Release Date: 1-12-10
*Download link is available in previous post*
Rapper Big Pooh has returned with a new release to follow up last year's The Delightful Bars. However, it's not the anticipated Dirty Pretty Things project. Instead, the Big Pooh has decided to put out material recorded over a beat tape by Black Milk known for it's Prince samples (hence the name The Purple Tape).
The mixtape begins with "When Im Done" where Pooh basically shouts out all his peers that are killing it before flowing. He starts off pretty nice, speaking about the stereotypes rappers tend to face and the recession. This definitely sounds like it could've been a Little Brother record. Despite this, the track ends abruptly leading into arguably one of the stand out tracks "Blueprint." Pooh's flow is sharp and he sounds very comfortable in delivery, which helps bring out the vibe provided by the beat. And if that's not enough, the chorus is easily memorable and shows that Pooh plans to remain loyal to the Justice League and makes a bold claim to partly being responsible to some artists' styles.
"You can say what you wanna say about my crew
Most new niggaz out been influenced by who?
Justus, we the blueprint, watch how we do sheeit
We inspired all yall through are music"
Not too long after comes a nice Justus collab with Joe Scudda on "Put It In The Air". The two show they tap well together without their other Reservoir Dogs, but it's hard to decide who came harder. Both came with a nice flow and Joe had a few clever punchlines, comparing him and Pooh to Al Pacino and Robert Deniro.
The latter of The Purple Tape talks more about ladies. Songs like "Girlfriend" finds Pooh questioning a relationship with a girl that's supposed to be his main. "Camera Tricks" is your usual raunchy, club type track telling all the nasty girls to pose for the camera. Thankfully, the project doesn't end on that subject note, as Pooh goes back to talking about his reality musically on "Say Something" (and it doesn't sound anything like Drake's song with the same title).
Overall, The Purple Tape is filled with some nice moments, but nothing stands out as extraordinary or spectacular. It's obvious Pooh is still trying to make it out of the shadow of Phonte, the other half of Little Brother, but still is somewhat struggling. His lyricism is good and the delivery is strong, but something is still missing that keeps him from being more well rounded like Phonte. It also doesn't help that The Purple Tape has 11 tracks (which in actuality is 10 because the last one isn't really a song) and has about 5 features. Hopefully he shows more growth on Dirty Pretty Things and accomplishes stepping out of Phonte's shadow more.
*All tracks of the mixtape can be heard and downloaded on Rapper Big Pooh's bandcamp page*
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Friday, January 15, 2010
Rapper Big Pooh - The Purple Tape
Rapper Big Pooh, one half of hip hop duo Little Brother, recently released his project with Black Milk known as the The Purple Tape. Pooh stated he got permission to use the beats produced by Black Milk, which were made on a beat tape by Black a couple years ago. The title is a reference to the variety of Prince samples used. Track list and download link below!
Download link: http://rapperbigpooh.bandcamp.com/
Track list
1. When I'm Done
2. Blueprint
3. Impatient Ft. Ms. Cris
4. Put It In The Air Ft. Joe Scudda
5. Holding Back Ft. Erica Thompson
6. Girlfriend
7. Camera Tricks Ft. Chaundon
8. Law & Order Ft. Jozeemo
9. Bounce
10. Say Something Ft. DJ Flash
11. Shoutemout
Download link: http://rapperbigpooh.bandcamp.com/
Track list
1. When I'm Done
2. Blueprint
3. Impatient Ft. Ms. Cris
4. Put It In The Air Ft. Joe Scudda
5. Holding Back Ft. Erica Thompson
6. Girlfriend
7. Camera Tricks Ft. Chaundon
8. Law & Order Ft. Jozeemo
9. Bounce
10. Say Something Ft. DJ Flash
11. Shoutemout
TheDarkPhoenix Alpha Review
Release Date: 1-1-10
*Download link available in the previous post*
Mickey Factz has decided to begin the new year with a new project he's been working on for quite a while now. The mixtape known as TheDarkPhoenix Alpha, shows the rapper in a different light instrumentally, but remaining lyrically conscious. Just by glancing at the tracklist it's obvious that Factz chose to approach this release from an emotional perspective, which results in an unique, heartfelt piece of work.
Just like a new day, this project begins with a "Sunrise" where Mickey immediately begins asking some thought provoking questions that he himself chooses to answer.
"Why do we wake up, if we don't plan to dream
Why do we take off, if we ain't plan to leave
I plan for me, so I plan to be
A man for mankind that withstands the sea of hate
And still makes the art that you need
New fantasies for all fans to see
I plant the seeds, truth for the soil
The roots turn royal, man becomes king
Girls hear the words, to transform to queens"
He continues in that same format for nearly 7 minutes showing that length has no bearing on thoughtful lyricism.
The next song, which is arguably the best song, "Amnesia" is up next and finds Mickey rapping over the Justice instrumental "Let There Be Light." As intended, the song displays Mickey’s ability behind the mic for those that forgot he can actually rap. The song that follows is no different, entitled “Turn It Up.” Though only a snippet of what to expect more of later this year, it’s easy to see that Mickey is setting the bar high for himself and plans to maintain putting out quality material.
“S_ecrets T_hat D_estroy” is probably the emotional climax on the project as it discusses secrets that people keep that lead to destruction and in most cases death. Just like the song preceding “Ashes”, pain is vividly illustrated by the lyrics and can provide the listener with a sentimental connection. If notice in the track title the first letter of each word is disconnected from the rest of the letters to form the word STD.
“You better pray you catch a fast break
Laid up with a sad face
Bad taste in ya mouth, it’s too damn late
Lust just sent you damn fate
Victoria, living with a secret
Probably don’t know so you snitching as you speakin
You don’t wanna tell, but you itchin for a reason
Something’s living with you, but ya dignity is leaving”
Overall, this release proves to be enjoyable to those of you that appreciate creativity and actual thought put into lyrics that help paint a picture of reality. If you’re not willing to expand your musical horizons, most of the instrumentals used on here will not appeal to you, as since they’re a mixture of different genres mashed up together (hip hop, indie rock, and pop). But for those you looking for something new and with meaning, you should definitely check this out.
Amnesia
Turn It Up
*Download link available in the previous post*
Mickey Factz has decided to begin the new year with a new project he's been working on for quite a while now. The mixtape known as TheDarkPhoenix Alpha, shows the rapper in a different light instrumentally, but remaining lyrically conscious. Just by glancing at the tracklist it's obvious that Factz chose to approach this release from an emotional perspective, which results in an unique, heartfelt piece of work.
Just like a new day, this project begins with a "Sunrise" where Mickey immediately begins asking some thought provoking questions that he himself chooses to answer.
"Why do we wake up, if we don't plan to dream
Why do we take off, if we ain't plan to leave
I plan for me, so I plan to be
A man for mankind that withstands the sea of hate
And still makes the art that you need
New fantasies for all fans to see
I plant the seeds, truth for the soil
The roots turn royal, man becomes king
Girls hear the words, to transform to queens"
He continues in that same format for nearly 7 minutes showing that length has no bearing on thoughtful lyricism.
The next song, which is arguably the best song, "Amnesia" is up next and finds Mickey rapping over the Justice instrumental "Let There Be Light." As intended, the song displays Mickey’s ability behind the mic for those that forgot he can actually rap. The song that follows is no different, entitled “Turn It Up.” Though only a snippet of what to expect more of later this year, it’s easy to see that Mickey is setting the bar high for himself and plans to maintain putting out quality material.
“S_ecrets T_hat D_estroy” is probably the emotional climax on the project as it discusses secrets that people keep that lead to destruction and in most cases death. Just like the song preceding “Ashes”, pain is vividly illustrated by the lyrics and can provide the listener with a sentimental connection. If notice in the track title the first letter of each word is disconnected from the rest of the letters to form the word STD.
“You better pray you catch a fast break
Laid up with a sad face
Bad taste in ya mouth, it’s too damn late
Lust just sent you damn fate
Victoria, living with a secret
Probably don’t know so you snitching as you speakin
You don’t wanna tell, but you itchin for a reason
Something’s living with you, but ya dignity is leaving”
Overall, this release proves to be enjoyable to those of you that appreciate creativity and actual thought put into lyrics that help paint a picture of reality. If you’re not willing to expand your musical horizons, most of the instrumentals used on here will not appeal to you, as since they’re a mixture of different genres mashed up together (hip hop, indie rock, and pop). But for those you looking for something new and with meaning, you should definitely check this out.
Amnesia
Turn It Up
Mickey Factz - The Dark Phoenix Alpha
Mickey Factz is back with a new mixtape, the dark phoenix Alpha. Check it out and download below
Download Link: http://usershare.net/odw0legw1th1
Track list
1. Sunrise
2. Amnesia
3. Turn It Up
4. Still I Rise
5. Ashes
6. S/ecrets T/hat D/estroy
7. Contemplations Of A King
8. Sunset
Download Link: http://usershare.net/odw0legw1th1
Track list
1. Sunrise
2. Amnesia
3. Turn It Up
4. Still I Rise
5. Ashes
6. S/ecrets T/hat D/estroy
7. Contemplations Of A King
8. Sunset
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
theGODleeBarnes Review
Release Date: 1-1-10
*Download link available in previous post*
As you may or may not know, Blu is a talented MC hailing from Cali that is best known for his debut album with producer Exile titled Below the Heavens. Since then he has released other material such as Johnson&Jonson and The Piece Talks. But surprisingly, Blu is also a dope producer and is increasingly letting his production be heard in the public. On his Myspace he released a free instrumental tape and has even produced a whole project for rapper Sene titled A Day Late and A Dollar Short.
Besides releasing the instrumental tape and producing Sene’s whole project, Blu was very quiet on the mic in 09. Listed as a freshmen by XXL earlier in 09, it was somewhat disappointing to see other freshmen such as Wale, Kid Cudi, and Asher Roth all release new material and gain mainstream recognition while Blu chose to grow more as a producer. However, to start off the new year, Blu has unexpectedly released a new lp, theGODleeBarnes.
Old material that resurfaces include “GloryUSDelux”, “Grandma’sKitchen”, and CityOfLos(t)Angel(e)s”. These songs were previously released in higher quality and can be found on the Soul Amazing mixtapes. However, some of the lyrics are slightly different on this version and have features from people. Nonetheless, the songs fit well into the project instead of hindering it.
Though some of the material on the lp is old (Blu stated the project was 3 years in the making via Twitter), there are a reasonable amount of unreleased material that shows his growth as MC. Tracks such as “SpanishWinter” or “theGOD’s&Me” shine and provide a feeling of freshness. Sharp lyrics match the smooth, vibrant production showing how talented the rapper his become. Those wanting more from Blu with Exile won’t be disappointed when listening to “NeverDream.” The collaboration sounds like it would’ve been included on BTH and further illustrates how the two connect and flourish almost effortlessly.
As usual you can expect some intriguing, reflective lyrics that are sure to catch your attention. The only flaw that’s discouraging is the low quality of the lp. As he stated on his Twitter, most of the songs are rough draft copies that were lost. Thus, they can’t be fixed quality wise. Despite this, the quality isn’t unbearable and most of the tracks are clear. The main issue is obviously the volume being somewhat muffled. Nonetheless, this is a refreshing piece of work that should hold you until Blu’s upcoming projects this year. He’s expected to release an album through Warner Bros, working on a project with Flying Lotus, and will be doing more material with Exile, Ta’Raach, and Mainframe through his new label New World Color.
GloryUsDelux(Feat.LsOfABandCalledGlory)
NeverDream
SpanishWinter
*Download link available in previous post*
As you may or may not know, Blu is a talented MC hailing from Cali that is best known for his debut album with producer Exile titled Below the Heavens. Since then he has released other material such as Johnson&Jonson and The Piece Talks. But surprisingly, Blu is also a dope producer and is increasingly letting his production be heard in the public. On his Myspace he released a free instrumental tape and has even produced a whole project for rapper Sene titled A Day Late and A Dollar Short.
Besides releasing the instrumental tape and producing Sene’s whole project, Blu was very quiet on the mic in 09. Listed as a freshmen by XXL earlier in 09, it was somewhat disappointing to see other freshmen such as Wale, Kid Cudi, and Asher Roth all release new material and gain mainstream recognition while Blu chose to grow more as a producer. However, to start off the new year, Blu has unexpectedly released a new lp, theGODleeBarnes.
Old material that resurfaces include “GloryUSDelux”, “Grandma’sKitchen”, and CityOfLos(t)Angel(e)s”. These songs were previously released in higher quality and can be found on the Soul Amazing mixtapes. However, some of the lyrics are slightly different on this version and have features from people. Nonetheless, the songs fit well into the project instead of hindering it.
Though some of the material on the lp is old (Blu stated the project was 3 years in the making via Twitter), there are a reasonable amount of unreleased material that shows his growth as MC. Tracks such as “SpanishWinter” or “theGOD’s&Me” shine and provide a feeling of freshness. Sharp lyrics match the smooth, vibrant production showing how talented the rapper his become. Those wanting more from Blu with Exile won’t be disappointed when listening to “NeverDream.” The collaboration sounds like it would’ve been included on BTH and further illustrates how the two connect and flourish almost effortlessly.
As usual you can expect some intriguing, reflective lyrics that are sure to catch your attention. The only flaw that’s discouraging is the low quality of the lp. As he stated on his Twitter, most of the songs are rough draft copies that were lost. Thus, they can’t be fixed quality wise. Despite this, the quality isn’t unbearable and most of the tracks are clear. The main issue is obviously the volume being somewhat muffled. Nonetheless, this is a refreshing piece of work that should hold you until Blu’s upcoming projects this year. He’s expected to release an album through Warner Bros, working on a project with Flying Lotus, and will be doing more material with Exile, Ta’Raach, and Mainframe through his new label New World Color.
GloryUsDelux(Feat.LsOfABandCalledGlory)
NeverDream
SpanishWinter
New Blu - theGODleeBarnes lp
As some of you may have heard, Blu has released some new material known as theGODleeBarnes LP via his Twitter. Some of you may already have it, but I was fortunate enough to find a separated copy. However, the tracks are still in low quality and it doesn't seem like a HD qualiy version will be coming out. Here's the official tracklist and a link to download it.
Blu - theGODleeBarnes LP
Download: http://www.mediafire.com/?jymykk0yryi
Track list
01 TheInnocent
02 AzulitoTheGreat
03 GloryUsDelux f. L’s (of A Band Called Glory)
04 NeverDream (prod. Exile)
05 TheGODs&Me
06 GrandmasKitchen
07 Difficulties f. Co$$
08 SpanishWinter
09 BeGO(o)D! f. Sene
10 TheRunOut(erlude)
11 ItsOkay f. Definite & Myth (of Strange Fruit Project)
12 OnMarsWithTheStars (Co$$)
13 Smoking@6InTheMo f. Co$$
14 CityOfLosAngel(e)s f. Co$$
15 AllTheKingsMen f. TiRon
16 AWorldGoneBlind f. Co$$
17 MelloSunshine
18 TilWeDie
19 Crowns
20 Outro(OpenMindDead) (Miguel Jontel)
21 (TheBonusSong)MyBoyBlu
22 BenevolentOffering&Benediction
Blu - theGODleeBarnes LP
Download: http://www.mediafire.com/?jymykk0yryi
Track list
01 TheInnocent
02 AzulitoTheGreat
03 GloryUsDelux f. L’s (of A Band Called Glory)
04 NeverDream (prod. Exile)
05 TheGODs&Me
06 GrandmasKitchen
07 Difficulties f. Co$$
08 SpanishWinter
09 BeGO(o)D! f. Sene
10 TheRunOut(erlude)
11 ItsOkay f. Definite & Myth (of Strange Fruit Project)
12 OnMarsWithTheStars (Co$$)
13 Smoking@6InTheMo f. Co$$
14 CityOfLosAngel(e)s f. Co$$
15 AllTheKingsMen f. TiRon
16 AWorldGoneBlind f. Co$$
17 MelloSunshine
18 TilWeDie
19 Crowns
20 Outro(OpenMindDead) (Miguel Jontel)
21 (TheBonusSong)MyBoyBlu
22 BenevolentOffering&Benediction
Monday, January 11, 2010
Introducing The Virtuosouls
For those of you that don't already know, I'm involved with a group known as the Virtuosouls. We just recently released our first mixtape entitled Feng Shui. It's a free download and has some dope sheeit on there. If you're looking for some fresh, original material, you should definitely get it. So far we've been receiving a fair amount of good feedback on it, but we encourage you to see for yourselves. For those a little skeptical, heres a sampler of what it sounds like.
Like the sampler? Download the whole thing here:
http://limelinx.com/files/
For more links, check out our Facebook group page or search for us on YouTube!
Like the sampler? Download the whole thing here:
http://limelinx.com/files/
For more links, check out our Facebook group page or search for us on YouTube!
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