Q-Tip - Abstract Innovations

Last year's The Renaissance was easily one of the year's top releases. However, that was not the initial album that Q-Tip wanted to release. The album he wanted was rejected by the record company. This was nothing foreign to Q-Tip. Following his debut Amplified he handed his label Kamaal/The Abstract which they promptly refused to release. Now, after realizing that Q-Tip has a fine taste for more, well, abstract sounds, Battery Records will be releasing Kamaal/The Abstract later this year. Here, however, is the album Q wanted to release that later became The Renaissance (some of the tracks here made it to the final product).

Q-Tip - Abstract Innovations

Paper Route Gangstaz - "Keyshia Cole"

Diplo approved Alabama rap group Paper Route Gangstaz may not be with an official release but they have enough material out there to create a nice little fanbase (and knowing/collaborating with Diplo cannot hurt). Prepping for their debut PRG has released a single that is, well, it's simply a weed song. Lyrics don't extend too far beyond driving around, getting high, and giving cannabis an array of odd nicknames. This viral video is merely a splicing of various pot-toking moments in a wide range of movies/TV. From the obvious (Half Baked, Up In Smoke) to the "well, ok" region (lots of Grandma's Boy clips) to the downright odd (some clip of giant weed plants smoking weed, not sure what it's from), the video makes its point very bluntly.

Super Chron Flight Brothers - Indonesia

The band's name and album's title shall give a hint as to a favorite past-time of these Brooklynites. Indonesia was recently released as a free download by the duo (Billy Woods and Priviledge) so it should not be viewed as an official followup to 2007's killer Emergency Powers. With lyrics that focus on not only the pot but also a conspiracy theorist's approach to just about everything, this is a dense release (El-P fans take heed). But the lyrics found here are undeniably tight and the chilly sci-fi production isn't too shabby either (the Interpol sampled song "The Big East" alone is worth checking out).

Super Chron Flight Brothers - Indonesia

Lushlife - "Dead Presidents"

Thus far in 2009 there have been a number of hip-hop releases worth mentioning but there is one that will go under the radar of far too many: Lushlife's Cassette City. This geeky looking Philly hipster has crafted easily one of the year's better hip-hop albums. This here is just a little example of the talent this cat possess as he plays Jay-Z's awesome track "Dead Presidents" from his debut (with the infamous Nas sample) on the piano and sing. Although the syncing is off there is no doubt that this dork knows how to play the piano (one of many of the instruments he can handle). And check out Cassette City it is a great album that deserves all the attention it can get.

Clutch - Strange Cousins From the West

The members of Clutch are creatures of habit. Their latest release (being number nine) dive right back into the formula which has kept them around for so long (that and their seemingly constant touring). Southern-rock riffs, lyrics about history and odd mythology, as well as distorted guitar solos all equal yet another Clutch album. And that is not a bad thing. They have created a sound that is unquestionably their own. Gone on this album, however, is the addition of keys and a lack of a funk sound. Instead, the members crack up the riff factor (almost ignoring straight power chords for a majority of the album). And in that aspect they have retained their metal roots. Singer Neil Fallon's voice suites the sounds on this album perfectly as the utilize a more bluesy throughout (the opener "Motherless Child"). With Fallon's occasional hard-luck stories ("Let a Poor Man Be" is the prime example of the album's sound) accompanied with the bluesy licks, it's hard to deny the blues influence that has permeated the band's sound in the last few albums. But in the end, it is what it is: a Clutch album. And upon starting it you are whisked away into a dive-bar somewhere in the south where the whiskey is readily available and the air extra smokey. Good times soon follow.

4.0/5.0

Clutch - Strange Cousins From the West

Brother Ali - "Us"

Without question one of the (if not the absolute) best emcees right now (and maybe ever when his career is over), Brother Ali has announced that come September 22, he will be releasing his third LP entitled Us. This little sample is just enough to entice fans of the excellentness that will be this album. Plus, those unfamiliar should do themselves a favor and become familiar. Albino rappers worldwide lookout: the king is back.

Iggy Pop - Preliminaires

Best known for his stint with The Stooges, insane stage antics, and shirtless, well-defined bod (which has grown leathery with time), Iggy Pop has been an icon for thirty-odd years. If there were ever someone who could rock at the drop of a dime, it's Iggy. But then we have his latest effort Preliminaires. And from the opening track, you are left wondering if you grabbed the right cd or did you accidently snatch your copy of crappy, 60s French pop. The opening track is a jazz-inspired piece of French pop (complete with Iggy in French!). Although the French-sounding trend does not dominate the album (there is a duet with Iggy and some chick whispering in French), his crooning, baritone vocals do. And crooning is not Iggy's niche. This album is Iggy's attempt to show the masses he is not merely a rocker but can make music outside his comfort zone. Preliminaires is his project that shows he can but there is one problem: it's just not that good. He runs the spectrum on this album from the aforementioned French pop numbers (which bookend the album) to New Orleans jazz (one of the better tracks in "King of the Dogs") to lo-fi ("He's Dead/She's Alive") and even dabbling in a little spoken word with the man's-best-friend/what-is-love song "A Machine For Loving." While the lyrics are completely Iggy, the soundscape in which they are added (sans "Nice To Be Dead") and his wannabe crooner vocals are not. As an artist, it is important to try new things; the problem with that is failing. And unfortunately this attempt by Iggy to step outside his realm is, simply put, a failure.

2.7/5.0

Iggy Pop - Preliminaires

Pill - "Trap Goin' Ham"

OK. So my whiteness kicked in immediately in trying to decipher what the title of this song means. After a few wikipedia and urban dictionary searches I think I know but not going to say so in fear of getting it way wrong and further solidifying my "white man status." Not the greatest song (does have a sweet Beastie Boys sample) the video, however, is awesome. Check it out and also read about the video shoot. It's ridiculous.

http://mauricegarland.blogspot.com/2009/06/pill-trap-goin-ham-video-shoot-photos.html

Dethklok

One of the greatest "visual bands" of all time, Dethklok (of the Adult Swim show Metalocalypse) released their first album back in 2007. And here I have included the bonus disc that came with the deluxe editions (complete with their excellent coffee jingle). A second album has been completed and a release date for September revealed with a tour to be followed. Although mocking the genre, Brendon Small (show creator and leader of the band) knows how to write great riffs and metal songs in general. Fans of the show and/or the genre need apply.

Dethklok - Bonus CD

Clipse - "Kinda Like a Big Deal"

Hell Hath No Fury is a classic. Twenty years from now it will be an album that will regularly come up in conversations about greatest hip hop albums of all time. Now, three years down the road, the duo Clipse is prepping their third album (although they have been releasing mixtapes regularly via The Re-Up Gang) and if this single is any kind of example of what the album will be like then they are lining themselves to release another classic. Kanye drops by for a verse on this one and the trio (over a killer beat) absolutely slay the track. Til the Casket Drops: cannot wait.

Wiz Khalifa - Flight School

After two years of never releasing a release for Warner Bros., Pittsburgh's Wiz Khalifa opted to leave the record company earlier this month. Because of numerous delays, this major label debut was never dropped. Although still without a date, that has not stopped Wiz from releasing new material. Issued through Rostrum Records (who has released previous Wiz mixtapes), Flight School is a mixtape that showcases Wiz's lyrics as well as his penchant for Auto-Tune vocals and slow, bass heavy beats. A little long on length (and complete with interludes), this mixtape is a nice introduction to thus unfamiliar with (arguably) Pittsburgh's finest.

Wiz Khalifa - Flight School

Krizz Kaliko - "Misunderstood"

Ah, the hype-man. Flavor Flav paved the way for semi-talented-individuals-with-supremely-talented-friends-dudes who want to get their name out there. Krizz Kaliko might be better known as the hype-man for the twisted (minded and tounged) Kansas City rapper Tech N9ne but he is also a solo artist himself (thanks to N9ne). This funky single has a downright soulful groove that interweaves Kaliko's rapid wordplay with its excellent production. The video (playing on the hilarious concept of the deranged undertaker) has Kaliko playing the righteous bandleader as well as the aforementioned deranged undertaker while doing his thing over a groove that Andre 3000 would have to tip his fedora to. Results: excellent track and a, well, a music video.

The Love Language - The Love Language

The term "lo-fi" to describe an album's sound is thrown around way too often today in terms of describing a band's style. The origins come from the idea that an artist so much wants their music available that they record it via supremely cheap means (4-track cassette recorder is a fave) in order to get it out there. However, with The Love Language's self-titled debut (although it is all solely one man, Stuart McLamb) serves as both an homage to the original lo-fi recordings as well as a damn fine release on its own. A severely talented songwriter, McLamb (er, Love Language) creates a soundscape that perfectly accompanies his excellent lyrics. From the waltz of "Manteo" to the twang of "Stars" to the downright sad barroom ballad "Two Rabbits," the Love Language (er, McLamb) sound perfectly in place with each of the album's nine tracks. Through very down-home instrumentation (as well as the lo-fi staple that is over-fuzzed vocals (which, as opposed to the latest so-called lo-fi "music" of Waaves and Times New Viking) are intelligable) the album never strays to the point of obscurity and remains a very focused effort. A promising release from a band who with the help of very little has pretty something very grand.

4.2/5.0

The Love Language - The Love Language

88-Keys - "The Friends Zone"

Last year producer/rapper 88-Keys released an excellent album that went under the radar of most folks: The Death of Adam. It was a story album that had great tracks, great interludes, and great guest appearances. This single from that release takes us back to the days of high school. While not the best track on that album, the video is a funny little slice of truth that is all too familiar for guys worldwide: The Friends Zone.

Portugal. The Man - Satanic Satanist

Portugal. The Man (yes, there is supposed to be a period in the name) have released the perfect summer album here. Yet, instead of releasing it on the cusp on the season (ie., May or even June), their latest comes at the tail end of July. This little album is ideal for a summer listening session. Channeling their R & B ghosts, the buddies of PTM infuse falsetto vocals, catchy rhythms, and down the earth lyrics to Satanic Satanist (a very odd title considering the album's flow). This short album borrows heavily from a "laidback" style that is old school R & B. Along the way, the more experimental aspects of PTM make appearances as there are odd little psychedelic-inspired jams and a little doo-wop-esque oohs and ahhs. Although not going to leave any kind of lasting impression, it will keep you in a good mood during the album's 30ish minutes. So throw it on and enjoy the waning days of summer.

3.5/5.0

Portugal. The Man - Satanic Satanist

Jay-Z + J-Dilla

The latest "What if?" Jay-Z project has the legend Hov rapping over the late producer J-Dilla's productions. While nothing special or groundbreaking (such as The Grey Album or Jaydiohead) it is a cool little listen. The songs here work and provoke you to actually think about what if these two did collaborate? And what would have come of it? What if...

Jay-Z + J-Dilla

Kid Cudi - "Make Her Say"

Thumping with a definitive Kanye West beat, a ridiculous sample (courtesy of Lady Gaga) used for the chorus, and solid verses all around make this a track definitely worth checking out. Continuing to build on his word of mouth (and success with "Day 'n' Nite"), hype is reaching an apex for Kid Cudi's debut (set for an August 25th release). Whereas Day 'n' Nite is more a club song, this one showcases his ability to rap as he outshines two well-established MCs in Common (who has been steadily slipping for years now while building his, ahem, "acting career") and Kanye.

Sage Francis - Sick of Wasting...

The greatest rapper to emerge from Rhode Island has been steadily releasing albums for the last decade. Among his official releases, Sage has also dropped a number of titles for his "Sick of..." mixtape series. The latest, Sick of Wasting...is made up of tracks from this year as well as from as far back as 1996 (when Sage was only twenty years old). With a little help from friend Buck 65 (who contributed beats to about half the tracks here), Sage continues to display his amazing ability to rap about damn near anything. And do it at a level above most.

Sage Francis - Sick of Wasting...

A Serious Announcement From Adam Yauch

Best wishes. And get well soon.

Elvis Perkins in Dearland - Elvis Perkins in Dearland

The sophomore effort from Elvis Perkins (son of Norman Bates (Anthony Perkins)) is a lighter affair than his lyrically heavy 2007 debut Ash Wednesday. Elvis Perkins in Dearland is a kind of ode to Americana. Also along with Perkins this time is a very deft band to help in creating his nod to the more classic forms of American music. This organic sound is prevalent from the very first track (album's intro is accompanied by bird noises and general "outdoor sounds"). In addition to the obvious acknowledgment of Americana, Perkins also occasionally delves into a southern goth-style (lyrically). This style is most noticeable on the track"I'll Be Arriving" with its darker tone and overall feeling. But overall things are rather simplistic in feel and mood. An array of more traditional instruments (in terms of this rootsy style) are utilized here: organs, acoustic guitars, bass drums, and even New Orleans-style horns (the very Orleans-esque "Doomsday") all make appearances during the album's run. And although Perkins has crafted a fine album that serves as a tribute to the singer/songwriters and early artists that Perkins grew up listening to, it cannot be taken as much more than that; a nice little tribute of an album that showcases a young, promising singer paying respect to those who influenced him.

3.4/5.0

Elvis Perkins in Dearland - Elvis Perkins in Dearland

Passion Pit - "To Kingdom Come"

Passion Pit's 2009 Manners has remained one of the year's finest releases. And here is another of their arty videos for their latest single. This one involves the band dressed up in zany facial hair styles and playing the part of ancient scientists and something about global warming. Or something. Anyways. It's pretty cool and it's one of the better tracks from their latest.

Beastie Boys - New York State of Mind

What can be said about the greatest hip hop group ever that hasn't been uttered a thousand times already? Nothing. Here we have New York DJ Green Lantern (a mixtape guru) adding a little flavor to some of the Beastie's classics. Although not improving on any of the songs (as they were all perfect in their first go-round) it is, nevertheless, an interesting listen.

FYI - September 15, 2009. New B-Boys album. First of a two part release...

Beastie Boys - New York State of Mind

Dirty Projectors - "Stillness Is the Move"

The latest video from experimental pop group the Dirty Projectors is an arty take on a hip hop/R & B video. Instead of hot chicks in bikinis singing and shaking it, here you have (I going to be polite and say) attractive girls in flowing gowns and head-dresses. Instead of a beach or club, they have opted for the mountains. Pitbulls are replaced by llamas. And the "main man" is not a pimp or rich player but a Sherpa-like dude. Great track; definitely a highlight from their latest release Bitte Orca.

Side note: very cool white widescreen instead of usual black.

Bibio - Ambivalence Avenue

Ambivalence Avenue is Bibio's (Stephen Wilkinson) second release of 2009. In this day and age to release two album in two years is quite a feat; so two in six months is that much more impressive. Especially when it is as innovative as what Bibio has done here. The album is based heavily in the leftfield hip hop mold yet it adds other elements to its songs; that of gently strummed guitars, harmonizing vocals, and layers of added texture. Tracks such as "Halkuesque" and "S'Vive" fully embody this style of staggered hip hop based beats with a kind of dream pop experience. And when Bibio decides to chose one genre, whether it be hip hop (the excellent "Fire Ant" is, well, excellent) or the more mellow, dream pop style ("Lover's Cravings") Wilkinson does so with confidence. Among the setlist is even a song dragged straight out of the 70s soul archives in "Jealous of Roses" with its wah-wah guitar, high falsetto vocals, and a smooth bassline to capture its mood. And mood is the key element here. Bibio has created an excellent "headphones" album. With each listen (most noticeable with you headphones on), a layered soundscape is further unraveled. While not high on production values, that did not stop Wilkinson from constructing a perfect mood album that will have you wanting to listen again and again to saturate yourself in the mood that Bibio has established with Ambivalence Avenue.

4.1/5.0

Bibio - Ambivalence Avenue

Grizzly Bear - "Two Weeks"

Awhile back, an associate was raving about the latest Grizzly Bear release Veckatimest and how excellent it was. True; it is a good album. However, now at work I regularly hear this album and disdain has began towards it in general (as is the case with anything I am forced to repeatedly listen to at work). During the same conversation with said associate, it was recommended I check out the trippy video for "Two Weeks." I did. Excellent song. Trippy video.

Blu - HerFavoriteColo(u)r

Keeping up with his fellow "Freshman Class" (XXL magazine thing), Cali's Blu has released a mixtape in order to keep his hype out there. And he doesn't disappoint. Full of movie samples (including an excellent one from Closer) and smokey jazz snippets, Blu has produced a sweet little album (er, mixtape). Never dwelling too long on a track (the album last only about 30 minutes) Blu and his easy-style flow are sublime. Worth a listen to take you back to the good old days of "jazz rap" (see: A Tribe Called Quest, Gang Starr).

Blu - HerFavoriteColo(u)r

Major Lazer - Guns Don't Kill People...Lazers Do

Serving as U.S. ambassadors to foreign flavors of music, DJs Diplo and Switch have already become well established in their inclusion of Brazil's baile funk. Now, the two grammy nominated producers ("Paper Planes") have decided to give Jamaica's dancehall and reggae sounds a shot. Recorded at Tuff Gong's infamous studio, Major Lazer (the moniker the duo has recorded under) are joined by some of the dancehall/reggae genres bigger names in order to craft their debut Guns Don't Kill People...Lazers Do. From the outset, they let it be known that this isn't a gimmick but an honest attempt at making a great album. "Hold the Line" with its hectic soundscape and surf rock guitar start things off nicely. From there, true dancehall is brought to the forefront ("When You Hear the Bassline" and "Anything Goes") with a couple straight reggae tracks throw in (the excellent "Cash Flow"). Amongst all the basslines and (nearly) unrecognizable Jamaican growls (Turbulence is the shining star in this set) Diplo and Switch seem bored at times and just drop in random sound effects. Lazers (duh), cell phones, horses, chipmunk vocals, and even the Auto-Tune make appearances (with "Keep It "Goin' Louder" sounding like a U.S. club song with its generic Auto-Tune usage). Every heard an Auto-Tune baby? Thanks to Major Lazer we now have the capability. A fun listen from start to finish, the album has a frenetic pace which suites the genre nicely. Baile funk. Check. Dancehall. Check. What will be the next step for these two musical saavy DJs....

3.6/5.0

Major Lazer - Guns Don't Kill People...Lazers Do

The Dead Weather - "Treat Me Like Your Mother"

The latest single from the latest Jack White project (The Dead Weather) features White and Alison Mosshart sharing some quality onscreen time together. For four minutets, these two (I'm supposing) jilted lovers shoot each other to hell with automatic weapons. The video has a very cool look and feel courtesy of Jonathan Glazer (best known for his "moving room" video for Jamiroquai's "Virtual Insanity").

The Avalanches - After the Goldrush

Back in 2000, Australian DJ troupe The Avalanches released a monumental album, Since I Left You, that found it's way onto the top ten lists of hundreds of critics for the year. Much in the way that DJ Shadow four years prior crafted his epic Entroducing....., these Aussies built the entire album from hundreds of samples (story has it that over 3,000 samples were used). Still without a proper followup, they did release a mixtape earlier this year just to remind listeners that they are still together and a long-awaited sophomore album should be expected. Below is the ridiculous set of songs they sample throughout.

1 Bob Dylan - Why Do You Treat Me Like You Do?
2 Beach Boys - Matchpoint Of Our Love
3 Chemical Brothers - Star Guitar
4 KLF - 3 Am Eternal
5 Basement Jaxx - Light Your Lighter
6 Artist Unknown - Shady
7 Q Tip - Breathe And Stop
8 Aldo Bender- Acid Enlightenment
9 Thomas Bangalter - Turbo
10 Phoenix - If I Ever Feel Better (Todd Edwards "Dub Better" remix)
11 Mr Oizo - M Seq
12 Felix Da Housecat - Strobe
13 DJ Funk - Booty Perc-U-Later
14 BS 2000 - Nobody Beats BS 2000
15 DJ Funk - Every Freakin Day
16 Aphex Twin - Afx237 v7
17 Shimon & Andy C - Bodyrock
18 Avalanches - Frontier Psychiatrist
19 Bubba Sparxx - Ugly
20 Bobby Digital - Must Be Bobby
21 DJ Zinc - 138 Trek
22 Dr Dre - Forgot About Dre
23 Chemical Brothers - It Began In Africa
24 Underworld - Rez /Cowgirl
25 Guns N Roses - Welcome To The Jungle
26 Thomas Bangalter - Colossus
27 Mc5 - Tonite
28 Missy Elliot - Get Yr Freak On
29 George Michael - Faith
30 Destiny's Child - Jumpin Jumpin
31 Foundation Players - Fireball
32 Eminem - The Real Slim Shady
33 Xpress 2 - Smoke Machine
34 Missy Elliot - One Minute Man
35 J Walk - Soul Vibration
36 Princess Superstar - Wet Wet Wet
37 Queen - I Want To Break Free
38 Detroit Grand Pubahs - Sandwiches
39 Daft Punk - Oh Yeah
40 Hall And Oates - I Cant Go For That (No Can Do)
41 Aphex Twin - Windowlicker
42 Beach Boys - Johnny Carson

The Avalanches - After the Goldrush

Yim Yames - Tribute To

Yim Yames (aka Jim James, lead singer/guitarist for the excellent My Morning Jacket) has issued this simple EP as a tribute to George Harrison. Reworked here are six songs selected from Harrison's catalogue that get a simple, well-orchestrated revamping. Yames' trademark echoey vocals are still prevalent but instead of intricate guitar work as often is associated with MMJ, it is a far more low-key affair as it is mostly just an acoustic guitar (with the occasional piano or banjo) and Harrison's lyrics at the forefront. A beautiful little listen that will appease MMJ fans and entice for Yames/James' upcoming solo effort.

Yim Yames - Tribute To

Dirty Projectors - Bitte Orca

With their latest release, the Dirty Projectors (as led by Dave Longstreth) continue to make melodic yet wildly experimental pop music. From the opening track on, the Dirty Projectors have crafted an album which utilizes sweeping vocals, numerous variations on harmonies, lots of oohs and ahhs, intricately plucked string instruments, and supremely odd time signatures. And all is done without totally baffling the listener ("Stillness in the Move" is a prime example of how loosely Longstreth interprets the term "pop music"). Throughout the album's nine tracks, the musical spectrum shifts from the chamber pop to the bluesy to the funky (sometimes within the same song). However lofty and ambitious Bitte Orca tries to be, it is done in a concise and planned manner. While constantly on the verge of over-experimenting ("The Bride" is a weird (yet great) track that has the drums constantly trying to catch up with the guitars), Longstreth and Co. have kept things aligned so as to not completely abandon the average listener; yet still giving the musically knowledgeable (aka the music snob) something to give multiple listens to in order to fully comprehend its scope and structure.

3.6/5.0

Dirty Projectors - Bitte Orca

La Coka Nostra - The Audacity of Coke

Even though their debut is dropping next Tuesday, hip hop supergroup (Ill Bill, House of Pain (the entire trio), Slain) La Coka Nostra decided to give a little sample as to what fans can expect. To be expected, this is a raw, rough release. None of these songs will ever see legitimate radio airplay but this is some serious music. Women, violence, and drugs (plus lots more violence and drugs) are topics that these longtime rappers reflect on (and what's a cocaine album without the ambassador of "coke rap" Raekwon showing up to drop a verse). Interesting mixtape with great guest appearances.

La Coka Nostra - The Audacity of Coke

Ron Artest - Michael Michael

Email from Wale Fan #4

T,

If anyone can appreciate this, it is you. You have a pseudo forum to the music and hip-hop loving world, and they deserve to know this track actually exists. It's a Michael Jackson tribute from our boy, Ron "Sensitive Thug" Artest, titled "Michael Michael". The hook goes a lil something like this, "Michael, Michael, Michael, you my nigga!" And contains other diamonds of lyrical flow such as, "What would you do if it wasn't for my dude? And your dude, he's our dude, he's a real tight dude." HE JUST RHYMED DUDE WITH DUDE IN 4 STRAIGHT BARS! Let's see Jigga or our boy Wale top that! I have listened to this song at least 50 times today and after each listen, I've run the gamut of emotions. Happy because the Internet has allowed me free reign into the mind of Ron Artest, intrigued because I never realized how much MJ meant to the world, and scared because this may be THE sign of the impending apocalypse. If you could post this email along with the link too, that would be even hotter. One more Artest Michael Jackson tidbit for you. He will be wearing # 37 this year in honor of the number of weeks Thriller spent atop the Billboard charts. Start hoarding canned goods and bottled water now! Holla at your boy.

Bird

Wale - Paint a Picture

Mark the calendar. On September 22, Wale will release his debut album Attention: Deficit. Up until then fans will have to continue listening to his mixtapes to hold themselves over until the aforementioned date (friend of mine recently revealed that he has fallen in love with Wale's latest tape Back to the Feature). To help him (as well as other fans) holdover until September, here is Wale's first mixtape which was released in 2005. While not his finest effort (heavier R & B influence), the talent is evident even on this four-year-old release.

Wale - Paint a Picture

Cage - Depart From Me

Although only his third full-length as a solo artist, Cage has been a known rapper in NYC for over a decade (he was even dissed twice on Eminem's 1999 debut). Depart From Me is his long awaited follow-up to 2005's excellent Hell's Winter. On that album, Cage relayed very personal stories about his drug use, abusive father, and overall mental instability. And it didn't hurt to have a friend in El-P to help with the production (DJ Shadow even produced a track). However, with this latest release, Cage has decided to try a kind of rock sound. Gone are the dark and futuristic El-P beats and in its place are generic rock/rap trash as done by former Hatebreed guitarist F. Sean Martin. Big mistake. It is understandable to want to try and progress as an artist but why attempt to sing if you cannot. And that is what Cage attempts to do throughout the album. In fact, the first single "I Never Knew You" would not even be classified as a hip hop song. Lyrically, Cage is still as twisted and self-depreciating as ever ("Dr. Strong" draws from his own personal experiences with mental institutions), but there are for too many throwaway moments (trendy "indie rock" fused "Kick Rocks", the vampire song "Look At What You Did" and the punk of "Fat Kids Need An Anthem" to name but few) on Depart From Me to justify a successful album. When on, Cage is on (the all too short El-P produced "I Lost It In Haverton" is a highlight even though its running time in less than two minutes) but unfortunately, this time around he is rarely on. Maybe Cage should return to focusing on his music rather than his image (Shia LaBeouf and him are good friends with LaBeouf in talks of portraying him in a biographical film and even directing the music video for the previously mentioned "I Never Knew You"). Or perhaps Cage has just reached his potential and Depart From Me is a testament to his decline.

2.9/5.0

Cage - Depart From Me

Dead Prez - Pulse of the People

To call Dead Prez a "serious" hip hop group would be an understatement. Every verse that the duo of stic.man and M-1 write is meant to evoke thought. Whether it be the government (a favorite subject of theirs), religion, the media (also a hot topic), or even vegetarianism, these two stand behind each word 100%. Their latest mixtape (as put together by mixtape mastermind Green Lantern and the third in the "Turn Off the Radio" series) continues to spread their revolutionary word that first appeared in 2000's masterpiece Let's Get Free (hands down one of the greatest hip hop records ever released). Although nothing Dead Prez releases will hold a candle to their debut opus, they are, nevertheless, a group that can make you nod your head while contemplating their lyrics at the same time.

Dead Prez - Pulse of the People

White Denim - Fits

Some things are just difficult to label. Example: the Austin, Texas trio White Denim's latest release Fits. While only running 30-odd minutes, the album tears thru so many different styles, genres, studio tricks, and effects that the listener is bombarded by the sound they have crafted. However, that is not to say it comes off as overwhelming. By maintaining a (very, very loose) song structure, the tracks (and all that has been put into them) have an odd kind of coherency. Not everything found on Fits is chaotic; "I'd Have It Just the Way We Were" is a great song (in the traditional sense) with a perfect summer vibe and the album concludes melodically with "Syncn." Yet these are just two of the album's twelve tracks. Elsewhere you find swirling, psychedelic guitars coupled with R & B/soul-ish basslines (the upbeat yet soothing "I Start to Run") or a punk/blues inspired number complete with lyrics in Spanish ("El Hard Attack DCWYW"). But of all the genres touched upon during the album's playing time, the one constant underlying genre that White Denim seems most comfortable falling into is psychedelic rock (ie. see, "Mirrored and Reverse"). However, they never seem to settle into that vibe for long as these three dudes seem to suffer from an incredibly short attention span.

3.3/5.0

White Denim - Fits

J. Cole - The Warm Up

It's nice to have friends in high places. As a young rapper, J. Cole has made a great friend in his label head Jay-Z. As the first artist to sign onto Hova's Roc Nation record label, it is now just a matter of time until an album and subsequent notoriety falls to J. Cole. Until then, he has given the masses a taste of the talent that Jay-Z obviously recognized. The Warm Up (although extremely long) is a great introduction to a gifted rapper whose name will grace singles charts in the very near future.

J. Cole - The Warm Up

50 Cent - Forever King

As a crack-dealing, bullet-riddled, tattooed thug, it is hard to believe that one of 50 Cent's influences was Michael Jackson. Which song in Michael's catalogue suggested that one needed to hustle and deal drugs? Regardless, like so many others riding the Michael Jackson Death Train, 50 Cent has released another mixtape which was (supposedly) influenced by the late singer. Things start out promising with the opening tracks which explore the darker, tougher 50 while abandoning high-end production for a grittier one. However, things quickly take a turn for the worst as various R & B singers lends their "talents" to the choruses of a number of tracks while 50 raps over what sounds like early 90s cheese R & B. 50 fans check it out; all others proceed cautiously.

50 Cent - Forever King

Atmosphere - Leak At Will

Although he is quickly approaching forty, that has not slowed down Slug's creativity; nor his productivity. Released as a free digital download this past week, Leak At Will, is a more laidback Atmosphere; an almost 180 from last year's When Life Gives You Lemons, You Paint That Shit Gold which was a far more intense affair. Slug himself even stated that this release is "nothing too serious" and a "thank you" to fans and their years of loyalty. This short EP is a nice little head-nodding reminder to even the oldest of Atmosphere fans that Slug and Ant still have a playful, less serious side.

Atmosphere - Leak At Will

Sunset Rubdown - Dragonslayer

Spencer Krug is the hardest working man in Canadian indie rock. Between his work with Wolf Parade, Frog Eyes, Swan Lake, and Fifths of Seven, this man never seems to allow himself any downtime. His latest effort comes in the form of Sunset Rubdown and the lofty Dragonslayer. Sunset Rubdown has always been Krug's more experimental project. On this, their fourth album, Krug and his Rubdown cohorts have crafted the epic album they have been attempting to make for the past five years. While still maintaining an experimental approach, this release (although composed of only eight tracks) is a landmark release for not only Sunset Rubdown but for Krug's catalogue. Each track is crafted with the idea that it will be epic. For example, the opening "Silver Moons" is composed of segments (as is every track found here) that build upon one another leading up to a beautiful bridge and a definite closing coda. And this is the case with each track on here. And with only two of the songs less than five minutes long ("Dragon's Lair" exceeds the ten minute barrier) Sunset Rubdown is able to craft songs with definite stages. Krug's trademark (and instantly recognizable) tremolo voice, Sonic Youth-esque guitar feedback solos, harmonizing vocals, excellent lyrics, and gorgeous bridges are but a few of the tricks that these tracks incorporate ("Nightingale/December Song" even has an afro-beat feel) to craft this classic album. For those who were putoff by Sunset Rubdown's previous releases and their overtly experimental feel will be pleasantly surprised with this effort that pulls together all that makes Spencer Krug a special musician and realize that they are listening to something truly fresh, impressive, and, hands down, monumental.

4.8/5.0

Sunset Rubdown - Dragonslayer

Drake - "Best I Ever Had"

People are all familiar with this song by rising star Drake. And finally to go along with this (extremely sexist) track is a video directed by old rising star, and now just superstar, Kanye West. From the opening seconds you get an idea of what you're in for: seven superhot, scantily-clad women are running in slow motion and subsequently bouncing all over the place. There are also humorous interludes throughout (with Drake showing off his acting chops (which was his career prior to going into the hip hop thing)) the video. The second interlude includes Drake encouraging his ladies to "take that d." This video takes it back to the good days of the hot women rap video. Enjoy (fellas).

Wale - Back to the Feature

Wale continues to slack in turns of releasing an official album yet he still has the time (amongst the touring) to whip up mixtapes. He has been promising this one for six months and keep pushing back "release dates" but has finally dropped it. Excellent producer 9th Wonder joined forces here to offer one more album to wet the lips of those (ahem, me) who are anxiously anticipating his debut. Although guests are rampant on this album Wale outshines (even legendary Roots rapper Black Thought on "Hot Shyt") them all with his seemingly careless flow yet complex and witty rhymes (his verse alone on "Night Life" saves the song as it displays all his go-tos: sports, money, DC, women, shoes, and general kickassness). After a listen (followed by repeated listens) all one can think is: "When the fuck is he going to release his debut fucking album?!?!"

Wale - Back to the Feature

Franz Ferdinand - "Can't Stop Feeling"

Those zany Scots earlier this year continued to silence naysayers as they released yet another great album of dance/proto-punk/indie rock tunes. Even though their hype fizzled after the release of their debut some years back, they have, nevertheless, constantly released stellar material. The latest single from 2009's Tonight: Franz Ferdinand is a catchy little tune which comes equipped with a strange, cool video. Cut after cut after cut reveals the members doing various, um, things (?) including a finale of them hitting themselves (without anyone telling them to stop).

Rhymefest - Man in the Mirror

**Newsflash** Music legend, icon, hero, insert-other-term(s)-here Michael Jackson passed away last week. And consequently, the world mourned. Just over the course of the weekend (Thursday-Sunday) the King of Pop regained that title by owning 9 of the top 10 slots on Soundscan's top selling pop albums chart for the week. Instead of posting Jackson songs I have opted to serve up a mixtape that Chicago's Rhymefest (best known for co-writing Kanye's "Jesus Walks") released last year entitled Man In the Mirror. Rhymefest himself is an underappreciated rapper who has an uncanny ability of keeping his tongue firmly in cheek while detailing life as a self-proclaimed blue-collar worker. With this mixtape, 'Fest and Mark Ronson (uber-producer) crafted an entire album with MJ (Jackson, not Jordan) soundbites and samples to honor their pop icon. End result: well, check it out yourself and take a break of listening to solely Michael Jackson music.

Rhymefest - Man in the Mirror

Viva Voce - Rose City

After a brief hiatus, the Portland, OR duo known as Viva Voce decided to get back together (and add two more members) to record a follow up to their well-received 2006 album Get Yr Blood Sucked Out. They were able to accomplish this in less than a month so their new album Rose City has a lo-fi recording feel to it. That is not to say that it sounds like an 8-track recording done in someone's bedroom. It does, however, have a very haunting feel to it because of the lower production values ("Red Letter Day" has a very creepy western-ish feel to it). Whereas the prior effort had a more stoner rock quality to it ("Tornado Alley" sounds as if it were a leftover from Get Yr Blood Sucked Out), Rose City hits on all the influences that permeated their earlier releases: psychedelic, pop, and even a little R & B ("Good as Gold" even comes with the always enjoyable handclaps). During the album's middle portion, Anita Robinson channels her mid-90s alt-rock ghosts to write some great tunes (even giving a shoutout to their hometown Portland (aka the Rose City) on the aptly titled "Rose City"). Things slow down near the end to nicely wind the album up with the acoustic driven "Flora" (complete with a piano which sounds transported from an 1880s bar) and the eerie "The Slow Fade." For an album thrown together so quickly, it's pretty damn impressive that Viva Voce was able to create something that is varied (in its styles) yet cohesive (in its order and listenability).

3.9/5.0

Viva Voce - Rose City

Asher Roth - The Greenhouse Effect Vol. 1

Known best for his single "I Love College," Asher Roth is a better rapper than that poppy, cliche song would suggest. Although his debut album Asleep in the Bread Aisle did not live up to the hype that surrounded him prior to its release (XXL named him one of ten rappers to watch in 2009 aka "Freshmen Class of 2009"), it was, nevertheless, an enjoyable listen. And here we have a mixtape he released last year to get his talent out in the blogosphere. Light on guests (only his roommates (?!) appear on two tracks) and heavy on the DJ Cannon namedrops, The Greenhouse Effect is a solid display of his ability to create tricky rhyme schemes ("Roth Boys" is an excellent example of his skills), drop hilarious one-liners (as well as raunchy sex raps), and deny the (obvious) Eminem comparisons ("The Lounge" is an entire track devoted to the question of what a rapper looks and acts like).

Asher Roth - The Greenhouse Effect Vol. 1