Tag: album reviews

Review: CRYPTIX – Mr Positive

CRYPTIX – Mr Positive is one of the most underrated swing hop albums of all time that is filled with edgy British humor that almost enough to make you cringe. Mix the sounds of electro swing, jazz, and hip hop, thus the result is this nifty album. Think hip hop swing for instance. He holds a no holds barred attitude and “don’t give a fuck attitude” throughout the album on songs such as Fully Living (middle finger up), Fucked Philosophies, and Rat Race Syndrome. CRYPTIX vents out his frustration on the aggressive sounding Pissed Up And Penniless.

The album has a politically conscious edge. For example, songs such as Fully Living (middle finger up) and Fucked Philosophies deals with political corruption and greed. Fucked Philosophies deals with philosophical thoughts and ideologies that are totally skewed and are misguided and unlawful. Fully Living (middle finger up) deals with greed.

CRYPTIX tells us how he is living on the hip hop swing song Fully Living (middle finger up). He explains his living conditions throughout the song as he complains on. He wonders about the point of living life. Is it wrong to realise this life isn’t the right living? That is the big philosophical question of this song.

The hip hop swing song Fully Living (middle finger up) tells people to not worry about their cares and disregard their troubles. Middle fingers up, if you don’t give a fuck. If you wanna get cunted, middle fingers up.

CRYPTIX tells us how he is living at the beginning of the song. He explains his living conditions throughout the song as he complains on. So CRYPTIX may a be another guy who cries about his living. Falling down into a pit of his own daily insanity.

And keeping up appearances for these blind eyes seeing what we want and not what we need. There is true vision lost when dreaming isn’t believing. The youth have given up the teachings from these readings. Life becomes pointless without meaning. CRYPTIX looks for something to feed on to in life. Some kind of heathen. He wonders, “Is it wrong to realise this life isn’t the right living?” That is the big philosophical question.

People don’t understand what they have been given. The difference of the true vision that separates the people. Real choice isn’t from actions but perception.

In these lyrics, CRYPTIX explains how people take things for granted and how certain things keep pulling them down. He also explains the difference of the true vision that separates the people. He also explains how people don’t understand what they have been given.

So easily settled with structure
Of Elitist ism
of greed and unseen poverty stealing
Possessions pulling me down
The curse of keeping
A false sense of companionship
To a fast changing season
So you don’t understand
What you’ve been given
The difference of the true vision
That separates the people
The difference i believe
Isn’t in the lessons
but the teachings
And real choice isn’t from actions but perception

Fucked Philosophies deals with philosophical thoughts and ideologies that are totally skewed and are misguided and unlawful. CRYPTIX takes a stance against political corruption, greed, pollution, and misinformation. As for CRYPTIX, his morals stay the same even if the projections are always changing.

So you think this is it. Nothing’s gonna change. People are just going to live and exist while playing this game where the government destroys what we (people) create. The government cheat, lies, and steals in plain view. Political corruption caused by the government is in your face these days to the point where you cannot escape it or hide from it.

So it seems we starve to make their name rich on a throne of profit and in the name of greed. Didn’t you know? Break even on change for nothing. Free will has become forgotten. A country once great has gone and lost its bollocks. So you think your minds are ready to be shown the truth. But it’s blatantly obvious your eyes never opened. Your minds are (is) jumbled by muddled thoughts forgetting. Only thinking in percentages. That is why CRYPTIX continues to show the mass the actual facts. The truth is hidden in the messages. People are blind to life’s lessons. Which is unfortunately what the government and elite want. Be ready to open your mind and eyes to the lies.

It’s alarming to think the people offering guidance are the ones who started a system of selfish structure. That’s nothing but harming. Stupid to think the ones who help those in need are known as barmy. The next generation of people are taught to be demanding instead of asking. So they can make as much profit as they can instead to think of ways to make it ever fucking lasting. The planet is on the brink or past it. Broken beyond repair dude to years of pollution, corruption, and greed. Caught in this drugged up culture.

These are some of the most quotable lyrics CRYPTIX said in the song.

If loose lips sink ships
Then open legs start tsunamis
Council house sluts starting wars
With 5 kid army’s

I rate this album 4/5****.

Review: Matt Dusk – Back in Town

Matt Dusk – Back in Town was the comeback album for Matt Dusk back in 2006. This album marked his comeback in to the music scene and all that jazz. Songs such as Back In Town, Get Me To The Church On Time, More, and The Best Is Yet To Come bring a ray of brightness to the album.

Back In Town is about Matt Dusk coming back into town to see his lady.

It seems just like yesterday when Matt Dusk and his lady were standing here. A Yankees hat up on his head and her voice in his ear. He talked about the future and all the things they’d do. He never thought her lovin’ words would frighten him from her.

Matt remembers when he sold his car to board that train. She said she was sure that he would not come back again. And now she sees with her own eyes and starts to realize Matt was not the man he thought he was. So she needs to try to sympathize.

The way she thinks about her life is gonna change tonight. Matt tells his lady, “The way you think about your life is gonna change tonight. Don’t even try out that frown because your man is back in town.”

He is sure she has been thinking about just where the hell he has been. There were times he will admit his heart saw better days. But Matt is the type that has to lose to find he had it made. No use talkin’ too much about things we cannot change. I know you think it’s crazy but Matt is here to set things straight. Matt is standing here to say that he’ll give love a try. It’s his complicated way to say he’ll simplify.

Matt tells his lady, “Baby, it’s cool to take your time. I was a fool out of my mind. So let’s jump off of this merry-go-round because your man is back in town.” He was drawn away but now he is back to stay. He was wrong to think there was a better way. Matt asks his lady for forgiveness and tells her he will never leave her side.

Matt gives us the best of him on The Best Is Yet To Come. This is because the best is and has yet to come.

Matt picked himself a plum out of the tree of life. Then this lady came along and everything started to hum. Still it’s a real good bet. The best is yet to come. You think you’ve seen the sun but you ain’t seen it shine. Wait until their lips have met. Wait until the warm-up’s underway. Wait until you see that sunshine day. You ain’t seen nothin’ yet. The best is yet to come.

They’ve only tasted the wine. You can bet they’re gonna drain that cup of wine dry. Wait until she is locked in Matt’s embrace which will draw her near. Wait till you see that sunshine place. There ain’t nothin’ like that sunshine place. There ain’t nothin’ like it here.

All About Me is about how Matt got himself into trouble. This song reintroduced us to Matt Dusk.

What a fine mess Matt has gotten himself into this time. Who’d of thought a guy like Matt would crumble? I’m sure that not a soul would ever guess that Matt is finding it hard to even stumble.

He used to think that he was strong. He used to think the world revolved around me. He never thought that he was wrong. Narcissistic and self-absorbed is what he was. And this big foot doll almost drowned him.

But Matt is breaking out of his routine. And it’s about time that he comes clean. And it’s all good and it’s all new. Let Matt re-introduce himself to you. There’s no way that he can’t win. And a good man he will be. Once he learns it’s not all about him. There was a day when the walls were covered with his face. Walking through you’d think it was his mothers. There was not a single hair out of place. One eyebrow just a little bit higher than the other. He used to think he was cool He used to think the world was for the taking. Going to a brand new school. Look at all the friends he is making.

Matt explains to his lady that his love he gives to her is more than simple words he tries to say. That is what the song “More” is about.

This love Matt gives to his lady alone is more than the simple words he tries to say. He only lives to love her more each day. More than she’ll ever know.

His arms long to hold her so. His life will be in her keeping whether she is waiting, sleeping, laughing, or weeping. Longer than always is a long time but far beyond forever. His heart is very sure no one else could love her more. More than she’ll ever know. This love Matt gives to his lady alone is worth more than the simple words he tries to say. This is the love Matt gives to his lady.

Who’s Got The Action is about Matt taking a chance to make a lady named Alice all his so she can be his lady and lover. Love can be like heaven and love can be a joke. But it’s worth a gamble.

Alice is like a racehorse. Matt plays her to win. But if in any event he should lose her, another racehorse may come in. Love can be like heaven and love can be a joke. But it’s worth a gamble. So Matt goes for broke. Matt is taking a gamble on make a lady named Alice all his so she can be his lady and lover.

Who’s got the action? Who’ll take a chance on love? Who’s got a kiss for Matt? Give Matt 1 and you’ll get back 3. Just lay it on the line. I’ll bet you 10 to 1 Alice will be Matt’s.

Now once he had a Philly, but he ain’t seen her since. Some can’t go the distance because they’re only good in sprints. Sweethearts stay together when it’s fair and warm. But come stormy weather, they don’t run to form. They put on a long shot. Matt plays either way. All Matt needs is a winner and this could be the day for him. When he wins his parlay, he’ll be set for life. He’ll take all that money and go find himself a wife.

Get Me To The Church On Time is about Matt getting married in church. He plans to get to the church on time. A few more hours is all the time Matt has got before he ties the knot and gets married. There’ll be drinks and girls all over the town. Matt is gettin’ married in the morning. The bells are gonna chime. He plans to get to the church on time spruced up and lookin’ in his prime. Girls come and kiss him.

I rate this album 5/5*****!

Review: G-Len – Woop Woop

G-Len (Len Smallwood) released his first and debut album called Woop Woop on The Family Records from New York City, New York, and Dangerous Records in 1995 on CD and cassette. G-Len produced most this album himself. Ronnie Ron was instrumental in producing this album and getting him a small regional/nationwide distribution deal for his debut album. Ronnie Ron for the most part was not as “hands on” for this Dangerous Records album as he focused more on Tweedy Bird Loc, Jon Jon, Lil Hawk, B Brazy, Damu Ridas at the time.

Despite regional/nationwide distribution, Woop Woop more than less stayed in circulation as a hood classic in the Los Angeles area and Inglewood area. His album never really left beyond that area despite being a high demand album in the international market of music in countries such as Japan, Finland, Sweden, Algeria, Taiwan, Belgium, or Germany. His debut album goes for more than hundreds of dollars (> than $100).

Woop Woop is gangsta rap at its finest. If you are looking for tight beats over gangsta lyrics with a funky rhythm, then G-Len -Woop Woop is perfect for you. The beats themselves are funky. Gangsta rap fans will enjoy this album. Woop Woop has that Dangerous Records production sound since G-Len and Ronnie Ron produced most of this album. The production and sound is what made this particular album a hood classic in other words. Kenny McCloud served as the engineer for this album. Rodney Taylor was responsible for all those funky saxophone riffs you hear on this album.

Woop Woop is one of the many best albums from inside the golden era of G-Funk. Apart from the beats, the flows were just sick! There were no gimmicks within this album. G-Len and his homies expressed themselves by showing the world the crazy lifestyle they had/have been living. Shit was real. No acting or none of that fakeness or nonsense you see or hear about today. Fans of the generic mainstream fans will not like, value, or understand this album.

The only problem with this album is the number of interludes included inside of this album. 3 interludes are plenty. 5 interludes are way too much as the interludes distract the listener away from the musical content on this album. That is why 5 interludes is way too redundant. That is the only flaw within this album by G-Len. 3 interludes would have been plenty. The only other downsides are the audio quality and production. The production was low budget. The production has somewhat low audio quality that is low quality. But that does not prevent the Woop Woop album from being a hood classic.

G-Len is not dead for those who keep thinking so. He is alive and well. He still does music to this day. G-Len can be found on YouTube, instagram, and CD Baby. A string of mixtapes came from him in 2017 which were released online to CDBaby and can be purchased there. The Woop Woop album can be purchased online at CDBaby.

Woop Woop is the Blood gang posse cut that defined this album and made it an LA hood classic in the year of 1995. G-Len, Mr. Dulo, June Dawg, and B Brazy each have a verse. Woop Woop was a term popularized by the Denver Lane Bloods and Figueroa Blood Gang on Figueroa Street. Bloods started the term “Woop Woop” which eventually became “Suwoop” sometime during/in the 2000s. The song Woop Woop played a big part in music whether people are willing to admit that or not. Woop Woop was the LA anthem of 1995. This song is straight gangsterism.

A funky bounce beat is used to accompany the song Woop Woop. Samples used are George Clinton – Atomic Dog and Zapp – More Bounce To The Ounce. Although Woop Woop tends to sample Atomic Dog by George Clinton more rather than sampling More Bounce To The Ounce by Zapp. The beat sampled is More Bounce To The Ounce by Zapp which is sped up to an upbeat pace. Apart from the beats, the flow was just sick! G-Len produced Woop Woop.

Westside G’s from Inglewood and Los Angeles are comin’ with a bang. Muthafuckas gon’ swang on the woop woop gang. Step on back and pass the strap because it’s on. June Dawg drop cops with a pop like if his name was Al Capone. Hard as stone as he swoops in an all black coupe. It’s a 211. In other words a woop woop. Woop woop means to get you for your ends and your Benz. Sometimes June Dawg finds himself woop woopin’ on his friends. And ride through the sunset. Straight gangsterism.

June Dawg steps around the corner. He bought a sack so he can blaze. Gangsta’d out from head to toe with Dulo, Len and Braze. The J-U-N-E from the L-A City. He be the downest YG like in all eternity. Now the niggas on Figueroa Street is ’round and you’s a fool if you flex up.

Next up from the ‘Roa is the Mr. Dulo. Mr. Dulo is comin’ out shankin’ fools and bankin’ fools as he is off of that dank and brew. On a Figueroa tip. If you slip you trip and get ripped because frustrated niggas gots the clip just for the MAC-10. Mr. Dulo gets funky as an 8 Ball junkie. Mr. Dulo is regulatin’ on Figueroa.

When G Len feels like he has fallen short, he feels like woopin’. So he takes your ride and starts swoopin’. So when you see them Figueroa niggas comin’ , fool, you better run. You might be a victim of a 211.

It’s the YG B Brazy from the Fig-gang. His coupe needs a paint and a pearl. As for the double on the riches. He is shooting dice. But if he loses his cash, he will break your ass and he will jack that ass. Then he will laugh because you just got worked by a lil nigga saggin’ in some khakis and a t-shirt. Then he will go to his G homie for a double up for a hook up so he can get the coupe cut. B Brazy will fire up the dank nigga and keep it gangsterism. The gangsterism is in his bones.

G-Len’s crew just struck. Now it’s time for him to strike up a match, place a batch, get it lit, and take a hit.Then he will give them a chunk of some real gangsta funk. So best believe that shit will buckwild like a rodeo The woop woop hood is located on Figueroa Street. Come to the turf, fool, you bound to get stuck. Better wear a vest. You come to the west side, fool, you gettin’ got. It’s time to shake the spot.

For The Money is a sex, drugs, and money type of rap song. The song itself is centered around greed. Greed and capitalism are the themes. Greed is what exactly leads to downfall at the end of this song. The song ends up with 5 people dead due to a quintuple murder. G-Len seemed to have been inspired by Bone Thugs N Harmony when he wrote For The Money. For The Money is a classic example of gangsta rap. The saxophone riffs will send chills in your bones. The saxophone accompanying the beat is simply fantastic.

For those who did not know or are not currently aware behind the backstory for the song For The Money, For The Money was based on a true life event about a quintuple murder in Inglewood, California on the date of June 15, 1992. G Len’s homie Laniak aka Shane Wheeler one of the 5 people who were shot execution style in what was believed to be a drug deal gone bad.

G-Len made a tribute to Laniak in the song For The Money. G-Len made tribute to those who were killed in the song For The Money as well. The people G-Len is making references to are the following: Nicole Elizabeth Thrower (Koko), Jimmy Lee Lewis (Kricket), Shane Wheeler (Laniak/Laniak 1), Molynthia Smith (Mo), and Pedro Angel Lopez.

A quintuple murder occurred during a drug transaction on 3600 block of West 109th Street in Inglewood, California on the date of June 15, 1992. The drug transaction went bad. So in the end, 5 people got killed. The victims were 3 men and 2 women that were found lying dead in an apartment in the 3600 block of West 109th Street around 3 PM. All 5 were killed execution style in the head. A “substantial” amount of cocaine was found in the apartment. It was a drug deal gone bad.

Inglewood police detective Russ Enyeart believed that brothers Victor Herd (b. Nov 11, 1960 – ) and Purvis Herd (b. Apr 3, 1966 – ) were the shooters. But as of yet, they have yet to be charged. Both brothers have never been charged with the murder crime. There have been no leads as to who else was associated with this criminal act or crime committed.

From a June 16, 1992 edition of the Los Angeles Times newspaper is a news article with headlines “Crime: Neighbors report hearing bursts of gunfire. Police find the bodies of three men and two women.” claims this drug related killing to be “the worst homicide in the city’s history”.

G-Len takes us back in time to tell us a story about an OG homie of his. His OG homie was brought up and caught up in a world of crime. It was inevitable that he would got caught up in a world of crime. His OG homie was Shane LeRoy Wheeler aka Laniak. He wanted to be a big time drug dealer that specifically sold cocaine.

Back in 1981, they used to sock out and knock out fools. They would roll to the beach in Santa Monica and drop out fools. They were crazy (looney). G-Len was puny and about tall as Mickey Rooney. But he was down to jack and had his homie’s back. They used to kick it. Him, Krickit, P-Bo, Laniak and Bang. They would high and faded off of cognac.

The group would go to Athens Park to go swimming. Parties were thrown at P-Bo’s house chasin’ all the women. Big Laniak was having lots of fun but he didn’t have a thing to his name. So he started selling marijuana with G-Len’s OG homie Bang, Laniak got tired of doing capers. Laniak wanted paper. (He wanted money.) It was for the money.

He wanted more money. So him and Bang went separate ways. Laniak had to get the sack from Mickey D’s. Now he is selling crack cocoon. He is always watching his back and always packing a gat (gun).

He is now parked inside a 1966 rag Chevrolet going front, back, and side to side. Around his fist is his flag with gold Dayton rim’s on his ride. He’s got the high pro blow. He’s got the baseheads cashing big checks at the bank. He’s got it going living like Frank Nitty. Big Laniak was a hustling maniac. Always flossin’. Makin’ fools catch straight vapors. It really doesn’t matter.

Laniak wanted paper while coming up in the city. He was a hustling maniac. It really doesn’t matter one way or not how he gets his money exactly. Both him and Laniak are hustling maniacs. He’s climbing up the ladder and his pockets getting fatter in juicy cash flow. Laniak is working hour after hour selling cocaine. Workin’ hour after hour slangin’ yay. Not flower.

He had a little power until the shit went sour. This is the turning point in track where things go south. Went half on a bird with someone that was phony. That day Laniak had the homegirls Koko (Nicole Elizabeth Thrower) and Mo (Molynthia Smith) over. The homie Krickit (Jimmy Lee Lewis) came fresh off work came to relax and kick back. Puffing on indo.

Laniak invited Pedro Angel Lopez into Nicole’s house to purchase cocaine. Pedro Angel Lopez was an Inglewood drug dealer who had a large supply of cocaine and sold cocaine in both Inglewood and Los Angeles. However Pedro Angel Lopez was set up by other drug dealers which is what led him to get assassinated.

The dopeman came with the sack. Now they waiting on fools sitting around looking silly because instead of $9,000 the fool brought a nine millimeter handgun and his brother along with him. Another nigga helped him pull the trigger. He played it cool. Then the fool started shooting. Five people got caught up in the mix. No chance for survival. They got smoked for some money. Koko (Nicole Elizabeth Thrower), Mo (Molynthia Smith), Krickit (Jimmy Lee Lewis), Shane LeRoy Wheeler (Laniak/Laniak 1), and Pedro Angel Lopez were shot dead execution style presumably by Victor Herd and Purvis Herd.

The execution style killing of the 5 people made it to the news which was broadcasted on television.

(Reporter #1)
The mother of one of the young victims all said to be between the ages of 19 and 24 was consoled by friends as she left the area. Other neighbors cried when they learned of the murders.

(Reporter #2)
Drugs were linked to the shooting deaths of five people in a Southern California apartment.

(Reporter #3)
All shot execution-style in the head.

*Nicole Elizabeth Thrower (Koko) was 17 when she was killed during the deadly drug transaction occurring at the time. She was the youngest among the people who were murdered. Nicole “Koko” Elizabeth Thrower lived from January 29, 1975 – June 15, 1992.

*Jimmy Lee Lewis (Kricket) was 24 when he was murdered in the drug transaction. He was killed in the same block of West 109th Street along with others. Jimmy “Kricket” Lee Lewis lived from March 25, 1968 – June 15, 1992.

*Shane LeRoy Wheeler (Laniak/Laniak 1) was 23 when he was killed in the drug transaction. Shane “Laniak 1” Wheeler aka “Big Laniak” lived from July 26, 1968 – June 15, 1992. He was set up and killed. He is the older brother of Laniak II (Lil Laniak 2) who died on October 23, 1995 after being killed by Campanella Park Pirus. Shane LeRoy Wheeler went under the names Laniak, Laniak 1, and Big Laniak. He was most commonly known for his name Laniak.

*Molynthia Smith (Mo) was among the 2 females that were murdered during the quintuple murder in Inglewood, California during the same drug transaction. Her age was 19. She lived from April 25, 1973 – June 15, 1992.

*Pedro Angel Lopez was an Inglewood drug dealer. He was a drug dealer who had a large supply of cocaine and sold cocaine in both Inglewood and Los Angeles. He was 22 when he got killed. Pedro Angel Lopez was set up by other drug dealers. Laniak invited him into Nicole’s house to purchase cocaine.

These lyrics to Verse 3 explain how all 5 people were executed and the event that took place that same day.

That day Laniak had the homegirls over, Coco and Mo’
Trippin’ and sippin’ on ?gin-gin?, puffin’ on indo
The homie Krickit fresh off work came to relax and kick back
With Big ‘Ak, the dopeman came with the sack
Now they waitin’ on fools, sittin’ around lookin’ silly
Cause instead of nine thous’ fool brought a nine milli
And his brother, another nigga that helped him pull the trigger
For the loot, and he played it cool, then the fool started shootin’
A terrible way to meet your doom, bodies in each and every room
A minute to pray, a second to die, another mother’s gotta cry
Fools made it look simple, shot ‘em all in the temple
R-I-P on a rival, no chance for survival
Five people got caught up in the mix, straight domed
I couldn’t believe it ‘til I saw them flicks
Then uh, my eyes got filled with tears, my nose got runny
Cause my ace boom coons got smoked for some money

G-Len pays tribute and homage to famous black heroes on Fallin’ Hero. For instance Michael Jackson, Mike Tyson, OJ Simpson, Magic Johnson, Mark Morrison, Rick James, Oprah, and Montell Williams just to name a few. G-Len pays tribute to famous black heroes that dubbed as fallen heroes. The track itself has a negative vibe to it. Fallin’ Hero has a dope sample by Earth Wind & Fire.

The media can make you or break you by taking you up to the top and then snatch your ass right back down to the ground. If you are black, the media will snatch your ass even furthermore. G-Len expresses distrust against the justice system as he does not trust the system.

G-Len comes back in yo ass with some gangsta shit on Woopin. The beats and flow was just sick. The production is low budget and so is the sound which is why the volume along with treble have been reduced. The beat sampled is More Bounce To The Ounce by Zapp which is slowed down to much delayed pace. (Not to mention Woopin was made back in the mid 90s.)

Woopin is underground rap at its finest. Woopin is can be motorized as an example of gangsta rap from the 90s. Woop Woop and this song are one of the best songs on the album. G-Len never hesitates to come out with that real gangsta shit. Especially on Woopin!

G-Len is an example of gangsta rap. Peep the lyrics below.:

Back up in yo ass with that gangsta shit
Westside Woop Woop is my gangsta clique
I’m not jaggin
Just flagin saggin in my 66 rah with my 44 mag, foo’!

I rate this album 4/5****!

Review: SoulChef – Good Vibes

SoulChef – Good Vibes is a beautiful modern jazz rap album from the 2010s era that was overlooked and under appreciated. Not too many people appreciate jazz rap these days. The master of soulful beats released this soulful jazzy album back in 2015. The New Zealand beatmaker gives new life to this album with his soulful jazzy beats. Who knew that rap from New Zealand could be jazzy? But, would you expect anything else from SoulChef?

The message of Summer Rain is to take unexpected paths to be testing you and know always challenge will come again. So whatever happens it happens and it’s all great. Even if what happens not happening in your way.

Summer rain. it’s happening again. Wasn’t supposed to but it can. Look out for summer rain. It’s happening again.

At first, Chima Anya wasn’t really sure about what was happening. It started to pour. Wet socks squelch on the floor. She takes off her wet socks when she gets in the door. But she still got far and there’s no cover. She is prepared. This supposed to be summer. So look out for that summer rain. Summertime made for the Barbie’s. But rain came on harshly. The forecast is wrong for saying it might even snow.

And get some entertainment from your predicament. Capital gains from the pain that are stressing you. You don’t expect it but expect it. Take unexpected paths to be testing you and know always challenge will come again. So whatever happens it happens and it’s all great. Even if what happens not happening in your way.

The Séance was a rap song about a séance. A séance is a summoning event in which people try to contact dead spirits.

It’s a séance. That’s why the candles lit. Hear the young vandal spit. His mind’s not to ever be tampered with. Come correct when you approach and salute when he is ghost. But don’t get burnt like fingers clutching a roach. Feel the warmth like the inside lining of coats.

I rate this album 4/5****!!

Review: SoulChef – Escapism

SoulChef – Escapism is a beautiful modern jazz rap album from the 2010s era that was overlooked and under appreciated. Not too many people appreciate jazz rap these days. You have nice piano driven ballads such as When I Close My Eyes. You also xylophone driven ballads such as Oh No which is heavily influenced by that bossa nova sound. Who knew that rap from New Zealand could be jazzy? Tunji is a featured artist all over the album. This is because SoulChef has produced several songs for Tunji in the past.

When I Close My Eyes is a song about dreaming about wanting to drift away into the past.

Tunji rises with the sun in the early morning. Facing this world we born in. His mind’s swirling, storming, and working until the words be forming. People tell him that the sky is the limit. But Tunji is living for right now because he could die any minute. This life is turning the page. Learning to stay firm in your ways. Burning with rage. Learning only for the lessons. Roaming lonely through this Californian urban decay. Sometimes he wants to drift away.

Tune is grateful for the painful things that forced him to grow as a person because now he knows to head straight at that fork in the road. He learned from the best. If you love something and it’s really worth a damn, then you should always feel the passion like you first began.

Oh No is a xylophone driven jazz rap song with a nice lush percussion set. That nice lush percussion set is what makes the song so calming. Oh No was dedicated to all those people outside who can’t fucking mind their own business.

Talk is cheap. You mad weak. These people are acting like paparazzi. Saying what they saying day by day to try and stop Tunji. Smiling up in his face on his record release date. Gossip on computer screens. Always saying something that they see him chilling. Nobody be concerned with the drama. Just the karma. Now wait, look, most of y’all are too concerned with Facebook. Worry about the street instead of pictures that these snakes took.

He stays hungry like Ghandi. Kicking fat rhymes be his modus operandi. Don’t be exaggerating if you saying that you rap great. Making music that you’re feeling New York to New Zealand. Banging live beats out on the concrete jungle.

I rate this album 4/5****!!

Review: Jeru The Damaja – The Sun Rises In The East

Jeru The Damaja’s The Sun Rises In The East album has to be the most underrated album in Hip Hop/Rap history! The Sun Rises In The East contributed to the revival of interest in East Coast rap music due to the catchy saccharine jazzy sound. His in-depth intricate lyricism, along with the gritty sound of NYC hip hop, helped make this album a classic “must have” staple for DJ’s and music collectors. This album is easily 100 greatest hip-hop albums of all time.

DJ Premiere’s dope production skills on the album from start to finish. He is nearly all over the album. DJ Premiere was at a high point in the 90s and early 00s. Jeru’s debut album has that dope 90s sound to it because nearly all the tracks are sample crazy as a lot Hip Hop/Rap albums were in the 80s and 90s. No filler tracks and no filler material. You don’t get albums like this anymore! I can’t believe this fell off the radar! This is a must have!

Jeru wrote the song “My Mind Spray” because he wanted to show how ill he was and he wanted to take that to the next level. My Mind Spray is one of the best songs on the album along with Brooklyn Took It, You Can’t Stop The Prophet, Come Clean, Jungle Music, and Mental Stamina. My Mind Spray is one of the most memorable hip hop/rap songs with quotable dialogue. Jeru said the most quotable shit in this song. Premier does his thing again like only he can.

Jeru annihilates as he articulates words of power. Your rhymes are unconfounding so death’s your fate. Jeru is an ostentatious genius of rapping. He is here to take hip hop back. That’s what’s happening. With proficiency and ingenuity. His formula’s deadly. Jeru is droppin’ his rhyme science like he is Imhotep. Application of mind over matter. Emcees try to touch the Damaja but just can’t win because he is excellent with the word play. Lyrically he can’t be stopped.

There is thunder on your Dome with no help from Mad Max. Lyrics like hype tattoos go over the dope tracks. We know the intentions of MC kleptomaniacs. Rap brainiacs have cardiacs soon after the attack. When it comes to rhymin’, Jeru the Damaja slams harder than Shaq. He is more complex than an almanac.

These were some of the most quotable lyrics that he said during the song.

I annihilate, as I articulate
Words of power, your rhymes are unconfounding so death’s your fate
Ostentatious genius, of rappin
Is mentally clappin to take hip-hop back, thats what’s happenin
Proficiency and ingenuity

Emcees try to touch the Damaja but you just can’t win
Excellent with the word play, you lay
Face down, when my, mind spray

Droppin’ my rhyme science like I’m Imhotep
Application of mind over matter
Made fools scatter, rhymes fatter, minds splatter

Reach into my bag of darkness and spark this like an arsonist
Blow it up like a terrorist

Lyrics like hype tattoos go over the dope tracks
When it comes to rhymin’, I slam harder than Shaq
Mentally you can’t talk to me, hear me, or see me
From, street blocks to cell blocks, my vo-cals rock
If your honey’s a Queen, I’ll sex her
More important the mind strikes, like the nine strikes
A priest by May, you reach for your uz-ay, when my mind spray
Your girl bend over and over and over
Lyrical kung-fu so do your kung-fu if you know kung-fu
Shoot up jams without the aid of lead projectiles
Complex yet simple like Mixelplix
Reach into my bag of darkness and spark this like an arsonist

Jeru the Damaja talks about how the borough of Brooklyn keeps on taking over the hip hop/rap scene and dominating the charts on Brooklyn Took It. Jeru came here to tell us that Brooklyn is back on the map. At this time rappers such as KRS-One, Big Daddy Kane, Dana Dane, Lil Kim, Queen Pen, Just-Ice, and AZ were taking over the charts in the music industry in the mid-90s. You know the saying. Brooklyn keeps on taking it. Jeru’s rhymes on beats strategically. He can melt any MC.

Brooklyn’s back on the map. Jeru the Damaja is not bragging. Brooklyn has been banging making noise from the US to Russia causing havoc. You couldn’t stop it even if you wanted. Record companies are on it. So niggas be having mad maws and shit because Brooklyn stole the show like a grand larcenist. Brooklyn took land from town to town. (Crooklyn took land from town to town.) Brooklyn keeps on taking it.

This one is for Brooklyn.. Land of the crooks. Home of his game. Here’s the remedy for all your cornball raps. Jeru the Damaja is defeating all foes as he stomps out the last dragon. MCs set them all on fire scooping up the fly ladies. Round his microphone like a Mercedes. Jeru the Damaja holds his own on the street and the microphone. Chicks gravitate towards the crooked streets and grimey sounds of Brooklyn, New York. If your props are gone, then Brooklyn took it.

You Can’t Stop The Prophet is one of the most memorable hip hop/rap songs with quotable dialogue. Jeru said the most quotable shit in this song. Those lyrics get people every time. The lyrics and the delivery are out of this world. The song also displayed his storytelling ability using a range of emotions and concepts.

These were some of the most quotable lyrics that he said during the song.

When the clippers touched my hair, they blew the fuck up
After the explosion there was no one left

One day I got struck by Knowledge of Self
It gave me super-scientifical powers

Then I hit ’em in the heart with sharp steel bookmarks
Ignorance hates when I drop it
But no matter what he do he can’t stop the Prophet

When I awoke I was locked in the barber’s shop
Trapped in the barber’s chair
Oh no, they’re gonna try and cut my hair
But that can’t stop the Prophet

One day I got struck by Knowledge of Self
Then I hit ’em in the heart with sharp steel bookmarks
He had babies havin’ babies – and young niggas sellin’ crack
Ignorance hates when I drop it
I can smell it, but Ignorance is runnin’ rampant
Let’s continue the saga, mad mad drama
But no matter what he do he can’t stop the Prophet
After the explosion there was no one left
So I hops up on the A-Train, I’m bein’ followed
And he brought a mob along, it’s the same old song
When I awoke I was locked in the barber’s shop
When the clippers touched my hair, they blew the fuck up
I hear a hissin’ sound, I smell a funny smell

I rate this album 5/5*****!!

Review: Jeru The Damaja – Wrath of The Math

Jeru The Damaja – Wrath of The Math has to be the most underrated album in Hip Hop/Rap history! In fact, Wrath of The Math was more overlooked than Jeru’s debut album from 1995. DJ Premiere’s dope production skills are all over this album from start to finish as he was on Jeru’s debut album. DJ Premiere was at a high point in the 90s and early 00s. It has that dope 90s sound to it because nearly all the tracks are sample crazy as a lot Hip Hop/Rap albums were in the 80s and 90s. Unsurprisingly the album is sample crazy as lot were during that era. Wrath of The Math picks up where Jeru left off on his first album. This album was blazing hot as the last one was as there are no filler tracks and no filler material. You don’t get albums like this anymore!

The title track discusses the power and influence the mind has on you or the power and influence you have over it. Let us now discuss the mental attitude. The mental state must always stay calm. You must let nothing move you be it good or bad. You have the power to form and shape. So now witness the wrath of the math.

In the song Scientifical Madness, Jeru uses scientific comparisons and metaphors to twist the meaning of this line into a double entendre talking both about songwriting ability and literal science. Jeru’s lyrical ability is so intellectual to the point of being considered scientific. The song can be described as being self-scientific.

Jeru explains how he is not your average nigga on Average Nigga. He is not your average nigga when it comes to dealing with these chicks. He explained his experiences in dealing with different women and his experiences of being in different types of relationships. Yo these honeys be on some shit for real.

Jeru met this honey named Yolanda. You would not believe the things that he told her. She had potential. People would usually see Jeru and Yolanda around town. She had this way that was so sexy. Her rear end was just so nice and juicy. Every time he think about it makes him woozy. Plus a mind that you would not believe.

Jeru and Yolanda dragged their feet on the concept of them both dating together and being on a date together. They waited and waited. Jeru started to wonder if he would ever get in with the invitation. Finally the invitation was extended. With that, he said “Mi casa es su casa” and “Meet me at my pad tomorrow about six o’clock”. There was no question by the next day they were kissing and caressing each other.

Before long, they start to undress. With that he pulls out a pack of condoms. She looks him dead in the eye and says “What’s that?” Jeru said, “Don’t tell me you don’t know what condoms is for.” She says, “Yeah, but the average nigga’ll love to hit it raw.” Jeru tells Yolanda, “I’m not your average nigga.”

Jeru met this honey named Tamika at The Tunnel in New York City, New York. He got her name and number. His intentions were more than just to fuck her. He said, “Girlfriend, I just wonder. Could you come home with me?” She responded with the quickness by saying yes and complying with his demand. He said, “Girlfriend, I just wonder. Could you come home with me?” She responded with the quickness by saying yes and complying with his demand.

They discussed the place of their meeting when they planned to hook up the following weekend. Tamika said, “Come to my projects. Sometimes niggas be buggin. But I got mad respect.” So like a dummy, he went to scoop up this young honey. Gassed up by the fat ass and flat tummy.

But when he rolled up, it started to look just like a set-up. Now he is mad hot. But he played it cool this time. He recognized one nigga he used to run with in high school. Jeru asked he knew the whereabouts of Tamika. He said, “Yeah I know the whore.” Jeru got on the elevator with him and he led Jeru to her door. When he rung the bell, she was mad surprised. She flung the door wide open with a wild look in her eyes. Then Jeru told Tamika, “Girlfriend, I’m not your average nigga.”

Jeru met this honey named Sabrina. He thought that this time this one would be the Queen of his dreams. But you know how that goes.

One day he was outside her door and they were talking about how her ex-boyfriend was stalking her. She said she thought she saw him when they were walking. Jeru told her, “Don’t worry about it. Put that shit on the side and slide up in the crib. Don’t sweat it, he’s probably just rappin’.” She’s still shook up about what happened. She said, “Little do you know. Last week he threw a brick threw my bedroom window.” Jeru downplays the situation and doubts her by telling her, “Whatever, I don’t think he’s that crazy.” She said, “You never, know where he may be.”

Then all of a sudden out of nowhere, the crazy motherfucker jumped out on Jeru. Jeru made him melt with a blow to the head. Before he bounced, this is what he said, “Yo, I’m not your average nigga.”

I rate this album 4/5****!

Review: Club Des Belugas – Forward

Club Des Belugas – Forward is a beautiful modern electro swing album where jazz meets electronic music. A old fashioned pinch of swing jazz can be heard on songs such as Desperately Trying – Swing Mix and Glorious Beach Livin’. You also have jazzy romantic love songs such as Sweet Lovin’.

Glorious Beach Livin’ is about wanting a glorious beach living which is a relaxing life on the beach while living in paradise. Glorious Beach Livin’ is an upbeat swing jazz song which follows an uptempo pace.

Hand in hand, we walk along our sandy path to the glorious beach while humming a song in tune and harmony. Hearing the waves crash against the shore. Yes, we have come home for a glorious beach living. A glorious beach living is something that would be marvelous. That is what I’ve been waiting for.

I have no words to explain how much I hate that bloody rain and the nasty wind that creeps under my skin I want to live right by the sea with our children playing under old pine trees on the beach. So that is where we would be staying.

It’s the same each year and the years to come despite global warming and climate change. When the sun burns the leaves, it’s time to go home.The autumn is such a ruthless thief. Let’s save the tears and keep the bliss. This could be home.

Sweet Lovin’ is an upbeat swing jazz song which is obviously a love song about divine love. The song tells us there are so many different ways to love.

There are so many different ways to love. As many as the stars above but you love me just the right way. I feel it in every word that you say. Baby, we’ve got somethin’ fine. I can’t believe I’ve found such a divine love.

Now I know you feel the same way too because no one’s loving is as sweet as is loving you. Sweet love is sweet loving. There are so many different ways to love. I just need you here right by my side. Waiting with my arms open wide.

Each day is a gift. Our love so true. I’m just ashamed of my self without you. Sometimes it’s hard to love some. But there are so many different ways to show love. I already found my other half and I’ll never give it back. After every dark night there will be a dawn. And we’ll find that we have grown in the morning light.

There are so many different ways to leave. There are so many ways to grieve Oh babe, I couldn’t live without you. So let nothing come between us two.

Desperately Trying – Swing Mix is about a couple trying to move on and doing what’s best for them in their relationship.

It never feels at home when he’s with her. That is what he told her when he left her. Leaving her desperately trying to understand what went wrong.

She is desperately trying to find a home for him to move to. They are desperately trying to find a place for them to stay. He said he never really got through to her and that she never opened up emotionally. This is the truth.

She lost her trust on the way. Since he’s gone, she is sinking deeper into who she really is. Now she is brave enough to show what’s inside but it’s too late. He said he never loved her. That he always stopped for his feelings to grow. She went on hoping for things to change.

Since he is gone, she keeps on finding out all these little things about him. Realizing that he was always there with us. Looking back she has to admit that things went wrong long ago. She is desperately trying to cleanse myself of all these lies. However she is scared that she is going to love him until the day she dies.

I shouldn’t I wouldn’t (Club Des Belugas Remix) is about wanting material things you really want but don’t really need. Material things such as clothing and food.

This lady is walking down the street. She sees a great dress in the shop window. She goes into the clothing store to try on the great dress that is displayed in the shop window. The great dress that is displayed in the shop window fits like a glove. An entertaining jacket is on a hanger too.

She spots ice cream shoppe with the best source of ice. One more shouldn’t matter. But which one shall she take? Strawberry colour black and just a lil bit of cream? She shouldn’t. Now this lady wants 3 glasses of wine. The 4th glass of wine smiles at her. Jeff’s car lies on the street. She sees his brand new car which brightly sparkles and gleams without any scratch.

I rate this album 4/5****!!

Review: Clare Fader – The Elephant’s Baby

Clare Fader – The Elephant’s Baby is a smooth soothing jazz album perfect for a cabaret or a dance performance. The songs follow a dance routine based on how the instrumentation is programmed and arranged. Much of her album uses live big band jazz instrumentation and music from the Vaudeville era. That is where that Vaudeville sound comes from. However some of the songs have a slow tempo such as Queen and The Wine. A bit of electro swing is used on the album.

The song Queen is about a beauty queen who life is a drag even though she is a seductress that sleeps with many men. The song Queen is a slow paced slow tempo electro swing song with a jazzy soundscape and sophisticated instrumentation.

This beauty queen is sitting in a coffee shop sucking on a lemon drop waiting for her watch to stop while days are dragging on. She draws her own apocalypse between her blood-red ruby lips and holds it in her fingertips. She calls her life a drag. Her slip begins to show. Do you suppose she knows that her colorful clothing clashes? Do you suppose she knows that her cigarette’s dripping its ashes?

She’s all Claire longs to be. She’s lost amid the smoke filled air. Her life’s a game of solitaire staring though there’s nothing there in a smoke ring of thorns. But lady luck don’t linger long. Throw your ace before she’s gone. Before you reach your denouement. Your final curtain call.

She hums a tune that haunts her head. She wanders why she left her bed because tomorrow’s just a day to dread as pipe dreams fade away as she lights another cigarette. Is she ready to cash in on a life long debt yet and kiss this world goodbye?

Isle Of Summer is a fantasy based jazz song with a charming cast of characters such as the maiden with tornado curls who is quite mischievous and seductive.

Come and buy illusions on the isle of delusions. Place your faith and all your trust in the gods of wanderlust. Your paper money won’t get you far. Neither will your tin can car. Pack your tireless bag of tricks. Pawn your books and candle sticks. Come as you are in your tin can car. Leave with the money from your old jam jar.

Come if you dare to the lovely Isle of Summer. There’s a charming cast of characters. All castaways and scavengers are so faithful to their island queen who doles them out a daily dream. Her hands are adorned with gypsy jewels. Her golden words are adored by fools bearing gifts from dollar stores. She welcomes you upon her shores.

The maiden with tornado curls is more beautiful than other girls. She lives at the end of hairpin bend and knows how to blow your fears away with potions spun of alchemy. She calls you from her balcony. Her laughter lingers in your ear. Her smile is the sweetest souvenir. The maiden with tornado curls is a part of the charming cast of characters in this song along with the queen.

The Wine explained how Clare immersed herself in the sin of drinking alcoholic beverage which she has developed a dependency on. Her whole life has been a torrid affair because she’s had too many bottles of gin.

There are three hundred steps to Clare’s bed. Clare has had too many bottles of wine. Maybe she’ll sit here and rest for a while. And then she’ll be fine for her climb. Don’t blame the wine. Blame the man who sleeps in her bed.

Tonight Clare will sleep on the beach because she has had too many bottles of rum. Maybe she’ll sit here and rest for a while. And wait for the dawn of the sun to arrive.

Her whole life has been a torrid affair because she’s had too many bottles of gin. Marriage and babies were never for her. But neither is living in sin. She says to not blame the gin that has forsaken her. But instead to blame the man who sleeps in her bed.

What’s interesting about this electro swing song is that there are portions of the lyrics that are sung in the German language. That is quite rare and unique given how there are not many electro swing songs sung in the German language on an international scale.

These were the lyrics sung in the German language.

Es gibt dreihundert Stufen zu meinem Bett
Und ich hatte zu viele Flaschen Wein
Vielleicht sitze ich hier und ruhe mich eine Weile aus
Und dann geht es mir gut für meinen Aufstieg

Heute Nacht werde ich am Strand schlafen
Weil ich zu viele Flaschen Rum hatte
Vielleicht sitze ich hier und ruhe mich eine Weile aus
Und warte auf den Sonnenaufgang

Mein ganzes Leben war eine toride Angelegenheit
Weil ich zu viele Flaschen Gin hatte
Ehe und Babys waren nie für mich
Aber keiner lebt in Sünde

Here is an English translation from the German lyrics from a German to English translation.

Es gibt dreihundert Stufen zu meinem Bett
Und ich hatte zu viele Flaschen Wein
Vielleicht sitze ich hier und ruhe mich eine Weile aus
Und dann geht es mir gut für meinen Aufstieg

There are three hundred steps to my bed
And I’ve had too many bottles of wine
Maybe I’ll sit here and rest for a while
And then I’ll be fine for my climb

Heute Nacht werde ich am Strand schlafen
Weil ich zu viele Flaschen Rum hatte
Vielleicht sitze ich hier und ruhe mich eine Weile aus
Und warte auf den Sonnenaufgang

Tonight I will sleep on the beach
‘Cause I’ve had too many bottles of rum
Maybe I’ll sit here and rest for a while
And wait for the dawn of the sun

Mein ganzes Leben war eine toride Angelegenheit
Weil ich zu viele Flaschen Gin hatte
Ehe und Babys waren nie für mich
Aber keiner lebt in Sünde

My whole life’s been a torid affair
‘Cause I’ve had too many bottles of gin
Marriage and babies were never for me
But neither is living in sin

I rate this album 5/5*****!

Review: Ellen Pels – From A To B

Ellen Pels – From A To B is a heartfelt profound vocal jazz album with smooth jazz melodies and unusual harmonies which she calls Spiri-Jazz. Her album has a significant touch of spiritual jazz with a rich spirit. Blend in the musical styles of spiritual jazz, acid jazz, smooth jazz, big band, pop, and piano jazz, and you have this great album. This collection of vocal jazz includes every dimension of her voice. There are also live recordings sprinkled here and there.

Lullaby is a slow tempo soothing spiritual jazz song with smooth jazz melodies provided by a violin. This song is intended to ease the spirit and soul. Future generations will come to appreciate this song. Her soothing vocals slowly sedate you into a state of sleep. Her song Lullaby was recorded live at Odeon Theatre with the Red Limo String Quartet.

Ellen sings this lullaby for you to ease you into sleep. To pave the way for happy dreams instead of counting sheep. Beneath these quilts in this bed you rest instead of staring at the wall with copper posts and all. Her soothing hand slowly sedates and quietens your mind. Just leave all those burdens and those weights behind. Trust that you are cared for. Know you are secure in your sleepy hollow. Relax your body and your soul. Let go of all your hurt. Let grace replenish your soul and heart.

Notre Dame (Live at Wedgeview Studios) is a song about the tragic event which a fire that occurred during the restoration of the Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral in Paris, France on the date of April 15, 2019.

The Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral collapsed in ruins after she went down in flames. People held their breath she went down in flames. The treasures were burnt and the relics were destroyed. The museum rang to ask for some help. So money was generously donated by generous and caring people. This was the right thing to be doing. And receive well-deserved reverence.

A Hundred Thousand Questions is one of the more environmentally conscious songs on the album where Ellen question what we will do to tackle issues such as air pollution for instance.

Overwrought and overwhelmed, Ellen often lays awake at night. She has a hundred thousand questions for the world about industrial revolution and air pollution.

If we don’t take action now, mass extinction will be our plight. Overheating will be the trend. That is what will happen if we continue this befouling. Tomorrow brings another day and she will struggle through. She’ll persist in finding promise. A guiding light to hold on to. She has a hundred thousand questions for the world about how we can make changes for this Earth that you love too. The changes and renewal. Trust the force within you. Nothing is too strange. Believe that it can happen. Know that things can change.

Leader of My Band is about Ellen taking control of her life and knowing every step is new, unknown, and scary. The song combats dealing with the unknown. Dealing with the unknown is the theme of the song Leader of My Band. Beautiful melodies fill the air with delight. The saxophone makes the song very jazzy.

Ellen is wondering about her life and how things go. She finds a few facts and surprises along the way. She casually learning how to go with the flow and stand in awe of she is today. Ellen may not be a success overnight, but every step feels like her playground. Ellen is the leader of the band. Child of the king. Every moment of this adventure is wild. Every step is new, unknown, and scary.

When Ellen looks back, she is proud of what she has achieved with her accomplishments. She would never have believed that she could ever have summoned a crowd. She feels pleased because of this.

Walking is a typical slice of life song about daily life that was written by Ellen herself. This is quite a refreshing smooth jazz song. The song use a soothing flute solo at the beginning that is so soothing.

Walking along this quiet path, Ellen looks around and sees the trees, bees, and lovely flowers. In the distance very far away, there’s a summit for her to visit. Walking along this busy road, there’s so much going on. The people, the buildings, and the many cars. That summit seems out of sight. She nearly loses her way. Thankfully help comes from the stars. It sure has been an adventure walking along this rocky path. Honestly it was quite a pleasure.

Ellen shows us how she stands her ground and is fearless on her live recording of Eye of the Storm which was recorded live at Wisseloord Studios with the Stageband Jazz Orchestra. She fights her fate during the song. The song is a self-fulfilling prophecy created by her mind.

Ellen is standing in the eye of the storm while the world around her rages violently as she have done for many ages. Her feet rooted in the ground and her head is held high. Feeling the love that surrounds her while she watches the rubble fly. As she watches the anger feel the loathing and hate. Ellen can see the colours fading as she fights her fate. The self-fulfilling prophecy created by her mind seems to be reflected in the future of mankind.

I rate this album 5/5*****!