A gift from Skyzoo – Corner Store Classic

Skyzoo

Corner Store Classic Download
Hosted by DJ Kay Slay and Mick Boogie

Playlist:
01. Intro
02. Ride Out (produced by Ron Browz)
03. The Paper (produced by Illmind)
04. Get It Done (f/Torae) (produced by DJ Premier)
05. Hold Tight (produced by Black Milk)
06. Cop-N-Go (f/Maino & Stimuli) (produced by 9th Wonder)
07. Straighten It Out (produced by Pete Rock)
08. Close Reach (f/Nina B.) (produced by Madlib)
09. Like A Shotgun (produced by Waajeed)
10. Play Your Position (f/Guilty Simpson) (produced by Black Milk)
11. All Over The World (produced by M-Phazes)
12. Bragging Rights (produced by Khrysis)
13. You Already Know-Remix (f/Sean Price) (produced by 9th Wonder)
14. Click (f/Torae) (produced by DJ Premier)
15. Ghetto America (produced by Hi-Tek)
16. The Bodega (produced by 9th Wonder)
17. Never Sleep (produced by Illmind)
18. They Don’t Want It (f/Torae, Yatta Barz, & Zeqway) (produced by J Dilla)
19. My Element (produced by T-Ray)
20. Outro
So, the day has FINALLY arrived. The mixtape “Corner Store Classic” is here! I know it’s been a loooong time coming and you all have been extremely patient, and I appreciate all of that. I want to personally thank each of you for all the emails, comments, and reaching out, all to be told “3 more weeks”. Hahaha. But now that 3 weeks is over!!! Below is the downloadable link for the ENTIRE tape as well as the complete track list. These links sometimes throw songs out of order so before you burn it to a cd or load it to your ipod or even play it on your computer, MAKE SURE that the order is correct so that you can get the feel and the flow of the tape. The tracks are numbered in the link once it downloads so all you have to do is make sure it goes from 1-20 before you press play. If it doesn’t, just organize it and then start the show. Special shout outs go out to everyone involved in this project: Dj Kay Slay, Mick Boogie, Streetsweepers, The League Crew, Dj Nyce & Nycetrax Studios, Rick Caps, SJ2, Dj Premier, Ron Browz, Big Fuzz, 9th Wonder, Khrysis, Black Milk, Illmind, Madlib, Pete Rock, Hi-Tek, J Dilla (RIP), T-Ray, Waajeed, M-Phazes, Sean Price, Torae, Maino, Guilty Simpson, Stimuli, Nina B., Yatta Barz, Zeqway, Datwon & King Magazine, and all the fans who waited for this to drop. Last but not least, the corner stores of America. Thanx for the inspiration…

Hopefully this will hold ya’ll down until the next mixtape (who knows when that’ll be but its already in the works) and of course, the debut album “The Salvation”.

“It’s like that ya’ll, and matter fact ya’ll, in ‘07 everybody wanna rap ya’ll, so this year i’m bringing ‘95 back ya’ll, now move out if you ain’t built like that ya’ll”.

Holla…

- Skyzoo

Serengeti & Polyphonic – Dont Give Up

Serengeti & Polyphonic

Lately I Havent Been Feeling That Well Download
Eleven Download
Puppydog Love Download
from Dont Give Up (2007, Audio 8 Recordings)

Genre defying rapper Serengeti hooked up with avant producer Polyphonic the Verbose to create a glitchy, electro futuristic rap album. Bursting with emotional vulnerability, Dont Give Up inhabits a space beyond the boundaries of traditional rap music – Polyphonic’s cut-up synths, beautiful cello melodies and rabid Atari rhythms perfectly complement Serengeti’s off-kilter verses.

The lyrics are seeped in introspection and nostalgia of past relationships, both romantic and familial. They also examine heavy political and social undertones. “Part raw confessional a la Rollins, part Kool Keith abstraction… with a touch of madness. Viva la weird,” is how XLR8R described Serengeti. The vocals are wrapped in Polyphonic’s sonically jagged, turbulent production that PopMatters labeled “a dreamscape of noise, where warehouse glitch and hip-hop bounce exist peacefully.”

Unique in a field saturated with golden-era traditionalists and hipster booty rap, Dont Give Up charts a course to an alternative future for hip-hop. Big thanks to Emile for providing the video clips by San Francisco-based abstract video artist A.M. Overtone.

Lately I Havent Been Feeling That Well

Sunrise

 

Infinito 2017 – She’s In The Wind

Infinito 2017

From Lust Came Hate Download
The Walking Blind Download
from She’s In The Wind (2007, Nephew of Frank Records)

Since we love us some Infinito 2017 over here, We thought we’d let you catch the one that dropped this week. Here are the liner notes from the album:

So they tell me it’s a learning experience.
Well I’ve learned that I’m not compatible
with the lady that chose me to be with.
I’ve written books, paid rents, created drastic
life changes to obtain “Love”. And at this moment
I feel like a fool with experience. I laugh and
make a new Album “She’s in The Wind”. Watching my own
Mother and Grandmother turn against me in the worst days of
Loves Energy in Motion. An E.P. of 7 great musical compositions detailing
my unclear actions. I learned from others that
this life is for a unique minded Man. A man that
has the capacity to set him self back and allow
some one else to gain energy from the Sun. When
we Ascend as Men we can not allow our lust for Woman to
destroy our Hearts. Production handled by Fathom 9 another
warrior in the struggle of this story helped to navigate
this experience and teach through the art of melody what happens
when you sacrifice for oneness. You end up in a bottomless pit
of impossible change. People have passed away from this
thing called love, we have watched men kill themselves
over this struggle and an ongoing story that will never end.
We have watched Tell Lie Vision detail the great story of He’s not the father.
Insecurity in the modern African woman has tainted her reality,
she believes in the media more then her Man, she learns about her
Man from those who either don’t have a positive reality or never
experienced true Love. Walking away from security into a depth of hell
that teaches her nothing in her immature existence. The Eye
sees all and her premeditated actions have lead us into what ever happens next.
If a Woman will not stand up for her Man through good and bad,
and if she’s afraid of reality and will not fight but run away then She’s In the Wind.
This is an Indirect reflection on my Life with many romances ….

Thank You,

Marcellous Lovelace b.k.a. Infinito 2017

Recorded Recently not on Reaction but Intelligent Action
We see what happens even in Darkness (when I’m at work).
SILENCE

Wise Intelligent – OG PRT

Wise Intelligent

Im Him Download
Go With Me Download
Mama Cry Download
from The Talented Timothy Taylor (2007, Shaman Work)

Intelligent Muzik and Shaman Work Recordings are proud to present Wise Intelligent Iz The Talented Timothy Taylor from acclaimed artist and activist Wise Intelligent of the legendary Poor Righteous Teachers. With this new album Wise has raised the bar once again for diversity, lyricism, storytelling, and artistic integrity in Hiphop. In order to fully appreciate the revolutionary power and transformative beauty of the Talented Timothy Taylor, you have to be willing to open yourself up to a new way of thinking, feeling, and listening. With this record, Wise shows you the full picture of himself as an artist and a human being. He wants to let you see his steps, missteps, and how he became one of the illest MCs to ever bless the cipher. Sonically this record has no boundaries or limitations. The God doesnt believe that Intelligent Muzik can be confined within one season, time frame, or production style because music like knowledge is infinite, so youre going to hear a wide variety of sounds and textures on this album.

Kero One Presents: Plug Label

Kero One

Kero One – In All the Wrong Places (New 12″ Version) Download
Green Tea – Cruise Control Download
Ohmega Watts – On and On Download
from Kero One Presents: Plug Label (2007, Plug Label)
Buy at iTunes Music Store

From the Plug label archives come a hand picked selection of new quality tracks and older 12″ vinyl-only tracks never before released on CD. Contributing to this compilation are not only fresh new undiscovered talent, but some of the most well respected artists in the Indy Hiphop / nu-jazz music scene: Artists such as Ohmega Watts, Kero One, Aloe Blacc, The Sound Providers, Dj Mitsu, Rashaan of Crown City Rockers, and Tableek of Maspyke just to name a few. Two brand new tracks from Ohmega Watts of Ubiquity Records, a never heard before new bossa influenced hiphop track from Rashaan Ahmad and Kero One, as well as an unreleased track from Tableek breathe fresh air into this album. Though the majority of “Kero Presents: Plug Label” is jazzy / soulful based hiphop, it also include a few nu-hiphop beats as well as uptempo latin influenced dance floor tracks that have previously only been available on vinyl.

Executive produced and overseen by label owner “Kero One”, the album strives to be more than just your average compilation. This album strives to provide listeners with quality tracks and a timeless listening experience.

K Banger – Truth Be Told

K Banger

All I Need Download
Without Soul Download
Natural High Download
from Truth Be Told (2007, Shaman Work)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Stream from Rhapsody

Shaman Work Recordings introduces it’s newest edition, K Banger, with his taste-maker/street teaser release “Truth Be Told”, an introduction to his anticipated solo LP and DVD “Year of the K” due for release in 2007.

Long time Scienz of Life crew affiliate and central New Jersey Hiphop veteran K Banger is far from new to the industry scene. He played the Vans Warped Tour for 2 years in row (‘04 and ‘05), opening for acts like X Clan, Non Phixion, and Savion Glover. K Banger has also been featured on numerous releases such as “Shaman Work Presents Family Files Volumes 1 & 2″, Scienz of Life’s “Book of the Dead” and “Diggin In The Archives”, Floyd the Locsmif’s “Divine Designz” among others. In addition, he is an audio producer for Black Entertainment Television where K’s music and voice is heard literally by millions daily. It’s evident that K Banger is definitely on the rise as one of Hiphop’s memorable figures.

“Truth Be Told” boasts production and guest features from globally renowned artists such as Floyd the Locsmif, K Dubble, John Robinson, and ID 4 Windz (Invizible Handz). K Banger’s “Truth Be Told” also introduces new and exciting talents from his Balance Project team such as Triplebeam, KR Morales, Phoenix, and producer Rickochae (all of who have extensive resumes of their own).

“Truth Be Told” by K Banger is self-explanatory: this release is truthful insight on what Hip-hop is and should be.

Planet Asia – Jewelry Box Sessions

Planet Asia

Street Hop Download
Fuck You Up Download
Comin’ House Download
G.O.D. In The Flesh Download
from Jewelry Box Sessions (2007, Gold Chain Music)
Buy at iTunes Music Store

Bonus: Planet Asia Interview on The Sly Show Download

As hip-hop culture progresses into its fourth decade, several artists long for the Golden Era of rap. Rappers of this time (the mid and late 1980s) strove to be the best lyricist and typically accented their wardrobes by wearing hefty gold chains, as evidenced by such MCs as Rakim, Big Daddy Kane and Slick Rick. Consider Planet Asia a torchbearer for the rebirth of the Golden Era. The veteran Fresno, California rapper’s latest opus, Planet Asia as “Medallions” Jewelry Box Sessions: The Album, will be released on his own Gold Chain Music label June 26 and reflects the innovative, lyrically advanced, thought-provoking and sonically diverse music typical of the Golden Era of rap.

Who Planet Asia is today is a rapper who is lyrically advanced in the tradition of East Coast rap while being raised on the gang-infested West Coast. His duality is reflected on the hard-hitting “Havin’ Thangs.” Produced by Da Riffs, the cut contains pounding drums and an intense piano section, making it a perfect backdrop for Planet Asia’s boast-filled raps. “It’s a perfect street single,” Planet Asia explains. “It has a West Coast feel to it, but it also has the East Coast bounce. It’s easy to mix with other songs and it has a big sound.” Now, Planet Asia combines all of his various interests and backgrounds into Planet Asia as “Medallions” Jewelry Box Sessions: The Album.

YOU and EYE – Infinito2017 & Unagi

Infinito2017 & Unagi

Use Your Mind Right Download
A Day That Dont End Download
from YOU and EYE (2007, 442 Records)

Chicago meets SF… Infinito2017 on the mic with Unagi on the beats. After collaborating on 2005’s promo-only Live From San Fran, and again on last year’s It Came From Beneath The SFC, Bay Area beatmaker Unagi and Chi-town super-emcee Infinito 2017 have reunited for a brand new project, entitled YOU and EYE.

Representing for South Side Chicago and currently based in Memphis, Infinito 2017 is arguably the most prolific lyricist in hip-hop today. He has released over 70 albums since 1989, recording for labels such as Fat Beats, Raptivism, Molemen Records, and his own company Nephew of Frank Records.

In addition to his tireless work ethic, the Regular Black Dude is known for his relentlessly positive wordplay, stressing the importance of Nubian self-empowerment, dedication to family, and the celebration of original style. A true renaissance man, he is also an accomplished painter and author of several books.

Hailing from Western Massachusetts and headquartered in San Francisco’s Mission District, Unagi is a producer and DJ who has released three critically acclaimed albums and a Valentine-themed EP on his own label 442 Records. He has also created music for television shows, feature films, and commercials.

Raised by a professional jazz musician/teacher, Unagi developed a specialized ear from childhood, which is readily apparent in his distinctive, genre-bending beats. Utilizing forgotten vinyl and comically outdated gear, he crafts all of his tracks by hand, playing samples and drums live in real time, without the aid of computers or sequencers.

Adhering to GZA’s “half short and twice strong” philosophy, YOU and EYE treats hungry ears to 17 minutes of thought-provoking lyrics and supremely funky beats. Give it a listen and hear for yourself.

The Prewreck with The Chapter Crew

The Chapter

The 24 Download
Cla’ence Jo Download
from The Prewreck (2007, Thirsty Music / Awthentix Music)
Buy at iTunes Music Store

Theres true hip hop in Las Vegas? Please believe it! Following the critically acclaimed Awthentix Music release Us Vs Them, The Chapter have been hard at work with their highly anticipated sophomore project titled Advanced Studies which is looking to drop later in 2007. In the meanwhile, 3Sixty (aka Doc Ahk aka The Revolver) and Verbal E (aka Cla?ence Jo aka Jo Action) have decided to release a comprehensive album to keep the music alive as the new curriculum of Advanced Studies is meticulously being laid out.

“The Prewreck as a concept came as one part of a 3 prong or trilogy of projects we’re going to release. You have ‘The Prewreck’, ‘Advanced Studies’, and ‘Extra Credit’. The Prewreck is just that… A collection of music that will get the listener up to speed on who we are as a group and what we’re capable of creatively,” said Verbal E.

Featuring the likes of Supastition, Mr. Complex, Darien Brockington and others, The Prewreck is the perfect precursor before the higher level of musical education takes place.

“This is a must in your music library for the people that have come to feel our vibe. The overall theme is obviously based in higher education, both socially and musically and The Prewreck is the required listening before you get to Advanced Studies,” said 3Sixty.

As The Prewreck prepares to open its classroom doors on June 26th and Advance Studies following soon after, The Chapter has begun undertaking numerous projects. They are keeping themselves busy with Supastition on a full length album in which they will drop in the first quarter of 2008. The Chapter is also slated to release an EP, LIVE! From The 24 and the full length solo compilation from group’s drummer and producer 3Sixty titled The 17 Floor War. Get ready because class is about to be in session.

Dirty Work / A Good Day To Die

Bash Bros.

Comin Thru Download
Bang That Shit (feat. 2Mex) Download
The Session (feat. Planet Asia) Download
from Dirty Work / A Good Day To Die (2007, Squared Circle)
Buy at iTunes Music Store
Stream from Rhapsody

Raised in the Bay Area, the BASH BROS (Piseas & the L.E.F.T.) have been active in California’s underground Hip Hop scene since 2000. They were discovered by producer Style Misia (“Making the rounds” Rasco feat. Rass Kass, Scarub’s Answer to the Meaning) which lead to 3 regional cd releases, numerous mixtape appearances & 2 internationally distributed 12″s. Known for street conscious lyrics & a relentless hand-to-hand hustle the Bash Bros have independently moved more than 10,000 units to date! They make it clear- if you don’t respect anything else-you’re going to respect the hustle.

Bash Bros now deliver their second album release “Dirty Work / A Good Day to Die.” Orchestrating a Double CD, the duo approached the project as two solo records making one cohesive album. Enlisting a cast of independent All Stars from the West Coast Underground – Planet Asia (Cali Agents), Scarub (Living Legends), 2MEX (Visionaries), Very (Afroclassics), Shing02, Persevere (Subcontents) & Kits(Kits& Pits)- all get down to deliver the lyrical firepower. Backed by stellar production from Style Misia, Architect (Homliss Derelix), DJ Hen Boogie, The Playmakers, Dextah, & B-Sides, the album possesses hard-hitting & soul-gripping soundscapes from one CD to the next.

Bash Bros teamed up with underground legend Planet Asia for the lead single released on 12″ vinyl “The Session” and bring listeners an escapade of the sticky green that Northern California is heralded for worldwide. Breaking regional rotation, radio playlists, and mixtapes across the globe, this hit song drives an album of non-stop head knockers, 2 CD’s of West Coast fire. Set to hit the road in 2007 to promote their album as part of the 30 city West Coast & Midwest 2007 “Microphone Fiends Tour” with Scarub (Living Legends), It is without a doubt that the Bash Bros are “What you call a stock on the rise / song by song building a whole enterprise.” Don’t sleep on this double disc album, a classic in the making that is poised to change the game.