Piano Overlord - The Singles Collection 03-05

Yet another alias of Scott Heron aka Prefuse 73. I wasn't even aware of this incarnation until I stumbled across it in a small record store back home. On this project we hear a more acoustic approach that differs from the usual glitchy sample chops and eerie processed landscapes. Full, vibrant tunes are interspersed with free-form jazz type ones that cycle the listeners experience. Not to worry though, there's plenty of beats to keep the head-nodders happy. :^)

Morcheeba - Charango (2002)

Smoky flavours here from these big players in UK trip-hop. The last outing with Skye Edwards before her return on 2010's Blood Like Lemonade. I'm catching them live on this tour for sure. See you there.

The Q4 - Sound Surroundings (2010)

The Q4 is a Dutch hip-hop collaborative formed around 2005. While listening I imagine a lonely tour down the dark, narrow alleyways of Amsterdam, occasionally passing a bright neon glow and the intoxicating emanation of coffee shops. Guest voices here play the people you pass along the way. Who might you meet?

jondis - MagiC (2010)

Another nice set of tracks from a small-time beat maker getting heard on bandcamp. I put money down on this after first listen cause I knew it was something I would keep on the burner. Good beats for driving real early in the morning when the stars are still out. You know I can't get enough of this buttery smooth hip-hop shit. Peep it.

bandcamp

Bugseed - Bohemian Beatnik (2010)

I get submissions now and then and this one I've been rockin' on repeat. Bugseed is a beat-maker from Tokyo doing drum-break style instrumentals with a real chill vibe. I may post some more bandcamp links in the future as I find myself discovering lots of new music there. It's a perfect outlet for many established and emerging artists to get there stuff directly to the people. This beat's for you.

bandcamp

Mr. Scruff - Keep It Unreal (1999)

An early Mr. Scruff album released soon after he signed to the mighty Ninja Tune. It has a late-nineties quality to it which I enjoy, but there are some tracks worthy of skipping. What remains is a few gems that must be shared.

Nostalgia 77 - Songs For My Funeral (2004)

This is Nostalgia 77's first full length on the Tru Thoughts label. In the seven years since it's release, this man has continued to explore undiscovered territories of nu-jazz and received many accolades along the way. It started here with a grainy mix of old jazz sensibility and new drum-break flair – far from funeral music.

The Cinematic Orchestra - Past, Present & Future (2007)

A very intimate and acoustic album with minimal electronic embellishments. This collection contains instrumental versions of much of the Ma Fleur album (released the same year) and some rarities towards the end, including a song titled Lullaby. That should be your last song of the night.

Devin the Dude - To Tha X-Treme (2004)

I don't think anybody raps about weed more than Devin. His beats are always mad chill and smell of skunky bass and funky loops. This is quintessential smokers music. Light up one for 2010.

Happy New Year!

bandcamp

Ta'Raach & The Lovelution - The Fevers (2006)

This is a disjointed collection of dirty hip-hop with undeniable moments of clarity. When they pinpoint a situation, you feel like you're in the same room. It's raw, dank, and sexy. Start a lovelution.

DJ Cam - Lost & Found (2008)

So much of DJ Cam's work is exemplary but this is some of his best. Indelible keys, acute snares, and punchy bass dipped in hip-hop flavour. Look no more, it's cool music for a hot night.

Eligh - Gandalf's Beat Machine Level 3 (2009)

Eligh has been the driving musical force behind hip-hop super-group Living Legends for many years and has released multiple collaborations with The Grouch. This is underground hip-hop with a sense of infinite depth, possibility, and a highly developed urbanity that can only come from such a seasoned veteran. No question this machine has soul.

Lemongrass - Skydiver (2003)

When you need to break away from the everyday or be set free from the city, it's as easy as letting go. On Skydiver, Lemongrass provides the push into openness and allows you to fall into the moment. Laid back rhythms and floating melodies have a sedative quality that welcome a clear mind or a deep slumber. Dive into it.

Freddie Joachim - Nights Alone (2009)

Freddie Joachim is one of those producers that when you first hear him it's like finding a lost friend. His ear for superb samples and snappy beats make him a real up-and-comer in jazzy hip-hop. I sometimes fall into one of his grooves and never want it to stop. Spend your nights with this cat and you won't feel alone.

bandcamp

My Morning Jacket - Z (2005)

Festival season is here again and in anticipation of the mighty Sasquatch here is a spectacular piece of work from Saturday's headliners. A fearless and venturing set of songs that somehow remain cohesive prove that this is no ordinary rock band. Massive stage presence and subtly brilliant musicianship make their live show one not to be missed. Soak in the sound.

Elaquent - In Colour Vol. 3 (2009)

All this sunshine means that it's time for a dose of cool summer vibes. Elaquent's third volume of the In Colour series provides a plethora. Heavy video game influence is apparent off the bat and he throws it all down by the time you hit "Pixelated Mess". The mix has big bottom and you'll be pleased to play this through the car subwoofers. Great use of 8-bit soundtracks and soulful samples make this one easy to spin again and again.

bandcamp

AFTA-1 - The Time In Between (2009)

Two incredible tracks to keep us hungry for the next full length. Released in Germany on 7" vinyl. Eat it up.

Side A - The Time In Between
Side B - Nightlight

Bibio - Ambivalence Avenue (2009)

Pure sonic art that gracefully extends from one character of sound to the next. It lets you settle in but it doesn't let you get too comfortable by evoking emotion with it's unpredictability. Just go where it takes you.

warp

Electric Wire Hustle - Electric Wire Hustle (2009)

Another Friday is here and I think it calls for something with a little groove. The first full length from this crew out of New Zealand will not disappoint. Glowing vocal hooks and plump bass lines set the mood right. Put some love in you.

electricwirehustle

Nujabes / Fat Jon - Departure (2004)

Today, news has surfaced that Jun Seba aka Nujabes, died on February 26, 2010. The outpouring of emotion and admiration from his fans is coming from around the globe. I was enthralled with his vibe the first time I heard him and he soon became essential late night listening. I'm posting this album in his memory. May his music live on.