RJD2 and Aaron Livingston are ICEBIRD

    RJD2 has come along way since his days at Def Jux. Releasing new albums and licensing a huge amount of his music to companies like Blackberry and shows like Madmen and CSI:NY. The last few releases from RJ saw him focusing on his singing and song writing, taking a lot of heat from his Hip Hop fans who would rather have some straight up beats. Well it looks like now he is ready to jump back behind the table and assume the position of production mastermind again. With a steadily growing career and unique sound he is starting to give producers like Danger Mouse a run for their money. After a feature on 'The Colossal" a working relationship with soul singer Aaron Livingston began and together they are 'Icebird'

Readying their debut album 'The Abandoned Lullaby" for Rj's label Electrical Connections to be released Oct 11th.

Atmosphere - The Last To Say (Video)

Slug and the band put out a new video for the track 'The Last To Say' Definitely one of the saddest videos i have ever seen but a very effective one. The video depicts how abuse runs in cycles while slug plays the ghostly observer offering advice.

Slug said words like this...

This is a song that I've wanted to write for a long time, and I guess I've been waiting for the proper music to join it. So when Anthony (Ant) handed me this beat, I felt like this could be the opportunity. Domestic violence is something that everyone has dealt with, directly or indirectly. The best way to prevent it is to get out of that relationship. There are a lot of organizations that help people get safe by removing them from those situations. Making someone aware of the situation you're in is difficult, but reaching out and asking for help and finding a way to protect yourself is the most important thing.

Buy The Family Sign on Itunes

Adult Swim's Summer Singles

 
Adult Swim is offering a new single every week for 10 weeks. The first one is from Swedish folk artist the Tallest Man on Earth, which is the only reason I am talking about this. 'Weather of a Killing Kind' is a rather somber one, tends to linger a little after the first listens.Can't wait for new music from this guy. Check it out below and head over to the Adult Swim website and download the new track.

South Park Nominated for 14 Tony Awards!

   South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone are taking their first Broadway musical 'The Book of Mormon' to the Tony's. Nominated for a total of 14 awards including Best Musical, Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical (Andrew Rannells), Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical (Rory O'Malley) and Best Choreography. This isn't their first round of awards either, these two have been nominated for Oscars, won Emmys and even a Peabody award. Sometimes I can't believe the funniness these two come up with. Check out new episodes from their 15th season on Comedy Central. 

Ice Cube Kicks Off Tour in Victoria, B.C

Legendary hip hop icon Ice Cube kicked off his first Canadian tour in over four years at a sold out show in Victoria on Sunday night. Ice Cube, who has been influencing mainstream 'gangsta rap' since the late 1980s, demonstrated through his energetic performance that he is still one of the most skilled and influential West Coast rappers to date. It was a pretty impressive performance, partly because Ice Cube is now in his 40s, but also because he was much more energetic and interactive with the crowd (chanting numerous times that "Victoria is in the middle of the mutha f**kin' West Coast") than many other artists of his calibre tend to be.

Check out a video below that we filmed in the middle of the madness in the crowd at Club 9one9 on Sunday night, in which Ice Cube performs "Hello" and "Natural Born Killaz":

Adele - 21

    There is some SERIOUS talent in this young singer/songwriter from the U.K. Adele released her 2nd album '21' to insane chart topping success, breaking U.K records like crazy. Critically acclaimed, its clearly destined for another very well deserved round at the Grammy's. Handled by pros like Rick Rubin and Paul Epworth, the production on this album isn't even a concern, it's flawless. However, she does lose a bit of my attention in some of the slower parts of the album. I believe she really tends shines in the foot-stomping, soul anthems like 'Rolling in the Deep.' A song which has been previously described as "dark, bluesy, gospel disco music." It's spawned remixes from all over, including one from The XX's Jamie XX that dominates Hype Machine. That's not the only hit either, this album is packed full of mind blowing displays of vocal ability that can easily be categorized as 'hits' (Rumour has it, Some one like you). This album sounds great on a first listen but I have to be honest, not every song jumped out to me on the first run through. Each listen though, a new song will sneak its way in to blow me away. Which is a good quality for an album to have.
    Adele is passionate and real, and at age 22 she probably has more soul and wisdom in her singing voice than most 60 year olds. She also has a one up on most of her competition due to the fact that she plays the guitar and actually writes her own songs. '21' is composed of these simple yet very classical and almost country arrangements with stories of bitter sweet love. Adele has said '21' was written mostly about her love life and most recent break up. She's stated that she was inspired by Mumford and Sons' album 'sigh no more' as it reminded her of her ex boyfriend. Pretty typical inspiration for an artist her age but the maturity in her songwriting and voice is what makes this album so amazing. '21' is a good listen for all types of music lovers.

Adele will be at the Orpheum Theatre in Vancouver on May 31st
 Buy it on Itunes here!


Adele - Rolling In The Deep (Radio Edit) by MMMusic


Check out John Legend's cover of 'Rolling in the Deep'

Classified - Hand Shakes and Middle Fingers

   Hand Shakes and Middle Fingers is Classified's 14th album! From a Canadian point of view it's a legend releasing another major album that will shape 'Canadian Hip Hop' for years. From a global perspective (American) Classified is an up and coming rapper releasing his sophomore LP to strong reviews. But with the success of his single 'O Canada' and the hype behind this album, I'm sure the rest of the world will take notice now.
   Expect the same hard-hitting production Class is known for, as well as a few cameos with underground legends Joe Budden and Brother Ali. Classified has said in interviews that he only likes to have features on his album by people he at least somewhat knows, so it's cool to see he keeps such good company (Brother Ali) Check out the video below too, Classified gets honest and tells you what's what. Buy it on Itunes! Support real Hip Hop. Check out Classified at Club 9one9 (Victoria B.C) on April 19th

Coming Up Next

So here is a quick list of some up coming albums I'm stoked about or..well, at least intrested in.

Zion I & The Grouch Are... Heroes in the Healing of the Nation

March 22nd
    After five years since their last collaboration these dudes have all evolved. This was released early this week to solid reviews. Features by the likes of Brother Ali and Freeway.
 
Broken Bells -  Meyrin Fields EP - March 29th 2011

 Snoop Dogg

Doggumentary
March 29th
   Snoop rounds up a plethora of artist on this one. 'The Doggumentary' will see features from Devin The Dude, Wiz Khalifa, Kanye West, John Legend, Booty Collins, Willie Nelson and more.


Blueprint - Adventures in Counter Culture - April 5th

Atmosphere - The Family Sign - April 12th 2011

The Kills - Blood Pressures - April 5th



Evidence (Dilated Peoples)
Cats and Dogs
April 2011
     Evidence's Rhymesayer's release has yet to be given exact details or have any art work but it does have April as a tentative release date. Rumoured to have features by Psalm One, Raekwon and M.O.P.

Astronautalis/P.O.S
The Four Fists
2011
    Seattle MC Astronautalis has his year cut out for him. He has confirmed he will have another solo album out by the end of the year as well as a debut album from his band with Doomtree rapper P.O.S. They have titled their project The Four Fists and they showcased some new material at South By South West This year.


Jay Z and Kanye - Watch the throne - Summer 2011


    Also, some of my favourite artist have claimed to have been working on new material like Aesop Rock, Kimya Dawson, Brother Ali and even a new album by Hieroglyphics. Del has also claimed to have finished the lyrics to the second Deltron album "Event II" (underground Hip Hop's Detox.) Aesop Rock and Rob Sonic will be teaming up for a project this year, titled Hail Mary Mallon  details about that will be announced soon so stay tuned. Here is a teaser for that project...

New Audio Bullys (video) and New Foster The People

New video by UK electro duo Audio Bullys. An extremely awesome concept for a video. Off their album 'Higher then the Eiffel' released last year.





  This track, I just wanted to post because its dope. Foster the People is indie rock band from LA that people can't seem to get enough of. You'll def be seeing more of Foster the People on Too Much Birthday Cake

 

The Billest!

 

Vancouver's Sweatshop Union finally returns after they took a short break to pursue their solo and group efforts. They return with 'The Bill Murray EP.' An album that sounds like it was specifically written for Bill Murray to bump on his Ipod while he lurks through Vancouver in the middle of the night. The perfect tribute to one of the most respected and illusive (...or should I say 'Billusive') comedians in the game. Their sound is more focused and the production has advanced greatly. Another solidly constructed piece of Hip Hop these west cost legends can be proud of. Mos' def a new Too Much Birthday Cake favourite.

Buy it on Itunes!
(Support real Hip Hop before lil wayne and wacka flocka ruin everything)

Check out these two sweet gems...

Sweatshop Union - Nuclear Family
 Sweatshop Union - Bring Back The Music (feat. D-Sisive) 

Adventures in Counter Culture

Blueprint releases another single from his upcoming album 'Adventures in Counter-Culture' called 'So Alive.' Stepping even further away from the typical rap song formula, the new single has Blueprint smoothing out his raps over a fast beat driven by banging drums and soft synthesizer. Putting aside his signature raw, powerful flow to sing with a bit of a Kid Cudi vibe. A very modern track that reflects the album's range as well as Blueprint's range as a musician. 'Adventures in Counter-Culture' is now now due out April 5th from Rhymesayers Entertainment. The album is a major step for Blueprint. The press the release probably says it best. It says that the new album...

"is a challenge to Blueprint's audience and himself, prodding the listener to dissect their perception of why Hip Hop is what it is and what it will look like in the future. It's also a studious examination of what makes Blueprint tick, his reaction to the information and pop-cultural influence, both musically and ideologically, that bombard each of us every day."

 Tracklisting for the new album...

1. Five Years Ago
2. Go Hard or Go Home (Printnificence)
3. Automatic
4. Keep Bouncing
5. Wanna Be Like You
6. My Culture
7. Mind, Body, & Soul feat. Angelica Lee
8. So Alive
9. Stole Our Yesterday
10. Radio-Inactive
11. Welcome Home
12. Fly Away
13. The Clouds
14. Rise & Fall
15. The Other Side

Blueprint - So Alive by rhymesayers

 Already Seattle's Budo (Grieves & Budo) has offered up his take on 'Prints latest single. Simplifying the beat, giving it a jazzy clean sound. I personally dig the remix more, gives it some room to breathe. Head over to Hiphopdx.com to listen to the remix. Listen to both and preorder Blueprint new album Adventure in Counter-Culture today at Fifth Element Online


Budo chats about remixing 'So Alive'....

But all The Cool Kids are doing it...

Self-Described "New Black version of the Beastie Boys" The Cool Kids are planning on finally dropping an official debut album titled 'When Fish Ride Bycycles.' Dropping sometime this spring, their new album will feature guest spots by Asher Roth, UGK's Bun B and Pharrell Wiliams. The new single was released the other day and it couldn't have come at a better time as Victoria was violently shoved back into winter. 'Bundle Up' is a perfect track for the chilly weather so head over to their new website Coolxkids.com and stream it right now!

But that's not all The Cool Kids are doing. Pulled Over By The Cops is a new rap super group featuring The Cool Kids, gangster rapper Freddie Gibbs, Kid Cudi affiliate Chip Tha Ripper and Bun B, featuring production by The Blended Babies. This group of up and comers will be working on the group album between their respective solo and group projects. Check out the new track 'Authority' below

More Atmosphere news

Atmosphere releases the first taste off their upcoming album "The Family Sign" (april 12th) 'Just for Show' is a catchy little tune. Slug and the gang continue to pursue their newly created Hip Hop hybrid while not quiet pushing the boundaries of what they've built. As usual, I'm sure their will be some fans who will not be diggin' the new music but fan or not you have to appreciate the evolution of an underground Hip Hop group like this.

Atmosphere - "Just For Show" by rhymesayers

Grieves - Confessions of Mr. Modest (Album)

The newest member to the Rhymesayers family is Grieves. A fresh new face, ready to make his mark in the ever evolving world of Hip Hop. 'Confessions of Mr. Modest' is an EP written and recorded while touring for his major release '88 Keys and Counting'. His second effort as a Rhymesayers emcee proves he is worthy of his new position and that hes creating his own unique sound. The collabo with P.O.S 'War for the Crippled' makes Grieves sound like a long lost member of the Doomtree Crew and the remix of 'I Ate Your Soul' is worth the purchase alone. The content is based heavily on heart break and pain, mixed with some brutal honesty and touch of humour. Using mostly sample-free production from Sapient, Budo and himself, Grieves creates an organic and original sound. True to the new face of Hip Hop.  Buy It!

Slug speaks on new album

Pitchfork catches up with Slug from Atmosphere's and talks new album 'The Family Sign' (April 12th), his autobiographical content and why he doesn't work with a ton of famous rappers. Being a huge fan, I'm eagerly awaiting the release but as Slug and the band evolve, not all fans evolve with them. So it'll be interesting to hear where they plan to go.

Check out the interview here!

New Atmosphere!

Atmosphere releases a new track to go along with their 'Welcome to Minnesota Tour.' A posse cut featuring Felipe Cuauhtli, Mr. Gene Poole and Prof. Download "Minnesota Nice' from Rhymesayers 



Atmosphere - Minnesota Nice feat. Felipe Cuauhtli, Prof, Mr. Gene Poole by rhymesayers

Oh whaaaat!

Yesterday, Canadian heavyweights Shad K and Dallas Green released a 2 song EP on iTunes entitled "Two Songs". Both dudes bring a different... yet similar sound to to the microphone, so its best you give it a chance! Check out the EP here.

Radio Inactive

 

 "Radio-Inactive" is the first single off of Blueprint's upcoming, highly anticipated solo album "Adventures in Counter-Culture." to be released on March 1st, its definitely one to look out for. Blueprint is a rapper everyone can appreciate and he's always got a lot to say. Especially about his career and mainstream radio over the past five years. Check out Rhymesayers for more info

They're New Here

   As The XX enjoys the wave of fame that follows the success of a debut album, Jamie Smith A.K.A Jamie XX seems to be back to work before any of the dust settles. "We're New Here" a fitting title for his remix of Gil Scott-Heron's comeback album "I'm New Here." Since one is returning from well over a decade of absence and the other is dealing with newly found fame in America. The new album seems like an ambitious project but from I've heard from the two singles released it sounds pretty crazy. Also, check out his remix of Adele's new song "Rolling In the Deep" 

Released on February 21st, 2011







http://www.myspace.com/jamiexxlondon
http://thexx.info/
http://www.wearenewhere.com