STiLLTOWN

F3 - Words from Infinite [Part 2]

2011-07-05T10:28:00.009-04:00

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On "Can't Hold It Back" (feat. Tuffy Tuff, Chris Lo, & Smash Money):
(Download below)

It was just like… Okay, Tuff’s tryna get his foot back in, so Tuff jump on this joint. Chris was up-n-coming… and hungry… like “gimme that hard ass beat” … and I’m like just take it man, go… so he was like a little brother. Smash… what he did for me I couldn’t even repay him for. He was a perfectionist. He’s been in the studio where people are paying money or every take has to be right. Me… it’s hip-hop, if I miss a word or whatever, I just keep it moving. When he came along he cleaned everything up.

The significance of that song… It was an attempt to make an anthem. We call them symphonies, like Marley Marl’s “The Symphony.” There was a formula… we had to have a song for the ladies, a song for the club, a song for the radio, and a symphony.

On the Spice 1 concert at Station Square:

I was mad at my hood after the Spice 1 concert, because his manager heard so much about us... “I’m here to see y’all, I wanna see y’all” … That was actually the most we ever got paid to do a show and it was $1,500. I wanna say it was ’93 - ’94. It was at Station Square at the Ampitheatre. It was packed… Ron Brown and Ray Childress were the promoters and they did a good job, they got everybody there. The problem was… Hill and Hazelwood did not get along.

It was Mel-Man, us, and Kado from Homewood who has since passed away. And what they did was put Kado on, then Mel, then us… major mistake. I would even let Mel go after us… He was bigger than us as far as radio play, but we had the streets… The problem was that Kado went on… and the people from the Hill was up by the stage and they don’t care what you’re saying, they’re trying to intimidate you… So then Mel went on, and Mel did a hell of a show, it’s just that cats were booing cause he’s from the Hill… throwing shit and pushing up to the front so they can do what they do in his face. By maybe the third song all chaos broke loose. All I remember was jumping on stage to protect my equipment… Two SP-1200’s and two Technic 1200’s that nobody’s touching. I was so mad at everybody because cats from Hazelwood and Homewood almost couldn't wait to get in the middle of some shit... They didn't know it, but that may have been a major break for us had we been able to go on that night. I'm sure of it, pretty much.

They had a big ass picnic the next day, Spice One’s the guest of honor, Homewood Park is packed… I didn’t even go. No disrespect but like… we had the best show planned… I can’t even describe it, Rockin’ Rosh was gonna be beat juggling... We were gonna kill it, and we never got the chance.

But what came out of it was that Lil Dub, from up C-City.. I guess Spice must’ve heard him and he recorded a song with him. He put him in a national video, and Spice even rocked the ‘Homewood State’ hoodie in the video. The song was hot, too.

On battling Biz Markie and opening for Notorious B.I.G.:

I was a big Juice Crew fan… Gangstarr was probably my favorite group. Rakim is probably who got me motivated though.

I got a story though… I got into a battle with Biz. It was after a show at the Syrian Mosque, in the lobby of the Holiday Inn. I was feeling the pressure because Big Daddy Kane was watching. But I’m going in spitting freestyle, and Biz is up and he starts spitting writtens! So I’m like okay, let me spit something… And I spit this storytelling song called “Ruff Day.” I stumbled and couldn’t remember my fucking words, I guess I got a little nervous and shook. They asked if I had a tape but we didn’t have any. So, we flew home and did the tape [laughs]… But it was just funny that I was going back-n-forth for maybe an hour with Biz. And it was funny, because some months later on Biz's I Need a Haircut album I remember a lot of the stuff that he was spitting from the battle.

...

We opened for B.I.G. around the time Ready to Die came out. Hill cats were feeling him, they knew every word to everything he performed. I didn’t know that this dude was gonna be who he ended up being.

And to be honest with you, I’m gonna tell you a little story. My man was the weed dude. So he goes up to serve Big, and Big says “I gotchu, I gotchu” … but Big never paid him, so he got him for like 15 bags. And we laugh about that to this day, like “Big got out on you.”

F3 - The Stretch Tape (1993)
01. Intro
02. Stretch

03. The Lady Hustla (feat. Lady Hustla)
04. Ruff Day
05. I Knew I Was the Man
06. Trapped In Homewood (perf. by Kado)

07. Can't Hold It Back (feat. Tuffy Tuff, Chris Lo, & Smash Money)
08. Outro

DOWNLOAD Zip

Next up, Infinite speaks on the formation and idea behind Ruff Chemistry Records. And later, Infinite shares his experience working in Cali with Mel-Man, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and more.

-Rory

F3 - Words from Infinite [Part 1]

2011-06-29T01:00:00.016-04:00

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[Picture: Infinite, Rockin' Rosh]

Words from Infinite:

I started DJing when I was about 12, me and two other kids. One named Rasheed, that’s Rockin’ Rosh, who was making beats and stuff, and then another dude Ed, we called him Icee Ed. We used to do old cabarets at the Colisseum and the American Legion down in East Liberty, and that was our hook, we were so young and playing adult music and we were professional, did weddings and everything.

Since I was 12 I’ve been immersed in music. We got our beat machines from Tuffy Tuf, everything Tuffy had… we bought it when he got something new. He had a Dr. Rhythm, when he bought the Alesis we grabbed his Dr. Rhythm. When he moved on to a SP-1200, we grabbed his Alesis. And by the time I was able to afford the SP-1200 they had stopped making them, so I paid an ass-load of money to have one built. They sold for like $2500, I think I had to pay $4500 to get one built, but I had it at that time cause we were out in the streets.

Rockin’ [Rosh] got a full engineering ride to Penn State, big campus and everything. We took his DJing equipment up there and I made the mistake of giving him the SP and he flunked out. And from there it was music all the time.

Around that time was when we did our first white label tapes. The thing that held us back, well, me primarily, was that I always had one foot in the streets. And I believe that if you’re juggling you’re never gonna be the best at one thing, nah'mean? You’re only gonna be so good at this and so good at that. So, I never made the decision like, I’m gonna do this music whole-heartedly. … Sometimes they couldn’t get me to the studio [even] if they paid me. Other times when I was working a job, and wasn’t in the streets, the job interfered.

I can remember the first tape I sold… It was to a dude that… You know, a customer… I’m standing on the block with this gray bag of tapes. His name was Tom, he just passed away, Rest In Peace. He pulls up, I’m like, Tom I got this music, and these are full songs… the “It’s Ya Birthday” tape. He said, “man, this better not be no bullshit… here, man… ,” he was like… reluctant to pay for it. So it’s the dead winter like, I think it was December of ’92, and after about ten minutes he spins back around the block like “Wooo!!,” and then peeled off. And that’s when I said, yeah, we might have something.

I feel like we did a lot as far as the city. The entrepreneur thing… most people were chasing deals. We were one of the first, well… Tuffy kinda did it first… to come out the trunk with it. But, I believe we were the first to like… get the whole city behind us. Because, our first white label came out in ’92, at the exact same time that gang bangin’ hit the city, so it was real territorial. It was hard for cats from Homewood to be on the Hill, or in Garfield. I don’t know how we did it but we crossed all those lines. You could go anywhere in the city and hear people bangin’ “It’s Ya Birthday.”

I think part of it was that they didn’t know who we were, cause we didn’t put pictures on the tapes. To this day, even with Multiple Shots, we didn’t have our pictures on there, and that was me, because of the street shit... like, why would I be talking about this shit and put my picture out... nah... just never went out, and… I think I was scared of fame a little bit, and looking back, I should’ve been more outgoing and more of a self-promoter. I’d have rather our company made money, or we made money just showing up and do the shows, rather than being all in the [public’s eye]… that wasn’t me.

F3 - The Fanatics Tape '92
01. Fanatics of Unique
02. It's Ya Birthday
03. We Only Wanted 8

04. Riff Raff

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For those that have problems with Rar files, here is a Zip file:
DOWNLOAD Zip

My personal experience... Infinite hooked me up with severals discs worth of his music. Overwhelming to say the least. But with this first tape... I was blown away.

I was playing the role of transportation for Elzhi, of Slum Village fame, when he was in Pittsburgh for the Rhyme Cal competition in December '10. I figured, hell, might as well put him on to some Pittsburgh classics (rightfully assuming that he had an appreciation for the '90s hip-hop sound). I put on "We Only Wanted 8" and saw his manager's head bobbing uncontrollably. He was bugging out about how the beat drops at the end of every 2nd bar. Elzhi was feeling it too. I just smirked, and proceeded to nod my head.

This is part one of an on-going interview with Infinite, of F3/Ruff Chemistry. More words and music coming soon, including the history of the Ruff Chemistry label and Infinite's experience working with Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Mel-Man, and more.

-Rory

DJ Double KK & Hardcore Crew (Mel-Man)

2011-05-15T01:25:00.003-04:00

Live at Mirage 4/24/88:

Live in Aliquippia 8/6/88:

Live in Iowa 2/23/90:

Live at the Syria Mosque 2/1/90:

DMC DJ Battle, 1993 - Pittsburgh's first DJ to enter the world wide battle!:

LOS & CLG - Chronicles of Robin Leach (2010)

2011-04-26T21:27:00.006-04:00

LOS & CLG, now recognized as Folkland, released Chronicles of Robin Leach in 2010. They have since signed with Play On Records, which has distribution through Def Jam. The duo combine their unique rhyming styles to form a group that is on its way to becoming a powerful force in music and hip-hop. LOS has a twang to his rhyme delivery and added an impressive singing dimension to his vocal repetoire. CLG, aka Lemar French, is a versatile MC, and on this album showcases his ability ride any beat well. He also is responsible for much of the production on the album.

My favorite joints: "Calling," "Highest Mountain," "Favorite Girl," "So Far Away," "Up So High"

DOWNLOAD the Album

You can check out the videos from the release below.

For further information visit http://reverbnation.com/folkland

"Favorite Girl"

"So Far Away"

Ohio Takeover Tour: Pittsburgh Edition

2011-04-16T15:34:00.001-04:00

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Tomorrow is the much anticipated Ohio/Pittsburgh takeover show/in store. It's going to be a great show, so don't miss out on this opportunity to see some real dope hip-hop. The event is FREE. On the bill we have J. Rawls (from the legendary Lone Catalysts), Ill Poetic, Illogic, L.e for the Uncool, as well as Pittsburgh's own Varsity Squad and B-FreeDaMisfit. Also, DJing and hosting the show will be DJ Big Phill.

OHIO Takeover Tour: Pittsburgh Edition
APRIL 17th 3-5 pm
720 Music, Clothing, & Cafe
4405 Butler street
Pittsburgh, PA

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Shade Cobain - Cobainish Theory (2011)

2011-04-16T15:26:00.002-04:00

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New release from Pittsburgh's "Producer of the Year," Shade Cobain!! An great addition to Shade's beat tape series, Shade has outdone himself once again.

Cobainish Theory would be classified as head-nod music. Short but sweet, I can assure that this album will have your head nodding for a solid 30 minutes. You can download the album for only $7.

TFW Presents: Cobainish Theory by Shade Cobain

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Gene Stovall - 2 + 2 = 5 (2011)

2011-04-16T15:13:00.002-04:00

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One of the most prominent artists on Pittsburgh's music scene over the past decade is Gene Stovall. Rapper, singer, producer, beatbox extraoridinaire, drummer, guitarist... I really could keep going. The frontman for tens of bands which have featured some of the local scenes best musicians.

Earlier this year Gene released his debut album, 2 + 2 = 5. The album is produced in-full by Gene, and features an various arrangements of Gene showcasing his vocal abilities.

You can listen to the album on Gene's bandcamp page. Hard to pick favorite tracks, but I'll go with these: "2 + 2 = 5," "Walking On Ice," "Alpha Jive Arithmetic," "Electro Pop Memoir," "Cassette Tape Teens," "Example," "Listen," "Permutations"

2+2=5 [Gene Stovall vs Geno Jive] by Gene Stovall

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EnSilence - Strange Fruit (2011)

2011-04-16T15:05:00.004-04:00

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Not many artists are as consistent with releasing music as this diamond in the ruff MC, EnSilence. Did I mention that everything she puts out is of top notch quality? Yeah, she's got skills and heart that are heard in every syllable of her music.

EnSilence recently dropped this new EP, Strange Fruit. It's a free download. My favorite joints are "Promise," "Malcolm Little," and "Strange Fruit." Take a listen!!

Strange Fruit EP by ensilence

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Connect - Arrival Tactics (2011)

2011-04-16T14:58:00.002-04:00

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The debut EP release from Fortified PhonetX member Connect, Arrival Tactics. It's a free download via Connect's bandcamp page. My favorite joints are "9 to Live" and "Get It." Check it out!

Arrival Tactics by Connect
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Shad Ali - The Appetizers EP (2011)

2011-03-21T22:23:00.004-04:00

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"Sleepers"

"Einstein" (feat. Ghosty & Jon Quest)

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DOWNLOAD

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Follow Shad Ali

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GEO - Here I Come (1994)

2011-03-06T13:45:00.011-05:00

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Originally from Arlington, hip-hop artist GEO started his music career while living in Larimer. Raised in various cities throughout Pittsburgh, including Arlington, St. Clair, and Beltzhoover, GEO earned respect as a battle MC and by performing in talent shows at the Colisseum in Homewood. In 1994, Geo presented his first single, "Here I Come." The release also included the ruff street track, "My Krew."

A few years following the release of the "Here I Come" single, GEO linked with local producer Suga Free, formerly of the Misfits in da Attic, to complete the album Introduction to the Storm, as GEO was at this time referred to as the Almighty Geostorm. GEO credits Suga Free with teaching him about the structure and processes involved with making quality music.

"Cali G-Funk is a Pittsburgh sound"

In the late '90s, GEO moved to California. It was GEO's writing skills that made way for his move, as he studied and worked with the artists of SoulLife Records. GEO describes SoulLife Records as a breeding facility, where aspiring artists learn how to produce and how the industry works. Through his involvement in SoulLife Records, GEO collaborated with artists such as Mike City, Sunshine Anderson, and Nocturnal.

During his time in Cali, GEO's focus began to change from being a write to being a producer. Pittsburgh legend Mel-Man was already in the Cali area, working with Dr. Dre, and GEO was able to study both producers, among others, and he quickly developed an appreciation for the craft. GEO explains that constantly being surrounded by such talented producers inspired him to produce, not rap.

GEO is currently working as a music producer in California. He is working closely with rising hip-hop MC Rick Official.

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GEO - "Here I Come" b/w "My Krew"

DOWNLOAD

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And here's a new joint from GEO - "The Almighty"

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E. Nyce & Kool Krush - Highly Untouchable (1991)

2011-02-26T22:11:00.008-05:00

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Highly Untouchable was released in 1991 on Out Cold Records. E. Nyce & Kool Krush teamed up with producer, and DJ, Kelly Nelson to complete two dope cuts, "Just A Lil Something" and "Street Poetry." As you can see in the photo, my copy is on cassette tape, but I'm aware that this had been released on vinyl as well.

According to some additional research, I can confirm that the MC's are from Pittsburgh. However, I'm unable to pinpoint a specific area of the city.

To my knowledge, this is the group's first and only official release. Both joints are nice. "Just A Lil Something" includes some impressive rhyme flows, while "Street Poetry" is guided by a KRS-One vocal sample, saying "Poetry is the language of imagination."

Check it out!!

DOWNLOAD

"Just A Little Something"

"Street Poetry"

Producer Kelly Nelson has also been credited with producing the one and only additional Out Cold Records release. Def B's The Birth of Def was first released on Out Cold in 1991, and appears to have been re-issued a year later on another short-lived label, Echo Rapp. Similar to the E. Nyce & Kool Krush tape, the Def B record includes two tracks, "You Fell Off" and "Played Cheap." Unfortunately, I've yet to obtain this release. If you have the Def B record, you can share by dropping a link in the comments or by e-mailing the tracks to stilltownmgmt@gmail.com

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Beedie - Ruff Draft: J. Dilla Changed My Life! (2011)

2011-02-26T22:09:00.004-05:00

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This project is in honor of Beedie's favorite producer, J. Dilla. On this new release, Beedie takes on the pressure and challenge of combining his MCing skills with Dilla's Ruff Draft EP. Beedie imprints his own style and story on the tracks, without straying from the original concepts first formed by Dilla years ago.

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Ensilence - I Love the 90's Mixtape Vol. II

2011-01-31T23:51:00.004-05:00

Here's a new tape I did paying homage to some of the 90's classics that I grew up on. Not only that but recognizing that most of these artist have fathered my style. ~ Ensilence

01-Elevators
02-Warning
03-Shut Em Down
04-Ready Or Not
05-It Ain't Hard To Tell
06-Wisdom Body
07-Luchini
08-Electric Relaxation
09-Verbal Gemz
10-Know The Ledge
11-Street Struck
12-Murder Was The Case

DOWNLOAD

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NEW SINGLE: Ensilence - "No One Else" (Prod. by BusCrates 16-Bit Ensemble)
Ensilence - No One Else by BusCrates 16-Bit Ensemble

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BLACKSUN - "Here We Go Again"

2011-01-15T22:03:00.001-05:00

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Pittsburgh Steelers Super Bowl Anthem 2011

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Follow BLACKSUN on Twitter

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Grind Time presents Steeltown Smackdown 2

2011-01-15T14:35:00.009-05:00

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On January 22, Grind Time Now visits the Shadow Lounge in Pittsburgh for Steeltown Smackdown 2. The premier battle competition features 24 MC's and will be hosted by the city's own Real Deal. One of the competition's newcomers, Boka, has generated a buzz in the battle circuit for his creativity and clever wordplay. I had a chance to talk with the Pittsburgh native about his experience since joining the Grind Time movement.

Rory D. Webb: Describe your training process and approach going into a GrindTime battle.

Boka: Well, once I find out who my opponent is I drink 3 eggs and a shot of vodka and start writing. (Laughs) Seriously, it might take me a week to write for my opponent, depending on who it is and the length of battle. I might do a little research on him before I actually write. Once that's done I try to recite my bars as much as possible. By battle night my bars should be rolling off my tongue like A,B,C,D,E,F...G.

R. D. Webb: After only a few Grind Time battles, you’ve become recognized as one of the competitions most creative participants. Can you talk about the importance of creativity in battling?

Boka: Creativity is what it's all about. I say about 90 percent of the battle MC's that I've seen are xeroxed (copy cats). The other 10 percent are very, very creative. Hollywood should hire some of these MC's for writing gigs.

A lot of MC's study other battles MC's and build their whole style off of that MC. That shit is wack! Being creative and original is what gives you your signature mark in this game.

R. D. Webb: When one MC clearly defeats or humiliates competition in a battle, commonly used phrases include “chewing” or “biting his (or her) head off.” After annihilating a competitor in a battle, how do you feel?

Boka: To be truthful with you I expect to annihilate my opponent. (Laughs) I think I'm more shocked if I didn't do this. When the battle is done I might get a rush for a moment, but it does nothing to my ego. Now, I do enjoy watching the videos and seeing the response from the crowd and the viewers of the video. The crowd/fans appreciating my bars is what gives me a good feeling.

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Boka vs. Legacy

Boka vs. Nfact

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Follow Boka on Twitter

Follow Grind Time on Twitter

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BLACKSUN - All Madden '11 (2011)

2011-01-06T11:53:00.004-05:00

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!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Follow BLACKSUN on Twitter

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Mixtape review at FreshAirFlavor

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STiLLTOWN - Vol. 4 (2011)

2011-01-02T21:55:00.007-05:00

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STiLLTOWN Vol. 4 features new music from the Steel City's most talented hip-hop artists. Intertwining tunes from both the vets and the rookies, the compilation is sure to satisfy hip-hop fans of all eras.

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Cover art by @AcklinDesign

01-Prophecy - The Intro (Prod. by Armstead Brown)
02-Living Proofe - G-Rated '70s Freestyle (Prod. by Shade Cobain)
03-Thelonious Stretch - Insane (Prod. by Shade Cobain)
04-Black Sun - Throw Da Water On Em!
05-Idasa Tariq - Don't Hold It Back (Prod. by Idasa Tariq)
06-Kid A - The Real Me (Prod. by Shade Cobain)
07-Shad Ali - Sleepers

08-B.Shels - Parallel Visions (Prod. by B.Shels)
09-ChaRon Don feat. Davu & SMI - Ginseng (Prod. by DJ Huggy)
10-Huey Neutron - Untill (Prod. by Vex)
11-B-FreeDaMisfit - The Father Side (Prod. by B-FreeDaMisfit)
12-Davu - The Other Side (Prod. by Noel 730N)

13-Shamir Shine - Hol' Up (Prod. by Big Phill)
14-Gene Stovall feat. Ianigma - Lonely People
15-W. Ellington Felton - Cupid's Murder In 3D
16-Big Phill feat. Illpoetic - Fight Thru It (Prod. by Big Phill)
17-Black Sun - The Rulebook (Prod. by Vex)
18-Reverrb - Audible Serenity
19-Will Profit - High Tonite (Prod. by James Moore)
20-Shamir Shine - Good2Go (Prod. by Shamir Shine)

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DOWNLOAD

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Albums coming soon:
Big Phill - Billy Dee Millions
Black Sun - All Madden '11
ChaRon Don & DJ Huggy - TBA
Gene Stovall - 2 + 2 = 5
Idasa Tariq - Smiling Faces 2
Kid A - Blunt Guts & Glory
Shad Ali - TBA

Out now:
B-FreeDaMisfit - Coffee Break
Living Proofe - Grown Man Travelin
Shade Cobain - Anti-Love Theory
Shade Cobain - Roy Porter's Sound System

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B-FreeDaMisfit - Coffee Break (2010)

2010-12-11T14:41:00.008-05:00

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Satirical lyrics and abstract production guide this debut album from B-FreeDaMisfit. Coffee Break is a refreshing alternative to the “wackness” that is so often heard and imitated in music today. An incomparable cadence and effortless flow are illuminated over production inspired by a wide range of genres, including hip-hop, soul, funk, and electronic.

Coffee Break was written, produced, mixed, and mastered by B-FreeDaMisfit.

DOWNLOAD

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Follow B-FreeDaMisfit on Twitter

Follow B-FreeDaMisfit on Facebook

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Antuks Cypher feat. MH the Verb, Reverrb, Gene Stovall

2010-12-11T14:39:00.001-05:00

Here's a new Antuks Cypher featuring MC's MH the Verb, Reverrb, and Gene Stovall rocking over the Deltron "Mastermind" instro.

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Shade Cobain - Roy Porter's Sound System (2010)

2010-12-06T21:37:00.004-05:00

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Progressive hip-hop producer Shade Cobain returns with a new beat EP, sampling tunes from Roy Porter Sound Machine. Need I say more?

Iman Williams - Stupid Human Tricks (2010)

2010-12-06T21:35:00.005-05:00

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Check out this incredibly dope new album from singer Iman Williams, produced entirely by Pittsburgh's own BusCrates 16-Bit Ensemble.

BusCrates 16-Bit Ensemble - Instrumental Fundamentals (2010)

2010-12-01T15:40:00.004-05:00

Antuks Movement feat. A-Jaxx, Kid A, & Image

2010-11-30T11:22:00.001-05:00

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Antuks Movement for more cipher videos

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Idasa Tariq - Smiling Faces EP (2009)

2010-11-29T18:51:00.003-05:00

DOWNLOAD

"Smiling Faces"

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Follow Idasa Tariq on Twitter

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Ayatollah Jaxx

2010-11-27T13:55:00.013-05:00

DOWNLOAD

"The 724"

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"Middle East" (feat. ChaRon Don)

DOWNLOAD

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Follow on Twitter and YouTube

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Reverrb

2010-11-21T21:27:00.004-05:00

Yo, plenty of dope posts coming in the near future.

For now, it'd be appreciated if you could take the time to follow my homie Reverrb on Facebook and Twitter.

Billy Pilgrim & Reverrb - Regarldess

Nick Pratt - The New Cool (Coming Soon)

2010-11-10T15:31:00.005-05:00

Earlier this year the Fear of Falling EP was presented, released, and served as an introduction to the southern lyricist known as Nick Pratt.

His overt lyricism and candor has helped him build a substantial buzz, placements on heavily promoted shows, and online press. In efforts to build off of his success, Nick Pratt returns with a solid second EP, “The New Cool”. Nick focused on showing his growth as an individual and artist while maintaining his illustrious bravado.

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In this short feature by ShortHand Films, “Re-Introducing Nick Pratt,” Pratt’s talent is re-examined. The four-minute film speaks to Pratt about The New Cool, the feel of his second EP and what it was like working with collaborators. As an added extra, Pratt finished with a quick acapella that is sure to impress.

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Nick Pratt Website: http://nickprattmusic.com

Nick Pratt Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/nickprattmusic

Nick Pratt Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nickprattmusic

Management Contact: blackoutpmg@gmail.com

Thelonious Stretch - "Pain" b/w "Wilin' Out" (2010)

2010-11-09T02:37:00.005-05:00

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The single, "Pain," will be featured on the new Pittsburgh hip-hop compilation, Stilltown, Vol. 4. Alongside Thelonious Stretch and Shade Cobain, this compilation will feature music from Black Sun, ChaRon Don & DJ Huggy, Jasiri X, Living Proofe, and Varsity Squad, among others. The album is tentatively scheduled to be released this month.

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DOWNLOAD

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Nov. 11 - Thursday Night Showcase!

2010-11-05T20:33:00.006-04:00

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The Thursday Night Showcase is a monthly event, the 2nd Thursday of the month, hosted by Junior Maf with DJ Nuke Knocka on the wheels of steel. Together, Junior and Nuke also host a radio show, more info here.

Performers for the night include Judas & Reverrb the Pentium Christ, 41Deuce, Therm & Soul of Shindiggaz, and J. Basement.

Show Info:
Shadow Lounge
5972 Baum Blvd.

Doors open at 9pm
Tickets are $3 in advance, $5 at the door
(Contact via e-mail for advance tickets: stilltownmgmt@gmail.com)

Billy Pilgrim & Reverrb - "Regardless"
From Stilltown Compilation, Vol. 1

SikkWitIT - The Midtown Blues Project (2010)

2010-11-03T21:16:00.003-04:00

Ghosty - UPS Is Hiring (2010)

2010-10-27T20:51:00.006-04:00

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Lone Catalysts - Back To School (2010)

2010-10-27T20:00:00.007-04:00

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The new album, Back To School, from the world famous Lone Catalysts is out now!

You can preview and purchase the album on iTunes.

Check out the video for the first single, "World Famous"

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And for sports fans around the globe, stay up with the hottest topics by checking out Sands On Sports, a weekly series created by J. Sands of the Lone Cats.

Here is the newest episode, featuring Pharoahe Monch:

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Follow J. Sands and Lone Catalysts on Twitter @LoneCatalysts

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F3 / Smash Money (Throwback Videos)

2010-10-26T15:27:00.006-04:00

Shoutout to SRP15208 for shooting and uploading these videos to YouTube

F3 - WholeBaggaTapes (1992)

Smash Money - Pick It Up (1992-93)

Smash Money - Da Third Song (1993)

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Music from Infinite & F3 / Ruff Chemistry coming soon!

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Classic 1824 / RXC

2010-10-20T02:24:00.018-04:00

In the '90s, it's no secret that there was a greater prominence of the cliques, posses, crews, and clans. It was an era in which creative mind-blowing lyrics were the sole option for an artist to earn the props and respect of their peers. That said, what's better than having several lyricists spitting darts in 8 or 16 bar verses, back-to-back-to-back-to... you get the point.

At the time, the hip-hop scene in Pittsburgh wasn't much different in this regard. You had several groups putting their stamp on the local scene. The early '90s included Mel Man's Hardcore Crew, Funky to da Third, PensoulzInAKup, transitioning into the mid '90s which gave way to the Massive - a crew that later split in two with Strict Flow and RXC. These are only a few of the crews that were making waves in the city, as well as nationally, at the time.

This post is dedicated to the artistic musical craftings of RXC, an acronym for Reality Unknown Complex. The crew has also been recognized as Classic 1824, 1824 being a numerical symbolism of the letters R-X. Original members of the hip-hop group include C.I., Shamir Shine, Knowledge Build, Justice, Martial Ife, and Amaretto, while others that have been or continue to be a part are Iasia, Gemstarr, Solar Magnetic, Sha-King (fka Reason), Nabri Savior, Living Proofe, Angel Eye, and Gneticz. For a greater look into the crew and the Pittsburgh hip-hop scene at this time, refer to Part One of the video interview with C.I. located at the end of this post.

The following are the first three releases to come from the Classic 1824 / RXC camp. Future posts will include solo releases from Reason/Sha-King, Nabri Savior, Gneticz, and a variety of obscure radio appearances and freestyle sessions.

Feedback is appreciated!

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Afro-Cinema - Afro-Cinema, Vol. 1 (1997)
Afro-Cinema is C.I. & Shamir Shine

01-Rap Zodiak
(Prod. by Sekou Coleman, Co-Prod. by Shamir Shine)

02-3 1/2 Minutes of Fame
(Prod. by G-Knowt, Co-Prod. by Sekou Coleman)
03-Panik
(Prod. by Shamir Shine, Co-Prod. by Sekou Coleman)
04-Livicated
(Prod. by Shamir Shine, Co-Prod. by Outtareach)

DOWNLOAD

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Classic 1824 presents RXC - Mesomatrix EP (1999)

01-Tourguide
02-Gold Leaf
(Perf. by Golden Seal [Gemstarr & Solar Magnetic])

03-Isolation
(Perf. by Rhesun aka Sha-King)
04-Concentrate
(Perf. by Foreign Nationals [Martial Ife & 120])
05-Afrocinematik
(Perf. by Afro-Cinema [C.I. & Shamir Shine])
06-Organic Panic [Perfection]
(Perf. by Iasia)
07-Exit the Matrix

Album produced by Shamir Shine

DOWNLOAD

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Classic 1824 presents C.I. - Classic Impressions #1 (1999)

01-Meso Walk
(Prod. by Shamir Shine)

02-Unforgettable
(Prod. by Rampage)
03-2000 Block Party
(Live @ Mumia Benefit)
04-Unforgettable (Inst.)
(Prod. by Rampage)

DOWNLOAD

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Again, feedback is appreciated!

Peace & Blessings

-Rory | Stilltown

W. Ellington Felton - Land of Sheep, Ran By Pigs, Ruled By Wolves (2010)

2010-10-15T00:59:00.010-04:00

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W. Ellington Felton is a multi-talented artist who has been sharing his musical gift with peers since the early-mid '90s. In Pittsburgh, he may be better recognized as Dub Ell. While attending Carnegie Mellon University, Dub Ell had several local releases. During his stay, his producer-of-choice was Outtareach. Prior to leaving the city, Dub Ell put together an album titled The Final Day, which featured some of the city's most notable hip-hop artists at the time, including Masai of Strict Flow, C.I. of Afro-Cinema/RXC, Davu of Misfits from the Attic, and O-Ab of the Math Team. These releases from Dub Ell are some of my favorites that I've come across since I began exploring the local scene's history. They're coming soon to the Stilltown blog, so stay tuned! In the meantime, check out his new album, Land of Sheep, Ran By Pigs, Ruled By Wolves.

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<a href="http://wesfelton.bandcamp.com/album/land-of-sheep-ran-by-pigs-ruled-by-wolves">Land of Sheep, Ran by Pigs, Ruled By Wolves by W.Ellington Felton</a>

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Jasiri X Signs Record Deal

2010-10-15T00:58:00.003-04:00

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VANCOUVER, BC (RPRN) 10/14/10 — New Canadian record label Wandering Worx Music announced the signing of Pittsburgh hip hop veteran Jasiri X, and the release of the debut single That Funk off his upcoming 2011 album Ascension.
N
ew Canadian record label Wandering Worx Music announced today the signing of Pittsburgh hip hop veteran Jasiri X, and the release of the debut single That Funk available on Bandcamp this Friday, October 15th. Scheduled for release in early 2011, the album, titled Ascension, is produced by the label’s own Rel!g!on.

Jasiri X is already a household name in the Pittsburgh hip hop community, having won six Pittsburgh Hip Hop awards including Album of the Year for his debut LP, American History X, and Song of the Year for the politically charged single Free The Jena 6. He’s also been featured on BET’s Rap City, and hosts the weekly online hip hop news program This Week with Jasiri X, now in it’s fourth successful season.
Rodney Davidson, co-founder of Wandering Worx Music, hopes pairing Jasiri X with the rising production talent of Rel!g!on, will result in a breakthrough record that catapults the artist’s career to deserved heights.

“Jasiri X has raw talent and his thought provoking lyrics are a refreshing change from the usual boasting about cars and money that permeates some of the popular hip hop out there today,” says Davidson. “Matched with Rel!g!on’s intricate production, this album won’t disappoint.”

Based in Vancouver, BC, Wandering Worx Music launched in October 2010 as the official record label of Wandering Worx Entertainment. The label’s debut release, Rel!g!on’s Revelationz 1, has already garnered critical acclaim, with the record’s first single Lucid, featuring Moka Only and E.D.G.E, in rotation on Much Music. The label is also working closely with renowned Vancouver producer Chin Injeti, who has collaborated with Kanye West, Drake and 50 Cent, in addition to producing two tracks on Eminem’s Recovery.

http://www.wanderingworxent.com

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Shade Cobain - Anti-Love Theory (2010)

2010-10-11T11:13:00.006-04:00

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<a href="http://shadecobain.bandcamp.com/album/them-fighting-words-presents-anti-love-theory">THEM FIGHTING WORDS PRESENTS: Anti-Love Theory by Shade Cobain</a>
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Nikki Jean LIVE in Pittsburgh

2010-10-01T00:35:00.006-04:00

The beautifully talented Nikki Jean concluded her Living Room Tour in a city she once called home. In the mid-late '90s, Nikki's musical coming-of-age took place in Pittsburgh, PA. A graduate of Perry High School, Nikki was an original member of the Pittsburgh super-group, Jive Family. Other well known members of the Jive Family include "The Joker" Gene-Jive Stovall, Chenits (aka Tomorrow aka Chen Lo, also of Hi-Low Productions and Liberation), trombonist Reggie Watkins, Interval Monday keyboardist Howie Alexander, guitarist Justin Portis, hip-hop/soul producer Shade Cobain, and MC/Rhyme Calisthenics co-founder Thelonious Stretch.

Nikki put on an incredible show, performing collaborations with Carole King, Barry Mann & Cynthia Weil, Burt Bacharach, Bobby Braddock, and Jimmy Webb. I urge anyone and everyone who enjoys great musical talent to support her. Take some time to watch the videos and listen to her recordings. And put the pressure on your local promoters to bring Nikki to your city!

Written with Carole King

"Mercy of Love"
Written with Barry Mann & Cynthia Weil

"Pennies In A Jar"
Written with Burt Bacharach

Written with Bobby Braddock

"China"
Written with Jimmy Webb

"Sunshine"
Written with Luigi Creatore

JIVE FAMILY (Gene Stovall & Nikki Jean, vocals; Justin Portis, guitar)

Lone Catalysts Album Release Party

2010-09-28T19:29:00.006-04:00

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ATTN PITTSBURGH
Show support for city Hall of Famers!

Come out this Friday to see the World Famous Lone Catalysts as they celebrate the release of their new album, Back To School!

That's not all, this event is also dedicated to the three-year anniversary of DJ Drastik and Soul II Sole being in business!

Other featured performers include BZE and Jon Quest of the Varsity Squad. On the wheels of steel will be Drastik, Nuke Knocka, and Rob Chilldren.

RSVP

J. Sands of Lone Catalysts - "Please" from The Poet-Tree of Life

Black Sun Interview

2010-09-24T02:04:00.019-04:00

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Part 1: The Early Years
In this segment, Black Sun speaks about early experiences as a hip-hop artist, the forming of the Four Horsemen, his transition from high school to college, and power-outage ciphers.

Part 2: Music Lives Forever
In this segment, Black Sun speaks about the internet and hip-hop becoming a global phenomenon, the "now" generation, and the economics of lyricism in hip-hop.

Part 3: Saying Lines & Scoring Touchdowns
In this segment, Black Sun speaks about hip-hop upgrade, his hometown of New Kensington, the soon to be released All-Madden '11 Mixtape, family, and work ethic.

Black Sun performs live at:
GSMG x Stilltown present IMPACT Music Series
Shadow Lounge, Aug. 27, 2010
"When We Do Our Thing"

"Baby Powder"

"Hannibal Lecture," from the soon to be released All-Madden '11 Mixtape

Freestyle with DJ Melun (of Blowup School)

Black Sun's All-Madden '11 mix album COMING SOON!
Follow Black Sun on Twitter

Last but certainly not least, here's the first single:
"Still Shining"

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The Sole Vibe - One To Grow On (2010)

2010-09-18T14:55:00.008-04:00

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1) AV – Self Centered (Prod. by Keelay & Zaire)
2) Mario Dones – Ring To It (Prod. by Keelay & Zaire)
3) AV & Slo-Mo – Work (Prod. by Keelay & Zaire)
4) Mario Dones ft. Kam Moye – What More Could You Want (Prod. by Keelay & Zaire)
5) The Ave – Bob Knight (Produced by P. Fish)
6) Mario Dones – Pastries (Prod. by Nice Rec)

7) AV - Been Around The World (Prod. by J. Fish)
8) AV – The Quiet (Prod. by Nice Rec)

9) The Sole Vibe Interlude (Prod. by Veterano)
10) The Ave ft. Slo-Mo – Miss Jane (Prod. by Lazy J)
11) Mario Dones – Slow Motion (Prod. Keelay & Zaire)
12) AV – Reflections (Prod. by DJ Whooligan)
13) The Ave – Last Day of Summer (Prod. by J. Fish)
14) Mario Dones - Episode Call Life Revisited (Prod. by P. Fish)
15) AV – You (Prod. by Keelay and Zaire)

DOWNLOAD

Preview and Buy on Bandcamp

Follow The Sole Vibe on Twitter

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Shade Cobain - Anti-Love Theory [Appetizer] (2010)

2010-09-16T12:42:00.003-04:00

ThemFightingWords presents Shade Cobain's Anti-Love Theory

THEM FIGHTING WORDS Presents Anti-Love Theory Appetizer by Shade Cobain

Anti-Love Theory album drops 10.10.10

Stay Tuned!

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Black Sun - Shut Up & Listen! (2003-05)

2010-09-15T21:57:00.009-04:00

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Vol. I
01-Guess Who's Back
02-America (Wake Up
03-Clones
04-Who Shot Ya
05-The MC (Mass Appeal)
06-Nuff Said

07-Do U Smoke (Cross the Border)
08-Non-Stop (Freestyle)
09-Reality
10-I Declare War
11-Big Ass On the Floor
12-Fallin'
13-Two Nickels

DONWLOAD

Vol. II
01-The Jumpoff
02-2004

03-Radioactive
04-Everybody's On Drugs
05-Backpack Anthem
06-Gettin' @ Sunny
07-For the Children
08-Interview 1
09-I'll Be Around
10-Sex, Drugs, & Hip-Hop
11-Disneyland

12-Kill Bill
13-Breathe In
14-That Ain't Right
15-Interview 2 - Keep Doin' It
16-You Don't Know Me Either
17-Walking Thru the Hood
18-Selfishness
19-Doves
20-Sayonara

DOWNLOAD

Full of quotables:

"On some solo shit, never been seen/
like George Clooney on the cover of Ebony Magazine/
Or, Shanaynay in the KKK/
packin' AK's, stickin' up Free and AJ"

"Fuck rhymin' bout diamonds and gems/
Yo, I'd have a pair of 12-inch Timbs than 20-inch rims"

"Sick in the brain, dawg never been in my right mind/
Word to Jesus rob Regis for his lifelines"

And those are all from one track, "2004."

Follow Black Sun on Twitter

All-Madden Mixtape '11 coming soon!
Stay tuned to the Stilltown blog for the world premiere

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GeeMan aka Grand Ear Remixes

2010-09-12T11:17:00.003-04:00

Erykah Badu - Window Seat (Grand Ear Remix)
WINDOW SEAT GRAND EAR RMX by Grand Ear aka GeeMan

The Roots - Don't See Us (Grand Ear Remix)
The ROOTS Don't See Us-Grand Ear Remix by Grand Ear aka GeeMan

Nas - Mastermind (Grand Ear Remix)
Nas Mastermind Grand Ear Remix by Grand Ear aka GeeMan

You can hear more from the Grand Ear on Bandcamp

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Jasiri X Interview / Concrete Elete - Basic Instructions (1998)

2010-09-06T13:35:00.005-04:00

Concrete Elete consisted of Furious Styles, God Gifted, OMG, Chilly Ism, and Evil Man, with El aka Asiatic the Natural on production, a six man wrecking crew that did damage on the Pittsburgh and Philly hip-hop scene during the mid-90’s. Members brought their own artistic vision to the knocking instrumentals. In 1998, that vision was expressed through the crew's debut album, Basic Instructions: Listen... and Repeat.

Basic Instructions was 19 tracks deep, showcasing each MC's unique approach. El's versatile production served as a comfortable home to the rebellious lyrics of Furious Styles, the street savvy rhymes of God Gifted, and the clever wordplay of OMG.

Here to build on the crew’s history is Furious Styles aka Jasiri X.

RW: Peace Jasiri. Describe the foundation upon which Concrete Elete was assembled. How’d you meet and join forces?

JX: We met because I used to buy weed from Chub aka Evil Man. One day he was out of town so he hooked me up with Chill and OMG. We started talking about hip-hop, and that same day we were in me and Asiatic's studio, and the rest is history.

RW: You collectively finished the Basic Instructions album in 1998. How was it released?

JX: We actually put the album out ourselves, but we didn't have all the technological means like we do now, so not a lot of people heard it, but it gave us a buzz in Pittsburgh. Everybody called it the Red CD.

RW: Following the release of Basic Instructions, what ultimately led to the disbanding of the crew?

JX: We actually recorded an entire album after Basic Instructions, but we couldn't agree on the direction. I felt like we should remain underground and other members felt we should make crossover records so we just went our separate ways.

RW: How did the Concrete Elete experience provide groundwork for Jasiri X, the solo MC?

JX: It caused people to know and respect me in the Pittsburgh Hip-Hop scene, so I could still get shows and support as a solo MC. Plus we performed a lot, so it enabled me to learn how to rock a crowd, which is a lost art today.

RW: How do you believe fans can embrace this long lost Concrete Elete album?

JX: To me it still stands up to the test of time, good beats and good lyrics. I'd put us up against a whole lot of groups out today that aren't half as talented. Also want to send a special shout out to two original Concrete Elete members not on the album, The General and the Black Chinaman.

Tracklist:
01. Intro
02. Dat First Shit
03. We Got U
04. Raw Dilly
05. Where U At
06. Interlude
07. Physical Anger
08. Khalifahs
09. I Don't Know
10. Takin Over

11. Fugitive

12. Concrete Veteran
13. Shinin
14. Patent Leather
15. Droppin Styles
16. Johanisburg

17. Survive
18. Concrete
19. Outro

DOWNLOAD

Stay updated with Jasiri X on Twitter

New video - "Real Gangstas"

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Living Proofe - Grown Man Travelin' (2010)

2010-09-02T18:53:00.008-04:00

Brand new mixtape from Living Proofe

DOWNLOAD

Link with LP on Twitter, Facebook, and ReverbNation

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GSMG x Stilltown presents IMPACT: Back to School Edition

2010-08-20T00:24:00.004-04:00

Gene Stovall Music Group and Stilltown presents the HOTTEST Back to School Event!!
**IMPACT Music Series: BACK TO SCHOOL EDITION**

First 25 people through the door get a FREE exclusive limited edition hard copy of the new Stilltown mixtape compilation, Stilltown Vol. 4, featuring more than 20 of the Steel City's best hip-hop acts!

...#HiPHoP Real MC's

HOSTED by: **Kid A + DJ Melun**

FEATURING ------->*VARSITY SQUAD*
Also performing:
*Black Sun*
*The Sole Vibe*
*Ayatollah Jaxx*
*Reverrb*
*Melodiq*
*Blowup School*

Doors Open @ 9pm/ 18+

$5 w/ College ID or RSVP in FACEBOOK event page
$8 at the Door

****SPONSORED**** and Giveaways by: SOUL II SOLE: Sneaker Boutique
(Pittsburgh King & Piffsburgh T-Shirts)
also sponsored by: RepPghHipHop + Rhyme Cal + Classic 1824

+Varsity Squad+
This newly formed supercrew will follow-up their debut performance at the Method Man/Redman show with an epic set at IMPACT: Back to School Edition. Jon Quest, Beedie, and Shade Cobain have already generated a national buzz as solo artists. One of the hypest hip-hop groups out, do youself a favor by getting familiar with this crew now.

^The Sole Vibe^
Mario Dones and AV hold down the mics for the Sole Vibe collective. Their music will have you busting out your neckbrace and waving your hands uncReontrollably. Their new album, One to Grow On, will be released late this month.

~Ayatollah Jaxx~
Aiyo, real rap? This dude can out-rap both your favorite rapper and your favorite rapper's favorite rapper, at the same time. Not only that, he's one hell-of-an-entertainer as well. When Jaxx is one stage, it will be all eyes on he.

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Stilltown x TROY presents 4-1-2 Throwbacks (1992-2004)

2010-08-19T00:40:00.008-04:00

The process of digging up and sharing more than two decades worth of Pittsburgh hip-hop material is fun, but also quite time consuming. In the process of finding these treasures, I'm doing a lot of fact-checking and researching of the story behind each artist and release.

There is plenty of dope Pittsburgh music that will soon invade the blogosphere. With the explosion of Wiz Khalifa on the mainstream music scene, Mac Miller on the brink, Jasiri X carrying conscious hip-hop on his back, Shade Cobain creating the future sound of the genre, and other local acts like Ayatollah Jaxx, Kid A, and Varsity Squad on the come-up, there is no better time than now to introduce the many hip-hop artists that have worn the city's name on their chest in years and decades passed. Here is a compilation of some music that will soon be released in-full on the Philaflava and Stilltown blogs.

01 - Crush Money - Full Tilt (Prod. by DJ Rampage) (1998)
02 - Afro Cinema - 3 1/2 Minutes of Fame (Prod. by Shamir Shine) (1997)

03 - Blowup School presents Versemaster Sef feat. Cool Ass Doug - Famous (Prod. by DJ Melun) (1998)
04 - Pensoulzinakup [Akil Esoon, Emmai Alaquiva, Oyo] - Scat (feat. Da Selecta & B-Tree) (Prod. by Pensoulz) (1993)
05 - Rook & Bishop - Relatin to Transparent (1998)
06 - Mel-Man - The Mel-Funktion (Prod. by Mel-Man) (1991)
07 - Choked Out - The Roots of All Evil (1997)
08 - DJ Demonic - Last Nite (Prod. by DJ Demonic) (1995)
09 - Concrete Elete - Takin Over (Prod. by El the Asiatic) (1997)
10 - 4 Horsemen [Crush Money, Black Sun, I-Shine, Scandal] - Inner City Life (1998)

11 - Strict Flow - Dirt (Prod. by Strict Flow) (1997)

12 - Bravo - Slip (1997)
13 - L.A.B.R.A.T.S. - The Haunting (2002)
14 - Nabri Savior feat. Sha-King - Nabri's Theme (Prod. by DJ Huggy) (2000)
15 - Elevated Mindz [2tymez, Random Sample, Drama J] - Trilogy (2002)
16 - EnSilence - Sick (2004)
17 - Hi-Low Productions - Hi-Speed Chase (Prod. by DJ Lord Khaos) (1997)

18 - Deadly Scribes [Dos Noun, Mic Language, Ambush, Snuff, DJ Yamez] - Identity Crisis (Prod. by Snuff) (2000)
19 - Reverrb feat CT Money [RIP] - How I Feel (2004)
20 - Deezil Money feat. Misty & Shauna Ranks - Soldier of Fortune (Prod. by G. Norris) (1997)

DOWNLOAD

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Sha-King - No Fly List (2010)

2010-08-10T11:18:00.004-04:00

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It's finally here! The long awaited and latest project from Sha, the "No Fly List" Mixtape. Featuring production from Akim Mathematics (NC), London English (UK), TRIBE LLC/ChinChilla Muzik (GA) & Dj Trama (NC)... download it for FREE to your IPOD, play it in the whip, burn it for a friend, whatever. Just turn it up loud & enjoy!

DOWNLOAD

Network with Sha on Facebook and Twitter

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Method Man & Redman live August 17 at Altar Bar

2010-08-08T21:58:00.007-04:00

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Method Man & Redman live in Pittsburgh!
Tuesday, August 17
The Altar Bar in the Strip District
1620 Penn Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15222

I HAVE TICKETS FOR SALE
Only $35 in advance, $40 at the door
Hit me up at stilltownmgmt@gmail.com or 412-956-3361
Save money and support Stilltown by buying tickets early:

Featured Stilltown affiliated opening acts include Gene Stovall, Smilo/SMI, Kid A, DJ Vex, and the premier performance of the new group Varsity Squad (Jon Quest, Beedie, & Shade Cobain)

Also opening for Meth N Red will be Formula 412 & Myztery N Sneek

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Kid A - The Devil's Advocate Vol. 1 & 2 (2005-07)

2010-08-08T14:47:00.012-04:00

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These mixtape compilations were released by Kid A, formerly recognized as EMS, in the later half of the decade. Since his early teens, when he began stepping into ciphers with some of the city's most respected MC's, Kid A has been impressing his peers. The Devil's Advocate mixtapes show the skills and potential of this young artist. Here for the long-haul, with fate in-hand, this MC's experience and hunger are two factors that support Kid A becoming the next Pittsburgh hip-hop artist to flood the global hip-hop market.

The Devil's Advocate Vol. 1 (2005-08)

"The Devil's Advocate"

"It's the... (The Anthem)"

DOWNLOAD

The Devil's Advocate Vol. 2 (2006-07)

"City of Gold"

"It's Me"

"First Off"

DOWNLOAD

Kid A on Facebook, SoundCloud, and Twitter

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Scorchin' Hot Entertainment - Pittsburgh's Finest (2001)

2010-08-06T23:52:00.011-04:00

According to the back cover, producers are Tobias and Playboy Bailey, however, half of the album is over industry beats. The MC's that I can name are Bad News, Chick Kain, Feat, Goldie, Leah, Nicky Bricks, P6, Savage Blair, Slum Nino, Tamika, and Woozy.

DOWNLOAD

CD1
01-Intro
02-Bad News

03-1 Fifth Tea
04-Slum Nino
05-Last Breed (Acapella)
06-Drip For Drop
07-Projezek Stress

08-1700 Hundred St.
09-That Young Hoe
10-I'll Be Your Everything
11-Interlude
12-Watch the Lye
13-No Hook
14-Hill All-Stars
15-C.D.Y.T.
16-Hill-Homewood Connection
17-How Real Is That
18-Like This Shit

CD2
01-Interlude
02-You Ain't Gotta Look For Drama

03-Bitches Wanna Look Ride Now
04-Load Up and Blow 8
05-I'm Hot Who Beg To Differ
06-We Business Men
07-Goldies Back Again
08-We Just Too Much
09-Blackout

10-I Want to Walk Away
11-Plays of the Week
12-Leave It to the Streets and the Dark
13-Go All Out Like It's Your Last Night
14-Hate Me Now
15-I'm a Mursalis
16-Freestyle Off the Top of the Head
17-Street Tales
18-Outro

The crew released a second album, Street Politics, in 2002. If anyone has it and can hook it up, it'd be appreciated.

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Chen Lo - The Ink Well (2009)

2010-08-04T19:18:00.008-04:00

Don't Go

Half Alive

DOWNLOAD

You can link with Chen Lo on Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter

Cop his new album, Chronicles of a Rebel, on iTunes

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The Time Bomb Spot - Live, Vol. 1 (August 1, 1998)

2010-08-01T08:51:00.004-04:00

DOWNLOAD

01 - Hi-Low Productions
02 - Mic Check
03 - Beat Box
04 - Rook & Bishop
05 - Freestyle Session

Visit Time Bomb Shop and follow them on Twitter

Also, shouts to Image for lending me the tape to rip.

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Living Proofe

2010-07-31T07:25:00.018-04:00

The Movement (2007)

DOWNLOAD

01 - Rites of Passage

02 - Legend of a Necessary Black Man
03 - Paper Chaserz (feat. CI & Jiz Lo)
04 - See the Line
05 - Whateva (feat. Ainzawadi)
06 - Back to the Mind
07 - The Movement
08 - I Build (feat. Sincere, Nabri, Sha-King, & CI)
09 - Dutch Masters (feat. Sha-King)
10 - All is Fair
11 - AnyhoodVille
12 - Feel the Love (feat. Ainzawadi)
13 - Gods On Earth
14 - Eternity
15 - Abu Shahid Speaks
16 - The Cipher (feat. Knowledge-Build, Sincere, Angel-Eye, CI, Sha-King, Living Proofe, Zyhier)
17 - Fly (feat. Wordslave)

Silent Separation (2008)

DOWNLOAD

-ILLumiNATION

-Real Recognize Real (feat. Black Sun & ChaRon Don)

Wake Up World (2009)

DOWNLOAD

-Be

-What Would I Do

Stay up with LP on Facebook, MySpace, ReverbNation, and Twitter

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DJ Essence - Terminal Illness (2002)

2010-07-30T20:21:00.008-04:00

Dope freestyle mix album put together by DJ Essence in 2002, released on Sick & Tired Records. This album features mostly Pittsburgh artists, but also some national hip-hop acts including Prevail, Oldominion, and Virtuoso. J. Sands, Strict Flow, and Dos Noun are relatively well known in hip-hop circles, while others such as Black Sun and Ron Noodles have been recognized as some of the illest lyricists locally.

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01 - The Mist of Darkness
02 - Intro
03 - Ron Noodles Freestyle
04 - Ambush & Dos Noun Freestyle
05 - Prevail (of Swollen Members) Freestyle
06 - Bishop (of Oldominion) Freestyle
07 - Black Sun Freestyle
08 - Parts of Speech Freestyle
09 - Ron Noodles Freestyle
10 - Caleesh Freestyle
11 - Soulheir the Manchild Freestyle
12 - J. Sands (of Lone Catalysts) Freestyle
13 - Oldominion Freestyle
14 - Strict Flow Freestyle
15 - Virtuoso Freestyle

Sinisters of Sound/Jazzi Love (YouTube)

2010-07-30T16:42:00.004-04:00

DJ Selecta brought these to my attention.

The Sinisters of Sound - "The Boy is Fierce" (1986)

Jazzi Love - "The Real Queen of Rap" (1987)

Sam Sneed

2010-07-28T21:25:00.006-04:00

Str8 Outta Pittsburgh came Sam Sneed. An intrigal member of Dr. Dre's production team, alongside fellow Pittsburgher Mel-Man. This mix right here is a compilation of songs with Sam involved. Sam had a few solo tracks that are featured in this mix, others were only produced by Sam, and the majority feature him both as an MC and producer. Some of the MC's included on this compilation are Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Kurupt, Nas, and Nature.

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01 - U Better Recognize

02 - Lady Heroin
03 - Blueberry

04 - In Da Zone
05 - The Golden Child
06 - Thug Gonna Do
07 - Put It Down
08 - What Comes Around
09 - U Better Recognize (Extended G-Funk Remix)
10 - Street Dreams

11 - Guilty As Sin
12 - Let the Madness Begin

13 - Street Scholars
14 - Fist of $
15 - Slaves
16 - Hollywood Squares
17 - The Heist
18 - It's So Hot
19 - Drug Related
20 - Outro

IMPACT Music Series (Performance One)

2010-07-21T22:56:00.006-04:00

If you're in Pittsburgh, Stilltown suggests that you get out to the Shadow Lounge this Saturday, July 24 at 9 p.m. for the first show of a soon-to-be classic performance series.

Gene Stovall Music Group has brought together some of the city's best hip-hop artists to rock the house all night long! Jon Quest, Kid A & BusCrates, Jack Wilson, and Divine Seven are sure to move the crowd with new music that has had the city buzzing.

Headlining the show is Gene Stovall's newest band, Fullfillingness. Aside Stovall are some of the Still City's most promising aspiring artists, including singer K. Renee and multi-talented musician Carlos Pena. With Stovall leading the band, the audience is sure to hear an incredibly unique mix of their favorite pop songs, theme songs, and hits from obscurity.

The Gene Stovall Music Group welcomes you to the first volume of the IMPACT Music Series this Saturday night at Shadow Lounge in the heart of East Liberty.

The evening's line up includes new band FULFILLINGNESS' (Comedic Popular Fusion Hop) whose members include K Renee (vocals), Carlos Pena (guitar), Ralph Crewe (bass) and Miguel "Cha" Sagne (stage chillin').

IMPACT also stars Pittsburgh Hip Hop show stompers Kid A, Jon Quest, Divine Seven, and Jack Wilson.

DJ Noetik FiveThousand will be spinning our favorite songs after and during the set breaks.

Enjoy the comedic stylings of Tj Amick.

Adults only. $7 door charge. Doors open at 9pm. Tip your bartenders.

FULFILLINGNESS':

Gene Stovall - Vocals, Drums, Talk Show Jokes
Carlos Pena - Guitar
Ralph Crewe - Bass, Talk Show Jokes
K Renee - Vocals, Talk Show Jokes
Miguel "Cha" Sagne - Stage Chillin', Vocals, Percussions, Talk Show Jokes

FUFILLINGNESS' was named in honor of Stevie Wonder's Fulfillingness' First Finale available at 720 Records (5943 Penn Avenue. Pittsburgh, PA 15206). Created in Braincase Sound Laboratory, FULFILLINGNESS' focuses on playing multiple styles of music by creating a soundscape of melodramatic popular songs and textbook television rhetoric in a comedic manner.

The band is lead by vocalist extraordinarie and satirists, Gene Stovall, who is actually not the drummer of this band, but only acts as the drummer when the actual drummer (James Johnson III) can not make the hit. Returning to the band for this Saturday's event is guitarist and spiritual mentor, Carlos Pena, who is probably known best for his vibraphone solo performed live at the New Amsterdam Pub during the very first taping of Smoke Ritual. Pena will be soloing on stage this Saturday during songs like the "Diff'rent Strokes Theme song", Stovallian classic "Heaven in the Meantime", and Stevie Wonder's "Creepin'" from the album Fulfillingness' First Finale.

FULFILLINGNESS' will be joined by CreweStovall and Hood Gang bassist Ralph Crewe, Glory Box lead vocalist K Renee, and Guaracha leader Miguel "Cha" Sagne in the absense of Justin Bechak, Brother Renz, and DJ Vex.

Jon Quest:

Jon Quest is a new emcee emerging from Pittsburgh who is gearing up for his debut release "The Real Adventures of Jonny Quest". With numerous collaborations under his belt, Jon Quest is ready for the world to truly understand his love and passion for Hip Hop. With a 5th Rhyme Calisthenics appearance, Quest finally made it to the finals in Rhyme Calisthenics 9 against BlackSun who left the battle as the Rhyme Cal 9 Champion in a very close game. Jon's music is heavily influenced by that true Boom Bap sound and 90's era of Hip Hop. Jon Quest is an upcoming artist that will help to further putting Pittsburgh, PA on the map.

Kid A:

Kid A is a 24 year old rapper/songwriter from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Born in 1986 on Pittsburgh's North Side, Kid A(or Aarie Williams) was involved in music well before his birth. As son of an accomplished drummer, he was blessed with the innate love and appreciation for music. It started in the late 80's curiously pushing buttons on his father's drum machine; which later turned into secretely creating rhymes while taking notes in school as a teenager. By 2005, Kid A had already performed in front of sold out crowds and shared stages with major regional and national acts.

Now heading into the 2nd decade of the 2000's, Kid A, or EMS, is sprinting at a fast pace and about ready to go full steam into fragile arms of the music industry. With 2 upcoming solo projects in 2009 in "Backstock" and his official debut "Blunt Guts & Glory". On top of the 2 coming solo projects is the long-awaited collaboration with Dj/Producer Buscrates, which is high on a lot of people's wish lists and it should be one of the prized releases of 2011. The ethereal soundscapes that Buscrates provides create an innovative new sound really bringing to life the name-change from EMS(Everything Makes Sense) to Kid A.

Jack Wilson:

Jack Wilson is a Pittsburgh MC whose new EP "FAME" with DJ SPAED you can download at: http://jackwilsonmc.bandcamp.com/album/fame-ep ALSO download the free mixtape "Take the Fire from my Hand" at http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.takethefire.com%2F&h=49155

Divine Seven:

Delving Inside Very Introspective Notes Eternally...

Born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA... DIVINE SEVEN embodies the essence that permeates Pittsburgh... Struggle, sound and soul... Raised in various areas around the city, Sev has seen his fair share of what city life has to offer. Along his journey, he found his solace in music. As evidenced by his various influences, including Bob Marley, Marvin Gaye, Jimmy Hendrix, Nas and 2Pac; Sev has an intricate ear and this is displayed in the versatility of his music.

Releasing his first two projects, 'THE NATIVE SON' and 'SEVEN WONDERS...THE EP', both in 2008, he quickly became a staple for the city’s underground Hip Hop scene. He has enjoyed success with both projects, as his music has reached the radio waves in markets as far as the British Broadcasting Channel. Widely known for his smooth delivery and electric live performances, Sev has garnered the Hip Hop Buffet's 2008 Best Male and 2009 Best Group Performance awards. He was also nominated for the 2009 and 2010 Pittsburgh Hip Hop Awards Underground Artist of The Year and has placed in the top three of the ‘This Is Who I Am…’ talent show.

Amassing over 200 local and out of town shows, Sev is clearly on his way to greater horizons... He can be found collaborating with various artists and producers from Pittsburgh including, Tabu Mahogany, A.P.E.X., BusCrates, Shade Cobain and many more… Sev has released the joint project, 'BLACK CONNECTION' with Ayatollah Jaxx to critical acclaim in Fall of 2009 and hasn't slowed down yet… In fact, he released an EP entitled, ‘INTROSPECT’ earlier in the year plus released the full-length project, 'LISTEN!!!' in June of 2010. Forever the visionary, he is prepping his next full-length project entitled 'THE LIFE AND TIMES OF DAT TURNER', and mixtape ‘DE TALK ABOUT: VOL. 1’ both slated for a late 2010/early 2011 release. He can also be found on several mixtapes reaching fans and supporters via the Internet and other media.

When asked about his passion for the art, he elected to keep it simple by quoting the talented Patti Labelle, “If only you knew..."

Noetik FiveThousand:

Noetik 5000 is a jack of all trades he is a ARTIST MANAGER/PROMOTER/EVENT PLANNER/HYPEMAN/DJ/BOOKING AGENT/VIDEO SHOW CO-HOST/PROMOTIONS DIRECTOR/RECORD LABEL REP/ and just an all out music enthusiast. Born in Passaic, NJ and raised in Pittsburgh, PA. He started out as an hungry competitive mcee in the streets of Pittsburgh beginning in 1989 as a youth entering various rap battles & forming hiphop groups around his neighborhood then in 2000 decided to become more behind the scenes focusing on the business aspect of music doing promotion work for various artists from Pittsburgh, PA and also djing as well to put their music out to the masses.

The grassroots company he ran & still push to this day is called N.U.C. (Never Under Competition) Promotions stemming from his competitiveness in his short-lived Hiphop career as an mcee previously. He began putting on showcases around his area for starving artists such as he was to gain somewhat of a name for themselves and build their stage prescence. From then on he has been focused just on his djing skills & being more involved in the promotion,branding & marketing for various artists.He has been djing & promoting for some of the coolest spots & special events in Pittsburgh,Pa. Nowadays he is more involved in other music selections in his sets outside of just the genre of your everyday Hiphop music but more into the electro,international hiphop scene and various dance remixes & mashups. He just likes to rock parties/events by all means necessary with no boundaries.

Tj Amick:

Is excited about Space Rollerblades.

Straight-N-Narrow Records presents: IIE: Infiltrate, Instigate, Expand (2010)

2010-07-20T21:46:00.007-04:00

APEX - PA Hustlers

Richburgh - Dynamite Stix

Verbs - Nice Trip

Jon Quest - In the Jaws of Life

Cory Eaux of JSP - So Mean

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Rory Webb: Straight-N-Narrow Records presents IIE: Infiltrate, Instigate, Expand. It’s complete. Now available to the world. How does it feel?

Premise: Like a decade puttin’ in work has led to this… I started in 2001 making beats on the computer and it’s led to a completely original release featuring an eclectic group of emcees from Pittsburgh, Philly, NYC, Detroit… all of whom I’m honored to work with. It feels like a relief, but not a relief like “I’m so happy this is over with." It’s more of a “I’m relieved the world will finally hear what I’ve been cookin’ up” type of relief. I’ve been at this a long time, just behind the scenes crafting my sound for the majority of the last decade. I’ve been in Philly hip-hop events, but on a local level in Pittsburgh I wasn’t exactly a household name even last November. I’m still far away from being a household name, but I’ve definitely networked a ton since late ‘09, building the relationships necessary to release a compilation of this caliber.

RW: This being your first full album release, what are some things you learned during the creation process?

P: I did release a solo LP as an emcee in 2003, fully produced by myself at a time when I was a production novice trying to be the next great white rapper. But it was an amateur project. I evolved after that to become a full-time producer/engineer in terms of my focus, although there may or may not be a hidden track on IIE (may or may not be….)

Putting this release together taught me valuable lessons in terms of tailoring beats for specific emcees and finalizing tracks to make them songs, not just verses on beats. Most of that is up to the artist, but as a producer you are the final “ear” and should act as such.

I think I’m more versatile than I personally thought, which is definitely vital to succeeding on a national level. Any sub-genre of artist(s) in hip-hop can hit me up and probably find something they want to rock on. And we know there are many sub-genres. For example, would you think the same producer would work with Nas and then turn around a do a Trick Daddy jam? No, usually, but I believe SNN is capable of that with the catalog I’ve built.

It’s a different beast though, for a producer reaching out to a variety of emcees, as opposed to just being in my own creative world shaping songs as an artist, like when I started. You have to be mindful of the artist, and realize we all come from different hip-hop environments with a specific set of influences, although many of us share the same ones.

RW: With the long list of dope MC’s involved, I’m sure your expectations were high for damn near each and every track. But can you talk about one song or artist that really exceeded even the highest of expectations?

P: I had a feeling you would hit me with a “pick a favorite track” type of question. So I’ll answer it, I won’t give the wishy washy political answer that “loves every track equally.” I’d be lying to you if I did that. The artist who really blew my mind with the final product has to be Real Deal. He hit the beat exactly how I envisioned him doing so… track 13, “Revival.” That’s actually what I named the beat and he just ran with it. The word-play, flow, and mic presence is top-notch, as expected, and the overall sound is a signature SNN banger. As a producer and hip-hop fan especially, it's tracks like these that I enjoy most. Thanks to Real Deal for helpin’ to make that one of my favorites on the release, hands down.

RW: I’m hoping to hear some of Premise the MC on this album! Let’s reverse your role real quick. If you were the sole MC on the album, and had a team of five producers working with you, who would they be and why?

P: I like this question a lot because I’m a fan first, and was an emcee second, I must stress that. I’ll spit them right out in no particular order- Large Professor, Alchemist, Rob the Viking, Michael Masser, and Jermaine Dupri. Most people won’t know who Rob the Viking or Michael Masser are, but I bet they know “Big Things” by Nas (Masser), from I Am. That beat single-handedly put Masser on the map, because it’s retarded hot, and every element is near-perfect. Rob the Viking also isn’t a household name, but he’s produced a lot of gritty records for Swollen Members/Battle Axe, and was a big part of my adolescent years. Dupri, Alchemist, and Large Professor should go without saying since they are entrenched Hip-Hop Hall-of-Famers in most books. Large Professor is a true sound-crafter and bender; a pure one, from day one to now, with no dilution. JD would do my club jam, and Alc…. Well…. Alc would make whatever he wanted and I’m sure I’d love it. It’d be a ridiculous EP!!!!

RW: How has your participation in the Philadelphia iStandard Producer Showcases challenged, inspired, and motivated you as a music artist?

P: J-Hatch and Don Di Napoli, founders of iStandard, opened up the industry door to me back in 2006. I submitted beats and they accepted me into their showcase of producers. iStandard events always involve judges who are platinum producers, A&R’s, and/or executives at labels. That’s inspirational, challenging, and motivating on its face. It’s also scary at first because you think “this is it.” Of course it’s not “it,” but just a step in a series of steps you should be taking to further your career while networking with the right people. You mature a lot when taking part in these shows, and it’s teaches you professionalism.

Participating each year since ‘06 has educated me as to what the decision-makers in the industry are looking for, from a quality standpoint to a complete package standpoint, everything… It’s been a critical part of my development as a producer- in the mix of thousands trying to stand out and turn heads, which is not easy to do.

RW: What has been the biggest hurdle you’ve encountered and overcome as an entrepreneur in the music business?

P: The biggest hurdle is staying on top of the technology and being able to afford what you need. For about six full years, from ’03-’09, I was working on a Pentium 4. You cannot produce industry-quality sound on that computer, I don’t care what anyone says. I made a major upgrade to the Intel i7 processor last August and subsequently, here we are discussing my release 11 months later. The technology… the virtual instruments… hardware…. It’s expensive and there is an ocean of it to swim through, literally. You can get a lot of stuff free, but not the quality, high-end equipment and virtual tools that really stand out. A producer/engineer is truly only as good as his sound engine. In other words, you can’t run a 2002 Cavalier out there with Porsche rally whips and expect to be on the podium.

RW: You attribute much of your drive as a music artist to your father, who is a musician in his own right. How has his encouragement affected your work from the time you were just beginning to now?

P: From as far back as memories formed, music equipment was all around me. Pop always had a studio and has been playing the drums since the 1960’s. Growing up in a house with drums, guitars, keyboards, 8-tracks, etc, is something that makes it almost impossible not to gravitate towards music as a teen especially. I made my first beat on a keyboard at 14, and I can say without a doubt that my Father is why. It’s in our blood and was my environment. There’s been collabs with him on beats, discussions about drum progressions, the business… He’s an all-around music aficionado who I’m blessed to have in my life and without whom IIE would not be happening. That should put it in perspective.

RW: What’s the most fun part of being a producer and engineer?

P: The creative process. Sometimes it’s quick and easy and then others it’s a labor of something like love, but more like a battle with your own impatience. There is a thing called “Producer’s Block” and the fun part for me is working around my own impatience and aggravation to focus and get it right. The feeling when you do get it right is completely unique, like a high for drug addicts, an orgasm for nymphos, or a good “pump” for bodybuilders (I had fun with that one). But yeah, easily the creative process at number 1. A close #2 is building relationships with artists. They need me and I need them; the talented ones that is. They know who they are and I consider myself skilled at finding them among this mess of artists we call the underground.

New Music Videos

2010-07-16T20:45:00.002-04:00

Jasiri X - What If the Tea Party Was Black?

Jon Quest - Last Word (from the debut mixtape The Real Adventures of Jonny Quest)

Living Proofe - Celebration (Livin' My Life)

SikkWitIt - Grind Time (2010)

2010-07-10T20:22:00.004-04:00

The new mixtape release from one of Pittsburgh's illest lyricists compiles loose songs, freestyles, remixes, and an exclusive snippet from Sikk's next project. With a mic in his hand, this MC is damn near untouchable.

01 - Funky Introduction
02 - Chilling
03 - Late Notice

04 - The Industry
05 - Exhibit T

06 - Come Follow Me (Remix)
07 - Freestyle (Live Video)
08 - Fuck Wit Me
09 - Helps Coming (Snippet)
10 - Look What the Cat Dragged In
11 - Passing Me By (She Played Me)
12 - Rappers These Dayz Freestyle

13 - Raw (feat. D-Loon)

14 - Similes
15 - Spell On You (2006 Classic)
16 - Talk 2 Me

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Hit Sikk up on Twitter and ReverbNation

You can hear more music from SikkWitIt on the Stilltown compilations. Stay tuned for more cause this MC works hard!

Ensilence - The Reconstruction EP (2010)

2010-07-09T20:16:00.006-04:00

Ensilence has been all over this blog lately. That's because her quality music has become a constant. The professional recording sound, and Ensilence's uncanny ability to package an album full of treats, is ecstasy to the listener's ears.

01 - The Reconstruction (Intro)
02 - Whose World

03 - MY State of Mind
04 - Heaven's Harp
05 - Enemy of the State
06 - Pass It On
07 - Artificial Intelligence

08 - Without Reward
09 - Beyond the Rope

10 - Miss U Much
11 - In Scope
12 - Down
13 - First Thing First (Outro)

Production Credits:
C-Sekshun - 1, 2, 5, 6, 12, 13
Macado - 8, 10
Wilde - 7, 9
BusCrates - 11
DJ King Flow - 3

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Get in touch with Ensilence on Twitter or Facebook

Jack Wilson & DJ Spaed - Fame (2010)

2010-07-06T14:55:00.003-04:00

01 - P&LC
02 - See Sky Crumbling v2.0
03 - When She Waved At Me
04 - Herbals
05 - Walk the Walk

DOWNLOAD & LISTEN

Visit Jack Wilson on MySpace and Facebook

Kaisuan & B-FreeDaMisfit (2010)

2010-07-03T01:54:00.009-04:00

Kausion - Pittsburgh, Pencilvania

01 - Forever Yours
02 - Good Day Hip-Hop

03 - Pittsburgh, Pencilvania

04 - Love You For So Many Reasons
05 - Light Skin Girls
06 - Look At You Now
07 - Lady
08 - Rebound
09 - Watch Move
10 - What's Your World
11 - Payback Is a Dog
12 - What's the Worst Thing That Could Happen
13 - Yellow Bridges
14 - Is It That

*Tracks 2, 3, 5, 6-9, 12, 13 feature B-FreeDaMisfit

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Kaisuan & B-FreeDaMisfit - The Author & Magician

01 - Away So Long

02 - Bangers
03 - Close But No Cigar (In Ya Area)
04 - Forever Yours (Now I'm Yorks)
05 - Gettin' At Me
06 - Here We Go Again
07 - Light Skin Girls
08 - Look At You Now (Alternate Version)
09 - Look At You Now (Classic Version)
10 - Payback Is a Dog
11 - Rebound
12 - You Got My Heart (feat. Kelley Bonds)

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Hit up B-FreeDaMisfit on Twitter

Hit up Kaisuan on Twitter

Kai Roberts - The Sound (2010)

2010-06-29T23:01:00.005-04:00

Kai Roberts is a dope young multi-talented artist who hails from Pittsburgh, PA. At 17 years of age, Kai has already earned national recognition for his production on Jasiri X's single "Dear Debra." He has also worked alongside Rhyme Calisthenics co-creator J. Armstead Brown. The Sound is Kai Roberts's debut album, showcasing his gift as both a producer and MC.

01 - Just Breath
02 - So Gone
03 - Too Late

04 - Close
05 - What People Do
06 - Last Night
07 - Bad Girl
08 - Who Stole the Car (feat. Sadik Roberts)
09 - The Bedroom
10 - Robot Love
11 - I Need U

DOWNLOAD

Link with Kai Roberts on Twitter and MySpace

Shade Cobain - Cassette Theory: Beat EP (2010)

2010-06-27T23:28:00.008-04:00

01 - Intro/Fort Pitt Tunnel (RCA)
02 - It's Ours (Magna)
03 - Rock Drop (TDK)
04 - Door Kickin' (Akai)
05 - Party In Mecca (Sony)
06 - Heaven>Paradise (Fuji)
07 - Tape Playing Interlude/Memorex Flashback
08 - Dual Cassette Dub (Memorex)/Maxwell Flashback
09 - Gow Gow Crack (Maxwell)
10 - Private Enemies (Centron)

11 - BASF Flashback/Misunderstood (BASF)
12 - Evolution (Centron)
13 - The History (Phillips)

DOWNLOAD

Follow Shade Cobain on Twitter and Bandcamp

Ensilence - Genesis Since '85 (2010)

2010-06-27T18:49:00.006-04:00

DJ Teknik & Ensilence present...
Genesis Since '85

01 - Genesis '85 Intro
02 - Amerikan Hunger (Remix)

03 - They Ain't Ready (feat. Thorobred)
04 - The Makers
05 - Ready For War
06 - What's Real

07 - Trouble Woman
08 - For A While

09 - Uprising! (Remix)
10 - The Hardest Times
11 - Ain't Nothin Move
12 - Flowerz (feat. Roxx the King)
13 - Uprising! (Alt. Remix)

DOWNLOAD

Follow Ensilence on Twitter and Facebook

Jon Quest - The Real Adventures of Jonny Quest (2010)

2010-06-25T12:42:00.011-04:00

DJ Vex & Jon Quest present...
The Real Adventures of Jonny Quest

Jon Quest - 1-900-LYRICAL (Prod. by Armstead Brown)

Jon Quest - Last Word

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Follow Jon Quest on Twitter and Facebook

ChaRon Don & DJ Huggy - Mental Combustion (2001)

2010-06-25T01:35:00.007-04:00

Hands Down became recognized nationally in hip-hop circles with their 2007 release Art of Life. But for a decade prior to its release, the duo of ChaRon Don and DJ Huggy were active participants in the Pittsburgh hip-hop scene. Both members graduated from Schenley High School and have continued to build and develop as music artists since.

First of all, the album title, Mental Combustion. Who came up with it and why did you believe that it was fitting for the sound that you were creating at the time?

ChaRon Don: Mental Combustion was a title that I had chosen mainly for its sounding and visual association. The album was created while Huggy and I were both in high school, in an era where lyricism was at its height. Being fans of artists like Big L, Big Pun, Wu-Tang Clan, Biggie, Canibus, etc., bigger and more complex words and ideas were being used and therefore helped with the creation of the album title. Back in those days I was working at Carnegie Library in Oakland and I can remember coming across a book from a horror film, which was produced out of Carnegie Mellon University, and in one of the pages sat the visual of the backdrop to the album. What could grab your attention more than a picture of someone's whole head and face exploding? ... We had to use it!

DJ Huggy: During the album making process, I usually let Charon take care of all the little things like naming songs, picking the album art work, and ultimately choosing the album title. Of course I give my input, but I tend to let him work those things out. Even though I am a part of the group, I still prefer to approach the process as a producer, whose job is to create, shape, and mold any vision an artist has into music.

How did your decision to form a group with just the two of you allow for the freedom to experiment with different concepts and ideas?

DJ Huggy: Well, naturally the less heads you have at the table, the easier decision making should be. We all know and have heard of different groups in the hip-hop world who broke up due to "creative differences," which really means they couldn't agree on something, usually money! (Laughs...) However, the earlier and longer you begin to work with some one, a natural rhythm, if you will, begins to develop. You learn his strengths and weaknesses, he learns yours. You feed off of his energy and he feeds off of yours. And if your lucky, that magic that everyone is trying to create will be there!

ChaRon Don: Huggy and I have always enjoyed one another's opinions and talents, even before we were a group, so it really didn't change once we started to build on our group works and efforts. We have always represented, solo and together, so once two people know how one another gets down it becomes natural, easy, and fun to add on... I'll pick up where he left off, just in a lyrical way, and he does the same in a productive, producing way. (Laughs...) We've been in two to three other groups, both before and after Hands Down, so our history and experience made things very comfortable.

Can you explain the challenges and rewards that came with releasing the album independently in 2001?

ChaRon Don: To be honest, there were more rewards than challenges with the release. Because we were gaining more and more notoriety, mainly within the city, the love was the fuel that kept us doing more shows and recordings. Back then the hip-hop scene was a lot more close and active with more breakers, deejays, emcees, and writers. The culture was in full effect and everyone was supporting each other in some way. The love was sincere, and inspiring, and literally bred a sense of worth to what we represented musically. Through hard work and dedication to the music we created, many people would give their ear, constructive criticisms, and motivational words to us. People like Strict Flow, DJ Rampage, Lone Catalysts, Dashon, RXC, Adam Smith from Underground HipHop Magazine, etc. put us under their wings and watched us learn how to take the winds on our own.

DJ Huggy: This was our first project in which we had some experience, some resources, and representation. This was our true introduction into the world of hip-hop, for better or for worse. Releasing this album independently was a blessing. It gave us creative control and it provided us with some insight into what it would take to self release a project. Just like with anything in life, if you have someone do something for you all of the time, you'll never learn how to do it yourself. You'll never learn what's involved in the whole process, and honestly you probably won't appreciate the journey as well. In 2001, major labels played a bigger role in the music industry than they do now. To release an album independently, you were competing against an opponent who had unlimited resources. We had a $1,000 promotional budget. They had a $1,000,000 promotional budget. Do the math! Who do you think was gonna get more exposure? Which project do you think would be pushed more in the stores? As an independent artist, your best and sometimes only weapon was to have better music. And I think that's what we tried to do!

ChaRon Don: Moe, who was and remains one of the most influential promoters Pittsburgh has seen, financially fronted us the money and helped us get more shows in and outside the state. Others expressed their love through deed and action, like B-Bonics from Kiss FM. B-Bonics(now known as Bonics), while spinning a house party, put me down with a friend of his who was running an independent label in Philly, and from there I knew how much some people were looking out for us in and outside of the city. On a tour alongside two other national Pittsburgh acts, Strict Flow and Deadly Scribes, we met up with GoodHands Records and would soon ink a deal with them for the follow up album, Art of Life. Still, while the misconceptions of what we represented and stood for were present, it was miniscule to the rewards. Because I was battling and had that type of style, many emcees, younger and older, of the Pittsburgh scene adopted hateful opinions about me and the music. Although I heard much of who and what was being said, I truly was too focused and aware of what was more important to our goal to be discouraged and/or intimidated. Plus, I was ready to take peoples heads off lyrically, so I felt if it's a test of talents I could stand my own! I give thanks to the creator for the haters and lovers, they both have the exact same purpose, both are motivations.

When the album was released, what was your marketing plan and distribution strategy?

ChaRon Don: To perform and record more than we had been. Push harder, run faster. Observe change.

DJ Huggy: Stealing a little from my previous answer, our strategy was to work hard, spread the word, be everywhere all of the time, and hope that because we had the better music, we would shine through. I won't go into all the specifics but there are basic promotional guidelines that you should do when releasing any project. Interviews, radio, tours, in-stores, etc. Yeah, we did all of them and then some! For example, I remember getting up with Charon and like five other people around 3 a.m. the day of the release. We had about 1,000 posters and we planned on tagging up the whole city. We split into groups and we hit every neighborhood. We put them on store fronts, cars, telephone poles, buses, bus stations, houses, apartment buildings, restaurants, etc. Anywhere we could stick them, they were there!

How do you believe an artist can use their past work for progression in the present and future?

ChaRon Don: As a means of encouragement and point of reference. If you have examples of the past you can always know where not to go back, not that anything of the past is negative, but one must always mature into the next cycle. The act of reflection is powerful and that album is an expression of a lot of what I knew and didn't know, therefore its purpose is and always will be very much needed.

DJ Huggy: It gives you a foundation. It gives you a resume. It's something that you can use and say look at what I've already done. Look at my history. I didn't just jump off the porch, I'm rooted in this shit! I got experience, I got knowledge, I got respect! I live this! "Now please buy my new shit, it's only $6.99!" (Laughs...)

Art of Life can be found in stores and at Amazon. You can hear more music from the duo on the Chief Kamachi & JuJu Mob album.

The next evolution of Hands Down will be heard on the upcoming album, Thee Official. Check for the release on Good Hands Records, due out within the next couple months.

Mental Combustion
01. The Church Sermon (feat. Soul Dean)
02. Raw Passion
03. Streets is Watchin
04. Penny Candy
05. Brotha's & Sista's
06. Hype to Def (feat. Dashon)
07. Infinite Measures
08. Linguistic Terrorism (feat. Ron Noodles)
09. I Love You (feat. Renassaince)
10. Say Grace (feat. Rashad)
11. The Young & The Wreckless (feat. Nabri Savior & Sha-King)
12. U Count (feat. Don Juan & Ill Gill)
13. When Cries Lose Tears (feat. Zay-Zay)
14. Ms. Barbie (feat. Justuce & Soul Dean)
15. Street Journal (feat. Mr. Story)
16. Enough is Enough (feat. Caleesh & Will)
17. I Grabbed the Mic [And Asked the Crowd]
18. Mental Combustion (feat. T-Diddy)

DOWNLOAD

-Stilltown * tHe WebdsLinGah

Divine Seven - Listen!!! (2010)

2010-06-22T10:46:00.014-04:00

Brand new release from Pittsburgh's own Divine Seven
Production handled in-full by Shade Cobain

Divine Seven feat. Apex & Tabu Mahogany - 4 the Love

DOWNLOAD

Follow Divine Seven on Twitter and Facebook

Ensilence - Rebel II America (2009)

2010-06-19T18:37:00.008-04:00

One of my favorite MC's in the game right now, the music speaks for itself.

DOWNLOAD

Follow Ensilence on Twitter

Just A Minstrel (Video)

2010-06-11T11:34:00.002-04:00

New video from Jasiri X, Idasa Tariq, and Living Proofe (Prod. by Idasa Tariq)

Smoked Fish - The Aqualab Sessions Vol. 1 (1998)

2010-06-09T12:19:00.010-04:00

- Smoked Fish is GeeMan on production and vocals, Stretch on vocals, and Snook on vocals.
- The Aqualab Sessions Vol. 1 was released in 1998.

The Aqualab Sessions brought together these three dope Pittsburgh artists who were hungry to make noise. GeeMan aka The Grand Ear laced production that gave his fellow MC's the opportunity to unwind with a pen and a pad.

GeeMan handles the production in its entirety and exhibits his own dope rhyming skills on a few tracks, including "Production: MusicMusic." Still an active member of this Pittsburgh hip-hop scene, GeeMan works closely with aspiring Steel City soul-hop producers BusCrates and Vex.

Stretch is co-founder and host of Rhyme Calisthenics: The Official MC Competition, alongside producer and friend James Armstead Brown. Still one of the best freestylers the city has ever seen, Stretch gets props from anyone who is willing to listen.

Snook has also stayed relevant on the scene making appearances on Armstead Brown's 2007 album release Fieldwork and on the most recent Stilltown release, Stilltown Vol. III.

The Aqualab Sessions Vol. 1
01 - Production: MusicMusic
02 - Live Wire
03 - What U Need

04 - Smoke Break
05 - Crush My Vibe
06 - Plan Of Mine
07 - Mic Ministry

08 - Around the Way
09 - Mockem Yaw Radio Interlude
10 - Mind Bendin
11 - Ghetto Life

LEAVE YOUR E-MAIL IN THE COMMENTS FOR EXCLUSIVE SMOKED FISH FREESTYLE SESSIONS!

DOWNLOAD

For more information on the Pittsburgh hip-hop scene of the past, present, and future, stay tuned to the Stilltown blog. And for more '90s era hip-hop rarities check out Philaflava!

Vex - Redux (A Black Gold Production) (2010)

2010-06-04T13:06:00.004-04:00

Producer Vex clashes his soulful Pittsburgh sound with a variety recognizable hip-hop vocals on this Black Gold Production remix project.

01. Intro
02. Busta Rhymes ft. Q Tip & Marsha Ambrosious - Get U Some
03. Common - Dooinit
04. Royce da 5'9 - Hip Hop
05. Jadakiss - Kiss Of Death
06. Jay Z - Blue Magic
07. Phat Kat - Nasty
08. The Roots - Glitches
09. Little Dragon - Scribbled Paper
10. Slum Village - Get Dis Money

DOWNLOAD HERE

The first remix, and one of the best on the album, is that of Busta Rhymes' single "Get U Some." Marsha's vocals allow Vex to take advantage of his production strength, creating a boom-bap-soul heatrock.

Songs like Royce's "Hip-Hop" are tough to remix, because the DJ Premier produced original is a classic, but Vex does the song justice by giving it a funky yet rugged edge.

On "Blue Magic," Vex crafts the instrumental to Jay-Z's smooth, effortless delivery, outdoing the original Neptunes produced single.

As a sucker for female vocalists, Little Dragon's "Scribbled Paper" remix instantly sticks out as one of the better cuts on the album. Vex intertwines his signature sound into the relaxing vocals of Little Dragon singer Yukimi Nagano, giving a hunger for more work similar to this.

Here more from Vex on Bandcamp!

Rhyme Cal 9 - Interview - J. Armstead Brown

2010-05-31T09:51:00.013-04:00

Rhyme Cal 9 was chock full of both exciting and frustrating moments. On the high side, competitors Black Sun and Jon Quest each respectively impressed throughout. The low had to be the 20-minute delay leading into the final round. Rhyme Cal founder J. Armstead Brown took the time to clear the air on the controversy and give his interpretation on some of the MC's that have developed as participants in the competition.

AB: What up Rory? Before we jump into your questions I wanted to start off with a few words. First I want to once again thank all the MC’s that competed in Rhyme Cal 9. This shit ain’t easy and we appreciate the fearlessness and commitment to creativity that the MC’s demonstrate. At the same time I know some MC’s came away frustrated for different reasons. We as the Rhyme Cal creators hold our selves accountable for making sure the game is both exciting for the crowd and fair to the competitors. Most of the time we succeed but sometimes we fall short. I want to remind everyone that Rhyme Calisthenics is an ongoing experiment—we have no blueprint to follow—we’re creating this thing as we go—Rhyme Calisthenics is one long three year freestyle! We’re coming up on three years and in that the three years we haven’t made a single dime. We don’t do this for the money we do it because we believe that Rhyme Calisthenics is a needed part of a larger movement. We do it because we believe Rhyme Cal is part of the tipping point to put the Pittsburgh hip-hop movement in motion. We do it to bring MC’s and hip-hop heads together. We do it because hip-hop is and always should be unpredictable, spontaneous, and most of all fun. We hope the MC’s play this game for the same reasons.

RW: Can you talk about what you saw from the champion, and first-time competitor, Black Sun, and what he did in his performance that gave him an edge over the competition?

AB: Well, in an MC competition where tensions were high and expectations were great, Black Sun was like a Buddhist throughout the whole competition. I think his edge was that he had no expectations, he came for the experience, he came to experiment, to exercise, he came for all the right reasons. Beyond that I think Black Sun is just a really dope MC down to the definition of what an MC is. If you were paying attention he not only had really great lyrics but he MCed each challenge from the moment the wheel stopped spinning to the moment judges raised their score cards. When “Storytelling” dropped he told the crowd to “gather ‘round the campfire,” and in the last round he recaptured the audience with “The Message” after several confusing distractions. He was poised and in control the whole night.

RW: In the championship Sun defeated Rhyme Cal vet Jonny Quest. This was Quest’s fifth Rhyme Cal appearance and his first time making it to the finals. In the first round his spin of the wheel landed on “Crowd Topics,” a category he has struggled with in the past. How can his perseverance and progression be related to the idea and goals this competition has for its competitors?

AB: It’s funny because I know Jonny Quest was ready for a lot of the written challenges, but the wheel has a funny way of landing on your weaknesses when you get a little too confident. I didn’t see his “Crowd Topic” verse, I’ll see it when I review the tape, but his performance overall captured his improvement. He’s just a grinder and the Wheel of Skillz has helped him craft his lyrics, he’s not just writing verses without purpose. Although he’s putting in work at the studio, he’s learned to write his verses for the stage which is something I think is really important. Sometimes studio verses don’t come across on stage, but if you write your verses like you’re about to spitting them to a crowd of 500 people you’ll have an intensity and urgency in your flow that you can’t get standing in the booth. Much respect to Jon Quest.

RW: There was some confusion leading into the final round with the bracket that was distributed a few days prior. Granted, this was the first competition in the new format. Will there be any type of rule book implemented to keep this from being a distraction again?

AB: Yes, we are going to publish our official rule book before the next Rhyme Cal Competition. And by the way, we do have an official rule book that we abide by. It’s too complicated to explain the confusion regarding the final-four round, but I’ll say this… Boka had a legitimate complaint and I’m glad he voiced his opinion. The same way that we encourage our MC’s to get better, Stretch and I are always trying to make the competition better, more exciting, but also more fair. That’s why we listened to Boka’s complaint, and huddled up right there in the middle of the competition to review his complaint. But at the same time we stick to our decision. Our decision was to stick to the rules we created, even though the bracket we posted on Facebook was misleading. If the NCAA tournament has a misprint in the way they post their brackets, they don’t change the rules to accommodate the misprint. They stick to their original rules and let the public know that they made an error in the way they presented the brackets. So that’s what we did. The fact is that the brackets we posted on Facebook were really meant to allow the MC’s to see who they will be up against in the first round. They were also meant to create a little bit of hype. But after reflecting on Boka’s complaint, we’ve decided to change the rules for the next one. So the final-four round will be a little different in the future.

RW: This is the ninth installment of Rhyme Cal, without counting the All-Star competition and the 4x4. Why do you think some competitors still come to the show unprepared?

AB: Well, I think there are different types of competitors, and there are different ways for an MC to prepare. One of the best ways to prepare is to actually write verses to the written challenges. “Storytelling,” “Last Word,” “Acapella,” and “The Message” are all categories that cater to pre-prepared verses. Another way to prepare is to do some homework on the other competitors and develop a few punchlines for them. This will help you in “Comp Killer” and you could also put a few jabs into other challenges like “Mackin’” or “Here and Now.” Another way to prepare is to practice the freestyle challenges at the crib. You can practice “Word Bank,” “Grab Bag,” “Scenario,” and “Crowd Topics” by rapping about different item or things in your crib. Even if you never compete in Rhyme Calisthenics, theses are exercises guaranteed to make you a better MC. Having said that I first want to acknowledge the MC’s that did come prepared. Black Sun, Jon Quest, 3PFD, Kid A, and Boka all came with a few writtens and few ideas about how to flip some of the challenges. Then there are some cats who can go up against the wheel with no preparation at all – like A-Jaxx. He’s an MC who can develop dope phrases on the fly. As far as I know he’s never really prepared for a Rhyme Cal and yet he regularly makes it to the final four. I know A-Jaxx didn’t do as well as he usually does this time around, but he’s dope and he’s supported us by competing in almost every single Rhyme Calisthenics competition we’ve ever done. The reason he does so well is because he’s a true wordsmith, not just an MC. He’s got a real mastery and love of words. For some it’s all about preparation and for others it’s all about riding the moment—the key is knowing which type of MC you are. If you’re not fresh spitting in the moment then take your ass home and write something dope!

And that’s the real difference – it’s not about those who prepare and those who don’t – it’s about those who really love words and ideas, and then those who just like to brag about themselves and talk shit over beats. Cats like Zone, 3PFD, A-Jaxx, and Boka consistently do well because they’re prepared, but also because they have a real love of words and a real message to deliver.

RW: There were times when the judges - I Majestic of RXC/Classic 1824, Luqmon aka B-Tree, and DJ Chevy - would be speaking, or constructively criticizing the MC’s, and I would look around the crowd and see numerous participants talking amongst the crowd, hanging outside, or leaving after their own elimination. Personally, I see this as disrespect to the honorable judges, all of which have more than 15 years experience in hip-hop. Granted, for every two or three careless MC’s, there is one attentively listening. What is your opinion? Is it a difference within generations?

AB: It’s partly a generation thing, but more than that it’s the difference between those who genuinely want to get better and those who have managed to convince themselves that they’re already the shit. It’s the difference between those who mainly want to have fun and those who only want to win the $500. Rhyme Calisthenics is no different than the rest of the rap game – those who are only in it for the money generally don’t get as far as those who do it for the love. I think this time around even some of the most passionate MC’s were more focused on winning the prize than on working on their craft. They cracked under the weight of their own expectations – that happens to all of us sometimes. And then there’s the fact that people enter Rhyme Calisthenics for different reasons, some find it fun, some use it as motivation to get better, some use it for visibility and promotion, and some see an opportunity to win some money. The judges constructive criticism is only valuable if you’re working on your craft in some way.

RW: A couple first round competitors, R-Sin and Zone, spun the wheel twice. Any comment?

AB: One of the re-spins was because of a weak spin. The official rules state the wheel must complete one full rotation to be considered a fair spin. The other re-spin was because Shade missed the cue to play the “spinning” theme music. This re-spin was actually an error because the official rules state that “the wheel is not to be spun a second time for any reason except due to an incomplete rotation.”

RW: There was some animosity between competing MC’s Ayatollah Jaxx and Mista Scrap. What is your opinion of the situation? And in a situation that could have quickly gotten worse, is there anything that can be done to prevent something like this from happening?

AB: Well basically, Scrap threw Jaxx’s hat into the crowd. I’m not gonna speak for Scrap but it seemed like a heat of the moment decision during a really tense “Comp Killer” playoff heat. Whatever Scrap’s intentions were, the fact of the matter is that Rhyme Calisthenics is a no-contact sport. You can get up in someone’s face, you can diss them, intimidate them, you can verbally assault them; but you can’t touch them or their property. It’s kind of like basketball where you might get away with a light tap here and there, but you can’t grab your opponents’ jersey. I’ve mentioned the official rule book a few times and that’s something were going to have to put in there. Even though I know Scrap didn’t mean anything by it, I hope he can see how that situation could have gone bad if it were two different people.

RW: Is there anything else you would like to add?

AB: Yeah, RhymeCal X is gonna be the shit! MC’s get your bars together…

Follow-up interviews for each Rhyme Calisthenics MC Competition can be seen right here at Stilltown.blogspot.com

"Respect the Architect" with DJ Selecta

2010-05-26T20:45:00.008-04:00

The admirable DJ Selecta is a vet on the Pittsburgh hip-hop scene. Aside from past work with some of the cities most renowned groups, Strict Flow and Pensoulz In a Cup, Selecta has been a mainstay in local clubs and lounges. He is the creator of the beloved Classic Material events, which showcases both local and national DJ's, recent participants of the event include Large Professor, Lord Finesse, and Rob Swift. Selecta hosted his own radio show for years dating back to the '90s and going into the 2000's. He recently began a new show titled Grand Groove on 91.3 WYEP, which features music from a varitey of genres including Nu-Soul, Neo-Soul, Funk, Nu-Jazz, Hip-Hop, and more.

This month, Selecta premiered "Respect the Architect," a set of classic Pittsburgh hip-hop, dates ranging from 1986 to 1998. He will be featuring similar sets once a month, chronicling the city's old school scene.

Butta - For the Ladies
G-Man - Music Production
J-Flint - Hump Day
Hi-Low (Chenits aka Chen Lo & DJ Big Phil) - Rap World
Geo - Here I Come
Afro Cinema (C.I. aka I Majestic & Born Shamir of RXC/Classic 1824) - Rap Zodiac
Cool Vibes (feat. Stretch, Sire, & Impulse) - Unstoppable
N. Harmonyx - Talks the Griot
Supa C - Hardcore Heads
Supa C - Freestyle
Strict Flow - Fall Of '95
TaQuest - It's About Time
Hardcore Crew (Mel-Man) - The Crew Got Paid
Mel-Man - Aftermath Freestyle
Domestic Brothers - Gridiron
Jazzi Love - The Real Queen
Bonus: Davu - Follow Suite (Prod. by BusCrates) (2010)

DOWNLOAD THE CLASSIC PITTSBURGH HIP-HOP SET HERE

You can listen to Selecta's radio show live:
Sunday nights/mornings from Midnight - 4a EST at WYEP.org

Black Sun - Donut Holes (2006)

2010-05-22T14:53:00.007-04:00

Black Sun stole the show at Rhyme Calisthenics 9.

Judges called out artist after artist for generic rhymes. In that sense, Sun was a breathe of fresh air. His humility reigned supreme.

We'll dig into the happenings of Rhyme Cal 9 soon, an interview with co-founder J. Armstead Brown coming very soon.

This post is about the dope MC that is Black Sun.

Aside from a few sporadic features and tracks, I have only one album from Sun. Rapping to J. Dilla's classic Donuts, the album is appropriately titled Donut Holes. I got the album from Sun's Myspace back in '06, and vaguely remember Sun telling a story of a neighbor complimenting the album after hearing it pump from Sun's house while waiting at the bus stop in the morning!

Watching things transpire at last night's event, I couldn't help but think about how much a release from an experienced, talented, and professional MC such as Black Sun could help this new generation of artists. That is, if they're willing to listen.

01 - Intro
02 - Workinonit
03 - Waves

04 - Light My Fire
05 - The New
06 - Stop
07 - People
08 - The Diff'rence

09 - Mash
10 - Time
11 - Glazed
12 - Airworks

13 - Lightworks
14 - Stepson of the Clapper
15 - The Twister
16 - One Eleven
17 - Two Can Win
18 - Don't Cry
19 - Anti-American Graffiti
20 - Geek Down
21 - Thunder
22 - Gobstopper
23 - One For Ghost
24 - Dilla Says Go
25 - Walkinonit

26 - The Factory
27 - U-Love

28 - Hi.
29 - Bye.
30 - Last Donut of the Night
31 - Outro

DOWNLOAD THE ALBUM

New interview with Rhyme Cal co-founder J. Armstead Brown coming soon!!!

Rhyme Calisthenics 9: May 21 at Shadow Lounge

2010-05-19T14:01:00.010-04:00

This Friday, May 21, at the Shadow Lounge in East Liberty (Pittsburgh), is the ninth installment of Rhyme Calisthenics - the Official MC Competition. Come out and watch 16 of Pittsburgh's best up-and-coming MC's shred mics accordingly to a variety of challenging topics. After four rounds of wheel-spinning action, the winning MC leaves with $800 cash.

The event will be hosted by Thelonious Stretch, with DJ Huggy on 1's & 2's and Shade Cobain on sound design. Special Guest performance by Living Proofe.

Doors at 9pm | Competition starts 10pm sharp
$10 | Just $7 before 10pm

Rhyme Cal 9 features a line-up of MC's that includes Rhyme Cal vets and newcomerers. Competitors are Ayatollah Jaxx, Mista Scrap, Black Sun, 3PFD, Kid A, Jon Quest, Basketcase, R-Sin, Ray Meez, V.I.S.I.O.N., Boka, Dy$e, Looney, Pap the General, Zone, and Green - you can vote on who you think will win at RhymeCal.com

These are the 20 Official Wheel of Skillz Challenges:
A Capella
Competitor gets 45 seconds to perform a verse, rap or spoken word piece without instrumental accompaniment. The object of this challenge is to deliver something to the judges and the crowd without the distraction of a beat. Judging is based on lyrical content, rhythm and expression.

Beatboxer
Competitor gets 45 seconds to perform a written verse or freestyle to a beatbox accompaniment. The beatboxer will periodically change tempo and rhythm and the competitor is expected to follow these changes and compliment the beatbox.

Beats in 3
The competitor is given an instrumental beat in 3/4 (or 6/8) time and gets 45 seconds to perform a freestyle or written verse over the beat. The object of this challenge is to flow in way that compliments the beat. Some examples of industry beats that are in ¾ time include “My First Song” by Jay-Z and “Spaceship” by Kanye West.

Cameo
The Competitor is given a familiar song with the hook in it but without the verse. After the hook the competitor must perform a “feature” verse that compliments the theme and tone of the original song. The verse must be 16 bars in length and followed by another hook. The competitor may perform the hooks or adlib over the hook to enhance the performance but these things are not required. This challenge is based on the song structure (hook – verse – hook) and so there is no set time limit.

Comp Killer
Competitor gets 45 seconds to battle and/or verbally attack any and all his opponents. Typically a competitor will attack the other competitors within his or her heat but they may attack any and all competitors in the competition. The object of this challenge is to showcase your battle skills and punchlines.

Crowd Topics
The host selects one word or phrase from the crowd and the competitor must construct a rhyme around that word, phrase or topic. The competitor gets 45 second

DJ’s Revenge
The DJ plays a 45 second “DJ set” that includes different beats, breaks and scratches and the MC must keep up with the DJ and compliment the beat and the transitions.

Fiction Fighter
The host picks the name of a fictional character out of “hat.” The MC gets 45 seconds to perform a freestyle that creatively incorporates the character into their rhyme. The object of this challenge is to “battle” the fictional character and stretch your imagination.

Gladiator
We bring up to the stage a Rhyme Calisthenics champion and the competitor and the champion each get 45 seconds to battle against one another. The Gladiator always goes first so the object of this challenge is for the competitor to deliver a comeback verse.

Grab Bag
A duffle bag full of random household items is placed in front of the competitor. The competitor gets 45 seconds to pick up 5 items and creatively rap about them or incorporate them into a seamless freestyle. Hint: Make sure you hold the items up high so the crowd and the judges can see what you’re rapping about.

Here and Now
The competitor gets 45 seconds to freestyle a verse that based on their interpretation of the “Here” (shadow lounge, East Liberty, Pittsburgh, etc.) and “Now” (the present, what’s going on right now).

Last Word
Competitor gets 45 seconds to perform a written verse or freestyle where all the ending syllables of each phrase must rhyme.

Mackin’The host selects a member of the opposite sex from the crowd. The host asks the participant several basic questions including their name and occupation. The competitor then gets 45 seconds to woo the participant by freestyling. The competitor is expected to incorporate some or all of the information derived from the series of questions.

MC’s Choice
Competitor may pick the challenge they perform. The competitor may ask for clarification of any challenges he or she does not understand. The competitor may not choose to perform 2 challenges simultaneously.

The Message
Competitor gets 45 seconds to perform a message-oriented freestyle or written verse. The term message-oriented means the lyrics should convey some type of positive message or social commentary.

Mirror Match
The competitor stand in front of a mirror and gets 45 seconds to freestyle battle himself (his reflection in the mirror).

Old School
The competitor gets 45 seconds to perform a written or freestyle verse that invokes the lyrical style, content and delivery of an old school rap performance. “Old School” is considered to be the first decade and a half of recorded rap music 1979-1994.

Scenario
The host picks a scenario or “scene” out of a hat. The MC gets 45 seconds to freestyle a story or description as if they were in that situation or scene.

Storytelling
The competitor gets 45 seconds to perform a narrative verse. The verse must contain some type of narrative, storyline or succession of events to be considered a story. A description of something is NOT considered a story.

Word Bank
The host reveals a wordbank consisting of 10 – 12 words. The competitor gets 45 seconds to freestyle a verse that incorporates some or all of the words on the list. The competitor may ask for clarification, definition or pronunciation for 2 words before their performance starts. Judges will take into consideration the number of words the MC’s uses and the creative way in which the words were used.

Idasa Tariq performs "Storytelling"

3PFD performs "Comp Killer"

Real Deal performs "Comp Killer"

Ayatollah Jaxx performs "Grab Bag"

Yah Lioness performs "Cameo"

Boka performs "Outkast"

Mac Miller performs "Here & Now"

Billy Pilgrim performs "Mirror Match"

Zone performs "Mackin'"

Looney performs "The Message"

Jon Quest performs "Beat Box"

Zone performs in the Final Battle

Visit Rhyme Cal's website for more information.

Stilltown Vol. III

2010-05-09T15:28:00.013-04:00

CD 1
01. Ayatollah Jaxx feat. Dominique Larue, Jon Quest, & Beedie - I Don't Wanna Know (Prod. by J-Fish)

02. Beedie - Dreaming Pt. 2 (Prod. by Straight-N-Narrow Productions)
03. Vintage Radio - That Music (Prod. by Big Jerm)
04. Jon Quest feat. YD - So Gone (Prod. by Big Jerm)
05. Sha-King & Living Proofe - 4Get Me Not
06. SikkWitIt feat. Shing - The Truth (Remix)
07. SPAED feat. Apostropheus, Jack Wilson, & BZE - Ya Fakin' (Prod. by SPAED)
08. A.P.E.X. - Bullet Proof Imposters (Prod. by Czientist)
09. YD - Zeen (Shade Cobain Remix)
10. Thelonious Stretch - Cheers (Prod. by Black Gold)
11. B-FreeDaMisfit - All That I (Prod. by B-FreeDaMisfit)
12. Gene Stovall - Lovers Or Friends

13. Dominique Larue - Let Em Know (Prod. by Idasa Tariq)
14. Vaig feat. Divine Seven - Journey
15. Snook - Like A Mobster (Prod. by Straight-N-Narrow Productions)
16. Beenafactors - My Brother
17. Ghosty - Killa Bee
18. Kid A - My Time (Prod. by Shade Cobain)

19. MC Futuristic feat. Hasan Salaam, Ayatollah Jaxx, & Jasiri X - Reel to Real
20. Ensilence - What's Real (Prod. by DJ Teknik)
21. Gneticz - Parcheesi
22. Divine Seven feat. Tabu Mahogany - Hold On (Prod. by PMC)

CD 2
01. Recollect - It Came From Above
02. Reverrb - 3 Planets From the Sun
03. Rel!g!on feat. Planet Asia & Jasiri X - Pyramids (Prod. by Rel!g!on)

04. Antagonist & Bobby Blunt - Supergrit (Prod. by Black Gold)
05. DruMagus - CIA Drug $ (Prod. by DruMagus)
06. Shindiggaz - Contraband (Prod. by DJ Thermos)
07. Nova - Hell 'Muthaphukin' Yeah
08. Melodiq - Just Like That (Prod. by Melodiq)
09. Notorious BIG - Suicidal Thoughts (BusCrates 16-Bit Ensemble Remix)
10. Kese Soprano feat. Ensilence - Take Control
11. Gene Stovall - I Feel Fine
12. Kid A - They Don't Know (Prod. by Ulliversal)
13. Akzionz feat. G5 Clive - Louder High (Prod. by Fundamental)
14. SikkWitIt - Chilling
15. Ayatollah Jaxx - Sucka For Love Part Duex
16. Beedie - Grown Shit (Prod. by James Moore)
17. Divine Seven - Listen!!! (Prod. by Shade Cobain)
18. SMI - Price 4 Peace (Prod. by E. Dan)
19. Sonji feat. DJ Huggy & Daru Jones - War (Prod. by Emmai Alaquiva)
20. Jack Wilson - Sombre Reptiles
21. People In the Red Balloon - The Pied Piper
22. Kid A - God Grew Tired (Prod. by Ulliversal)
23. Ensilence - Artificial Intelligence (Prod. by Wilde)

24. Beenafactors - Same Route

FULL:
http://www.megaupload.com/?d=K0LFQ5KD
http://hotfile.com/dl/42094131/a3e2ea8/Stilltown_Compilation_Vol._III.rar.html
SPLIT:
CD1-http://www.divshare.com/download/11321304-21b
CD2-http://www.divshare.com/download/11321340-2f8
CD1-http://www.mediafire.com/?jmzjtgfjmha
CD2-http://www.mediafire.com/?dway2dyzqzi

This installment of the Stilltown compilation mix series features more than 50 artists from Pittsburgh, PA, as well as contributions by artists out of Toronto, Columbus, Virginia, New Jerz, Fresno, LA, Germany, British Columbia, Atl, and NYC

VIDEO: "Shadow Loungin'" by Divine Seven feat. Jon Quest & Beedie

2010-05-06T19:15:00.002-04:00

New video from a soon-to-be released album by Divine Seven. The song features fellow Pittsburgh MC's Jon Quest and Beedie, and was produced by Shade Cobain. "Shadow Loungin'" also appears on Stilltown Vol. II.

Idasa Tariq Interview

2010-04-25T10:23:00.028-04:00

Love, life, stress, and setbacks have been guiding forces in the careers
of many successful artists. These elements are evident in the musical workings of Idasa Tariq. Since relocating to Pittsburgh in 2008, this native New Yorker has made a name for himself with hard-work, developing mindful rhymes and soul-driven production skills. In 2010, Tariq has already flexed his abilities with a solo project - Say Cheese EP - and a collaborative effort with female emcee Dominique Larue.

Whether it be blessing the mic at weekly open mics, or spinning the wheel at the Rhyme Calisthenics MC Competition, Idasa Tariq always entertains.

Rory Webb: At the Rhyme Calisthenics 4x4 competition you were noticeably pleased with DJ Chevy scoring your ‘Storytelling’ verse a perfect ten.

Idasa Tariq: Most def. I was happy to just have a good round in my Rhyme Cal campaign. (laughs) Each time I've entered in the competition I take something away from it, learn it, and try to it apply to my music and see if it works.

RW: What aspect of your art have you worked on improving most in the past year?

IT: I would say my stage performance, and also producing if I may. When I came to the Burgh, I was still fresh with just getting on a stage and performing in front of a crowd. Back home there isn't really any places where you can build on your stage presence and performing. Here, I was fortunate to be guided to the Shadow Lounge, and went from there to other spots. What really helped this year with my performing was the "Hip Hop For Haiti" show, which I was thankful to be apart of. There I got to see two emcees in particular perform and command the stage - Living Proofe and Brother J of X-Clan. They had this way of pulling you into their songs, at times without moving around that much, and while interacting with the crowd. It was dope studying them.

RW: Talk about the advantages of being both a producer and an emcee.

IT: Never have to look for beats. Ever. (laughs) You want something jazzy and funky, you make it. Dig for some Art Blakey drums and some Oliver Nelson and go at it. Bust a keyboard out and start from scratch. You have that luxury to be more creative with your craft. It allows you to see different melodies within the beat which can be interpreted into a flow or rhyme scheme. Money wise, you don't have to pay someone to make you a beat, rather you can pay a musician to come in and just drop whatever on the track and boom, there it is.

RW: Any disadvantages?

IT: For me, it's being critical on the sound. One thing I don't want to get myself trapped in is making the same type of sound with no growth. I sometimes will start making a beat and realize I'm creating a drum rhythm that sounds similar to something I already made for another track, so I'll be there trying to find the best way to make it stand out from the other track. In the process the song might come out wack as hell, so it's still a learning process. But overall, being overcritical of my work.

RW: How about the advantages and disadvantages of being an independent artist?

IT: Advantages I would say is you control the music. You wanna rap about Port Authority jackin' the Burgh citizens on transfer and bus rates, you go right ahead. Nobody's stopping saying, "you can't say that because of blah blah blah." You have more freedom to create your own image and craft, no matter how dumb or ingenious it may be. It also allows you the opportunity to create your own business and OWN your music, as opposed to a label owning the masters. I did that by starting Ground Flow Communications, Inc. You have a more profound respect for your craft I feel, because now your branding your flow, your beats, etc. And it's YOURS at the end of the day. The downside is you don't have the resources and networks that the major labels have in terms of distribution, finances, and promotion. Basically, you either wanna get put on by someone else with money and become their mascot, or put yourself on and see where life puts you.

RW: Your most recently released work is the HerStory EP, with Columbus, OH emcee Dominique Larue. How did you link up with her?

IT: MahBrotha Shade Cobain put me on to her. Linked with her on twitter and we started building from there.

RW: What about her emceeing skills impresses you most?

IT: She actually raps. She's not on these stages in a two piece talkin' some nonsense. She storytells. She spits bars. She has flow and delivery. She has an ear for beats. Not a shot at Nicki for the phrase, but Larue ain't a barbie doll the industry and labels put together and placed in front of a mic. All in all she's Hip Hop, and I'm glad we were able to make a dope project.

RW: You mentioned Shade Cobain, fellow Pittsburgh producer/emcee. You came together to form the group MahBrotha. How has his experience benefited your growth as an artist?

IT: MahBrotha Shade! On the real, it's one of the biggest blessings I've had since moving to the Burgh. This man put me on to so much music, which opened up doors for me to walk through and learn from whatever was in it. Jazz, Soul, Dilla, Alternative Rock, I'm listening to music from other countries! (laughs) It's good to have him as a fellow group member but also as a mentor, because he'll keep it real with me. If I make a beat, and something isn't hittin' right, he'll tell me. If I spit a 16, and something can be done to strengthen it, he'll let me know.

RW: You’ll be releasing you new album, The Imani Flow, this summer. What goals have you set-out to accomplish with its release?

IT: Well, The Imani Flow will be my debut album. Shade's executive producing it, I'm producing the whole jawn with the exception of some fresh jams from Shade himself. The Imani Flow will actually be broken up into two parts; Part 1 entitled Steel City Yorker, and Part 2 entitled Quilts, Jazz & Fleamarkets. Part 1 drops this summer, Part 2 drops this fall. I hope to get my name out there as a producer and emcee that isn't on some minstrel tip. I'm not flossing. I'm not pushin' weight. I work a 9 to 5 just like most folks. I'm a bachelor in a world full of folks getting married and divorcing in the same day. I live an everyday life and wanna relate with the people on a personal and positive level. Make timeless music.

Idasa Tariq - Pittsburgh

Idasa Tariq - On Top of the World (from Say Cheese EP)

Idasa Tariq - Concrete Properties (from Say Cheese EP)

Dominique Larue - Let 'Em Know (from HerStory EP)

* All songs produced by Idasa Tariq

Stilltown Presents Philadelphia: Release Yourself (2010)

2010-04-24T22:36:00.008-04:00

All tracks were recorded between 1987-1994

01. Life Is Like A Nike Commercial (Just Do It) (Poison Ladd SLR & Beats In General)
02. Funky-Rye-Men (Ebony Broadcast System)

03. Outstanding (L-Rock)
04. Flex the Style From the Flow (Tyree)
05. Release Yourself (Phill Most Chill)

06. I Ain't Goin' Nowhere (Steady B)
07. Watch 'Em All Take A Fall (Too Def Connection)
08. Flatline (Lyrical Underworld)
09. Ease Back (Jon Doe)
10. Rock Rock On (Cipha)
11. Check It Out (Lord Aaqil)
12. We Give Knockouts (Pure DeeFunk)

13. 45 Confessions Of A Killer (Legion Of Doom)
14. One Straight Binness (Tuff Crew feat. Shujaa & Class)
15. Sound In Your Ears (Tasc 4orce)

16. Kick Dat Stlye (Three Times Dope feat. Ruggedness Maddrama)
17. Checkin' Down the Menu (Ruggedness Maddrama)

18. Beyond the Door (100X)
19. Boom Box (Lux)
20. Mind Over Matter (Tuff Crew feat. Emcee Mechanism)

DOWNLOAD

Spiega - Forgive Them Father (2010)

2010-04-19T22:21:00.008-04:00

It's been a while since I've done a post about an artist without Pittsburgh connections, but today's may be a start of more to come. By now, most hip-hop fans are familiar with the work of Daniel Dumille. When Zev Love X returned to the hip-hop scene as MF Doom, he was part of a New York crew known as the Monsta Island Czars. The most notable emcees included were street legend MF Grimm, Kwite Def, Arron, and Tommy Gunn. Production was handled by Doom and X-Ray da Mindbenda. Each member took a Godzilla-themed alias, Doom as King Ghidra, Grimm as Jet Jaguar, Kwite Def as Kamackeris, Arron as Rodan, Tommy Gunn as Megalon, X-Ray as King Ceaser, and newcomers Kong, Gigan, and Spiega.

The focus of this post is Spiega. His deep, distinctive voice and monotonous delivery make him a unique talent. Unlike many of the groups members, Spiega has yet to release a solo album. However, he made several contributions to Kong's latest album, Shackles Off. Other ventures include his work on the Reavers's album Terror Firma.

I brought these discreet and scattered appearances together for a "best of" type album. Solo songs, group work, and guest features were included.

"Forgive them father, for they know not what they do." - Spiega's personal quote from the liner notes of the album Escape From Monsta Island!

01. True Beleavers (feat. Kong)
02. I Seen It All

03. Now That's Sweet

04. America (feat. Hasan Salaam & Akir)

05. Cross My Heart (feat. Kong)
06. Witchcraft (Remix) (feat. Monsta Island Czars)
07. Ride the Arrow (feat. King Ceasar)

08. Under Pressure (feat. Monsta Island Czars)
09. Broken Safety (feat. Kong & Ikon)
10. Genocide (feat. Billy Woods & Kong)
11. Kill Or Be Killed (feat. Kwite Def, Rio, & Foul Language)
12. Weasal (Do Or Die) (feat. Kong)
13. Die (feat. Megalon, Egyptian Queen, King Ceasar, Loch Ness, & Kong)

14. Witchcraft (feat. Monsta Island Czars)

DOWNLOAD

Classic 1824 - Rebel Music Vol. 1 (2005)

2010-04-10T21:09:00.012-04:00

01. Run It Down (Sha-King)
02. Uhuru (Blitz)
03. Until the Govt. Stops Me (Nabri Savior)
04. The Legend of a Necessary Blackman (Living Proofe)

05. 7 (Self Scientific)
06. Beef (Blackstar)
07. Red, Green, Black (Angel Eye)
08. Stake (Sha-King)

09. National Ghetto Graphic Remix (C.I. feat. Angel Eye)
10. For My People (Liberation)
11. Breathe Easy (C.I. & Angel Eye)
12. Swine (Nabri Savior & Shamir Shine)
13. Nights Like This (21 5th)

14. Round & Round (Nabri Savior)
15. Harlem Nights (Immortal Technique)
16. All Is Fair (Living Proofe)

17. The Light (Sha-King)

Gneticz - Japaneticz (2001)

2010-04-09T22:29:00.007-04:00

First and foremost, I made this post about a year ago, and since the Stilltown buzz has grown, I wanted to re-post it. Also, I just posted the Classic 1824 mixtape release, Heavy Dosage Vol. 1. More from Classic 1824/RXC to come.

Although it was released in 2001, on Dirty Hat Productions, this is an album that I found only a few years ago. I was familiar with Gneticz' crew at the time, RXC/Classic 1824, and had just recently seen them open for Ghostface Killah. Impressed with their performance, I immediately recognized his name when I found the album at The Record Exchange (a store that sells new and used music/movies/other) in the South Side of Pittsburgh.

Both an emcee and producer, Gneticz' music is synonomous with the word "raw." Well-crafted instrumentals, laced with Wu-inspired percussion, make Gneticz' flows sound effortless. His production style is unique from anything that was coming out of Pittsburgh at the time of its release.

I was not surprised to learn that 'Neticz had recently worked with Wu-affiliates Holocaust (aka Warcloud aka Robot Tank aka too many others to list...), Bronze Nazareth, and Kevlaar 7. He has also provided beats for new music from fellow Classic 1824 members, Sha-King (Pgh) and Living Proofe (Pgh/Philly).

His hardcore boom-bap seperates him from other producers. You can hear new music from Gneticz on the Stilltown compilations. Be sure to watch out for his new album, Foreign Oil, which will be released in due time.

01. Cry Revenge
02. Prexie
03. Japan: Full Contact Special Edition
04. New Millienium
05. S.H.E.
06. Visual Artz

07. Asthma

08. Blade Runner
09. Laboratory Theme Music

10. Ultra Shock
11. Fried Chicken
12. Jacuzzi
13. Saymyname
14. Fell Victim
15. Blowin'

16. Riverz ov Blood
17. Seven

18. Meditationz

Classic 1824 - Heavy Dosage Vol. 1 (2004)

2010-04-09T21:03:00.012-04:00

This is a mixtape from the legendary Pittsburgh hip-hop crew Classic 1824. It may have been their first together, but they were all making music for 5-15 years prior to its release. Their conscious, super-lyrical rhymes and sample-heavy production has been compared to Wu-Tang.

The latest releases from group members are Sha-King's album Yellowseed, and Living Proofe's Wake Up World mixtape.

01. Intro (Shamir Shine)
02. Fall Back (C.I.)
03. Takes 1 To Know 1 (Shamir Shine)

04. Break It Down (Sha-King)
05. God's Back (Nabri Savior)

06. Come Up (Martial Ife)
07. Golden Sake (Gneticz & Sha-King)

08. 41215 (C.I. & Knowledge)
09. Code Red (Gemstarr)
10. Hustler (Sha-King, Gneticz, & D. Weezy)
11. Run For Cover (RXC)
12. Ghetto Graphic (C.I.)
13. Short of Breath (Martial Ife & Nabri Savior)

14. Early This Mornin' (Nabri Savior & C.I.)
15. African Rhythms (C.I. & RXC)
16. Who's the Boss (Sha-King)
17. Butterscotch (Black Ops - Gemstarr & Hussain)
18. Industrial Burn (C.I.)
19. Murderation (Sha-King)

20. Strength In Numbers (Knowledge, Nabri Savior, Sha-King, & C.I.)
21. Outro (Shamir Shine & Martial Ife)

Dominique Larue x Idasa Tariq - HerStory (2010)

2010-04-04T23:15:00.007-04:00

I'm a little late posting this, but it's a really dope EP by one of the most talented female MC's spitting, Dominique Larue. Larue represents Columbus, Ohio, and can be a threat to any MC on the mic. The production for this EP was handled in-full by Pittsburgh producer/MC Idasa Tariq. HerStory features some of his best production to date. The soulful work of Idasa is the perfect background sound for Larue as she seems to flow with relative ease throughout the album.

DOWNLOAD

01. She
02. I Want You (feat. Idasa Tariq)
03. Let Em Know

04. Batter Up (feat. Idasa Tariq)
05. Maxine
06. Lazy Afternoon (feat. Stik Figa)

Shade Cobain - Cobainish Remixes (2010)

2010-03-28T23:16:00.011-04:00

All tracks remixed by Shade Cobain

01. Intro - Pittsburgh (Idasa Tariq)
02. Love of My Life (Ode to Hip-Hop) (Erykah Badu feat. Common)
03. Fakin Jax (InI)

04. Emcee University (Re-Remix) (Jon Quest)
05. 10 Crack Commandments (Notorious B.I.G.)
06. Zeen (YD of Moola Gang)
07. I Get Money (50 Cent)

08. Mad Izm (Channel Live feat. KRS-One)

09. Mighty Deadly (Ghostface Killah)
10. Jumpin Out the Window (Ron Browz)
11. Whatever You Say (Little Brother)

12. Hey There Delilah (Plain White T's)

DOWNLOAD THE ALBUM

All tracks remixed by Shade Cobain