Alright, I just had to post this one!  This particular track is also taken from that recent Small Professor LP, and features Philly MC Random.  The concept is mind-blowing, as is the production and Random's performance.  Check the song and listen for the change-up.

If you haven't checked out producer Small Professor, please look him up!  He recently dropped a tremendous LP titled The Gigantic Vol. 1.  Here's one track from the album that I know will grab your attention!  It features MC's Curly Castro (Castro absolutely kills it) and Zilla Rocca.  Check it out.

An album of Masta Ace over DOOM production?  All I can say is: I can't wait for this album!

Radio Music Society is one of the great albums to have been released in modern times! The whole album is astonishing, and presents Esperanza with more of a mixture of soul and funk. Here's one of the gems from that album titled "Cinnamon Tree" (kinda reminds me of the likes of Angela Bofill and Phyllis Hyman). Enjoy!

Upon seeing the title, I immediately thought "Babyface Tribute," however, my reality after only an initial listen was the polar opposite of my then perceived truth. Apparently, this was a track that was left off of Nostalgia, Ultra. Listen and join in with the crowd (which includes me) who's wondering why.  

Oh my God!  One of my favorite rappers ever, Rapper Nas, over this Salaam Remi production apparently via Heavy D = Sonic Heaven.  The Super Cat sample is ridiculous!  Army Jacket swag.

What's happening, family?! Here's a Blu and PETE ROCK joint that I've been meaning to post or the last month, but just never got around to it (until today!). You might have heard of it; iBt's titled "The Clean Hand".  Enjoy.

We all have been that panda; tormented, broken, and teased by the very heart we once so valiantly protected. It reflects, staring out at an ocean bittersweet with the smiles of dancing waves soaring the blockades of tempting bubbles and scathing stones, but sorrowing in the wake of those at the mucky docks of hang-ups. It remembers those nights and those days.  "Gone" is a new track from one of my favorite up-and-coming artists, the versatile, Jered Sanders.  I've got it on repeat, basking in every guitar strike, lyric, and whistle that I can possibly hear.  Check it out; see what I'm raving about!  

You've probably heard "My Body" or "Cough Syrup" from Young the Giant, especially if you live around Philadelphia and listen to Radio 1045. But if you haven't heard the rest of the album yet, you should definitely check it out. All the other songs are just as good, if not better. Specifically, "12 fingers". In the next few months, this will be everyone's new favorite song.

After releasing their debut album in late 2010, they took the country by storm in 2011. Young the Giant played SXSW in March, Sasquatch! Music Festival in May and after performing on the MTV Video Music Awards in August, they went out on tour with Incubus two days later. They embark on their first US headlining tour next month and it's already selling out across the country. I was lucky enough to grab a ticket for the sold out Philly date.

These guys are definitely going in the right direction and I can't wait to hear their next album.

Here's a classic from keyboardist, Benard Wright, titled "Spinnin!'" The track is taken off his much-celebrated 1981 debut, 'Nard - a session which featured Marcus Miller on bass, Don Blackman on keys, and Luther Vandross and Patti Austin on vocals.  Enjoy.

Here's a chill remix to the DJ Tonk and Noelle (vocalist from the group, The Rebirth) track, "It's Love." The remix is done by French producer Dela, and hass been featured on Tonk's Frequent Flyers project, as well as Dela's Atmosphere Airlines Vol. 2. Enjoy.

*Edited on 01/23/2012

The first single from the Robert Glasper Experiment's upcoming release, Black Radio, "Ah Yeah" is a smooth ear-licking track that has been on constant repeat in my car for the last three weeks!  It features vocalists Musiq Soulchild and Chrisette Michele. Enjoy.

I've been meaning to post about these guys on here forever, but always get sidetracked. Carousel first caught my attention when I was booking shows at the North Star Bar. They sounded familiar and for a good reason...they used to be Like Lions. Now with new members and new songs, Carousel has been taking over Philly. Earlier this year they rocked out with Atomic Tom at the North Star and just last month opened for Hot Rod Circuit and Cartel at the TLA. They also played Fall Fest at LOVE Park and provided live music for Francois Girbaud's runway show at Fashion Week in New York City. They're taking a short break for now, but enjoy this new song and look for big things from Carousel in 2012.

The Keys have returned. I know I'm not alone in waiting excitedly for The Black Key's new album, El Camino to drop. This track is a soulful and fun jam, with a music video to entertain just as much. You'll probably be singing "woah-oh-oh-oh, I've got a love that keeps me waitin," for the rest of the week. #sorryimnotsorry

They’re back!!!!! And it seems like we’re gonna get a few projects out of this return! The reunion of Mos Def (now Yaslin Bey) and Talib Kweli has long been anticipated, and any glimpse of any kind of return of the duo would always send the hip hop world into a frantic frenzy. Well, things just got real when the duo released two new joints today. This one, titled “You Already Knew,” is an Oh No produced track off of their upcoming Aretha Franklin-based mixtape (yes, even the dynamic Black Star is getting in on the hectic mixtape frenzy), Black Star Aretha.

This dreamy Junip track makes it hard not to tap your feet. Enjoy the beat. 

Get into this. The awesome track from Brazilian rap group Ekundayo.Ekundayo, the yoruba word meaning "the joy that came from sorrow", is the name for this meeting of artists from diferent generations, backgrounds, origins and places. And look out for their album to drop on Nov. 29th.

Fan of 'The Walking Dead'? Check out the awesome song featured in the Season 2 trailer by awesome Baltimore-based artist Wye Oak. Happy Halloween!

A chilled out, downtempo song from the electronic artist Bonobo. Dig. 

Sheepdog

A longing and soulful track from Greg hester's upcoming release, written by Chris Unck of The Black Roses. Greg sings it like he means it and I for one believe it.

They're back (As if they ever went anywhere)!!!  Out of the loop?  Well, everyone's favorite band, The Legendary Roots, managed to squeeze in enough time in between tapings of the Jimmy Fallon Show to complete the new, and highly anticipated, album titled Undun.  Stamped as a concept album, here's the first single (and leak) from the upcoming release titled "Make My." It features an about-to-blow Big K.R.I.T and some sick melodic, Stevie Wonder-ish synths towards the end.  Enjoy!

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's sassy & jazzy track off of 'You & Me' that releases today! Enjoy!

"Willie Nelson"

This song is oozing with groove. You may recognize the tune from Jay-Z's track 'Roc Boys' in which he sampled MSB. A song so cool you forget that vocals are absent. 

Good to go - Samy Saxy Banana Remixes the love. 

Trunk Music inside and out - Yelawolf gonna make you scream (and shout)

If you haven't checked out Blu's NoYork! release, do yourself a favor and immediately cease everything (even if this means eating), and pick up this joint!  It's that d*** good.  Promise.  Presented here is one of my favorites off the release titled, "Keepushinn."  The haunting and jazzy melody will stick with you for a hot minute! Enjoy.

Check out the powerful first track off of Lady's upcoming release of their first full length album, "You & Me."

My favorite track from the new release... a beautiful and longing song.

Great track from Entre Nous..a true story telling song..Enjoy it! 

Another awesome track off of "Get Through the Time"

Here's a track for you all off of Greg Hester's upcoming album, American Story. Enjoy!

So, if you haven’t been buried under a massive rock, or something, you’ve heard the hype surrounding the eclectic bassist, Stephen "Thundercat" Brunder. I’ve been anticipating the release of his recently released debut, The Golden Age of Apocalypse, for some time now. Needless to say, I wasn’t disappointed when it officially dropped last week. The sound is a mix of George Duke, Jaco, Flying Lotus (of course…), and the Mahavishnu Orchestra (without Jean-Luc’s violin and the added dramatics). My only gripe with this release is that the songs are entirely too short – these beautiful songs deserve to be played out, instead of coming off like some sort of an interlude or reprise. However, I can only imagine the depth of his next effort if this is his first! So, go cop it, if you haven’t already!

One of my favorite cuts from one of my favorite bands, Loose Ends.  It's taken from their 1986 release, Zagora.  Enjoy.

More music from Willie Evans, Jr.  This time it's a collaboration with Mr. Lif that was released in the beginning of the year.  Enjoy.

One of the best new artists that I've heard in a minute!  I haven't heard a bad track from this cat!  An emcee and producer, Willie Evans, Jr. is a Jacksonville native and a member of the Asamov clique.  His flow sort of resembles Metal Face, and his album, Introducin', dropped mid-summer and disturbingly went under-the-radar.  He's one of those artists on my list to check for every month.

Presented here is the intro to Quik's latest gem, The Book of David.  Be sure to check out the album if you haven't already; it's legit.

From his mixtape, XXX, comes this short, phenomenal, and heart-wrenching story about a 'good girl' now addicted to coke.

Fresh off of The Eleven One Eleven Theory Mixtape, comes the beautiful and amazing track, "Samples and Sh*t," from 'Chocolate City' emcee, Wale.  The mixtape will more than suffice until the much anticipated release of his next LP, Ambition.  Enjoy.

Here's the first of many posts to music from this sensational up-and-coming vocalist/rapper, Jered Sanders.  When you think of a hybrid singer-rapper, you may have some reservations as one skill may lack the other's quality; however, this cat does both extremely well, and without auto-tune! A member of The Talented Tenth duo (with fellow rapper, AnMor), Sanders has collaborated with the likes of Oddissee, DJ KO, and 14 KT.  He's releasing a slew of work in the near future.  Be on the look out; he's legit.

Within the last two years, I've become a HUGE supporter of The Cool Kids.  Imagine my excitement with the announcement of The Cool Kids linking up with some of my favorites - Bun B, Freddie Gibbs, and Blended Babies - to release an album.  The announcement saw the release of the group's first official collabo-release, "Authority."  It already has me hooked, and the beat is simple, yet so genius.  It brings me to the 90's all over again, but with a modern edge.

So, one of my favorite artist right now is indie artist, Jaidene Veda.  She's been featured on tracks by the Ananda Project, Ralf Gum, and so forth (I think this release tips the cake, though). Multi-faceted, she's a filmaker and a photographer.  The track is handled by one of my musical heroes, Blaze's Josh Milan. I'm a sucker for the smooth, melodic approach.

It's almost September and you guys know what that means. The Toy Soldeir's newest EP is going to be released on the 20th! Here's a fresh track off of the album.

We're counting down to the release of F Deluxe's album, "Gaslight". Check out this exclusive first track off of the album!

This 1966 recording is a cover of the classic 60s garage rock song usually performed by the American Breed. This version features an all-female lineup and sudden bursts of feedback cut right into the tape. Hmm... do I hear the beginning of noise rock?

Great music from the Rhythmatic Eternal King Supreme, REKS.  Do yourself a favor and peep the debut, if you haven't already.

In this song, The Heavy take a Clarence Reid sample and turn it into something equally funky, yet completely different. It's a sizzling soul number with enough "oomph" to get even the squarest of square up and bumpin'.

I've had this song stuck in my head all day. It's those vocals. They grow from soft and melodious to harsh and biting in seconds. I can't get enough of it and have been anxiously awaiting their upcoming album.

Great stuff off of the Lincoln Way Nights (Intelligent Trunk Music) collabo between Mishka NYC and the homie, Stalley.

This Philadelphia 7-peice is known for their bright colors, face paint, and catchy melodies. However they solemn up in this gem off of their self-titled album, complete with Eleanor Rigby-esque strings.

This dreamy, shoegaze-inspired track reminds me of lounging in the sun, wading through the ocean, or spending the day at the local amusement park. The floating vocals and surf guitars provide for the perfect summer soundtrack.

From the Coltrane stable, and by way of Impulse!, comes Pharoah Sanders' 1971 masterpiece, Thembi.  Presented is the opening cut off that album titled "Astral Travelling."  Enjoy.

A piece dedicated to his daughter, "infant Eyes" probably ranks in my top ten compositions of all time.  This cut is taken from his Speak No Evil album. 

A session made in heaven; 1963 saw the release of Ella & Basie - a collaboration between two of the greatest to ever swing it.  Basie's orchestra is the perfect compliment to Ella's vocals, and Quincy Jones' arrangement is simply marvelous.

This is a rare one for fans of The Roots. This a remake of Bobby Hutcherson's "Montara". From the Blue Note compilation "The New Groove: The Blue Note Remix Project, Vol. 1".

Like it!

Way before the acting career and make-up ads, Quenn Latifa was killing it in the hip-hop world. The horns on this track are what makes it.

You can never go wrong with dope MCs and a Donald Byrd sample.

Who's got the jazz? They do. Sampling Lucky Thompson's "Green Dolphin Street". From the classic album "The Low End Theory".

Can music really be split into genres based on beat, instruments, feel, content, etc.?  Is that really how it's suppose to be?  With the West's infatuation with boxing everything seperately by terms and definitions, it often seems so as non creators continue to rush to put a stamp on art.  Gil, on his 1981 album, Reflections, posed this very question about "Free Form" with the presented cut titled, "Is That Jazz?" 

Classic Hip-Hop from Main Source. Sampling Lou Donaldson's "Pot Belly". From thier 1991 album "Breaking Atoms"

Straight outa Jersey! First track off of YZ's first album, "Sons of the Father". (1990)

"chillin, killin like a villain, the meaning of RAW is Ready And Willing"

"When it comes to days like this," I sit back, light some incense and chill with Native Tongues as my backdrop.  Midnight Marauders.

Guru giving a breakdown of the meaning of Hip-Hop over Jazz beats. From the 1995 album "Jazzmatazz Vol. II".

KMD!!! MF Doom's first crew! Still remeber the feeling the first time I heard this tune. Sampling O.C. Smith's "On a Clear Day (You Can See Forever)". From their album "Mr. Hood". Jeep Music.

Such a great tune. Staten Island Hip-Hop! Sampling Blue Mitchell's "Good Humour Man".

Hip-Hop + Blood, Sweat & Tears. Now that's fusion. Form their 1988 release "The Cactus Album".

One the first Hip-Hop groups to work with a live band. Classic! From their 1988 album " In Full Gear"

"Children listen to me, It ain't where it's at."  Too often do public figures shy away from the responsibily of being role models.  Gil embraced it, and showed us what to do, and also, what not to do.

Maybe it was the deep baritone; maybe it was the perfectly shaped 'fro; maybe it was his unparalleled wit; or it could've been his height.  Gil Scott-Heron captured, not only the hearts and minds of America's hoods, but also of an entire planet of music lovers.  Gil was an enigma that barged his way into America's conscious with an uncanny and intricate mix of spoken word, blues, jazz, funk and soul.  He was one of those special artists that used his position to inform, inspire, and entertain.  As much as some people might have despised him for his politics, they had to respect him; and some probably even grew to love him.  With Gil, no subject matter was off limits, and no political or social figure was exempt from musical scrutiny.  Will there ever be another force that'll make a similar, or greater, impact in our lifetime?  Probably not.  But he did leave a legacy that can serve as a blueprint for conscious artists looking to do more than hang from strings.  Gil stood for something - this something often gets lost in a matrix of auto-tune and escapisms.  Gil reminded me that honesty is best, to always be funky, and that the only force holding me back is nothing, except for myself.  *pulls out Moving Target LP* Rest in peace.  

Throughout her career, Queens vocalist Vinia Mojica, has provided a whole lot of hooks and ad-libs for the likes of De La Soul, Mos Def, Common, Talib Kweli, and so on.  Presented here is one of those rare tracks - actually a B-side to her 2003 single, "Guilt Junkie."  The "Sands of Time" is passing as I ask, "Where is she now?"

There once was a time when FM radio and music television channels played House on the regular...Detroit's Kevin Saunderson & Paris Grey are better known as the dynamic House-duo, Inner City, and this cut is the title track from their debut album Paradise (aka Big Fun).  Peace.

What's happening, my good folks?  Here's a cut from criminally often overlooked House legend, Maurice Joshua.  The track dates back to 1995, and the title is "I Can't Understand."  Enjoy.

Currently blasting in my headphones:  Idioteque by Radiohead.

Enjoy this beautiful east coast weather. This is "Green Lights" by Aloe Blacc.

"Long Time" appears on Cake's sixth full length studio album, Showroom Of Compassion, released in January 2011. What I love about this song is the syncopated background vocals that are intermitten- no other instrument could bring the same effect. The lyrics are simple, yet tell a story that can be interpreted differently depending on the listener.

I used to work with the one guitarist of Creepoid, but never really checked them out. Until they recently released their debut full length, Horse Heaven. You probably can't tell, but it was recorded mostly in a basement in philly. While most of the songs start off dreamy and chilled out, they can get quite heavy and chaotic. Check them out this Monday at Kung Fu Necktie or June 15th at Johnny Brenda's. and pick up a copy of Horse Heaven. you won't be disappointed

A calm song for a calm morning. This is She Just Likes to Fight by The Four Tet.

No introduction needed. Zappa setting the record straight. From his 1979 album 'Joe's Garage'.

If it's one thing I love about this band's music is the lyrics - Vivid story telling through a song.  Released in July 2009.

"Merrymake It With Me" is off of The Republic Tigers' new EP No Land's Man. Take a listen it's worth playing over a million times trust me.

If you haven't listened to Adele's new album "21", then I really don't know what to tell you.  This girl is putting out the best music right now, so pay attention!  I was originally going to post the tear-jerker "Someone Like You", but nah its too nice out for that - here's "Rumor Has It".  Dig it.

Never before have I heard "let me see that ass" sung with so much soul.  Join me in my new musical obsession with the Weeknd - the most refreshing thing for modern R&B in a while.  You can check his debut mixtape, House of Balloons, on his website for free.  This selection is entitled "Wicked Games".

In honor of Questlove coming to Drinker's West in Philly tonight we have The Roots! Star/Pointro is off of the album The Tipping Point.. "the most radio friendly album." it's still a great album, even if it's more commercial than the other albums.

Don't fall for that 52 fake-out! Lady Alma and Dego collaborate as Silhouette Brown on the 2010 album 'Two'.

"My Key" is off Atmosphere's new album The Famly Sign. This album revolves around the concept of family....family meaning those closest to you, and those who make you who you are. Those who came and went, and those who are still around. It's a raw concept of the reality of what family really is and the time we have on earth with them.

Say What? Josh Wink doing loungy Drum and Bass! And just when you thought you knew him. Happy Birthday bro! (1996)

It's the beat! Featuring Jack Kerouack. From their 1994 album 'United Future Organization'.

Something to get you moving in this nice weather. From their 1995 album '100° And Rising'.

Also known as 'Shark Attack Theme', from the movie 'The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou'. From his1973 release 'Innerr Space'.

80 degrees in Philly today! Mmmm Hmm. From his 2010 album 'Cosmogramma'.

Brazilian electro/funk. From their 1980 release 'Outubro'.

The ridiculous trio bringing that Samba Doido (crazy samba)! From their 1975 debut album 'Azimuth'.

This is one of the hardest working bands on the planet! Since forming in 1972, this brazilian band has dropped 27 albums and counting. Just imaging how hard it is to come of song titles for each song. From their 2008 release 'Butterfly'.

The ultra smooth Mr. Smith withe the space funk.

This man has got jokes.  It seems like we've been living in the 80's again for the past decade. This song actually sounds like something Prince would have done. From his 2009 album 'He Was King'.

Late night lounge music. It's all in the composition. I feel like sippin' on some cognac. From his album 'Can't Hold Back'.

Classic Philly Hip-Hop! Maxx from Black Landlord representing! From their album 'Tricks Of The Shade'. (1992)