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
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.
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.
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.
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 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
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)
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
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
