Just like I've done in in the past, it's time to list my favorite albums of 2009. I know we're already two months into 2010, so it's probably too late to do the "end of the year" countdowns, but oh well. The beauty of having my own blog is that I don't have to worry about meeting deadlines.
1.) Zee Avi [Self-Titled]
Although it was a real tough decision, this was definitely my favorite album of the year. I already wrote a previous blog about her, so I don't need to go into too much detail. All I'll say is that I'm glad I was able to catch one of her live shows in the summer. She was playing some pretty big venues on her tour, so my friends and I were lucky enough to see her perform at a real intimate venue in Hermosa Beach...for only $10!!
FAVORITES: Poppy, Honey Bee
2.) The Counterparts [Self-Titled LP]
Although it didn't get my top overall spot, this was my favorite hip hop album of '09...hands down. After hearing their Appetizer sampler CD in Fall '08, I knew this would be a solid album once it was released. This is a perfect balance of beats and lyrics that make for a "no-filler" kind of album. I listened to it non-stop in my car for at least a week straight when it first came out. And even though I was featured on the song "Universe" (shameless plug: I'm the 3rd verse), that had nothing to do with my final decision...I swear! This would still be the best hip hop album of '09 even if I didn't have a guest spot.
FAVORITES: What We Do, Home in the Bay, Until
3.) Brother Ali - Us
After listening to his two most recent albums, this guy has definitely become one of my favorite MCs. It took a little while for me to get used to the sound of his voice, but once that happened I couldn't stop listening. I admire and respect MCs who are willing to put everything out there, and Brother Ali is one of the most honest dudes in the game right now. And his beats are always so damn dope! He's got a great production team behind him.
FAVORITES: Fresh Air, House Keys
4. K'Naan - Troubadour
I almost slept on this album, but decided to check him out after hearing some of his collabos with Wale as well as through word of mouth. You'll be disappointed if you're expecting a traditional "hip hop" album because he raps and sings over production that's heavily influenced by his African roots and rhythms. Overall, it's just a good musical album.
FAVORITES: Somalia, 15 Minutes Away
5. Jay-Z - Blueprint 3
This was definitely a solid release. After so many years in the game, this guy can still hold it down and can probably crush any mainstream MC out there. Since there's so many people who are exposed to his music, I probably don't need to go into too much detail.
FAVORITES: D.O.A., Empire State of Mind
6. Zion I - The Takeover
I bought this album in the early part of the year, listened to it a few times, then kind of forgot about it until a couple months ago when I was getting revisiting music for the purpose of this blog. Amp Live, the producer, has always had a wide range of beats that were showcased perfectly on The Takeover. There was a good mix of the grimy sounding 808's, synths and just plain old head nod music that let Zion, the MC, do his thing. This is one of my favorite hip hop groups who don't always get the credit they deserve (I'm even guilty of underrating them sometimes too). I would recommend any of the albums in their catalog. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!
FAVORITES: Antenna, Coastin'
7. Fatgums x Bambu - ...A Peaceful Riot...
One of my favorite producers and one of my favorite MCs on the same project?! Yeah, I was definitely waiting for this one to come out, especially after hearing their work together on Exact Change (which got my vote for the Best Album of '08). My only complaint is that I wish it was a full length album instead of just an EP! lol. As an added bonus for me, my band (The Committee) had the opportunity to perform at the album release party. Good times...
FAVORITES: Good Clothes, Peddlin' Music.
8. Easy Star's Lonely Hearts Dub Band
A reggae band that covered The Beatles' "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" album. They've also released reggae renditions of Pink Floyd and Radiohead albums. 'Nuff said.
FAVORITES: With A Little Help from My Friends, When I'm 64
9. Mayer Hawthorne - A Strange Arrangement
I saw someone post his video on Facebook, then a week later someone else posted another one of his videos. Since I respect those people's taste in music, I knew I had to check it out for myself. This is a good album that's reminiscent of the old Motown sound.
FAVORITES: Just Ain't Gonna Work Out, Maybe So, Maybe No (which was also my favorite video of the year)
10. Aimee Allen - A Little Happiness
Just like in the case of Zee Avi, I heard about Aimee Allen through an MTVu video contest. I originally went there to support Inverse (who ended up winning), but I became a fan of hers in the process. I haven't heard her previous work, which had a big rock influence, but this was definitely a good summertime album with its chill, laid back vibes.
FAVORITES: On Vacation, Santeria (Sublime cover)
HONORABLE MENTION:
1. Wale - Attention Deficit
2. Blue Scholars - Oof! EP
3. Crown City Rockers - Day After Forever
4. Alicia Keys - Element of Freedom
5. Anjulie - [Self titled]
BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT:
Mos Def - The Ecstatic (I wasn't really feeling the production. C'mon Mos!! I know you still have it in you!)
FAVORITE MIXTAPES:
1. DJ Jazzy Jeff - He's the King, I'm the DJ [FREE download]
This is a pretty lofty claim, but I think this just might be my favorite mixtape of all time. He covers a wide range of MJ's library and also threw in some real dope remixes. This is feel good music at it's finest! Don't sleep on this one!
2. Sabzi - 69 Rolls & Oof! Mixtape [FREE download]
Another perfect selection for the summmer! If you like that chill island vibe, this is a mixtape you don't wanna miss out on!
3. DJ Un.D.Fine - Soul Nice Reggae Mixtape
This DJ from the Mass Movement crew always comes correct with his mixtapes. I don't know if Soul Nice Reggae is available for download or purchase, but you won't be disappointed with this reggae mix of classic hits.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Real muthaf****n G'z...
I was on my way to work this morning and caught the tail end of this rant from Sam Rubin (KTLA Morning News). This dude went in hard on Perez Hilton! I mean damn...I've never seen a news anchor lay into somebody like that before, which is why Sam Rubin is my new hero. I've always been a fan of the Channel 5 news crew, but I now pledge my undying loyalty to them. Perez is a hypocritical, obnoxious jackass who had it coming! Thanks to the wonders of the internet, I was able to find video of the whole thing, which is now presented for your viewing pleasure.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Serving the People...
I ride the metro all the time from Long Beach to LA or all the way up to the valley and every trip is full of interesting observations. There are the loud, obnoxious passengers. There's the parents hopping from train to train trying to sell candy, jewelry or cologne. There are the homeless people who, despite their situation, end up make the other passengers feel uncomfortable (ain't that some ass backwards shit?). And that's exactly what has inspired me to write my first blog using my phone.
There was a homeless person (not a "bum") who just got on the train, fucked up on some kind of drug and smelling like piss, yet he was still a source of inspiration. Much to his surprise, someone randomly gave him some change. All the good samaritan said was "Hey man, I've been there before. When you're at the bottom the only way you can go is up."
It was a long conversation that's hard to summarize typing away on my phone, but it reminded me of the importance of connecting with others and truly serving the people. Even right now someone hit me up for food money. After I gave him $3 someone else shook his head and told me I just got played for a sucker. Maybe I did, maybe I didn't...but it takes a lot to swallow your pride and ask for money from strangers. He was in a tougher situation than I was, so why not help out if it's in my capacity to do so?
I don't want to get all preachy and self righteous because no one's perfect, but sometimes we have to remind ourselves that it's not just about us. We need to help out any way we can, even if it's a complete stranger.
There was a homeless person (not a "bum") who just got on the train, fucked up on some kind of drug and smelling like piss, yet he was still a source of inspiration. Much to his surprise, someone randomly gave him some change. All the good samaritan said was "Hey man, I've been there before. When you're at the bottom the only way you can go is up."
It was a long conversation that's hard to summarize typing away on my phone, but it reminded me of the importance of connecting with others and truly serving the people. Even right now someone hit me up for food money. After I gave him $3 someone else shook his head and told me I just got played for a sucker. Maybe I did, maybe I didn't...but it takes a lot to swallow your pride and ask for money from strangers. He was in a tougher situation than I was, so why not help out if it's in my capacity to do so?
I don't want to get all preachy and self righteous because no one's perfect, but sometimes we have to remind ourselves that it's not just about us. We need to help out any way we can, even if it's a complete stranger.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Royalty...
I always stood strong in my belief that music is the universal language, but the last two weeks have taken that conviction to a completely different level. On June 25th, as I was preparing for a DJ set later that night, I received a text message from my brother that literally took the wind out of me -- "What?! Michael Jackson passed away!" After staring blankly at the message for a few seconds, I immediately went online to confirm the news, but at that point it was all speculation. Within that next hour, it was confirmed that Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, had passed away.
I'm not gonna front and act like I was the biggest MJ fan, but his death made me realize to what extent I liked his music. It's been well over 10 years since his songs made it into my regular listening rotation, but every time one would emanate through the speakers, I'd either sing it out loud or attempt one of his often-imitated, but never duplicated, dance moves.
I feel fortunate enough to have lived and experienced a time where he was known for being a music superstar and not the sideshow attraction/media magnet that he had become over the latter part of his life. Although I was slightly jealous of my brothers for having been able to witness the Thriller video when it was released, I find solace in the fact that I could still remember watching his video for Bad when I was five years old (which is one of the few music videos I remember from that part of my life). Even on my first day of kindergarten when I was balling my eyes out after my parents left, the one thing that cheered me up was this kid who came up and started dancing like Mike. That ended up being my first friend in class, all because we had one thing in common: Michael Jackson.
Another fond childhood memory I have is when the Dangerous album came out in '91. There was this big hype around the video for his new single Black or White, which I believe premiered after an episode of In Living Color(?). The opening scene with Macaulay Culkin had me goin' berserk (hey, I was just a kid and Home Alone was really popular at the time), so I knew the video would only get better. Always one to push boundaries and defy preconceived notions, he ended up causing a lot of controversy. After the video was done, I knew that I had to save up my money so I could buy the cassette tape at the local Wherehouse music store.
Fast forward to May '09. In preparation for my first DJ set ever, I knew that I had to close it out with a string of Michael Jackson songs. I wanted to be able to move the crowd and MJ's music did just that. It was such a great feeling to see the smiles on peoples faces as each new song came on, which is what I've been seeing over the last couple of weeks. People all over the world from different social classes and ethnicities are celebrating his life and music. I really can't think of another musician who can bring so many people together like this, and as someone who makes music myself, I can only dream of even coming remotely close to making the timeless, soulful, and heartfelt music that Michael made.
His memorial service today was very moving, but there were two moments in particular that stood out for me. First, Al Sharpton said what eventually led to a standing ovation: "I want his children to know there was nothing strange about your daddy, it was strange what your daddy had to deal with," which is the same sentiment shared by many. The second, and most emotional moment, occurred when his daughter courageously spoke to the crowd and broke down in tears: "Ever since I was born, daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine, and I just wanted to say I love him so much." I'm not ashamed to admit that it brought tears to my eyes, which really put it into perspective for me. All of us are mourning the loss of a musician who was there throughout different times of our lives, but we often forget that he was a father -- a father who will no longer be there for his children.
I don't want to go on about his lost childhood or the so called "tragic" life he lived because the media that's praising him today will be back at it again, doing their best to tarnish his legacy tomorrow and the weeks to come. I'll leave the ugliness to the vultures and instead keep this as a personal tribute to Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, a member of true music royalty. I hope he has the peace he rightfully deserves, and although he might be gone, I can never say goodbye because he'll live on through his music.
Michael Jackson: thank you for everything you've done.
I'm not gonna front and act like I was the biggest MJ fan, but his death made me realize to what extent I liked his music. It's been well over 10 years since his songs made it into my regular listening rotation, but every time one would emanate through the speakers, I'd either sing it out loud or attempt one of his often-imitated, but never duplicated, dance moves.
I feel fortunate enough to have lived and experienced a time where he was known for being a music superstar and not the sideshow attraction/media magnet that he had become over the latter part of his life. Although I was slightly jealous of my brothers for having been able to witness the Thriller video when it was released, I find solace in the fact that I could still remember watching his video for Bad when I was five years old (which is one of the few music videos I remember from that part of my life). Even on my first day of kindergarten when I was balling my eyes out after my parents left, the one thing that cheered me up was this kid who came up and started dancing like Mike. That ended up being my first friend in class, all because we had one thing in common: Michael Jackson.
Another fond childhood memory I have is when the Dangerous album came out in '91. There was this big hype around the video for his new single Black or White, which I believe premiered after an episode of In Living Color(?). The opening scene with Macaulay Culkin had me goin' berserk (hey, I was just a kid and Home Alone was really popular at the time), so I knew the video would only get better. Always one to push boundaries and defy preconceived notions, he ended up causing a lot of controversy. After the video was done, I knew that I had to save up my money so I could buy the cassette tape at the local Wherehouse music store.
Fast forward to May '09. In preparation for my first DJ set ever, I knew that I had to close it out with a string of Michael Jackson songs. I wanted to be able to move the crowd and MJ's music did just that. It was such a great feeling to see the smiles on peoples faces as each new song came on, which is what I've been seeing over the last couple of weeks. People all over the world from different social classes and ethnicities are celebrating his life and music. I really can't think of another musician who can bring so many people together like this, and as someone who makes music myself, I can only dream of even coming remotely close to making the timeless, soulful, and heartfelt music that Michael made.
His memorial service today was very moving, but there were two moments in particular that stood out for me. First, Al Sharpton said what eventually led to a standing ovation: "I want his children to know there was nothing strange about your daddy, it was strange what your daddy had to deal with," which is the same sentiment shared by many. The second, and most emotional moment, occurred when his daughter courageously spoke to the crowd and broke down in tears: "Ever since I was born, daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine, and I just wanted to say I love him so much." I'm not ashamed to admit that it brought tears to my eyes, which really put it into perspective for me. All of us are mourning the loss of a musician who was there throughout different times of our lives, but we often forget that he was a father -- a father who will no longer be there for his children.
I don't want to go on about his lost childhood or the so called "tragic" life he lived because the media that's praising him today will be back at it again, doing their best to tarnish his legacy tomorrow and the weeks to come. I'll leave the ugliness to the vultures and instead keep this as a personal tribute to Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, a member of true music royalty. I hope he has the peace he rightfully deserves, and although he might be gone, I can never say goodbye because he'll live on through his music.
Michael Jackson: thank you for everything you've done.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Economic relief...
We all know that times are tough right now. People are cutting back on a lot of things, just trying to stretch that dollar further than they've ever done before. Have no fear my friends -- corporate bailouts and stimulus packages aren't the only things providing economic relief. We can now thank Diner's Club International for their kindness and generosity.
This is some absolute bullshit right here! What. The. Fuuuck?!?!
This is some absolute bullshit right here! What. The. Fuuuck?!?!
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Fifteen...
To commemorate the 15th NBA Championship for the L.A. Lakers, I decided to break you off with a little song. I know there's gonna be haters out there saying that if the Celtics were healthy they would've kicked the Lakers' ass, but injuries are a part of the game, so get over it! And I also don't want to hear any crap like "It would've been a better series if Lebron's team played the Lakers." The Magic whooped that ass, so I gotta give major props to Orlando. And one more thing, stop comparing Kobe to Lebron!! The dude is a great player, but I'm not even thinking about calling him "King James" until he wins some titles. In all fairness, I won't even compare Kobe to Jordan until he gets just as many titles under his belt.
All we can do now is bask in the glory of another title coming back home to the great city of Los Angeles (do I smell a World Series title for the Dodgers?).
Bootleg it, burn it, forward the link, do whatever you want...as long as it helps spread the word!! Share the love to all the other Lakers fans and haters...
(CLICK ON CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHY TO DOWNLOAD)
All we can do now is bask in the glory of another title coming back home to the great city of Los Angeles (do I smell a World Series title for the Dodgers?).
Bootleg it, burn it, forward the link, do whatever you want...as long as it helps spread the word!! Share the love to all the other Lakers fans and haters...
(CLICK ON CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHY TO DOWNLOAD)