Friday, October 19, 2007

Mishka "Tentacle Assault" New Era



Mishka will be releasing three New Eras this week including the "Tentacle Assault" cap which has never been viewed before.

The "Tentacle Assault" New Era is fully embroidered along the crown with the Mishka tentacle pattern, which was featured on the lining of many of the brands Fall 07 pieces. For extra style, it also has a satin contrast lining.

Mishka stockists will also be receiving two other models with their New Era shipments: the navy blue rip-stop waterproof version of the “Boney M” cap and the much anticipated “Keep Watch” glow in the dark cap.

All three New Eras will debuting at the Mishka pop-up shop this Friday in NYC and available at the Mishka online shop next week.

"Streetwear" by Steven Vogel



The first and only book of its kind, Streetwear The Insider's Guide is the definitive street fashion bible – a guide to clothes created or inspired by urban living, by the key designers around the globe.

Hundreds of streetwear designs and photographs provide an encyclopedic overview of the world of streetwear, and the book offers a unique insider’s view of this highly creative field.

Find out:
• How the creative director of Burton first became involved in streetwear,
• What inspires the seminal designer and streetwear guru Hiroshi Fujiwara
• What multinational goliath Stüssy, the streetwear legend, has planned for the future of street fashion
• How to get in-depth access to leading magazines, web publishers and creative agencies.

Streetwear focuses on streetwear design, and streetwear media – magazines and website publishers. Illustrated with designs, product sketches, graphics and photographs, and complete with a full and detailed reference section, this book will be seized on by all street enthusiasts, from fashion and advertising professionals to the millions who love buying and wearing streetwear.

"Designers like Karl Lagerfield and Jean Paul Gaultier are finally given all (which is to say, none) of the (original) credit they deserve. Streetwear The Insider's Guide is a comprehensive and encyclopedic overview of the world of urban fashion that focuses exclusively on first-wave creative movements. While many fashion books credit streetwear with inspiring top designers’ couture collections, this may be the first book that focuses entirely on their roots, i.e., urban living and its resulting fashion sense."
Joshspear.com
You can check out this 352 page monster at the Thames and Hudson website.

Nike Air Force 1 Supreme Max


The Nike Air Force 1 Supreme Max is what you see it is inspired by the original colorway of Air Max 95 Neon, the most special part of the shoe is not the air but the Air Max logo on the tongues. This is a pretty ill shoe right here. I don't own a single pair o AF1s but I'm tempted by these. The release date is set to 2008 Summer as quickstrike release.

Tuesday, October 16, 2007

Reebok Court Force Victory Pump "Glow In The Dark"



Finally the Reebok Court Victory Pump Glow-In-The-Dark has dropped.

The sneaker comes in a very simple and subtle design, with a white/green upper. When you see it at first you cannot even imagine what it can actually do. Because they did not just cover the entire upper with Glow-In-The-Dark material, they actually made an invisible pattern on the upper that only comes out in the dark.

The idea is pretty cool and the outcome at least from these pictures also looks great. Atmos Tokyo now has them in stock. I have almost never had any interest in Reebok sneakers. I never felt they had quality materials or concepts. I still think they could use better material but this is an awesome shoe idea!


Nas Is Back!!!!



Legendary Queens rapper Nas will release his upcoming "Nas Greatest Hits" on November 6th. It will feature his hits "If I Ruled The World", "Hate Me Now", & "Street Dreams". Since it will be released on November 6th, I've decided to give you guys the advance single, which will be featured on the album. Enjoy!
Sony releases NAS GREATEST HITS In Stores & Online November 6



Download "Surviving The Times"

Tracklisting
1. Less Than An Hour (with Cee-Lo)
2. Surviving The Times
3. It Ain’t Hard To Tell
4. NY State Of Mind
5. One Love
6. If I Ruled The World (with Lauryn Hill)
7. Street Dreams (with R. Kelly)
8. Hate Me Now (with Puff Daddy)
9. Ether
10. One Mic
11. Got UR Self A….
12. Made You Look
13. Oochie Wally
14. Bridging The Gap (with Olu Dara)

The Aztext "Lettin You Know" ft One Be Lo


Burlington Vermont has hip hop?!?!?

Yep!

The Aztext drop a hot Dub Sonata produced track with former Binary Star emcee One Be Lo from Michigan.

"The Sacred Document" drops October 23rd
The album features guest appearances from One Be Lo, & Mac Lethal.

Download "Lettin You Know"

Radix MC Seek "Perspective" ft Ed OG




Boston area crew Radix emcee Seek drops a nice track with Ed OG called "Perspective."
Keep your eyes and ears open for the single dropping Nov. 11th. His full-length, solo album, "Separation" is due out in '08.

Download "Perspective"

J-Live "Reveal The Secret" EP drops OCT 22nd


J-LIVE - FEEL LIKE SPITTIN

"I want this to feel like it came outa nowhere. I want the people that have it to feel special you know. Let them spread the word that I'm back. Pass it on before the album drops. You know… let the cat out the bag, reveal the secret."

Its no secret that J has worked with his fair share of elite producers in the past. And although this fall’s mini project is just a precursor, it is no different. "Reveal the Secret" features production by DJ Jazzy Jeff, DJ Spinna, Da Beatminerz, Marco Polo, and Oddisee. After a two year hiatus, J-Live follows his last critically acclaimed full length “The Hear After” with a sneak attack in the form of a 6 song EP called “Reveal The Secret” on BBE Records.

Download J-LIVE - "FEEL LIKE SPITTIN"

New Sneakers N Stuff 577's drop Oct 25th



The green pair are Sweeet!!!

They were supposed to drop in August. But unfortunately New Balance ran in to some trouble in their Flimby factory - pushing the release until the 25th of October. Once again Peter and Erik (the creative minds behind Sneakersnstuff) designed one 577 each, and utilized the highest quality suedes and leathers New Balance had. They will be worth the wait!

Price is set to 1099 SEK (about 155 US Dollars* and 120 Euro)

*If you live outside the EU, you won't have to pay local VAT giving the price 125 US Dollars.

image/info via sneakersnstuff

Thursday, October 11, 2007

Nike SB Dunk Low "Takashi 2"


As part of their October 2007 releases, Nike SB will be putting out later this month the Nike Dunk Low Premium SB "Takashi 2." Takashi Hosokawa designed this black leather, black suede sneaker with a metallic silver swoosh and accents. Also the Dunk Low features a laser floral pattern across the ankle/heel. Nike is really working the fall earth tones into their dunks this year. High quality material and a simple design that combine to make a nice sneaker.

Expect the Nike Dunk Low Premium SB "Takashi 2" to arrive at Nike SB retailers later this month.



pics via Highsnobiety

Prince Ali "Majors" video ft Keith Murray, Casual & Planet Asia



It is no secret that my favorite guest rapper of all time is Casual. I've said it over and over on the radio and in conversation. The guy always brings the heat when he works with another artist. I mean rewind quality, "how-did-he-do-that?" type heat!! His Hiero partner Domino has stated in an interview that it is the spirit of competition that gets Cas hype so it's only natural that he brings his hottest spit when working on somebody else's track. Now if we can just get Casual to bring that fire on an entire solo album!!! Of course Planet Asia and Keith Murray are no joke either. This track is a good look for Prince Ali.

Download "Majors"

and check my favorite Casual guest verse of all time. "Jaw Gymnastics" on Del's "Both Sides Of The Brain" album.

Download "Jaw Gymnastics"
.

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

Mind Altering Drugs???

This is not animated! It is an optical illusion. Very dope!
pic via INQMND

I'm also gonna drop this very strange track on you that is about as close as you can get to a heroin experience as you ever wanna get without all the withdrawal and over dose risk.

Download Glass Candy "Covered In Bugs"

Chromeo "Bonafide Lovin'" Video



Chromeo - “Bonafide Lovin’ (YouTube via Good Soul Department)

Chromeo’s new video for “Bonafide Lovin’” is an homage to 80's icons Dire Straights.

Dowload "Bonafied Lovin'" Sinden remix ft Kid Sister (kid sister rules!!) at Vice Records blog

Grayskul "Scarecrow" Video & remix

Grayskul's latest album "Bloody Radio" on Rhymesayers has been my favorite album of the fall. Everything comes together both conceptually for the album as well as from the perspective of dope flows and production. JFK is truly at the top of his game on the record and Onry is no slouch either. Old Dominion is definitely makin moves and Grayskul is right at the front of this Northwest crew. Here's the video for "Scarecrow."



Download "Scarecrow" the P.O.S. remix

Brother Ali "Take me Home" Video

Rhymesayer #1 drops a pretty cool concept video.

videos available at fifth element online

Tuesday, October 9, 2007

9th Wonder "Dream Merchant Vol 2" drops Oct. 10th


Here comes 9th Wonder's first "post-Little Brother" release. Looks a lot like his stuff before the split...
Big pooh is featured, as is a track with Little Brother. Why'd they break up again???

DOWNLOAD "Brooklyn In My Mind"
1 Mr. Dream Merchant Intro
2 Shots f/Big Dho & Sean Price
3 Merchant Of Dreams f/The EMBASSY, Skyzoo & Torae
4 Brooklyn In My Mind f/ Mos Def, Jean Grae & Memphis Bleek
5 Sunday f/Keisha Shontelle & Chaundon
6 Baking Soda f/Big Treal
7 Reminisce (Take Time) f/Big Remo & The Great Novej of the A.L.L.I.E.S.
8 No Time To Chill f/Little Brother
9 It Aint Over ft. Jozee Mo & Tyler Woods
10 The Last Time f/ Royce the 5′9, Naledge & Vandalyzm of the MIDWEST WRECKIN’ CREW- The D, The Chi & The Lou
11 Saved f/Saigon & Joe Scudda
12 Milky Lowa ft. Camp Lo
13 Backlash f/Sean Boog & Buckshot
14 Thank You f/ D.O.X & O-Dash
15 Let It Bang f/Ness & Skyzoo
16 What Makes A Man f/Rapper Big Pooh & Buddy Klein

Supreme Team "See" Madlib's new project



This is a track from the new compilation album from Stone Throw Records and 2K Sports called Peanut Butter Wolf presents 2K8: BBall Zombie War that came out on October 2nd.


Download "SUPREME TEAM - SEE"

Peanut Butter Wolf presents the companion pieces to 2K Sports 2K8 series, containing exclusive new songs from Madlib, MF DOOM, J Dilla, Talib Kweli, Q-Tip and more!

check the first single from this album by SUPREME TEAM (Madlib and Karriem Riggins) called 'See'!!!

Craig G & Marley Marl "The Day Music Died"



A little something new from the pioneers.
Download "THE DAY MUSIC DIED " by CRAIG G - Produced by MARLEY MARL

From the Album:

"Operation Take Back Hip Hop"

Nike SB Zoom Tre "Trails End"


The Nike SB Zoom Tre Trails End is released in October. The bold heel piece features a distinctive "Elephant" print pattern. It's the first time it's being used on the Zoom Tre. I'm not a fan of the little swoosh design but this is still a pretty hot sneaker overall. Fall is seeing a lotta browns and earth tones and this is right in line with that direction. Both inner soles also feature custom artworks. The Zoom Tre is the most technically advanced shoe for skateboarding and this time it has been packaged very well.

Nike SB will release the sneaker this month along with an entire collection of clothing and accessories. Expect a presentation of that collection in the following days.

more pics via High Snobiety

Nike "Bling Bling" Dunk Lows



These are the Nike Dunk Low Bling Bling pack which features brown and black suede on the upper, plus golden 3M reflective leather with diamond monogram. It will drop in asia during October to December. I like the sole on these.

pix via Kix Files

Saturday, October 6, 2007

Musab "Slick's Box" on Hiero-Imperium



I don't know who produced this track but I absolutely love the way they flipped the sample. I won't put 'em out there by identifying the track or band but I will give a clue by saying I love all the sports teams from this city. Musab really kills this track too.

Musab, the original emcee on Rhymesayers, parted ways with the label (in a seemingly bitter break) and has landed at Hiero-Imperium. Hiero has been loading up on talent lately and this is a welcome addition to their burgeoning roster. Check the track and get the album, "Slick's Box," you won't be sorry.

Download "Baang!"

.

Blue Sky Black Death & Hell Razah "Halos" ft Crooked I



I told ya I'd have the single with Crooked I for ya and here it is. Hell Razah and Crooked I get deep over a guitar driven BSBD track.

Download "Halos"

.

Battles (from NYC) & Joell Ortiz = Coolest Shit Ever!!!



This is some off the wall, cool-because-it's-so-unexpected, shit right here! Joell Ortiz made some noise on Koch Records with the release of his "The Brick / Bodega Chronicles" album early in '07. Battles is THE indy darling band of the moment with a whole plethora of EP's under their belt and a full length "Mirrored" that also dropped this year. DJ EMZ linked up with Ortiz and remixed Battle's "Leyendecker" off of "Mirrored" with Ortiz on the lyrics.

Download "Leyendecker"

Thursday, October 4, 2007

Let's Go To War "Life We Live" Video


Let's Go To War is a Toronto electro/hip-hop group. Think a more aggressive Spank Rock with MSTRKRFT dirty synth elements and you've got the idea. LTGW is on Last Gang Records so keep an eye out there for a '08 release.

Check out the video for "Life We Live"

Wu-Tang Clan "The Heart Gently Weeps"



Well the Wu-Tang Clan made some noise this week in the news with a claim that they had cleared the first ever legal Beatles sample. They would therefore need to push back the release of their newest studio album from Nov. 14th to Dec 4th. As a famous man once said, "why let the truth get in the way of a good story?" As it turn out, according to MTV news
"It's a composition sample and not a master sample that you'll hear on the track, meaning that the Wu did receive permission to use Harrison's song, but not in its original, as-heard-on The White Album form. Rather, it's been "interpolated" — literally, changed by adding some new material — with new lyrics from Wu rappers Ghostface and Raekwon. Harrison's son, Dhani, plays guitar on the song."
Either way the track is still pretty dope even if this was just a genius marketing campaign on the part of someone in the Wu camp. I think it was a marketing move by the way. The track features Erykah Badu, John Frusciante (of red hot chili peppers) and George Harrison's son Dhani. Loud records has put the track up online to give folks a sneak peak at what all the fuss is about so check it out.

Download "The Heart Gently Weeps"

Toxic Avenger & Franki Chan on Tour


IHEARTCOMIX just dropped Toxic Avenger's debut twelve inch. To promote the release TA, along with Franki Chan, are headed across the country on tour. Pulp at CZAR in Tampa will be hosting the tour on Oct 26th!!! Don't miss it!!

Download "All That Motherfuckers" Fred Zefred remix

Wednesday, October 3, 2007

Kanye West Custom Dunks


It was only a matter of time until some enterprising shoe customizer dropped a Kanye Dunk on the world. EmmanueLabor gets the nod for this scintillating homage to Kanye's latest album, "Graduation."

more pics via SNEAKER FILES

DJ Khaled "I'm So Hood" rmx ft. Lil Wayne, Big Boi, luda, busta, & jeezy

Apparently all rappers on the planet are so "hood."
Luda absolutely murders this track!!!! Kills the original. Seriously, it must be hard to follow that. Big Boi and Busta do their best. It's also just nice to have Big Boi get back to just rapping ya know?!

Download "I'm So Hood" remix

J.R. Writer "Writer's Block 5" Nov, 20th



I can admit that I am in no way, shape, or form a fan of Dip Set. They don't do it for me. They represent most everything that I think is wrong with hip hop these days (image over substance, crass materialism, unrealistic thuggish imagery backed with limited conceptual or technical skill). That being said I have always held J.R. Writer as a guilty pleasure. He is Dip Set to death but at the same time has some lyrical skill and leans toward the catchy punchline delivery of a number of exceptionally talented underground emcees. These talents are often drowned out by the Dip Set pose and the less talented crew mates surrounding him but nonetheless, I like Writer!!!
...oh yeah, Katt Williams is a funny mufucka too!!!

"Where You At" produced by Soul Starz is the first street/leak record from J.R.'s forthcoming sophomore album "Writer's Block 5." The single embodies the gritty, New York street sensibility that has catapulted J.R. out of the shadow of Dipset and into the lyrical limelight.

Getting his start as an extended member of the Dipset crew (including
multiple appearances on frontline Dipset releases & mixtapes), J.R. is
perhaps most renowned for his highly regarded writer's block concept
album series. "Writer's Block 5" is characterized by J.R. as the
defining offering from this series to date.

With 2006's "History In The Making," J.R. showcased his rapid fire
delivery, most notably with Dipset-inflected street hits like "Grill
'Em." "Writer's Block 5" suitably highlights J.R.'s artistic growth
and heightened emphasis on lyrical versatility.

But first it's back to the streets with the gritty stylings of "Where You At."

J.R. WRITER
"WRITER'S BLOCK 5"
IN STORES NOVEMBER 20th
BABYGRANDE RECORDS

Download "Where You At"

www.myspace.com/jrwriter
www.babygrande.com

Blue Sky Black Death "Razah's Ladder" Oct 23rd


Hell Razah, a Wu-Tang affiliate and core original member of the Sunz of
Man, speaks on his most recent solo project, "Blue Sky Black
Death--Hell Razah: Razah's Ladder."

In this rare video appearance, Razah breaks down his creative
collaboration with the buzzing production duo Blue Sky Black Death,
most renowned for their critically heralded 2006 collaboration album
with Wu-Tang affiliate Holocaust.

Recognizing the talent of Kingston and Young God (Blue Sky Black Death),
the veteran emcee shines light on the album's creative process from
inspiration to execution, while also paying respects to the legendary
independent guest artists who appear on the record: ILL Bill & Sabac
Red (Non-Phixion), Crooked I, Shabazz the Disciple, Prodigal Sunn and
more.

While technically Blue Sky Black Death's sophomore album, Hell Razah
appears on almost every track and thereby views this offering as the
prefacing opus to his subsequent release: "Heaven's Razah."

**Also look for the premiere of the Blue Sky Black Death & Hell Razah
track "Halos" featuring renowned emcee Crooked I later this week!!**

Blue Sky Black Death: Hell Razah

"Razah's Ladder"

In Stores Oct. 23rd

www.blueskyblackdeath.com

www.babygrande.com

Tuesday, October 2, 2007

Equilibrium reunited on Majik Most's latest single



Here is the new single from Majik Most. "Back on the Map" is from Majik's upcoming album "You Got Jokes?!" on Domination Recordings. The track features Celph Titled and Dutchmassive. The Tampa trio formerly known as Equilibrium gained fame in the late 90's with a Celph Titled produced track that sampled the old windows computer sound "Windows '98." as well as a track called "Fahrenheit 813" that put Tampa on the radar in verse. "Back on the Map" is produced by Celph Titled. Check Celph reppin' hard for Tampa on this one.

Download "Back On The Map"

Esoteric "Ego Clapper" on Fly Casual Creative


New music from the Esoteric featuring Termanology and a dope-ass beat by DC the Midi Alien!!!

Fans looking for risk-taking art can look in the direction of "mc/producer" Esoteric and his newly founded Fly Casual Creative label. Esoteric and longtime partner, friend, and graphic designer KARMA decided to launch Fly Casual Creative as the new home of all future music and projects from 7L & Esoteric. Fly Casual's first offical release is Eso's brainchild, "Egoclapper." 16 tracks deep and featuring the glitches, edits, stutters, and vintage cartoon soundbytes that give Esoteric's multi-layered production it's personality, Check for the guest appearances from DJ Premier's protege Termanology, AOTP's Celph Titled, Jedi Mind Tricks' Vinnie Paz and more, as well as production from 7L, Raydar Ellis, & DJ Mark the 45 King.

Download "Incredible Hulk Rap"

Wise Intelligent "Go With Me"



Yep Wise Intelligent of Poor Righteous Teachers is still doin' his thing. It's a good thing too!!
"Wise Intelligent Iz...The Talented Timothy Taylor" dropped on Shaman Works this summer.

Download "Go With Me"

Saturday, September 29, 2007

Mac Lethal "11:11" on Rhymesayers Ent.

K.C. rapper, Mac Lethal made a little noise back in '03 when he freestyled his way to a Scribble Jam Emcee Battle victory and was quickly signed to Rhymesayers Entertainment. At which point he promptly fell off the fucking map!! I don't know why but he was signed at the same time as label mate Psalm One and her record has been out for at least a year!! Finally his debut album "11:11" sees the light of day and it is a pretty nice effort. Mac Lethal finds deals with pop-culture, lust, sleep, food, drugs, and alcohol. Standard Rhymesayers fare. Check it out.

Download "Make Out Bandit"

Thursday, September 27, 2007

Dan Johns ft. Supastition "I Don't Write For"



South Carolina MC Dan Johns drops this single about why he does and does not make music. Supastition drops in and blesses this smoothed out track with a hot 16 bars.

Download "I Don't Write For"

Lupe Fiasco "Can You Let Me Know" with Verbal & Sarah Green




Here's another track from the upcoming Lupe Fiasco album "The Cool." This time he's got asian mc Verbal (of M-Flo) and vocalist Sarah Green along for the ride.

Download "Can You Let me Know"

Kanye West & Trick Daddy love da kids!!



A pretty cool up tempo collaboration between Trick and Kanye. I like the typical Kanye sped up vocal sample.

Download "Can't Say No"

DEL'S NEW ALBUM ON DEF JUX in '08!!!!

This is some crazy shit right here!! Looks like Del Tha Funkee Homosapien is gonna become a def jukie!!


press release:

(September 26, 2007 - Brooklyn, NY) Seminal rapper, hip-hop icon, and founding member of the mighty Hieroglyphics crew, Del The Funky Homosapien has embarked on the beginning of a 2-month long nationwide tour in support of his long anticipated album, The 11th Hour. The tour, which shares the name of his upcoming album, will also feature fellow Hiero founder A-Plus, along with Devin The Dude with the Coughee Brothers, Bukue One, The Serendipity Projects and special guests Knobody and Junk Science to perform on select dates.

On the 11th Hour Tour, Del will be performing a mix of classic cuts from his previous albums along with new tracks from the upcoming album, including the tracks “Sit Down” and “Workin’ It.” The aptly named The 11th Hour marks Del’s first solo release in almost 7 years. Having experienced his fair share of life’s trials and tribulations over the course of his long and successful career, Del explained the reason for the album title. “You can’t fully control all the different variables that come into play in your life. Something is bound to be faulty and set you back,” says Del. He explains, “I’ve spent the last couple of years dealing with drama in my life, touring the country several times over, and diving deep into studying music theory.” Fans can celebrate the fruits of Del’s labor of love with the release of The 11th Hour in early ‘08.

For The 11th Hour, Del has partnered with legendary New York based indie hip-hop label Definitive Jux, with the backing of the label he helped create, Hiero Imperium.

Bursting onto the scene in 1990, Del the Funky Homosapien started his professional career writing lyrics for his cousin Ice Cube’s crew, Da Lench Mob when he was still in high school. Soon, Elektra Recording Group signed him and released the critically acclaimed album, I Wish My Brother Georgia Was Here. After releasing another album, No Need For Alarm in 1994, Del, along with grammar school buddies, Souls of Mischief, Casual, Pep Love, and Domino, founded one of the most successful indie hip-hop collectives of all time, The Hieroglyphics. Hiero Imperium has etched out their place in history as the trailblazer for artist owned and operated hip-hop labels and also for embracing the internet as a means of selling their merchandise as early as 1997. Del, along with the rest of the members of Hiero and their third-eye logo are recognized around the world for their lyrical prowess, great live shows, and dozens of critically acclaimed releases which have sold over 3 million units collectively.

11th Hour Tour Dates:

Del the Funky Homosapien, featuring A-Plus (Souls of Mischief), Devin The Dude with the Coughee Brothers, Bukue One, The Serendipity Project and special guests Knobody, Junk Science, and Iller Than Theirs to perform on select dates

Tuesday, September 25, 2007

Freddy Kreuger DUNKS R.I.P.


It is with great sorrow (and the certain knowledge that this will increase the hype around any samples of this shoe floating around out there) that I must announce here on Kicks-n-Jams the CANCELLATION of the Nike SB "Freddy Kreuger" Dunks. I have it (straight from the horses mouth) (a little bird told me) on unimpeachable authority that Nike has been served with an injunction from the Nightmare On Elm Street owners, New Line Cinema. It always comes down to the money and I guess New Line wanted more than Nike was willing to pay.
This just seems like a dumb move on New Line's part. Wouldn't the shoe increase awareness of their property and once again re-invent freddy? Whatever the reason, don't go lookin for the shoe anywhere but on ebay because it isn't comin' "To A Store Near You" this holiday season.

Monday, September 24, 2007

Nike Dunk Lo Hot Asphalt



The 25th anniversary of the Nike Dunk is just around the corner and they are rolling out some cool shoes! It comes with a premium suede upper and in two colorways - purple/black and khaki/orange. Both feature a black outer sole that looks as if it was dipped into hot asphalt. The entire mid-sole has textures running over it.

pics via Sneaker Freaker

Cinematic ft. Mr. Lif & King Britt




A remix album of great orchestral film scores from the 20th century might seem like an odd idea – after all, a lot of this music is considered old-fashioned. But Six Degrees co-founder and executive producer Bob Duskis knew better: “A lot of electronica producers are huge fans of these film scores,” he says. And for the collection Cinematic, “I wanted producers who had a cinematic sense to their music anyway, or had done soundtracks themselves. We didn’t want DJs just adding beats to the orchestral tracks.”
Mission accomplished. Cinematic is full of creative and often provocative arrangements of music by some of the greatest film composers ever – Nino Rota, Ennio Morricone, and Henry Mancini among them. Of course, this music was never satisfied with being accompaniment in the first place; like the best music in any style, these scores suggested their own stories and their own landscapes. No surprise then that they work so well apart from their films. What is surprising is how adaptable these classic scores are, at least when the right producers get hold of them. When Duskis first brought the idea to King Britt, underground hip-hop hero from Philadelphia, he says the immediate response was “Are you kidding? They Call Me Mr. Tibbs is one of my favorite songs of all time!” King Britt then came up with two different remixes. The first is instrumental, full of James Brown horns, a funky groove, and a Sam-and-Dave-meets-the-London-Symphony-Orchestra vibe. The second is a vocal version, where the texture is thinned out to make room for some typically memorable word play from one of underground hip-hop’s most fierce rappers, Mr. Lif (Definitive Jux). Cinematic includes hip-hop, but is not a hip-hop record: it ranges stylistically from Zeb’s electro-tango remix of Mancini’s “The Tango I Saved For You” (from the film Gaily Gaily) to a deep ambient recasting of Inherit The Wind by Tom Middleton (of Global Communications and Jedi Knights). But as Duskis points out, “hip-hop has been sampling movie music for a long time – just think of Wu-Tang Clan and the way they used music from the old Blaxploitation films and the fact that RZA is now an in demand film composer.” So Mark de Clive Lowe contributes an inventive arrangement of the music from Hour of the Gun, featuring Ohio rapper Replife – who name checks both Wyatt Earp and Tupac, in the same line. “Hour of the Gun is a Western,” Duskis explains; “and Mark heard it as a gangsta piece. So the words are political, about how this is a violent time, the hour of the gun.” Cinematic’s pairings of producers with film scores yielded some inspired results. Partly that’s because musical elements that were hinted at in the original were dragged and dropped into the spotlight in the remixes. That is the beauty of Cinematic. You don’t need to know the original films, or the original film scores. The classic soundtracks have always been strong enough to exist apart from their movies. Now, this collection of 14 remixes suggests that you can imagine your own films to them."

Download "They Call Me Mr. Tibbs"

BEST OF THE BAY AWARDS SHOW MONDAY NIGHT



The Best Of The Bay Awards Ceremony is tonight!!
My crew RED TIDE is up for a readers poll award for best hip hop act.

Saturday, September 22, 2007

Women's New Balance 574 at Classic Kicks

Classic Kicks has some really sweet lookin' women's New Balance 574's as well as a shoe that I have been fiendin' for for a few months now. The Japan release "Conbini Pack" is now up on the Classic Kicks site!! Score!

New Balance x Size? 577




Here comes some new colorful New Balance x Size? 577's. The sneaker features a nice mix of pink, purple and cyan on the upper, mixed with black croc skin and a splattered sole. The shoe was designed with old school fruit machines in mind.

Harking back to the era of 10p gambles and repeat Jackpots there will even be two special ‘fruit machines’ installed in the Carnaby St and Covent Garden Size? Stores, as well as online, where punters will have a chance to win a NB Jackpot pair. There are two colorways and the one that you see here is the jackpot that one will be able to win. Via Canoe Inc.

The sneaker will be available exclusively at Size? stores and limited to 250 pairs.

New Balance set to release ST33 "Elements" Collection


This ST33 pack is just absolutely phenomenal!! I haven't been this excited over a shoe set since the first ST33 "Fish Pack."

The conceptual aspect of the shoe design is well thought out and the materials are, of course, premium and in line with the best that New Balance is known for. Above is a pic of the water element sneaker.

Available in three exclusive designs, this new limited edition collection celebrates the complementary Yin-Yang interplay of the elements in the cycle of life. The “Fire and Metal” 1400 shoe honors the role of fire as it refines metal, while the “Earth and Wood” shoe pays homage to our planet and the way it nurtures all living things. The third design, “Water” is a standalone tribute to the power of water.

"This exciting new range represents a global collaboration and a deep commitment to individualism that is unique in the footwear industry,” said Qing Ni, New Balance regional marketing manager for Asia Pacific. “Details include elaborate designs on the tongue of each shoe, the sole insert, and even the outsole. Every Super Team 33 Elements shoe is truly a limited-edition, sophisticated work of art.”

Super Team 33 Elements footwear features design details that reflect each of the three elemental concepts. For instance, “Earth and Wood” features brown contrast stitching, an eye-catching tree pattern, a distinctive tree-trunk pattern embossed on the New Balance logo, as well as two sets of laces - one in green and one in brown. “Fire and Metal” features a striking black and red design with metallic embroidery, a silver insole, and a laser-etched phoenix rising from the flames. “Water” embodies Zen-like serenity and tranquility, with a blue/white colorway, transparent rubber and a recurring pattern of Chinese junk boats and water bubbles.

To give each shoe a distinctly Chinese touch, the heel of every Super Team 33 Elements shoe features the Chinese character that represents that shoe’s element. The collaborative elements, namely Earth/Wood and Fire/Metal, use different characters on the left and right shoe, while the Water design features just one character. Transparent panels on the box showcase its contents and color-coded lids explain the meaning of the Chinese characters on the rear of each shoe.

The Super Team 33 project has been designed by the New Balance Asia Pacific team and will feature a theme inspired by the elements – wood, water, earth, metal, and fire. The Elements 1400 shoe will debut at 33 select retailers worldwide on October 20, 2007 and retail for $200.00.

Jay-Z to release soundtrack album for "American Gangster"



I don't know. This track is not getting me nearly as excited as the movie itself. I am truly on the edge of my seat for the film but this Jay-z / Pharrell track doesn't give me that fire that I woulda expected from the two of them. Check it out and see what you think.

Download "blue magic"

Stussy x Hectic x Undefeated New Balance MT580


Here's a look at the Three Threat project between Stussy, Undefeated and Hectic and New Balance. This time the theme is "3 The Hard Way" and they worked on the New Balance MT580. I love the 580 and have always felt that it was the most comfortable shoe in the NB line. For the first time they present a more subtle collection of overall three sneakers. On two of the three sneakers they gave the leather a distressed look on the upper and mixed it with slightly shiny mesh. I really am looking forward to getting this collaboration when it drops! Don't know when it will be released, but it's coming soon.

Friday, September 21, 2007

Robert Hubert R.I.P.

Once again back is the incredible!!!
The Blog animal
The incredible LAZY
public enemy number 1
5-0 said freeze!!
and i got numb..

I'm back bitches!!!

Illinois both sucked and was great in equal parts. My grandfather died. I'm not happy about it but at the same time I'm glad he's outta pain. Watching a loved one die is not a pastime I'd recommend. When it's my time I hope that I can go with some dignity or at the very least, quickly! But from sorrow comes joy! I got to see my extended family for the first time in years and got to meet all the young children of my cousins. That was really great and made me look forward to fatherhood even more than I already have been. Plus I got to be a city mouse visiting the country!! Haha! I got to run farm machinery and pump water from a well! Check the pics and note my farming kicks...

Thursday, September 13, 2007

Luckyiam Drops "Most Likely To Succeed" In Stores Now!!

I am outta town dealing with some family stuff at the moment. I got a minute to sneak out and chill in a Barnes & Noble. I brought the Luckyiam album "Most Likely To Succeed" with me, and let me tell you, it is excellent!! I'll post up more on this later.

Ok, it is "later" and I still like this album. If you don't know Luckyiam then you may not be a fan of West Coast hip hop in the last fifteen years. He co-founded Living Legends, was a member of Mystik Journeymen, and honed his craft in L.A. at the Goodlife Cafe alongside, Freestyle Fellowship, Pigeon John, Busdriver and a ton of other artists. He is on tour with Atmosphere, and is set to take over the world with his 3rd installment in his "Extra Credit" series of releases. Consider this record Lucky's solo "GRADUATION" because, for real, Lucky is gonna do big things and this is your chance to get in on the ground floor.

Download "Tear Him Down"

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Tuesday, September 11, 2007

Kanye West & 50 Cent Drop Albums Today 9/11



I have to admit it...I'm caught up in the hype today! I woke up early and immediately started trying to figure out ways to track the 50 vs. Kanye sales competition.
I've talked on the phone about it, I've e-mailed about it and now I'm blogging about it.
Why do I care?
I've already stated that it's a little like comparing Republicans and Democrats (i.e. not much difference). But I guess just like people who have no political agenda but go out looting during riots, or guys who cheer for sports teams or fighters despite the fact that they have no particular affiliation with them except in the moment and with a group of other excited fans, I too am caught up in whatever this mini cultural gas bubble that is Ye vs 50 IS!
I can't help it!

Anyway, there have been these two tracks floating around the internet for a minute now so I'll drop them on you if you haven't already heard 'em. One from Kanye and one from 50. Enjoy!!

Download Kanye West "Good Night"


Download 50 Cent "What Do You Got"

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Remember when Dr. Dre was overweight?

Not anymore...

Monday, September 10, 2007

Kid Robot & Lacoste collabo



Kidrobot and Lacoste have created a small collaborative collection of sneakers. They are limited to 500 pairs and each come with a matching toy, created by eBoy and Kidrobot. Kidrobot added their own flavor to the sneakers and instead of just choosing colors, they added some of their most popular patterns from their clothing line to the shoes. I don't know how I feel about the actual shoes. I love the design elements and Kid Robot is un-fuk-witable on the colors and patterns. But the shoe itself has gotta be wearable and I'm still not sure if that is the case with these. My favorite is the purple and black one with the blue sole. Besides the toys, the shoes also come with custom inner soles and 3M reflective material, something Lacoste has not tried on their sneakers until now.

Pics Via Sneaker Freaker.

The sneakers will hit all Kidrobot stores (including the new one coming to Miami this fall) some time in November.

Willie The Kid & La The Darkman "Invisible Rules"

I don't know, does La The Darkman really get calls from Supreme in federal prison??? Seems like more and more Pimp C is speakin' the truth about all these rappers lyin' about what they do or did in the drug game. I thought "real killers moved in silence"...

whatever, the track is pretty bangin' and fits in nicely with the Wu-Tang Clan single down below.

50 Cent In Paris!?!

I don't know where Nah Right got the MTV VMA pictures from so fast but this shit is really funny!!

First he gives her the cash...

Then she gives him the...

Prostitution is legal in Las Vegas but I guess what happens in Vegas doesn't STAY in Vegas anymore. hahahaha!

ENTER SHIKARI (or - The English do Screamo?!)



Enter Shikari (MySpace), a London-based quartet that Tony Wilson hailed as "the most exciting band I've seen since the early Sex Pistols gigs back in '76/'77."

Wow.

The tracks are engrossing because you can hear these really disparate influences in the music that are just totally unexpected in, for instance, an American Screamo outfit. Weird old school rave melodic lines, Van Halen synths from the "1984," album (especially "Jump")and other odd bits abound to make this really interesting, and genre defying, stuff. I don't know why but I hear Coheed and Cambria in the vocals just a very little bit (especially in"Sorry You're Not Winner"). Plus it's kinda funny to hear the gut screaming and sudden crooning mixed together with an English accent!


Sunday, September 9, 2007

Wu-Tang Clan "8 Diagrams" New Album Drops Nov. 13



Status Ain't Hood blog has a review of the 8 tracks that Rza has released for media review thus far. I don't think anybody believed that a new Wu album would be coming out, so this is an exciting event. How great is it to hear all the Wu on a track!?!! The re-instituted SRC/Loud is gonna come off lookin' like a genius label if this album breaks through.

Download "Watch Your Mouth"

Pick up this album on Nov. 13th on SRC/Loud

Buck 65 on Piracy



I saw this at Grand Good (a great blog that everybody should check out) and was really struck by Buck 65's comments.
Here’s a really great interview with Buck 65 over at Analogue Magazine.
Among other things, he speaks very candidly about bootlegging and how it affects him as an artist as well as on a personal level. I’ve never heard an artist comment about music piracy in the context of his/her relationship with the fans before. I wonder if Buck’s sentiments are common among those in the same predicament.

Link to Analogue Mag article.
and a Link to an article about Canadian music downloading at PimpWiz
"…on my last tour, I tried to help out my own cause. At a certain point, what becomes the focus for me is trying to make a living, and I don’t really have a fall back plan, so I have to figure out ways within this one thing I know how to do, to try to get my rent paid. So on my last tour, I put together a whole bunch of bootleg titles, and I was selling them, and about half way through the tour, I started to see the sales go way way down, and you know it didn’t take a genius to figure out it only took that number of weeks for it to spread all over the internet. But I was coming face to face with people who were walking up to the merch table, looking at everything that I had available there, and saying, ‘I’ve downloaded all this stuff, there’s nothing here for me’, and then just walking away. It’s kind of like, it’s one thing just to know that it’s happening out there, and it’s invisible. But to be confronted with it, face to face, to have a person walk right up to your face, and to say ‘I’ve stolen all your art, and I don’t give a shit, fuck you, you have nothing for me,’ and then just walking away, it’s weird, it’s really weird. Then later that night, you’re on stage, and you’re looking at all these people, and you’re performing for them, and you’re there to provide a service for them, and at the same time trying to remember all the things that are valuable and good about what you’re doing in the first place, i.e.: ‘I love this, I love music and that’s why I’m here’. But sometimes you have to fight off the feeling that your audience is also your enemy in a weird way. They’re the people preventing you from putting food in your mouth. At the end of the day they don’t give a shit about you. They will rob money right out of your pocket if they have the opportunity to do so. You have to try really hard to not think about that, but the reality of it is, essentially that’s what’s going on, and it’s gotten to the point, where people don’t mind telling you right to your face, ‘I don’t know who you are as a person, you may or may not be nice, but as far as what you can do for me, you know, it’s just a matter of what I can take from you, and if you can make some sort of separation, and separate out the human part of you, and really think about it in terms of, I don’t know what, cause it’s not business, stealing doesn’t really fit into a definition of business in a way that really makes sense..."