arrival"

Who says the world cannot work together. On "Dead on Arrival" three real artists of hip hop come together to create one banging song. Megabusive (US) and Passive65ive (UK) handle the vocal duties, while Lou Cypher (Germany) takes care of the beat. It is a spaced out track that will leave you wondering what you just heard, but you will know you enjoyed it. Therefor your only course of action is to listen to it again, and again and again. So let us start the journey now, enjoy and let us hope these three get together more in the future.

Carl Kavorkian "Uglyass Music Vol. 1"

Carl Kavorkian was apparently bored one day and decided to open up the vaults to give us some dope music, this is the result. The music on "Uglyass Music Vol. 1" are all songs that did not quite make the cut for various albums, released between 2002ish and 2004ish. Often when you hear tracks that did not make an album, they, well, they suck. That is NOT the case with the music on here, in fact, there are a few tracks that I am shocked did not make it, but for one reason or not they didn't. Yes, the tracks are "rough" mixes, but sound better mixed than A LOT of stuff out there. Now, there is one particular track I have to call attention to, and that is "Strange Chatter." Why do I mention this track? Well, for one it features Masai Bey and Zesto, two criminally slept on artists. Second, it is one hell of a track. But enough of that, why not go get the album, whether this is another edition to your Carl Kavorkian collection or this is the your first exposure (if that is the case raid his bandcamp) "Uglyass Music Vol. 1" will not disappoint.

You can stream and download the album here.

IV the Polymath & ThirtySeven "The Frame"

Sometimes I feel like I really have to talk about a track so that readers will check it out. Well, this is not one of those cases because I feel like all I need to say is that the song is produced by IV the Polymath and ThirtySeven provides the vocals. There really is not much more you can ask for than one hell of a producer and one hell of an MC coming together to make a dope song, so check it out now.

Maxx Julian "Throw Mama From the Train" and "ARC 2: The Sweets EP"

Detroit producer, Maxx Julian, has released latest album, "Throw Mama From the Train." It is a soulful, story like instrumental project that does what any good instrumental album does, it never leaves you waiting for an MC to jump on the beat. Let's be honest, that is not an easy feat, I often listen to incredible producers instrumentals and feel like something is missing, the MC. "Throw Mama from the Train" stands by itself. If releasing one very cool instrumental project wasn't enough, Julian decided to release an EP on the same day, "ARC 2: The Sweets EP" is a solid 8 track EP, that makes sure to not disappoint. So sit back, relax, turn up the volume and get ready for two separate journeys, make sure you land before you start the next one.

You can stream and download"Throw Mama From the Train" here and "ARC 2: The Sweets EP" here.

Bil Basmala "FUSHIHOJOKI [12 inch]"

Bil Basmala is back (although he never really left, seems the longest time between releases is a few weeks) with a digital 12 inch entitled "FUSHIHOJOKI." What is fascinating about this release (besides the fact that it is the high quality and out there work you expect from Basmala) is the stark contrast between the two tracks. "Is Oriso" sounds like you are flying through the clouds, while the string bass of "We" sounds like it is coming from the roots of giant trees, so grounded and organic. But enough of my rambling, check out the project for yourself and prepare for more Bil Basmala coming soon.

You can stream and download the music here.

Random (aka Mega Ran) "TOUR: Date With a Dream"

I always think it is cool when an artist decide to release a special tour album that is only available if you go to a show, especially if I am able to make said show. Normally the album is some remixes of some hits or an acoustic version, and maybe one or two new songs. Well, Random, decided to do something like this but one up the standard tour only album. For one thing, it is available to those who order a ticket or if you donate to help the tour, so even if you cannot make it to one of the performances you can still get the exclusive album. But what really makes this stand out is the fact that only one of the tracks is not brand new song, "Jeremy Lin" but not no version has been available on an album and this version, the Lost Deuce remix is exclusive to this album. As I am sure you can tell from this introduction, I thoroughly enjoy the album, but what exactly is it about and what are the songs. I guess I should tell you that now, so here it goes.

The album begins with a great blues vocal snippet from "I've Got a Date with Dream" (hence the album title) before Random prepares for his journey (aka the tour.) One of the things that always comes through in Random's music is he is often surprised at the fact that people want to listen to his music (mentions this on other tracks on the EP as well) and "to all my fans, supporters and such, for all your kind words, I thank you so much, for every cheer, and Facebook like, you are the reason, I grab this mic." What this track does very well, is set the scene for the album. Fair warning, expect the beat to get lodge into your head, in fact, expect the entire project to refuse to leave you alone.

As to be expected by an album entitled "TOUR: Date With a Dream" there are a few songs about touring and being on the road. The first of such tracks features Lefty and is entitled "Area Codes." Yes, you do know this beat very well. But instead of having girls in different area codes, Random and Lefty have shows. Ok so the hook isn't that original, but it is a fun track. The two give a list of some of their favorite places to perform and give a few of the standard dilemmas encountered when they tour.

The road theme continues on "Heaven" where Random announces, "the studio is my church, but heaven is the road." The main topic of the track is the musicians conundrum, "half the time I am here, I wish that I was gone, then I get gone, I wish that I was home." But where as often a track like this is a woe is me story, Random stays positive throughout, telling stories of Waffle House breakfasts and random fan encounters (pun entitled.)

Two other members of the Writer Guild and fellow Phoenix MCs, MC Pennywise and RoQY TyRaiD, join Random on "The Town," as they go after the local scene and "the fans of real music in this city's not practical, laughing at you rappers trying to do it for the city, because the city never loved you and the scene is too gritty." Even as Random states, "might never be accepted in my hometown" (either Philly or Phoenix) and "a blogger said he never heard of me" he responds with a line that shows running the local scene isn't really that important, "heard about it when I was reading fan mail from Germany." Now, I am going to apologize for the rant I am about to go on, but stuff like this happens far too often. Why are very talented artists force to leave their local area to gain acceptance, whether it is their hometown or even country. It happens with hip hop artists and jazz artists, and then people get upset when they do not support their local area. To cut this rant short, support your local musicians.

The TSA is the center of attention on "TSA (Transportation Sexual Assault,)" and as you would expect from the title, it is not exactly a loving song. Random has some VERY dope lines on this track, ranging from rather humorous "if you're going to touch me like that, at least take my ten digits and give me a call tomorrow," and "my Jordans cost too much to consider putting a bomb in these," to those highlighting racial profiling "my name is not Muslim, its Arabic." The track ends with a rant by a comedian (who I think is Penn Juliet) where he attacks the TSA with the line"yes I would like to fly, here take my rights."

Jermiside makes a guest appearance on "Casualties of Tour" where the two tell some their touring horror stories. Jermiside talks about his first out of state gig "passing through towns where not he low they're thinking of lynching us" and "on the first stop got prepositioned by a runaway" but at the end "still we killed the crowd, they was needing a hospice." Random's story is one that taught him some very important lessons. Make sure the promotor actually answers their phone, and get an advance. Of course, he tells the story much better than that, and then ends it with some faux phone messages from a promoter as Random gains popularity and the lizard like tendencies of some people.

The highlight of the album for me is the track called "Awakening." It is one of those inspirational songs that at the same time makes you angry. He is able to sum up the feelings of many quality MCs (and really all artists in general" with the lines:

These critics judge me on the revenue I generate, it seems the only way to blow is to imitate, I wanna innovate and stimulate minds, travel the universe, penetrate time, hurts when your worth is defined by your purchase, worse is walking the earth without a purpose

Those lines alone, make the song incredible. But he does not stop there, honestly, it sounds like an artist on the verge of a major break through, getting ready to do something extra special.

What might end up being Random's most well known song (I mean it was on Sportscenter,) "Jeremy Lin" gets remixed by Lost Deuce. You probably can guess what this track is about. As usual, Random does a great job of capturing the story of the subject and Lost Duece, does one hell of a remix. I do not know what else to say about it because I assume you have heard the original already. If not, check it out here.

The last full length song on "TOUR" is "Respite," which shows a rather annoyed but at the same time positive Random some of the negative consequences of being a hip hop artist, but even with the negatives he finds the silver lining. As the chorus says, "Life is what you make of it, what you give to it, and also what take from it." There is a transformation near the end of the track as he realizes his success and happiness has come once he realized that he should make the music he wants and not what the critics say should be made. The album closes with "Outro" which uses the same vocal snippet from "Intro" to conclude the project.

"TOUR: Date With A Dream" was created by Random as a thank you to his fans. Often when an artist creates something like this it is a single track or something that only die hard fans will really enjoy. But what Random did, was create a quality album that any fan of dope music will enjoy, whether they know Random or not. Once again, Random shows why he is one of my favorite MCs in the game (that is punny.) So make sure you go and get this album and support Random on his most recent tour and get yourself some great music in the process.

You can get the album by donating here or here.