Ropeadope News

THREE FESTIVALS WORTH ATTENDING

2012-02-03T13:41:02-05:00

'Member when Bonnaroo was in it's first year? And ropeadope few a plane over top every day at 420 with a hidden message? The Festival world has come a long way - no lack of choices, too many in fact. I got emails from these 3 fests this morning and each one made me say to mysef: "hmmmm, i'd like to go to THAT!". In no particular order - dig 2012 versions of the Sasquatch Music Fest; the No Direction Home Festival; and (don't sleep on this one!) The Electric Forest Music Festival.

Busdriver feat. Aesop Rock – “Superhand’s Mantra

2012-02-02T17:52:00-05:00

Great post from our friends at Consequence Of Sound: L.A. emcee Busdriver will drop his ninth studio album,Beaus$Eros, on February 14th. In addition to the album itself andother assorted goodies,Beaus$Erospre-order packages include a limited-edition 7″ single featuring the track “Superhand’s Mantra (Fuck Us All)”, a collaboration with legendary NYC rapper/producer Aesop Rock. The two MCs, known for lighting quick delivery overflowing with wit and chutzpah, go off on the mic to a frantic electro beat that is a mish-mish of random noises, lopsided effects, and loads of treble. Check it all out with free streams right here.

I WANT MY VICE TV

2012-02-01T21:34:00-05:00

Ropeadope has always loved Vice magazine since our mutual humble beginnings in Brooklyn. But now, in case you missed it, Vice.Tv is about to take over the world. This is the new "Must See TV" - seriously. Here are three of my favorite shows: Balls Deep - a nerds eye-view of the world around us - click it here; Americana - our favorite bits of our favorite country - click it here; Art Talk - inside the minds of our favorite thing makers - click here. Go Vice Go!

CABINET PRESALE!

2012-02-01T13:54:03-05:00

Recorded live November 11, 2011 at Abbey Bar, a former WWII aircraft parts factory turned brewery, in Harrisburg, PA, Cabinet's second ropeadope record "Eleven" captures the band in the heart of their element. Performed in front of a rambunctious sold out crowd this 11 song set features fan favorites "Tower", "Elizabeth", "Old Farmers Mill" and "Coalminers" as well as previously unreleased material. Pre-order the album now (ships on 4/20). The bundle includes the CD, DVD, and numbered poster from a limited edition of 100. Great video trailer here.

THE SOUNDS OF SILENCE (MUST SEE!)

2012-01-31T02:54:00-05:00

I watched this short film on youtube just now and found myself in tears at the end. Where the romantics out there? Louis & Quinn - i dedicate this to you guys because I know you both love frogs too! Watch this entire clip right now it will change your day or night - guaranteed.

ROPEADOPE LOCAL

2012-01-30T23:23:00-05:00

From the desk of the big boss Louis "Ropeadope local is our response to the ever changing music business. Instead of larger shows with high ticket prices, we're bringing select talent to local restaurants and bars throughout the country. Our goal is to connect people with artists in an intimate, personal setting" First up? Greg Hester with special guest Eric McConnell Friday February 3, 2012 at Cork Restaurant, Westmont NJ. All details here. If you are anywhere near it's gonna be the most fun you EVER had in Westmont - Philly peeps, worth the trip over the bridge (it's gonna be SPECIAL!).

MUSIC FOR STONERS

2012-01-30T19:21:01-05:00

Some of my people argue that ALL music sounds better with the assistance of mary jane, but tthe thought cataloge just published 10 essential "albums to get high to". There’s a lot of ‘duh’ in there, but at least a couple worth considering….dig the list here.

AMAZING (FREE) MARVIN DOCUMENTARY:

2012-01-29T18:39:00-05:00

In the early 1980s,Marvin Gaye retreated to Ostend, Belgium on the advice of a Belgian concert promoter who wanted to help Marvin get his life back on track. Marvin lived in the city for two years before returning to the United States. Filmmaker Richard Olivier filmed a documentary about Marvin’s time in Belgium. The documentary was rarely seen outside of Belgium, but features quite a bit of intimate footage of Marvin walking around the city, interviews, and rehearsal footage. Watch the whole thing free right here.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF RAPPERS SAMPLING RADIOHEAD

2012-01-29T14:38:00-05:00

As much as Spin the magazine sucks, SPIN.com is worth a visit these days. A quick click will take you into a brief history of rappers sampling Radiohead, slide the mouse this way and click these 50 mixtapes you need to know,round these ways and check out 25 new albums you need to hear this winter, or this neat piece of Cypress HIll & Skrillex right here. Just saying - it's not your daddy's Spin anymore.

STAMP OF MILES

2012-01-26T19:13:00-05:00

More than 20 years after his death, Miles Davis is is being honored by the U.S. Postal Service with his very own stamp. This year, the Kind of Blue trumpeter will be immortalized in a collection of musically-themed stamps that will also honor the singer Edith Piaf. Official info here. Flash back to Miles 64 here, my all-time favorite - Bitches Brew Live here.

WE WILL SAVE YOU MANATEE

2012-01-26T16:53:00-05:00

Big up to ropeadoper (for life!) Dylan Marks on the launch of his amazing blog - We Will Save You Manatee - awesome graphics, nifty concept. Worth a quick look - dig in here.

THE DEAD EXHIBIT AT THE ROR HALL OF FAME

2012-01-25T02:54:01-05:00

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is going to feature a major exhibit on The Grateful Dead this year. Called “Grateful Dead: The Long, Strange Trip,”It’ll open April 12 and run through December 31. Among the highlights of the more than 100 artifacts are five Jerry Garcia guitars; two guitars from Bob Weir, and one of Mickey Hart’s custom-painted drum kits. Also on display will be original lyric manuscripts for “Truckin’,” “Sugaree” and “Box of Rain”. The Grateful Dead were inducted into the R&R HOF in 1994.

LAST DAY DREAM

2012-01-24T12:37:01-05:00

I know that my partner Louis knows, but do any of you really realize? Why is it that in our culture we prepare more for what we're going to watch on TV than how we are going to deal when we meet our maker? Don't mean to bum anybody out, just saying - the wheel is turning and you can't slow down. This is one man's last day dream.

OBAMA SINGS AL GREEN

2012-01-22T23:26:00-05:00

By now of course you must have seen this video - but I get chills every time: Whether you ike his politics or not, this is the most "real" President I've ever known in my lilfe time, and in the end, that's what gets my vote. Clap your hands for the man - Obama singing Al Green.

ETTA JAMES - SONGS WE LOVE

2012-01-22T23:03:00-05:00

From NPR Music: Few singers proved more pliable over the past 50 years than Etta James. Pop, blues, rock 'n' roll, soul, jazz — she sang them all with aplomb. But it was her string of stunning singles during the 1960s that cemented James as one of the great female vocalists of all time. James died Friday in a Los Angeles hospital after a battle with leukemia. She was 73. NPR spotlights 5 songs we love right here.

MARCO & MIKES ESCAPE HORSE

2012-01-20T00:11:00-05:00

Marco Benevento released a new limited 7-inch single featuring a song called "Escape Horse" with none other than Mike on bass and Matt Chamberlain on drums. The LA Timesis streaming the tune and you can hear it right here. The 7" is available at Marco's West Coast shows

SHUT YOUR FUCKING FACE AND LISTEN (DRED SCOTT)

2012-01-19T23:58:00-05:00

SYFFAL's Latest review of Dred Scott's new ropeadope recording "Going Nowhere" gives it 9 out of 10 stars and begins: "When I listen to Going Nowhere by the Dred Scott Trio I find myself transported to a land where every fucking step I take is cool. Not cool in the “Oh that's cool" kind of passive aggressive approach so many take to feign detachment, no I am talking smoking a cigarette and hanging out downtown cool. Levi's rolled up with two-tone suede oxfords, a pork pie hat and a wool coat cool" Read the rest here.

THE REVOLUTION IS IN MY PANTS

2012-01-19T03:23:02-05:00

Gil Scott-Heron.....More Than a Revolution A full picture of the late poet, novelist, singer, satirist, and father of four. Pitchfork does the man right with a thorough oral history that leaves no stone unturned. dig into it right here.

RAD ALUMNI ASSOCIATION - TEDDY PRESBERG

2012-01-18T00:15:00-05:00

Guitar hero Teddy Presberg, (the self proclaimed creator of psychedelic jazz for dancers and lovers of life) dropped his stunning debut "Blueprint of Soull" a few years back on ropeadope. Today Teddy continues to sonically dominate and ihis new project Apocalypse Yesterday is gonna flip you sideways. He's putting his money where his guitar is and is giving it all away - go on and get it totally free right here.

RIP JIMMY CASTOR

2012-01-17T12:55:00-05:00

Jimmy Castor, known for his 1972 single ‘Troglodyte (Cave Man)’ and as one of hip-hop’s most sampled musicians (his single ‘It’s Just Begun’ was also a staple of the ’70s and ’80s b-boy scenes), started his career as a doo-wop singer in mid-’50s New York before becoming a member of The Teenagers and, in the early ’70s, forming his own group The Jimmy Castor Bunch. He also had a late career hit in 1988, when he teamed up with Joyce Sims on ‘Love Makes a Woman’. Jimmy's dead - you will be too someday - go out and do something great today.

NO SOPA (RADIO)

2012-01-17T00:33:00-05:00

Hope you all are following the Sopa story as it unfolds. FOR THE RECORD - ropeadope is very much AGAINST any legislation that gives the government or courts any rights to step in and shut down websites despite the fact that we are (in theory) the ones that are supposed to benefit from such intervention. Very interesting article from The New York Times’ over the weekdnd here featuring a senior executive at Reddit (owned by Advance Publications, owner of Condé Nast and many others) and a senior-level lawyer at NBC: Random note - sopa means soup in spanish. STAY INFORMED!!

CUT THE CHORD

2012-01-17T00:28:00-05:00

You think you know about the chord, you act like you know about the chord - but really - do you? Fascinating article from the resident advisor that breaks down the chord, it's importance and what it all means for both musicians and lay folks too. Get schooled right here.

RESPECT YOUR ELDERS

2012-01-15T17:29:00-05:00

In every other country in the world age is celebrated while Americans spend billions trying to avoid the graces of growing old. German photographer Karsten Thormaehlen made my day when she published these inspiring photos of these happy 100 year olds. Respect (and celebrate) old folks - someday you might be lucky enough to be one.

SURVIVAL TIPS FROM THE SHADOW

2012-01-12T03:17:01-05:00

DJ Shadow changed my life in 1996 when he dropped Entroducing- through the magic of samples, he blended in a way many have tried to copy, yet no one yet matched, genres such as rock, soul, funk, ambient, and jazz, into a final product that transcends time. And with time (like fine wine) he just keeps getting better. How does he survive? Peep his secrets in this great interview from GQ this month.

ROPEADOPE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION - MARC CAZORLA

2012-01-11T04:40:02-05:00

Marc Cazorla came to ropeadope years ago with his band The Frequency. And while you might not have purchased their debut recording, you surely heard one of my favorite tracks on the album (Jim Gordon Pt. 2) on this ubiquitous Blackberry commercial from 4 years ago. Today Marc is back and better than ever with his new band The Record Company who just dropped this REDUNKULOUS track Don't Let Me Get Lonely - highly recommended.

OLD DIRTY BASTARD & THE FBI

2012-01-10T20:47:00-05:00

Found this at spin.com and thought i'd share:Everybody knows Wu-Tang Clan is nothing to fuck with, but the police were keeping tabs on Wu rapper Ol' Dirty Bastard like it was their job. Rich Jones of hacker-oriented site gun.io his hands on the FBI's massive file on the late Russell Jones by filing a request under the Freedom of Information Act. Although severely redacted, the report includes plenty of memorable tidbits about Dirty, who died in 2004 of what was ruled an accidental overdose.

MONDAY INSPIRATION - OH THE PLACES YOU’LL GO

2012-01-09T01:59:00-05:00

Needing a lilttle pep talk to get you going on this, the first full work week of 2012? Go back to where it all began and let Dr. Seuss show you the way - with a little help from the crowd at Burning Man as they recite Oh The Places You'll Go in a wonderful little video right here.

YOUR FAVORITE ALBUM COVERS SANS THE DEAD FOLKS

2012-01-09T01:53:00-05:00

Do you realize that everyone you know someday will die? Including all of your favorite musicians - stumbled upon this crazy website that airbrushed the dead folks out of some of my favorite album covers check it out here.

BUILDING FROM THE GROUND UP

2012-01-06T12:55:00-05:00

New in the '12? Ropeadope teams up with Snarky Puppy to form the GroundUP Music imprint. It marks the first time we've ever given such a "label deal" to any one artist (although we did offer one to Robert Randolph after we signed him to his debut studio recording - the WORD, but he asked for too many crazy perks like puppies and bald hookers . GroundUP Music will debut with Snarky Puppy's new CD/DVD at the end of February followed by a slew of yum-yum including: Dallas groove heavyweights Funky Knuckles, Norwegian vocalist Hildegunn Gjedrem, and New York City-based songwriter Alison Wedding. Stay tuned.

I’M A LITTLE WILLIE

2012-01-05T13:05:00-05:00

We knew the LIttle WIllies from way back in the 03 when our good buddy Norah Jones invited us to their debut show at the Living Room NYC. Four friends — Lee Alexander on bass, Jim Campilongo on guitar,Norah Joneson piano and vocals, and Richard Julian on guitar and vocals — were looking for an excuse to make music together, so they booked that gig and the rest.....is history. Playing the songs of some of country music's greatest songwriters (duh, the band was named after Willie Nelson!) their new album is a pleasant way to jump into 2012. Get a first look and taste some music from NPR righ here.

ALABAMA SHAKE ‘EM UP BABY

2012-01-04T14:24:00-05:00

Seems like EVERYBODY is talking about Alabama Shakes. I'm just here to tell you that the hype is all true. You have to get in the mix and break on through. Check out this song - You Aint Alone and tell me you don't feel the Earth move.

INTRODUCING HILDEGUNN

2012-01-03T17:24:01-05:00

Born and bred in Norway, vocalist and songwriter Hildegunn Gjedrem moved to Brooklyn and was discovered by our own Michael League, he of Snarky Puppy fame. Michael called us up and said "YO - YOU HAVE TO PUT THIS RECORD OUT" and we said "OKAY MICHAEL - ANYTHING FOR YOU!!!!". SO here it is a new world of smart, lushly arranged pop music with a jazz tinge - beautiful beautiful beautiful. For fans of Cassandra Wilson, Norah Jones, Snarky Puppy and simply GREAT music. LISTEN UP - right here for free.

THE PRICE IS (STILL) RIGHT

2012-01-03T17:05:00-05:00

In a haze of haze i was surfing the old TV and found this - Snoop Dog on the Price is RIght?!?!? Brought back memories - like this - the WORST bid in showcase showdown history (wait til the end of the clip and listen to what Jose bids - worth the wait); more pricesless moments here.

2012 - BEST YEAR EVER?

2012-01-03T14:30:00-05:00

So here we are, a brand new year, with all the brand new hope,fear and loathing that comes with it. I woke up this morning EXPECTING the worst (back to school, back to work, back to life) but embraced the best. It's only been 2.5 days so far, and I know it's totally over-the-top corny BUT i'm saying -2012? Best Year Ever!!! Embrace it, don't hate it, live your life now - it's here, so are you, break through, all new!

SUPER SALE @ THE SUPER STORE

2011-12-27T13:55:01-05:00

Head over to the ropeadope store where EVERYTHING IS 20% OFF - just enter the coupon code 'dailydope' and you're good to go on anything -music, cloothing....stuff. And Louis just came back from the storage space and found tons of random old school gear that i put on special sale right here. (I just picked up this redunkulous King Tubby Tee for my own self - nice!). Not just dope...ROPEADOPE!

DOOM + JJ + SITEK = REDUNKULOUS

2011-12-21T15:56:00-05:00

In November, we shared"Retarded Fren", a collaborative track between DOOM and Radiohead's Thom York and Jonny Greenwood that appears on Complex,Lex Records' tenth anniversary compilation. Turns out that's not DOOM's only appearance on the comp: he also teams up with ropeadope alum Jneiro Jarel to contribute "Rhymin' Slang", which TV on the Radio's Dave Sitek has remixed. Listen to it here. (via Pitchfork).

FREE (!!!!) CABINET MUSIC - THE COVERS.

2011-12-20T21:25:00-05:00

From our Cabinet family: "We are pleased to announce the release of THIS IS CABINET - COVERS. A gift to you. Our dedicated fans. TIC - COVERS is a live collection of our favorite cover songs recorded over the course of two shows in February of 2011" From me: CLICK RIGHT HERE RIGHT NOW to get this (free) set of redunkulous music that will make you oh so happy.

THE FREE STOOGES

2011-12-20T02:49:01-05:00

Got this link from my boy Tony - an unreleased track of the Stooges Brass Band performing the seasonal classic “This Christmas” - hope you enjoy a taste of some musical Holiday spirit in true NOLA style - get the track for free here.

STREET ART BEST

2011-12-19T23:20:00-05:00

Street Art Utopia is a site dedicated to it's name and worth visiting often. Now's a great time as they post their year end "best of street art" list - dig in deep right here.

HAT HEAD

2011-12-19T01:56:00-05:00

Somethings for the head: this super-dope flex-fit ball cap has the flame embroidered to the side of the front, ropeadope name strong on back; the beanie is a meanie with ropeadope stitched in both sides (soooo cozy@); but the Fidel cap might be where it's at. Get some hat for that head. Better off Dead.

FOUR RANDOM THINGS.

2011-12-19T00:07:00-05:00

Four random things for you: (1) Fucked Up - David Comes To Life:Let Her Rest / Queen of Hearts in FULL right here ; (2) The birth of Jesus as rapped and beatboxed by some very white folks in London over here (3) Cocaine-Blunts pimps their top 50 hip-hop tracks of 2011 over yonder; and geez, if you're looking for a new band to love, to folllow, to love and to get loved back here in Philly i've loved Toy Soldiers for a while and they keep getting better every second. 1-2-3-4. Ramdom.

MA-TISYA-WHO?

2011-12-15T14:04:02-05:00

Yesterday, the Washington Post reported that the Chassidic Jewish rapper guy that called himself Matisyahu is, ummmm, no longer Chassidic, and released a beardless photo, with this statement saying “I am reclaiming myself.” On WNYC The (fake) reggae artist speaks about his new look, his upcoming Festival of Light performances, and his new “Miracle” EP…(don't beleive the hype). Here at ropeadope we met Matt Miller while he was an acid-tripping Phish head, then he showed up one day as a Chassidic dude that wouldn't let me shake his hand (against his religion) and THEN our intern Aaron Bisman started JDUB records, signed Matisyahu, made him famous only to have Mr. Matisyahu dump Aaron for a big league label and manager after years of love and work. You say Matisyahu I say FAKE FAKE FAKE. Knew it all the time, and now......he does too. Support real reggae, Don't support Phony Rappers.

LOUIS C.K. TAKES IT TO THE PEOPLE:::

2011-12-15T00:56:00-05:00

Louis C.K. took a page from this business of music and went right to the fans and raised 200K on his own to put out the timely (hysterical) live at the Beacan Theater. This show is only available on this site at a cost of $5, Can't afford the five? Free outakes right over here.

TAPE IT UP

2011-12-13T19:46:00-05:00

The Boston Herald reports that Cassettes are making a comeback. While i'm a flag waving vinyl freak i'm not rushing out anytime soon to bring back the boombox. You?

THE ART AND (HIP) HOP OF THE CONCEPT ALBUM

2011-12-12T21:36:00-05:00

From browbeat:The phrase “concept album” might conjure up rock classics like Tommy,The Wall, and Ziggy Stardust, but The Roots’Undun—out this week—reminds us that hip-hop too carries a proud legacy in that field. In fact, the concept album, in the sense of a pop opera, is perfectly suited for hip-hop: Rap is a more verbal art form than rock, and rappers tend to be better storytellers than rockers. Dig the top 5 list - replete with videos to support and Questo's comments. Spot on!

REDUX ME BABY

2011-12-11T23:47:00-05:00

You hip to redux.com? Pick a channel and start surfing. Amazing quality programing with channels you want to watch (adrenaline, backstage music, politics) and watch. Randomly wonderful shows appear (so fresh, so clean!) and you just click click click away. I got hooked on the tech channel, but then took it to the street level. This is endless ENDLESS endless and really amazing quality programming.

ITUNES STORE SPOTLIGHTS ROPEADOPE

2011-12-08T11:06:01-05:00

We got a call from itunes telling us how much they love us and that they wanted to put us int he big spotlight. Okay, so it WAS (at the beginning of the week) way up top with a big 'ol banner, but today - well, we're still lit up! Go to the itunes store, click on the music tab and in the drop down box click music>indie spotlight, and then scroll down and see all the wonderful RAD titles offered for sale and spotlighted all nice like. Support INDY MUSIC! (Support Louis and Andy!) support ROPEADOPE!!!!

SUPPORT SKERIK

2011-12-07T23:58:01-05:00

Got this email today from my favorite freak - Skerik (word for word, cap included): "HOLY SHIT!!! ALL CDs ARE $10.00 TILL JANUARY 1 AT CRITTERSBUGGIN.COM!!! TELL THE WORLD, SHOUT IT FROMALL MOUNTAINTOPS (or hills?) FULL 16bit 44khz GLORY!! NONE OF THISMP3, ITUNES CRAPPY RESOLUTION, JUST BIGGER CD RESOLUTION!! (?) ALL ANSWERS QUESTIONED, ALL QUESTIONS SEQUESTERED!!!!PLEASE POST IT UP, GET INTERNETEY WIT IT!!!!! GRACIAS!!!!! MARVIN PICKLES c.p.a.z. Skerik is the hardest working man in show biz - support him and the critters!

PASS THE HATERADE

2011-12-07T02:37:00-05:00

I hate the haters. They make life for the lovers like me so difficult and confusing. When in doubt, go to radio raheem for the definition of hate (and love). When in doubt - go for the ropeadope - brought this one out of the archives and it still stops traffic - the original haterade tee - just in time for the haters this holiday season - go on and pick one up now, you know you'll hate it.

NPR MUSIC = ALL THAT’S WRITE IN MUSIC JOURNALISM

2011-12-06T20:27:00-05:00

Old news to some of you, but for whatever reason, this ropeadoper JUST got (completly) hip to all that is NPR Music. Tons of great blogs (including my favorite - a Jazz Supreme) First Listen - giving you, ummmm, that first listen to all new music, exlusive interviews and a whole lot more. National Public Radio - the only way to go.

MY SIMPLE RELIGION

2011-12-06T02:21:00-05:00

The Dalai Lama sums up my religion in 29 powerful words: "This is my simple religion. THere is no need for temples; no neeed for complicted philosophy. Our own brain, our own heart is our temple: the philosophy is kindness." - the Dalai Lama. BAM.

DRED SCOTT’S GOING NOWHERE OUT NOW!!!!!

2011-12-05T01:08:04-05:00

Let's pause for the cause and celebrate the actual release of new music - for those of you playing along at home, this is where you support your favorite indy label who puts out the dopest indy music - like today's gem, the new one from Dred Scott "Going Nowhere" which is DEFINETLY going somewhere. Taste the greatness and pick up a copy right here. Sounds like? Bad Plus, MMW, NYC Jazz Trios at their finest - Free taste with 7 Steps of heaven right here. Still reading? Still clicking? This Dred Scott isn't our Dred Scott (but he is pretty dope).

ROOTS UNDUN = REDUNKULOUS

2011-12-05T00:34:00-05:00

Says the sticker on the cover: "UNDON'S an existential re-telling of the life of one Redford Stephens (1972-1999). Through the use of emotives and Redford's internal dialogue, the album seeks to illustrate the intersection of free will and prescribed destiny as it plays out 'on the corner.' Philly Inqurier breaks it down like this. Tom Moon pkeaked me out a few tracks last week and HOLY BAJESUS my mind was blown and my booty was shaking - NO FAKING. And they take it up a whole 'nother notch on the app. (like that). NPR has been streaming the whole thing for free right here. Get it now on itunes (will be delivered the second the ball drops). Best album of 2011 - BAM we said it first (remember that).

GIVE THE GIFT OF ROPEADOPE

2011-12-01T13:33:00-05:00

This holiday season you can give the gift of ropeadope - music, clothes, whatever you want - the ropeadope gift certificate makes it easy and fun - ener the amount you want to give and you can send it IMMEDIATLEY to your friends and family. With the new store open and shiny and new it's all up to you! Get your ropeadope gift certificates right here, and spread the cheer!

THE CHURCH OF THE MIXTAPE

2011-11-30T14:00:01-05:00

Catchy entry title I know, but just needed a way to show off these two finds: while i'm not a religious man, i do LOVE this virtual tour of the Vatican (make sure to scroll up and down and i would also suggest listening to the music - sets the tone!). Seconly. everyone knows my true god is the lord of music, i get down on my knees and pray every day, sometimes with the help of 8tracks.com where the art of the mixtape lives on - create your own or listen to the zillions (by genre) they have posted. AMEN!

BLACK STAR IS BACK (NEVER WACK)

2011-11-29T17:52:00-05:00

Black Star are back. One of my all-time favorite duos in hip-hop have announced their first LP in 13 years, a mixtape inspired by Aretha Franklin. Back in 1998, Black Star released their one and only album,Mos Def and Talib Kweli Are Black Star. I'm still breathing in that respiration daily. But finally, the freshness - check out these brand new tracks right here.

NEW MUSIC TUESDAY - EKUNDAYO

2011-11-29T13:00:00-05:00

I can tell you all about this new ropeadope release by Brazilian(ish) super-group Ekundayo, about the thrill I have personally to finally have Mike Ladd on a ropeadope record, or Rob Mazurek (he of Chicago Underground fame) or the fact that it's produced by legendary producer Scotty Hard, or (or) i could name drop a handful of other amazing artists from different generations, backgrounds, origins and places and wax poetic about this collaborative effort in times of musical individualism. But really - if you're still here, still reading this, you KNOW it's ropeadope - the newest in new, right up to your face and KISS you. (Thank us later). So congratulations to us, to you and to Ekundayo for blessing us all with this redunkulous release. Get it on the digital tip right here. Take it back to the future with the high quality vinyl right here.

TOLD YOU SO - SPOTIFY’S FOR REAL

2011-11-28T00:46:00-05:00

I've been telling anybody that cares to listen - Spotify is the readl deal. Last week Spotify announced that it had reached 2.5 million paying subscribers. The company offered no breakdown of where those subscribers reside. But at average of between $5 and $10 USD, that's a $18 - $20 million in revenue from subscriptions plus advertising income. You still don't have spotify? Try it for free - and set your world free (and watch yourself fork over a few bucks a month for the top shelf shit.

STOP MOTION JELLY BEANS

2011-11-28T00:35:00-05:00

Want to see what pure dedication looks like? This music video for the song “In Your Arms” by Kina Grannis is a stop-motion animation done with a background composed of jelly beans. It’s a crazy project that required 22 months, 1,357 hours, 30 people, and 288,000 jelly beans. They could have used CGI, of course, but each frame was carefully created by hand and photographed with a still camera. It’s even more mind-blowing given this fact: none of it was done with a green screen - check it out here.

PUMP UP THE VOLUME

2011-11-28T00:12:00-05:00

Lifehacker helps us hack our way into the absolute cheapest way to amp up the sound on your ipad with some lo-fi tech for the win! Enough for everyone to hear. Instructables user MomDuck slapped on a Post-It note to better project the sound.Get the skinny here.

FREE MUSIC - EKUNDAYO

2011-11-23T00:16:00-05:00

LIke Ad Rock said a long time ago "Ropeaaaaaaaaaadope, the newest in new" and this month we're living up to our reputation (always!)with the release of Ekundayo out on vinyl, cd and mp3 November 29th. What is it you ask? Good question. In a tweet it can be described as Brazilian hip-hop by way of the New York underground (or is it the other way around?). Lost not found I bet you $2.43 you 'aint never heard 'nuttin' like it before. Free taste right here - dig this track Em Nove. Get your copy of highest quality vinyl and taste the joy.

NEW ROPEADOPE STORE NOW OPEN

2011-11-21T20:08:00-05:00

Step right up, step right up, the new ropeadope online store is now OPEN! And if you're too lazy to go all the way over to our website, well, we're now hanging with all our friends on facebook - dig it - the ropeadope store is right there on the book of face! Start (stop) your holiday shopping right now, let us help you shop: for the mom that never forgets - get her the Elephas Maximus tee. Dad that's always hating? BAM - lace him with some haterade. For your brother (from another mother) pick up the super cozy, American Apparel ropeadope remix hoodie. Geeky Uncle Fred? Lace him with that vinyl kid! And don't forget YOU - while your shopping, get yourself a little stocking stuffer - the new RAD Beanie is a perfect fit.

TROMBONE SHORTY IS ROPEADOPE

2011-11-21T02:28:00-05:00

Ya know, we all have our favorite bands. Some stay, some go. This year for me will be the one known for picking up Trombone Shorty on my fantasy music team. Learn Shorty history with this great interview. Shoot to the random fan-came and a classic TS BACK IN BLACK moment. Mr. Andrews gets lovely as he asks Show Me Something Beautiful with his buddy Lenny. Dig TS LIve on Conan. If you get the chance to see him live - DO IT, pound for pound this band can win any battle.

STUFF WHITE PEOPLE LIKE

2011-11-21T02:04:01-05:00

You know all about Stuff White People Like? The list is extensive, and never far off. Highlights iclude - number 128 - Camping'; number 15 - Yoga; and topping off the list.....Coffee. Full list here.

CACTUS REBOOTS

2011-11-17T23:51:00-05:00

Way back in the day (it seems like forever ago) we released Mike Gordon's debut "solo album" Inside In. Remember that sick video we did for Soul Food Man? And the ensuing Mike fueled, crazy Joey Arkenstat Documentary and full lenght album "Bane" that ropeadope hast the honor of producing with Mike? Ahhhhh memories - we miss you Cactus, and to you the public we need you all to know that working with him was like working with your best friend - he made everything fun, he made everything better, he made everything....everything! Mike wherever you are - holla at your boy! Our friends from jambase.com had the pleasure of sitting down and catching up with him. Dig.

HELLO GOOGLE MUSIC

2011-11-17T01:28:00-05:00

Google Music left beta yesterday touting music discovery, unique sharing options, mobile payments and a direct to fan sales hub for independent artists. In a move that bests Apple, Google's cloud service is free for up to 20,000 songs and available for streaming on all platforms including iOS. 320kps music download purchases have been incorporated into the Android app store. Full story here.

THE STORY OF ?UESTLOVE, INTREPID (AND NEWS-BREAKING!) #OCCUPY REPORTER…

2011-11-16T23:49:00-05:00

Tweeting Questo: "Omg, drivin down south st near #ows. Somethin bout to go down yo, swear I counted 1000 riot gear cops bout to pull sneak attack #carefulyall". He was right. Dig this story in the NYtimes Blog documenting Ahmir's future predicting tweets.

WE’VE GOT THE NEXT ISH

2011-11-16T19:28:00-05:00

Yea yea, hip-hop forever, yea yea, hip-hop is dead...but really, thousands of miles from the birthplace of rap music, we are born again. It's Ekundayo, an unlikely association of musicians with roots deep in the Brazilian underground and produced by ropeadope's favorite son Scotty Hard. You looking for that next shit? We got it - and we want to share. Pre-order includes immediate download of 12 tracks, A link to the complete album will be emailed to you the moment it’s released. Dare to be differenent. Ekundayo.

IT’S A GOOD DAY TO DIE

2011-11-16T02:57:00-05:00

“It’s a Good Day to Die.”~ Crazy Horse. Meaning: “A belief that one should never live a moment of one’s life with any regrets, or tasks left undone. Which would make today as good a day as any to die.” The good people at the Elephant Journal shed knowledge like this DAILY. Sig up and get yours - worth the karma points. Sure it's Yogi centric - but coming at it from places like Prison Yoga and free sex (with multiple partners) gives me much needed perspective.

NEW MSMW LIVE

2011-11-16T02:48:00-05:00

Medeski Martin and Wood once again join forces with legendary jazz guitarist John Scofield on MSMW LIVE: IN CASE THE WORLD CHANGES ITS MIND. Now available on CD or Digital Download at the MMW Music Store. This double album features 12 live tracks by Medeski Scofield Martin and Wood. Redunkulous as always.

DJ PREMIER’S (FREE) HEAVY D TRIBUTE MIX

2011-11-15T01:13:01-05:00

In the wake of his untimely death there are some folks that feel the need to actually defiend or define Why Heavy D matters. I've been down with the Heavester since i dropped the needle to the wax on Mr. Big Stuff way way back. And i'm always telling Puffy that he ripped off the original Big Daddy (Diddy don't listen! No surprise there right?) Say what you say, Heavy D was an innovator that brought something new to the game, which will never be the same. Dig DJ Premier's Heavy D RIP mix right here.

CABINET HAS THE BLUEST GRASS

2011-11-13T16:46:00-05:00

Ropeadope big boss Louis has been a champion of this little band out of central Pennsylvania for years. This early video shows the band laying it down and spreading the sounds. Their self-titled ropeadope debut turned heads across the planet. And now, they are selling out shows, like friday's epic throwdown in Harrrisburg, which was recorded for a live cd/dvd to be released on ropeadope this March. To satisfy your buzz that's buzzing, presales will begin in a few weeks. And catch these guys now before they're super-huge.....coming to a town near you!

XL VINYL

2011-11-13T16:36:00-05:00

Big up to fellow Indy Label XL Recordngs who just launched a vinyl only online store which features tons of great records from all over the world In addition to exclusives such as Portishead “Chase the Tear” 12-inch single and Dizzee Rascal’s out of print classic Boy in Da Corner, there are limited quantities of the XL 2011 Vinyl Samplers for $10 or free with a $50 or more purchase. Inspring.

THE TWEAKER

2011-11-10T00:09:00-05:00

Most Excellent article in this month's New Yorker magazine about Steven Jobs. Written by one of my favorite modern writers Malcom Gladwell, it delves into Jobs' true genius and sheds some light on an already very bright star. Extremely well written. Check it out here.

I SAY SNARKY YOU SAY PUPPY

2011-11-08T21:30:00-05:00

Snarky Puppy continues to knock mother-fuckers OUT with their modern-jazz big band from Denton Texas, including my man Nick from Bodega who kept texting me last night during the (stupid) Eagles game to tell me what I was missing at their WCL gig. Get knocked out yourself as they travel on tour this month in a town near you. Need to get pupped out now? Pick up their ropeadope dvd/cd project "tell your friends" - truly redunkulous. Need the new shit? dig this video "Ready Wednesday" @ Music Lab at Jefferson Center. Who let the dogs out? (Michael League that's who!).

HOW MUSIC TRAVELS

2011-11-08T21:23:00-05:00

Super interesting and neato presentation on the birthplace of music and how it traveled around the globe with a spotlight on dance music. Watch the colors wizzle and whirl. Dig it right here - worth the click (go on, click!)

MUST SEE TV - TEDESCHI TRUCKS BAND

2011-11-07T21:32:01-05:00

Speaking of my favorite bands - had never seen the Tedeschi Trucks Band live before until I went to see them at the Tower Theater this summer. Words get i the way when trying to describe the magic they create, so instead - just check out this link right here and get a taste for yourself. And next friday, 11/18, they will be doing a Live Pay-Per-View Webcast from The Denver Fillmore. This 'aint no dial-up bullshit, this is the real deal - powered by Livedownloads.com in High Def audio and video. Well worth the modest price. Check it iout.

DOOM + YORKE = DOPENESS

2011-11-06T23:57:00-05:00

Creativity reigns supreme on this first track from Lex Records 10th anniversary compilation 'Complex'.A - MF Doom & Thom Yorke/Johnny Greenwood get nasty on "Retarded Fren" - dig the full track right here.

SOUNDS OF THE SPACEAGE

2011-11-06T23:36:00-05:00

Take me back to this time and please furnish my living room with any of this Hi-Fi equipment from the Sixties and Seventies. There's the Grundig space age Audiorama 4000 - which would make a great rapper name.The UFO shaped Weltron record player and the delightfully named Audio Egg -perfect sounds for the perfect shape! Sleaker than your ipod for sure.

RIP EAR-X-TACY

2011-11-03T17:56:00-05:00

Another one bites the dust - one of my all-time favorite record stores in the world - Louisville's Ear-X-Tacy is gone-daddy-gone. The reason? Nobody's buying music anymore (despite what "they" say). Remember record stores? We do too. Well, there's always ropeadope.

THE SHEEPDOGS ARE MY FAVORITE BAND

2011-11-02T14:32:01-05:00

Three words that most new bands lack:melody, harmony and groove. When Jon Richter played this for me last week I was instantly taken back by the 3 part vocal harmonies and heavy hitting dual guitar leads. And now, their latest album, “Learn & Burn” has been stuck in my headphones (with the "repeat button pressed) for 7 days straight. WOW. This is both tremendously old school AND purel rock and roll revival. Ladies and Gentelmen, let me introduce to you, all the way from Saskatoon, The Sheepdogs.

DRED SCOTT & TODD CLOUSER

2011-11-01T01:12:01-05:00

Hey....who put Dred Scott in my Todd Clouser!?! Wait a minute, somebody put Todd Clouser in MY Dred Scott!?! That's two great tastes that taste great together and tonight these two jazz heavyweights celebrate tonight at the Kuumbwa jazz Center before heading into San Fran for a romp in the Boom Boom Room. Get it while you can.

LARGE UP TO LARGE UP

2011-10-31T18:07:01-05:00

Just when ya think Okayplayer can't Okayplayer itself any further, they drop LargeUp, the Caribbean music and lifestyle channel of the Okayplayer network. Officially launched recently after more than a year in beta mode, LargeUp's new look and format reflects its evolution from blog into lifestyle portal--with daily updates capturing the unique sounds, styles, flavors of the Caribbean. So dope, like taking a little vacation every time you click.

SCARY DAY, SCARY BANDS

2011-10-31T14:29:00-05:00

Happy Halloween - yea yea, i'm dressing up as a giant banana again this year, it's easy, and i can hide my stash inside the peel Okay, so, right...October 31 obligitory Pagan Holiday so here it is: 13 of the scariest bands in recent musical history thanx to Paste Magazine. Trick or treat?

LADY LADY LADY (OH)

2011-10-28T13:21:02-05:00

Hate to curse, but the fact that you still don't have the full length debut by LADY makes me want to do just that. The band fronted by demi-godess Kate Foust, is already being hailed amongst the best new bands in Philly, been picked by the Key to be free, and will straight up kick your ass if you see her/them live. Oh yes it's Lady! Now everybody JUMP JUMP and treat her like a Lady! (You will never be the same).

EARLY HALLOWEEN W/ MMW & ANTIBALAS

2011-10-28T12:53:00-05:00

I'm skipping the traditional Haloween this year and instead going all out tonight (in Philly) and tomorrow night in NYC as Medeski Martin and Wood revive their lonstanding halloween colloborations with Antibalas for 3 awesome nights of music (they were in DC last night). They've actually been rehearsing, and talking about it, and boy oh boy i haven't been this excited since......going tonight? I'll be the dancing banana.

CLASSICAL HIP HOP

2011-10-27T15:25:00-05:00

DJ Premier, Nas, and the Berklee Symphony Orchestra take part in the RE:GENERATION project - a documentary film that follows DJ Premier, Pretty Lights, The Crystal Method, Mark Ronson, and Skrillex as they remix, recreate and re-imagine five traditional styles of music. Learn more atReGenerationMusicProject.com

BJORK APP IS ALL THAT::

2011-10-26T23:23:00-05:00

Got Biophilia? The new Bjork app is all that (and a bowl of gritz)http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/25/arts/video-games/bjorks-biophilia-an-album-as-game.html), play the album out loud, and play along with the app. Oh "the love for nature in all it's manifestations - Bjork is truly next level.

I LIKE GREG

2011-10-26T11:57:02-05:00

Just a note to tell the world how much I like Greg (Hester) - what with his new album American Story taking the country by storm, serving up heapings of southern-fried soul-rock-funk stuff. What's not to like? -You can like him too - just click here.

GREG HESTER - AMERICAN STORY OUT TODAY!!!

2011-10-25T12:04:01-05:00

There's 8 million (American) stories in the naked city and Greg Hester has one of them. Today ropeadope is proud to release that American Story - Hester's newest full length - a gritty, soulful stomp through music, love and life told through the voice (and heart) of a true American original. Sneak a peak right here. Cop your copy right here.

WHY I WRITE (ANNE POWERS)

2011-10-25T11:55:02-05:00

In Almost Famous we were taught what it really means to be a good music journalist. Da Capo has an excellent series out chronicaling the best music writings every year. But today I wanted to give props to one of my favorite music journalists Anne Powers (last Woman standing?) who gets into it in a very interesting piece here on why she still writes.

THE SOUNDS OF SCIENCE::

2011-10-25T11:12:02-05:00

Pbs has a great site - Music Instinct, the Science that bridges the gap between the brain and music. Some gems too like music and evolution (ie - how early man jammed) and this deep piece on one of my favorites - Yo Yo Ma on the Scinence behind Bach. Then again, the Beastie Boys have their own explanations - it's the souuuuunds of sciiiiiiiiiiiience (where if you listen long enough you'll hear ad-rock rip the word "ropeeeeeeeeadoooooooope". the Beastie Boys Sounds of Science d

MUSIC BETTER W/O PANTS::

2011-10-21T00:34:01-05:00

Tom Waits said it, i happen to believe it, Music definitely sounds much better without pants. Speaking of Tom Waits - that scene, with him and Iggy Pop in Cigarettes and Coffee? If you're trying to quit, don't watch this.

FUCKIN’ A RIGHT HE OWES US::

2011-10-21T00:22:00-05:00

Ever feel like Chevy Chase in National Lampoon's vacation? Like, that once-in-your-life things are going to work out, you made it, through obstacles, hardship, death. But there it is - right in front of you Wallyworld. Only problem is.....it's closed? Fuckin A right he owes us.

MAN POWER

2011-10-19T13:34:00-05:00

Woke up this morning, fired up the Mac Book Pro, and surfed over to ropeadope.com. With all the Lady love everywhere, i felt the need to give the fellas some. So let's hear it for the boys! Not talking about Boyz II Men or the double trouble power of Man Man, i'm speaking of THE man Louis Marks who keeps the lights on here at ropeadope (despite many power shortages) and helped us all find the the ulitmate Lady. Go Louis Go!

HOW DID YOU KNOW?

2011-10-19T04:00:00-05:00

Lady took a journey inside the hotbox and came out with some nice video sessions - including this steamy version of how did you know. While you are there, drop by the band's new site and say - hey yes, it's lady!

HAPPY LADY DAY

2011-10-18T21:11:01-05:00

HAPPY LADY DAY:One small step for Lady, one giant step for Lady Kind. We are honored and privelaged to present to you - the full lenght debut by one of the most original and powerful young bands in Philadelphia and the one we hand picked to be our next big thing. Dig it.

LADY LISTENING PARTY MONDAY MORNING

2011-10-17T01:46:00-05:00

No better way to start your monday than with this exclusive listening party for Lady's "You & Me" (out tomorrow!). check here and listen to the whole thing - even (oh my gosh, could you would you?) BUY the recording. Produced by Phil Nicolo this 'aint no kids stuff. Step up to the plate son (and daughter), THIS is lady, and THIS is You & Me"

EVERYBODY’S SONG - NEW G-HESTER VIDEO PREMIERE

2011-10-17T01:11:01-05:00

Hey everybody.....everybody! come over here and groove on Greg Hester's new video "Everybody's Song" a yummy morsel of audio-visuality that will leave you waiting on more of that American Story

DJ RADIOHEAD

2011-10-17T00:37:00-05:00

Yes, anyone can be a DJ these days - including my 9 year old son who had his professional debut this weekend in Cleveland but this cat Thom York (how annoying is it that his name is spelled THOM instead of TOM? join my in never giving him the diginity of that extra "m" in his front name again? ) But dig - he learned Serrato and spun (span? spinned?) his first gig which is available for free download over here at Pitchfork.