usic is Andy Michaels’ global passport. Whether using published sonnets, or employing poignant lyrics, this Australian artist is on a welcomed quest to share his creative acumen. With his latest album release, Revisited, he deftly demonstrates what happens when an array of musical genres are effectively blended. Throughout the duration of Revisited, Michaels 13-track project piques interest. The first four tracks “Today’s Tomorrow,” …
Music Video. | “So Houston” | Z-Ro Ft. Lil KeKe X Big Baby Flava.
yrical legend, Z-Ro, is mastering the task of satisfying his day-one supporters and hypnotizing new ears. From his Codeine project — which dropped last year — on the track “So Houston,” the ill MC teams up with Lil KeKe and Big Baby Flava. Reverent sixteens wrapped in sincerity are offered to H-Town’s musical forerunners. This Dang Films visual, astutely combines an organic Screwston aesthetic with the penetrating Synesthetic beat; simply put, this …
Parallel Existences Add to One’s Eerie Stay at the Tranquility Base Hotel in Video for Arctic Monkeys’ “Four Out of Five”
As far as the “concept album” goes, it seemed the music industry had given up on it altogether until Arctic Monkeys decided to release the piano-heavy (and therefore out of character for the band) Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino on May 11th. Marking the band’s first record since 2013’s AM, the abrupt shift in sonic tone, as well as thematic …
Christina Aguilera’s Latest, “Fall In Line,” Builds on Themes of Stripped’s “Beautiful” & “Can’t Hold Us Down”
For over a decade now, Christina Aguilera has essentially coasted on the “artistic merit” of 2002’s “Beautiful” (as there is nothing of the kind to be found in being a judge on a reality show), immortalized in Mean Girls by Damian’s (Daniel Franzese) talent show performance. As one of her most “serious” singles (even garnering the honors of GLAAD), the …
Music Video. | “Forget About Yesterday” | Ajay Mathur.
ritically-acclaimed for his innate artistry, Ajay Mathur, keeps reinforcing his musical legacy. The latest album from this Grammy-nominated singer / songwriter, Little Boat, proves that he continues to build upon previous professional success. Backed by the Swiss-based, Yakketeeyak Music, in the whimsical visual for “Forget About Yesterday,” Mathur makes heartbreak almost appealing. On the self-produced track, all the stages of a self-induced grief are …
New Music. | “SSP” | Dice SoHo Ft. Ty Dolla $ign X Desiigner.
epping Houston, Dice SoHo, is tasked with establishing lyrical longevity. Earning the respect of sonic savant, Mike Dean, Dice has teamed up with Dean’s label, M.W.A. Perhaps this cunning move in creativity will help to launch SoHo’s burgeoning career in rhyme. Following the success of his risque single, “Giraffe,” the recent release of “SSP,” continues to thrust Dice SoHo into the limelight. An …
Rita Ora’s “Girls” Is Neither A Fitting Homage to “Lady Marmalade” Nor Genuine In Its Fair-weather Bisexuality
Long ago, during a time when George W. Bush was coming to the twilight of his presidency and presumably thinking about, well, not much of anything at all, Katy Perry was rattling conservative cages with something that was somehow still too salacious for mainstream consumption: two women kissing. Later, when we would find out that the narrative was inspired by Miley …
Music Video. | “Proud” | 2 Chainz Ft. YG x Offset.
lthough, The Play Don’t Care Who Makes It, dropped back in February, of the four-track EP, “Proud,” remains a stand-out. The incomparable 2 Chainz teamed up with both YG and Offset for this self-directed visual. What’s a better way to celebrate Mother’s Day? To bolster the matter-of-fact lyricism from these accomplished artists, respective cameos from their mothers heightens the overall ocular experience. Keep ya head on a swivel, as later …
The Disgust One Feels Over Grimes’ Concession to Dating Elon Musk
Grimes (Christian name Claire Boucher) has never been known for folding to the what one would call the pressures of dating a douchebag once you become something of a pop star. Though she began as an under the radar MySpace musician starting in 2007, the level to which Vancouver’s own has ascended from lo-fi urchin to electronic powerhouse has been …
Music Review. | The Sandcastle King | Aya Maguire
olded by music since her childhood, Aya Maguire, has long been a student of sound. During her senior year in high school, the multifaceted musician — who brings to life guitar riffs, cello crescendos, and vocal gymnastics — truly began to hone her gift. Six years of growth is reflected within the initial effort, The Sandcastle King. This compelling and complete body of …
Music Video. | “This Is America” | Childish Gambino.
merica, the hypocrite! Sweet as apple pie, Childish Gambino’s latest offering — the Hiro Murai-directed visual “This Is America” — is delicious. Delectably distorted metaphors, both verbal and visible, represent the contrived Stepin Fetchin stereotypes that continue to plague these un-United States. Gambino demonstrates how pursued happiness is mocked by the Have’s asphyxiating ignorance and their misplaced fear. Melanated skin ignorantly associated with Sin continues …
This is America is Social Dissonance You Can Dance To
Let America be America again. Let it be the dream it used to be. Let it be the pioneer on the plain Seeking a home where he himself is free. (America never was America to me.) This is how Langston Hughes begins his poem Let America Be America Again. I teach this poem at least twice a year in my …
Dangerous Rhythms, Latin Jazz, and TJ English’s The Corporation
Best-selling author TJ English’s epic new Cuban true-crime thriller, The Corporation, is about to be made into a Leonardo DiCaprio-produced, Benicio Del Toro-starring Hollywood feature film. A frenzied bidding war produced a rumored seven-figure deal that was reached based on a 100-page proposal before the book was even written. TJ is celebrated for his studies of the Irish mob, including …
Music Video. | “The Yield” | Kate Fenner.
aried experiences transform into wisdom on, Middle Voice. This is the third solo album from Canadian crooner, Kate Fenner. Currently based in New York City, the musician and mother uniquely employs her polished art to advocate a prime perspective. Over 10 selections constitute Kate’s robust effort. “The Yield,” offers familiar Folk yearnings which are amplified by an eased angst. Fenner beautifully conveys how …
Music Video. | “New York” | Kachinga.
ife invested into rhyme, Kachinga, has successfully accomplished a once-daunting dream. The release of Sky Falling — the debut album from the Canadian creative — dropped earlier this year. Containing over 23 selections, the robust endeavor encapsulates the battle to discover peace between his tribulations and his triumphs. Below, check out the intimate visual for the Lava Cru produced, “New York.” To discover more …
Music Video. | “Yellow Beamer” | Fih.
eyond dizzying sunshine and shiny stars, Fih, uses the “Yellow Beamer” visual to display her gift of rhyme. From the introductory EP, Four Colors Only, the LAid-back lyricist uses this second release and shares her perspective. Melodically maneuvering the nostalgic whirlwind of yesteryear’s ideals, Fih, offers a glimpse into her personal progression. Barred life becomes art; check it out. ” … No lies …
Music Video. | “Fleece” | Radio Galaxy.
ersonifing music’s universal appeal, Radio Galaxy, continues to thrive. Back in March, the Houston-based collective released its latest project, Nobody Digs Your Music But Yourself. Within this endeavor, the divine collision of four creative minds come together and create a wonderfully cohesive LP. Funky, Space-Hop, Future Soul, SpaceyFatNasty — whatever the chosen evocative adjective — Radio Galaxy is dope. “Fleece,” the initial offering …
’77 Music Club
After Kendrick Lamar won the Pulitzer Prize, the Washington Post blubbered that “Kids aren’t starting garage bands” anymore, and “Electric guitar sales are down 30 percent over the past decade!” Rock and Roll is not dead, former Rolling Stone writer Marc Weingarten declared, but it “continues to lose traction with anyone under 40,” and “it seems unmoored from its commitment …
Music Video. | “Nothing” | Kendra Morris.
n her latest single “Nothing,” Kendra Morris, uses keen artistry to contemplate an array of thoughts and feelings. The Unproduction-directed visual, starkly contemplates the thoughts and feels of being engulfed by a dismal abyss. Morris beautifully demonstrates how perplexed resignation becomes maligned terror. Kendra continues to satisfy her peers and her public; press play. “Nothing” is about nothing. It’s about the …
New Music. | “Done For Me” | Charlie Puth Ft. Kehlani.
atter-of-fact and meaningful, Charlie Puth, effortlessly flexes his creativity on his latest single, “Done For Me.” The New Jersey native enlists Kehlani for the assist. If this track is indicative of what’s to come then Puth’s anticipated sophomore effort, Voicenotes, is certain to satisfy. Enjoy this early summer smash; you’re welcome! “… You say you’re leaving / Well, if you wanna leave there ain’t …
Music Post. | “In Time” | Akshara Music Ensemble.
ast year, Akshara Music Ensemble, released its critically-acclaimed, Mohana Blues. Earning respect from its peers and its public, the New York City-based collective relies upon a polished cache of creativity. This innate artistry celebrates inherent Indian fundamentals which is bolstered by a contemporary global perspective. Meticulous manipulation of an array of string and woodwind instruments allows Askhara to thrive. Their lauded track, “In …
Music Video. | “G Lollipops” | MURS Ft. Prof.
hat’s better than the convergence of Rhymesayers and Strange Music? Hip-Hop has awarded MURS with its coveted prize, longevity. Tapping Prof for the lyrical assist, “G Lollipops” becomes a stunning example of delivering humble hubris. The track appears on the recently released album, A Strange Journey Into The Unimaginable, which was produced in its entirety by the sonic savant, Michael “Seven” Summers. A personification of …
New Music. | “John Wayne” | Rebel ACA & French Monkey Wrench.
omehow Rebel ACA & French Monkey Wrench effortlessly employ a cacophony of disjointed harmonies on “John Wayne.” Challenged to sonically demonstrate the modern man’s psyche this Brit Pop duo delivers. Staccato lyricism bolstered by a catchy hook work to compel the ear. While listing a litany of life’s useful distractions the groovy production amps the song’s overall appeal. Stay tuned as the Buttercuts Records duo’s …
Music Video. | “Walk It Talk It” | Migos Ft. Drake.
midist initial naysayers, Migos, continue to forge and maintain their Hip-Hop path. Their cadence and delivery, once considered different, is now the norm. Culture II — the third album from these ATLien spitters — continues to cement the trio’s ubiquitous impact. It’s no surprise that “Walk It Talk It,” which features Drake, has become a viral sensation. Time-traveling to a distant past, the Daps-directed visual …
Music Video. | “Balance” | Kachinga.
hroughout the duration of Sky Falling — the debut album from Kachinga — sincere sixteens depict the human condition. On his compelling track, “Balance,” the Canadian artist who reps Three Entertainment Group, enlists the expert production of Lava Cru. Here, a haunting refrain pairing with stoic keys and a resigned delivery converge. A concise contemplation of life’s monotonous complexities is then explored. Niki GatewoodI write.
IG ART OF THE WEEK | Kat J. Weiss | @KatJWeiss
IG Art of the Week is a quick tutorial by artist Kat J. Weiss. Follow @katjweiss ✌? New video up! It’s a tutorial. This preview was a struggle to upload. I need a hiatus now ~ take a rest, as we would say in HK. I hope you enjoy! Music by Joe Bae ? #arttutorial#paintingtutorial #watercolorpainting #artyoutuber #hkyoutuber #illustuber A …
World Premier: New Music | “Nothing” | Kendra Morris
nveloped by oblivion, Kendra Morris, uses a psychedelic vocal dexterity to smoothly deliver her latest single, “Nothing.” Undulating and raw, sheer emotional introspection is expressed. This Papi Records gem showcases a rancorous bass which battles both angry drums and slithering keys. Together harmony is achieved. Of the track, Kendra shares a matter-of-fact sentiment, “Nothing” is about nothing. It’s about the warm comfort …
New Music. | Summer • Velvet. | Chazmere.
You should give this track by the multi-disciplinary artist from the Bronx a listen. Chazmere recently released his latest EP, •FELT•, and Summer•Velvet truly embodies the vibes Chaz hopes we fall into or as he states: More than ever, what we see is distorted, filtered, manipulated. Ads everywhere. Infinite Scrolls, endless instant updates. Exploiting our attention. Breaking our focus. Taking our energy. •FELT• …
New Music Video.| I am not racist. | Joyner Lucas.
Joyner Lucas just released a powerful visual for his latest single “I am not Racist” featuring 2 men discussing the overdue, much-needed racial tension issues in the US today. “I am not Racist” is an example of what hip-hop could be if given a chance to express itself freely. Please watch and I would love to hear your thoughts in …
New Music. | King Salomon. | Salomon Faye.
The homie Salomon Faye released his debut EP King Salomon featuring the critically acclaimed single “LIVE LEARN” featuring J. Cole & Eryn Allen Kane. The album artwork was created by artist Ryan Bock who we featured in our previous print edition, Book N°4. Stream the EP project below. Bim StarThis New York City native breathes the concrete jungle. From be a stylist and …
New Video. | Finesse. | Bl’eve Brown.
ew East Coast co-founder, producer and rap artist, Bl’eve Brown just released his latest track, Finesse featuring Jimmy2Shoes with over 200,000 streams on Spotify! The new visual, directed by Kevin Chiu, depicts Bl’eve going around the city as he raps about how sometimes, all you have to do is finesse ’em. Peep the video below and give it a like. Click …
Music Video. | “Down For Mine” | Rittz.
aving invested over 20 years into the game, Rittz, is being rewarded for his diligence. Today, the Strange Music MC scored a career milestone. Last Call — his fourth album — stands atop the Rap charts, this according to SoundScan. The Miguel “M. Stacks” Brown, Jr.-produced, “Down For Mine,” finds a calculated Rittz spitting sixteens with stunning accuracy; press play. Photo Credit: Kristina Labbe Niki …
Music Video. | “Drowning (Water)” | A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie.
ubmerged in sound, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, continues to demonstrate his creative dexterity. Within the visual for “Drowning (Water),” The RiTE Brothers, showcase the Bronx MC engulfed by aqua and enveloped by diamonds. Consistent keys and floating currency, combined with an emotive delivery, help to tell the tale of living the pauper’s existence transformed to one of the nouveau riche. The Highbridge …
Music Video. | “Achoo!” | Keith Ape X Ski Mask The Slump God.
esistant to any inoculation, from within their dopeness emanates. The Cole Bennett-directed, “Achoo” finds Keith Ape and Ski Mask The Slump God in a hospital. Afflicted with inherent artistry, these two creatives ride the Jimmy Duval & Neighborhood Watch which conjures excess. Trading hubris-filled ostentatious bars these two are sick; press play. src=”//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js”> Niki GatewoodI write.
New Music. | “Highly Intoxicated” | Juicy J.
ewarded with longevity, Juicy J, is a living legend. While reinforcing his legacy, this Trap architect has discovered the way to remain relevant. He is dope. Recently, The Juiceman blessed the game and dropped his mixtape, Highly Intoxicated. The introductory track, “Highly Intoxicated,” finds an animated J with an intricate flow. The Crazy Mike-beat is reminiscent of classic Three 6. Do …
New Music. | “Caffeine & Nicotine” | Blakeley.
rooklyn’s Blakeley continues to reinforce her artistic integrity. The amped whimsy of her latest single, “Caffeine & Nicotine,” from the upcoming EP of the same name, invites one to join her on a subversive journey; convention’s monotony is confronted. Her emphatic voice effectively melds with the rigorous instrumentation. Sound becomes an adrenaline-drenched heart pumped by Blakeley’s vocal ability. Stay tuned; Blakely has teamed up …
New Music. | “You Should Know” | Rapsody Ft. Busta Rhymes.
o many adjectives. Rapsody is raw. Rapsody is an MC. Rapsody is Hip-Hop. Recently, the North Carolina narrator dropped her anticipated endeavor, Laila’s Wisdom. Named for her Big Mama — from whom she learned many valuable lessons — the album serves as an effort in excellence. It demonstrates that an innate essence will always trump a fleeting notoriety. From amorous to angst, …
New Music. | “Living A Lie” | Lachi Ft. Styles P.
nvested in empowerment, Lachi, sings her truth. The self-reliant, singer/songwriter personifies progress. Her talent has compelled several record labels to distribute her music. Esteemed outlets like Oprah Radio and PBS Radio have lauded Lachi’s inherent artistry. Whether it’s EDM, Pop, Dubstep, or Dance this New York City-based chanteuse is known to deliver. The latest single, “Living A Lie,” showcases a tremendously tender …
Music Video. | “Black Coffee and Cigarettes” | Michael P Cullen |&| The Soul Searchers.
xpression, an additional appendage for Michael P Cullen, is demonstrated through his art. Outfitted with the Soul Searchers, the Aussie artist is submerged in sound; he’s living the dream. Live at Lazybones, the most recent EP added to the collective’s creative canon, dropped back in July. With “Black Coffee and Cigarettes” banal retrospect tortures a beautifully morose Michael. Restrained percussion, pained keys, …
New Music. | “Bipolar” | Dave East X V Don.
ushing waxed pictures, V Don, makes words become movies; he scores tracks. “Bipolar,” the recent collab which features the verbal dexterity of Dave East is menacing. Art amplified by an amalgamation of action, “Bipolar,” fuses stripped keys with an emphatic drum. It reverberates against ostentatious and harrowing sixteens. Dave East is diligent. The Harlem native recently dropped this unattached single, “Bipolar.” …
Music Video. | “Deep Thoughts” | The Peanut Gallery.
rom Party of 5IVE to their present duo of, The Peanut Gallery, Orlando and Flee Jones remain determined. The New Jersey natives have tasked themselves to accentuate Hip-Hop’s authenticity. The duo’s creative collision will soon be displayed in their debut album, Tales From The Basement. The leadoff single, “Deep Thoughts,” showcases Orlando’s unorthodox artistry. For more from The Peanut Gallery stay tuned. …
Music Video. | “Good Ol’ Music” | Jay Hunna.
nfluenced by Golden lyricism, Jesse “Jay Hunna” Bland, turns to his pen for cathartic release. A child of Chicago, he has lived the have-not existence. Following the 2015, unprovoked death of his cousin, Sandra Bland, music was one of the things which helped to assuage his restless soul. On September 8, his debut album, Better Days was released. The “Good Ol’ Music” visual displays …
Music Video. | “Monster” | Datsik X 1000volts (Redman & Jayceeoh).
ip-Hop is ever-evolving. Redman demonstrates its progression. While wielding voraciously lyrical sixteens, he along with respected turntablist, JAYCEEOH, melt wax. Together, they are 1000volts. “Monster,” the dubstep mingling of Firepower Records labelmates, 1000volts and Datsik, melds frenetic energy with simplistic storytelling. It’s electric! Niki GatewoodI write.
Music Video. | “MaNyfaCedGod” | Jay Z Ft. James Blake.
ersonified artistry is Lupita Nyong’o. The Francesco Carrozzini-directed, “MaNyfaCedGod” visual, is heightened by the harmonies of James Blake. Measured movements become lyrical expression. An effortless pen chronicles the emotional evolution of the 13- time platinum MC. Damned good job, Jay Z; thanks for 4:44. Niki GatewoodI write.
Music Video. | “On My Mind” | Jorja Smith X Preditah.
Photo Credit: Emma Swann agic is real. Jorja Smith possesses an incredibly contemporary voice that nudges at a ’90’s nostalgia . Project 11, her introductory EP further proves this point. With “On My Mind,” an incredible assist from production virtuoso, Preditah, succinctly pushes the track to the sublime. You’re welcome. Niki GatewoodI write.