UBO Magazine: Album Reviews

DJ Wokstar

2007-10-23T11:43:00.000-07:00

DJ Wokstar

By Carmeli Hockson
Staff Writer
June 26 2007

Waahkah Ihiyahrisch is the son's of His Imperial Majesty Emperor Haile Selassie and a father of three sons himself. He is the man behind the longest running dancehall every Sunday night at the Blue Lamp in Downtown Sacramento.

His DJ name came from a fan of his in Hawaii who would call out, “Wokstar” everytime he saw him perform, hence DJ Wokstar.

Originally, Wokstar sold 90-minute reggae mixtapes for $5, starting his name to local fame. His appreciation and love for those who supported him is everlasting and humble, defining the success that brought reggae music to Sacramento every Sunday for four years at the Blue Lamp. The journey as an artist is one that he does not take for granted.

“Everyday is a blessing in which change is an everlasting journey," says Wokstar.
Dj Wokstar's presence is one that creates the essence of harmony and simplicity that parallels the hypnotic and soothing effect that reggae has. He defines his music and life through the sounds that make listeners remember the basic needs of civilization, ‘love, unity, and humanity.’
Check out Dj Wokstar on the ones and twos every Sunday night at the Blue Lamp and every Thursdays at Fulton's Underground in Old Sacramento.

R.J. Presents: Schemathings Mixtape

2007-10-23T01:06:00.001-07:00

By Kirk Parker
Staff Writer
Nov. 29, 2006

In ‘06 we all know that the revolution will not be televised. Of course, common knowledge still shows that there will be mixtapes. Arriving from Elk Grove, CA. by way of the Phillipines, UBO Magazine delivers R.J. and his entertaining CD, “Schemathings Mixtape.”

Add this artist to your album collection and just push play. Simply by examining the etymological roots of the album title, will give you a hint of what there is to be found.

“Schema”: A diagram, plan, or scheme.

“Things”: Material objects without life or consciousness, also…inanimate objects.

The logical conclusion that R.J. portrays provides tracks with a ‘new era’ plan to reanimate the collective unconscious. Beats provided by D.J. Epik, Track Addict, Anonimous of Trunk Monkey, DJ Time Bomb, MD3, and Agent CB all prove that R.J. travels in good company.

Methodology Presents: What We Have

2007-10-23T01:03:00.001-07:00

By Kirk Parker
Staff Writer
April 23, 2007

Methodology, hailing from the north of the border city, Toronto, Canada is a microcosm of the music industry’s current state, yet by performing so well in the areas of soul, funk, r&b, hip-hop, rock, and jazz, they resist simplistic definitions and deftly escape the grasp of music business executives who lack the vision necessary to traverse the underground’s brilliant sound vision.

Their first album, “What We Have,” released in January‘06, is a soulful romp through many musical genres. It features rich vocals and innovative instrumentality.
The five-piece band features Kamil Andre [vocals], Jamie Messum [drums], Martyn Szkrypczch [guitar], Stephan Carriman [keyboards/sound] and Dan Austin [bass].

Listening to this album immediately takes jazz and funk lovers to one of their club dates. Even though it’s not a live album, listeners will find themselves wanting to groove and allow natural and individual ambience to compliment the sonorous melodies.

Expect Methodology to continue to move confidently through the world’s independent music scene and don’t be surprised if they poke their head above ground once in a while.

Learn more about this band and listen to their music by visiting their website at http://www.methodologymusic.com.

Lilmatic

2007-10-23T01:01:00.000-07:00

Album Review
Lilmatic
By Kirk Parker
Nov. 29, 2006

Hailing from the love city of Philadelphia, hip-hop artist LilMatic offers new school swagger by blending melody with sound sense. His rhymes truly are razor sharp and require a thinking person’s attention span.

Lilmatic cleverly blends familiar melodies with a lyrical mix that is always fresh and innovative. If hip-hop was an educational school system, there would be Elementary, Secondary, and Higher Education. A few artist rise to the level of Rhode Scholar. That's where Lilmatic fits in.

Unfortunately the game can often be dominated by those throwing disrespect from the Yellow Bus. Fortunately, there are artist like Lilmatic, who will elevate the collective conscious into the future.

For more information about this artist, contact UBO Magazine or view the Lilmatic’s MySpace page at http://myspace.com/lilmatic215.

Common Market Presents: Common Market LP

2007-10-23T00:52:00.000-07:00

By Kirk Parker
Staff Writer
April 23, 2007

In a self-titled album, hip-hop inspired group, Common Market, represents the principles indicative in their name. Rather than rehashing partisan points of view, they open up a hip-hop discussion on a panoramic world level.

The group is a collaborative effort brought together by two rising stars of the genre; Sazbi, an up and coming record producer and R.A. Scion, a road dominate MC. Both are part of the Seattle, WA hip-hop scene and have performed on reputable stages such as the Sasquatch Festival and The Capitol Hill Block Party. As a group they’ve shared the stage with KRS-One, Zion I, Ghostface Killah and The Coup.

In catching the mind of KRS-One, they moved him to state, “they spit in the tradition, the conscious hip-hop movement.”

He then flew up to rock Common Market’s album release party in Seattle, bringing the group on tour with him on the Temple of Hip-Hop tour.

Common Market is a thinking person’s album. However, the posture listeners assume while listening might be a bob with the head and one fist raised defiantly in the air.

For more information about Common Market, visit their website at http://www.commonmarketmusic.com or their MySpace page, viewable at http://www.myspace.com/commonmarket.

DJ Manny Black Presents: Eclectik Electrik Mix CD

2007-10-23T00:50:00.000-07:00

By Carmeli Hockson
Senior Staff Writer
June 5, 2007

The creation of connecting timeless music together and accomplishing a harmonious sound is rare. Dj Manny Black creates an eclectic mix that features soul, hip hop, pop, and funk. The CD's title defines the essence of this mix of diversity through sound and a reflection of how he defines his own environment, Oakland, California. He arranges the tracks with just the right dose of beats that massages your mind, body, and soul. Dj Manny Black strings out John Mayor's Clarity, unleashes Prince's, Beautiful loved and blessed, smoothes it out with J-88's Look of Love, and digs to the roots of the sounds of earth, wind, and fire and the Jackson 5. In retrospect Manny Black's mix is truly a continuity of smooth tracks that hit the soul of many moods. For more information about DJ Manny Black, visit http://www.freshloveink.com.

AM1 Presents: The Take Over Mixtape

2007-10-23T00:48:00.001-07:00

By Carmeli Hockson
Staff Writer
Nov 30, 2006

Album Reviews
AM1 – The Take Over Mix Tape
"The raw rugged phantom"

An emcee spitting about the adversity of life, love and the everyday battles to beats familiar to the ear drums, creates a different tone of a mix tape album. Using beats from classic producers AM1 has proven himself to the talents of Jay Z, Pete Rock, Dr. Dre, and Dj Premier.

Words transforming into reality of what life has presented to humans is explained through a track called "This Can Be Life," an ode to his grandmother's life and the story about her battle with Alzheimer's is an unforgettable track..

AM1 is a true talented Bay Area artist with skills that should build trepidation to other emcees; "Step to Me," shows his edginess and his verbal battle abilities over a beat provided by DJ Premier: “twenty five for life/verdict for murdering mics/a tad to radical for the conservative types/so for the internet geeks and emcees against me/know that I'm from the bay/so come try to get me."

Animate Objects Present: Riding In Fast Cars With Your Momma

2007-10-22T01:13:00.003-07:00

By Aaris A. Schroeder
Editor-In-Chief
April 24, 2007

Center in on the mid-west and you will find Animate Objects moving around Chicago. Their names are emcee Czar Absolute, emcee Wondur, Artur Wnorowski on keyboards, Steven Dobias plucking guitar, Brian Derstine beating drums, DJ Mabbo itching and scratching records while spinning around and Prashant Vallury headbobbing while he plays bass guitar.

Animate Objects' newest album, "Riding In Fast Cars With Your Momma," recently released March 31, '07 proves to be a hip-hop joint to reckon with.

Animate Objects' song entitled, "El Dorado," brings a funky backbeat, record scratching and a great chorus, going, "We don't know where we're goin'/But we're down to ride/When you see the road is open/You can leave it all behind." This song is a great one to listen to as you are cruising along on a road trip.

They have been influenced by such groups as The Roots, A Tribe Called Quest, Amp Fiddler, Common, Kanye West, Raphael Saadiq, Mos Def, Talib Kweli and sound like a mixture of a lighter version of Jurassic 5 and a older version of Black Eyed Peas, funky hip-hop, soulful and bluesy, Animate Objects truly have accomplished what they know best. They perform well with an album to boot and a sound that is uniquely hip-hop on an underground level.

Animate Objects have opened up for respected hip-hop groups such as Digable Planets, Soul Position, The Opus, Heiruspecs, Braille and Illogic/DJ Przm at local venues, while touring and at several spring/summer festivals.

To dig Animate Objects before they scurry away from Chicago and begin their massive objective takeover, check out their MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/animateobjects and get them to play in your city! Support funky hip-hop by purchasing their album -- show some love.

Kidic Presents: Holding Doors For Strangers

2007-10-22T01:06:00.000-07:00

By Aaris A. Schroeder
Editor-In-Chief
April 24, 2007

To be released in May '07, Kidic's hit single, "Holding Doors For Strangers," proves to be a delight to listen to.

Kidic, Dublin, Ireland based band has been influenced, musically by such greats as Muse, The Mary Janes, Pink Floyd, Pearl Jam, Supergrass, Cake and Radiohead but still maintains their own alternative rock sound.

Bringing alternative emotional rock to a standing ovation, this band that formed at Dublin University, spent years mastering their sound into what sounds like melodic rock-poetry.

"Holding Doors for Strangers" is a definite radio hit that will blow out all other bands, including The Killers and My Chemical Romance. Kidic has what it takes to make little girls scream.

With other songs such as "Rhetoric" and "Love in the Can," Kidic seems to be proving to be the next big rock band.

For more information about this 'next big band' check out their website at http://www.kidic.com for event dates and where you can get the single before anyone else next month.

NewMerika Presents: She's On Fire

2007-10-22T01:00:00.000-07:00

By Aaris A. Schroeder
Editor-In-Chief
April 24, 2007

Mixed together with a blend of hard-rock, hip-hop, funk and blues, Newmerika, nominated in '06 as one of the "Best of the Best" bands in New York by Fabulaun Entertainment, NewMerika is made up of five members, Phonz [lead vocals], Hollywood [guitar], Chubby Billions [turntables/vocals], Joe Cardozo [bass/vocals] and Funknasty [drums].

As the band says, "Welcome to NewMerika." The name of the band goes back to when the group first got together, "Phonz" Terrell and Geoff "Hollywood" Burnham.

"Two races, two sounds, two political parties, one music - America's music. American culture is always changing - sometimes exploding with tension between polar opposites until a synthesis can be achieved. This is exactly where NewMerika's mission begins," says NewMerika biography.

The songs are funky, hip-hoppy and rock-happy with a light pop-tone. Album name and hit song entitled, "She's on Fire," is a hot song with rock beats, singing as well as rhyming to the beat. Released '07, "She's on Fire" has already received radio play on alternative rock stations across the nation.

NewMerika doesn't want to be classified in a box, they do their own thing, being original and unique in their art form is what they strive in.

For more information about NewMerika, visit http://www.newmerika.com.

Triad Presents: Cold Front

2007-10-22T00:55:00.000-07:00

By Aaris A. Schroeder
Editor-In-Chief
April 24, 2007

Triad has the sound to go down in history with true hip-hop. Formed in '01, C-Note [Michael Benjamin] emcee, Kenny Flow Tight [Stephen Lewis] emcee, Verse-A-tyle [Cheddi Acham] Emcee and Dj Butter [Matthew Butterworth] Dj/producer from London, Ontario, Canada are like a string of rubber bands -- significant alone and even stronger when bonded together.

"Our strength is our LIVE performance. We integrate the crowd, highlight each emcee through solos and add a DJ to encompass many aspects of hip-hop. This is our biggest asset in terms of making us different from other groups. Not only are we pleasing to the ear while on stage we also entice the eye with our antics, emotion and visuals," they say.

Achieving recent celebrity status in Canada as a breakthrough band, Triad was featured on The Canadian Broadcast Company's show entitled, "Big Break," where over 700 artists performed. Triad made it to finals and were heard over the CBC's airwaves.

Next was the CBC show, "The Great Canadian Music Dream" which brought Triad against 1400 bands where they were again finalists. They result of this show was to see Triad perform live on TV.

To learn about how you can see a live Triad show and to pick up their album, “Cold Front” featuring their hit song, “Common Cold,” visit http://www.triad3.ca.

Robo Rob Presents: Solbot: Search For Contentment

2007-10-22T00:50:00.000-07:00

By Aaris A. Schroeder
Editor-In-Chief
April 24, 2007

Robo-Rob, all of 23-years-old wise, brings lyrical style and turntablism back to basics with his album, "Soulbot: Search for Contentment," released in '06 on Hi Hill Recordings.

"A born suceeder, leader, bleeder, none the sweeter. I try to bring multi culture and positivity to hip-hop culture. The old timers love me i'm Chub Rock reincarnated," Robo-Rob says about himself.

Musically rooted in New Jersey and with astrology signs pointing towards success, this Leo looks to the stars and the earth when writing his spoken word set to simple yet significant back-sounds and record scratch-beats.

With songs like, "Everytime I See Her" and "Obsticles" it is no wonder this artist has what it takes to reach not only for the stars but success as an independent hip-hop artist in this culture we live in.

For more information about Robo-Rob, please contact http://www.hihillrecordings.com.

Turn To Fall Presents: For The Fairest

2007-10-22T00:46:00.000-07:00

By Aaris A. Schroeder
Editor-In-Chief
April 24, 2007

Like the coffee, the alternative rock scene in Seattle, WA is rich and dark such as band, Turn To Fall, featuring now not only band mates but roommates Joshua Brown on guitar, lead vocals and keyboards; Leif Rowberg taking charge of lead guitar and keyboards; Edwin S. Peters II on bass and Jason Haugland, on drums and backing vocals.

In 2006, Turn To Fall took a break and recorded their best collection of songs on a 10-track album entitled, "For The Fairest."

"Sifting," on the album is a song about loosing the woman in his life which in turn made his life at that point fall apart.

"Sifting through the pieces/That once were my life/Never walk away/Live another day/There's always time to build it back/To build it back again."

To learn more about the band Turn To Fall, visit their website at http://www.turntofall.com for album and show information.

Katalyst Presents: Abstract View

2007-10-21T23:14:00.000-07:00

By Aaris A. Schroeder
Editor-In-Chief
April 24, 2007

Sounding similar to a more soft, darker, melodic version of Incubus or Third Eye Blind rock-band Katalyst, from CO featuring Matt Skellenger [Electric Bass], David Miller [Drums, Electronics] and Matt Kavan [Guitar, Vocals] brings a different type of mineral to the geology table of rock.

"Spill the Wine," from their album, entitled, "Abstract View" is a great example of this. Bringing a slight funk and off-beat tempo turned soft and sweet.

For more information about Katalyst, check out their website at http://www.katalystmusic.net.

White or Wheat Presents: Yet Untitled

2007-10-21T23:12:00.001-07:00

By Aaris A. Schroeder
Editor-In-Chief
April 24, 2007

White or Wheat is made up of the talented Manuel Eugene Rivas, 22-years-old, also known as Menaje Tre, performing lead vocals and guitar as duo-emcee/dj Cody Lee Prudeuhl, also known as C3p0 whips out lead vocals and turntables on their new album, yet untitled album.

Sounding similar to an accoustic east-coast version of Bone Thugs and Harmony on an underground level, on their song, "1000 Apologies," White or Wheat knows how to keep the crowd moving at their live shows.

This two-man hip-hop duo came together out of the simple need to make parody 'pop' songs. When they find how to create beats, they begin making their own music, parody-style to make you laugh, cry or other great or not so-great decision-making.

"Through the years they develop a unique underground flava that attracts even those who don't normally find themselves gettin down in the whole hip hop scene," according to their biography.

To see more, visit their myspace page at http://www.myspace.com/whiteorwheat.

Gemstar Presents: Streetz Gon Burn

2007-10-21T23:07:00.000-07:00

By Aaris A. Schroeder
Editor-In-Chief
April 24, 2007

Gemstar, located in New York, NY is one of those unlikely artists that seem hardcore but really are creating and performing lyrical inteligence on a conscious level

"Make Money," on the 21-track album, "Streetz Gon Burn," released Dec. '06 brings an independent sound from the underground on top with on-fire lyrics. This song has had various online radio play.

If you want to give Gemstar a listen, please visit http://cdbaby.com/gemstar and his website for more artist information at
http://gemstarmusic.com or his MySpace page for event listings at http://myspace.com/gemstar.

Conjob Presents: Everybody Be Cool

2007-10-21T23:03:00.001-07:00

By Aaris A. Schroeder
Editor-In-Chief
April 24, 2007

Conjob, made up of performers Zhanine [vocals], Warbux [MC], Derek Jones [guitar, backup vocals], Victoria Razzano [keyboards, synthesizer, backup vocals], Brian Carpenter [bass] and Kevin Brent [drums], a delicious blend of hip-hop, funk, soul and rock music, based out of Los Angeles, CA.

Their newest album, "Everybody Be Cool," includes such songs as "Sound Thee Alarm" and "Miss Summertime," both of which are funky, hip-hop delights.

Conjob has put an album out every year since '04 and will continue to create and rock unique albums and performances. For more information about Conjob, please check out their MySpace page at http://www.myspace.com/conjob.

Ike Barnes Presents: The Inception

2007-10-21T23:01:00.001-07:00

By Aaris A. Schroeder
Editor-In-Chief
April 24, 2007

Ike Barnes, hailing from Washington, DC pulls underground hip-hop in different directions with anthem type lyrical styles, independent-seamless beats and deep, soulful r&b singers in the background on his album, entitled, "The Inception," released '07.

Two hype men back up Ike, Kahdi Seems and Jose Risi at events, bringing a truely awesome sound to venues on the east coast.

When Ike was 14-years-old, he saved up just enough ‘fundage’ to purchase his first production workstation. Ike then took it upon himself to not only create beats and music for himself but for other artists in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he originated from.

To learn more about Ike Barnes, please visit his MySpace page at http://www.myspace.com/IkeBarnes.

Shanel Presents: First E.P.

2007-10-21T22:54:00.000-07:00

By Aaris A. Schroeer
Editor-In-Chief
April 24, 2007

Shanel, multimedia designer, writer, producer and hip-hop performer origonally from the United Kingdom but now hailing in New York, NY is not only independent and talented but has been recognized by Billboard, VH1 and the Great American Songwriting Awards for her album, "First E.P." on her own label, Shanel World Records.

Her song entitled, "Self-Help Books," is a lyrical spoken word circle of trying to get self-help for her problems but nothign seems to work until she realized it is within herself to change. The song is really unique from it's soft backbeat to its unique lyricist with her self-written poetry.

For more information about Shanel, please visit http://www.shanelsworld.com.

Joseph A. Peragine Presents: Self Medication...Poems of Alienation

2007-10-21T22:46:00.000-07:00

By Aaris A. Schroeer
Editor-In-Chief
April 24, 2007

Writing, creating and performing music since the tender age of 14-years-old, Joseph A. Peragine of Cincinnati, OH offers deep melodic music in hopes of coping with his paranoid schizophrenia with his most recent album entitled, “Self Medication...Poems of Alienation,” released in ’06.

Song entitled "Fighting for Existance" offers melodic, medium-tempo acoustic guitar and break-beat drum style similar to Incubus and other artists. The music tells a story without words and can be labeled as background music for those times that you are really trying to get yourself together in this world.

For more information about Joseph A. Peragine check out http://www.josephaperagine.com today.

Dahlak of The Neighborhood Watch Presents: Dual Consciousness

2007-10-21T22:15:00.001-07:00

Emcee: Dahlak of The Neighborhood Watch
Album: “Dual Consciousness”

By Aaris A. Schroeder
Founder/Editor-In-Chief

One of Sacramento’s best spoken word artists, Dahlak Brathwaite has released his newest album, “Dual Consciousness,” a positive album about love, life and poetry.
The album is definitely something you can groove to and learn from with such songs as “The Club,” “Where You At (Oakland to Sactown)” featuring 5th Ave. and “Welcome to my Cypher,” featuring N.I.C., C Plus and LeeJay; conveying the reality of the current hip-hop culture and all that has affected the people within it, negatively and positively.
Get some knowledge from Dahlak and learn how to respect the culture of hip-hop and understand it by visiting www.thisisdahlak.com, www.ill-literacy.com and www.myspace.com/dahlakbrathwaite.

Another Rap Group Presents: They Call Us...

2007-10-21T22:12:00.000-07:00

Crew: Another Rap Group
Album: “They Call Us…”
Crew: Ospis, Komplex and Aziaddict

By Aaris A. Schroeder
Founder/Editor-In-Chief

DJs scratching, beautifully orchestrated emcee skills and beats worth moving your booty to is what Another Rap Group is all about. If you listen to Camp Lo, Digable Planets or De La Soul – you will dig ARG’s new album, “They Call Us…” Sacramento-based hip-hop trio. Listening to their song entitled, “Bothered” reminds me of playing a car racing video game, with unbeatable levels yet a groove and cruise level worth thrashing everyone over.

Random Abiladeze, Live Manikins, Norman Hoodwell, ZoneZ, Deena and Ahab are all featured on “They Call Us…” Songs such as, “Dream Jobs” and “KSFU” will definitely be creating some heat in Sacramento – to find out how to get your hands on one of these albums visit www.argmusic.com and check out the clothing line at www.mindspeakers.com.

Crown City Rockers Present:

2007-10-21T22:09:00.000-07:00

Band: Crown City Rockers
Album: “earthtones”
Members: Raashan Ahmad [emcee], Kat Ouano [keyboard], Max MacVeety [drums], Headnodic [bass/production], Woodstock [MPC/Production]

By Aaris A. Schroeder
Founder/Editor-In-Chief

Hailing from Oakland, CA, Crown City Rockers bring a jazzy, funky and soulful feel to hip-hop. Reminiscent of jazz halls where toes tap and heads nod, lovers of all forms of music can enjoy this treat. These cats have performed all over the USA. Bringing a whole new level to the game of hip-hop, these veterans reveal the secrets to a great band in their album, “earthtones.”

Featured artists such as Scarub, Destani Wolf, Zion and Gift of Gab, all featured on this one-of-a-kind album.

“Fortitude” brings slick emcee skills as Raashan and Gab turn the beat into a reverbed cypher and Woodstock runs the beat inside and out with his artistically sound scratching skills.

Crown City Rockers are a great band to listen to and hear live. Find out more information about touring and where to find an album at www.crowncityrockers.com.

Agustus thElefant Presents: Sole Expression

2007-10-21T22:06:00.000-07:00

Emcee: Agustus thElefant
Album: “Sole Expression”

By Aaris A. Schroeder
Founder/Editor-In-Chief

Highly intellectual emcee, Agustus ThElefant’s most anticipated album, released in ’06, “Sole Expression,” engineered by JustLove, both of Lost Tribe has car drivers bumping and club-goers bobbing.

Complex and definitely not sweet, Agustus’ album is dark, melodramatic and real hip-hop. Originally from the Northern CA foothills, Agustus performs his seamless emcee battling skills all over from Reno to Santa Cruz and all through the middle.

More obvious than an elephant on a stage, Agustus brings raw and unbeatable talent on his album with songs about high school, love notes and herb such as, “Ol Skool.”
Get on it with Agustus at http://www.myspace.com/agustusthelefant and check out one of his shows in Nor-Cal.

Mic Jordan Presents

2007-10-21T22:03:00.001-07:00

Emcee: Mic Jordan of Tribe of Levi
Album: “Styleabuse; The Mixtape V1”

By Aaris A. Schroeder
Founder/Editor-In-Chief

Emcee of Tribe of Levi, Mic Jordan starts his new album, “Styleabuse, The Mixtape V1” off with DJ Ironic spinning and scratching records to sampled beats.
If you want to see some real revolutionary hip-hop, Mic Jordan brings hip-hop to a higher level in Sacramento with emcees such as Bru Lei, Random Abiladeze, Old Ghost, MahtieBush, State Cap [A.V., C-Plus and Hanlin], Poor, Mr. E., J-Freeze, 5th Ave., Verse NP, Essex The Redskin and Blaze. Can’t forget the lineup of producers such as Peabody Greene, 26 Hours, Rocky Path, DJ Filth, DJ Doin’ Somethin,’ Piano Guadalupe and Agustus ThElefant. If you want to know hip-hop in Sacramento, this is the album to pick up because everyone is on this album.
“Throw Some Keef On It,” featuring Poor and Bru Lei may be the light ‘em up anthem this year, keep an ear open. If you want to hear some good hip-hop, visit www.myspace.com/dankchamber and get an album.

Poor of Tribe of Levi Presents: ...For What It's Worth

2007-10-21T22:00:00.000-07:00

Emcee: Poor of Tribe of Levi
Album: “…For What It’s Worth”

By Aaris A. Schroeder
Founder/Editor-In-Chief

Abstract, bluesy and significant is Poor of Tribe of Levi’s new album, “…For What It’s Worth.” Turning a jazzy corner into the ways of hip-hop and providing a more revolutionary standpoint towards the inner grind of the culture itself.
“Dark Blue,” samples live instruments, body-moving beats and lyrics more familiar to an east-coast sound yet saturated right here in Sacramento.
“This song was about how a relationship can go wrong. I’m sure you all know what that’s like. This song is very personal to me and happens to be one of my favorites so far,” says Poor.
Poor also includes a special hidden track entitled, “Poor Shark Girlfriend.” This song is recorded live and has a rebellious sample added in for extra flavor. Find out where Poor and Tribe of Levi perform at www.myspace.com/holdenclaufield.

Live Manikins Present: Still Life Project

2007-10-21T21:53:00.000-07:00

Crew: Live Manikins
Album: “Still Life Project”
Members: Flavius, Runt Rock, Self, Rated R, Linguistics

By Aaris A. Schroeder
Founder/Editor-In-Chief

Engineered and produced by Nick Gatten who plays guitar, bass, clarinet, bass clarinet, drums, French horn and piano, using Cubase to put the beats and sounds together for conscious hip-hop group, Live Manikins made up of several emcees, Runt Rock, Self, Flavious, Linguistics and DJ Rated R – bringing us back to basics with true musical sounds.

Sounds like indie hip-hop mixed with cognizant cartoons and old school b-boy reverberations with such songs as “Rock the Mic.” Another song entitled, “Cruisin,” proves that Live Manikins can be mindful of instrumental perfection, loosely laid samples, drum and bass musical manipulation and key emcee signature levels.
Learn more about the reality of Live Manikins and “Wake Up” to all the positive tremors they are creating in the Sacramento community at http://www.myspace.com/livemanikins.

The Shades of Gray Present: Live at the Old I

2007-10-21T21:32:00.000-07:00

By Aaris A. Schroeder
Founder/Editor-In-Chief

Band: The Shades of Grey
Album: “Live at the Old I”
Members: Dan Preciado [bass], Jeff Hutting [guitar], Mark Preciado [drums], Luckey [emcee], Baldmatt, [emcee]

If you haven’t checked out Old Ironsides in downtown Sacramento, then you are missing out. The Shades of Gray, a live rock-infused hip-hop band who recorded their first album at Old I, break down what ‘Elemental Music’ is. Baldmatt and Luckey cleverly possess positive emcee vibes as guitarist Jeff and brothers Mark on drums and Dan strumming bass provide a live hard rock sound, sprinkled with funk, progressive-rock, metal and blues.

“It’s called Elemental Music, elements of so many different musical backgrounds and abilities. It’s almost a non-categorical way of categorizing it,” explains Baldmatt.
With songs like, “Double D’s” and “Jedi,” you can really see all the different Shades of Gray this band has to offer. Pick up an album at R5 Records, Dimple Records or hit the band up at www.myspace.com/theshadesofgray.

Spitball Presents: Welcome to Spitsville

2007-10-21T21:01:00.000-07:00

Crew: Spitball
Album: “Welcome to Spitsville”
Featuring: Eclypse, DJ Bombay, DJ PRZM, DJ Pos2 and Bru Lei

By Aaris A. Schroeder
Founder/Editor-In-Chief

Bringing anthem-inspiring beats and cuts, scrapes and scratches by world-famous DJ PRZM – Columbus, Ohio based conscious and street-wise hip-hop group, Spitball brings it large with songs about the art of emceeing and battles in the underground world of hip-hop with such songs as, “Making Moves” and “All Day.”

Don’t bite Spitball’s style, they are bringing it raw. Over a year ago, DJ PRZM came to Sacramento with Bru Lei to undergo a heart transplant only to pass away in Sacramento. Bru Lei was so intrigued by the history and scene in Sacramento; he decided to stay and was later joined by DJ Amos Famous from Columbus. Find out more at www.myspace.com/dangerousstyles or pick up your own album at http://www.silentrecords.net.

Raja, "The Lavish Collection"

2007-08-01T16:07:00.000-07:00

Raja
“The Lavish Collection”

By Aaris A. Schroeder
Editor-In-Chief
June 7, 2006

Raja, a Slough, England native’s album, “The Lavish Collection,” produced by Liquid Records and Wild Attitude Music brings groove and rap together into one.

As a conclusion to his “Hypnotic Album,” many songs are just touches to what his original path yet evolved beyond. “Serious” brings slow rap and sexy backbeats together, developing a very hot sound.

Raja will be releasing “Enjoy The Ride,” Summer ’07. To learn more about Raja, check out http://www.rajasmusic.com.

Raja, "Enjoy The Ride"

2007-08-01T16:03:00.000-07:00

Artist: Raja
Album: “Enjoy the Ride”
Released Summer ‘07

By Aaris A. Schroeder
Editor-In-Chief
June 17, 2007

Stomping out all the country bumpkins in Sacramento, CA with his Beck-like, eclectic sound and Pharell William’s electronic-type hip-hop, Raja brings his newest album, “Enjoy the Ride” to the table for hip-hop heads to get an ear-full.

“I see myself as a hybrid artist. I tend to mix rap, R&B, electronica and soul elements to create something cool and smooth. Think of Sade mixed with Dr. Dre. I am not hardcore but my music definitely has an edge.” Raja explains.

Raja’s self-produced album has the feel to become an underground classic. The opening song on “Enjoy the Ride, “ “Freak-Freak Ya’ll” sounds more East Coast than anything brought with fun-spoken word. The second track, “Fresh Air” brings an electronic sound not heard often, with a beat similar to Robin Thicke’s, “I Want to Love You Girl,” featuring Pharell Williams.

For more information to purchase Raja’s album or to book a show for this artist, please contact Raja at http://www.rajamusic.com or http://www.myspace.com/rajamusic.

Album Review: KOZ

2007-07-03T02:03:00.000-07:00

Album Review:
KOZ
By Kirk Parker
Nov. 29, 2006

If you check an unabridged definition of what makes an O.G.; some may say that it stands for Original Genius. One will see that genius is not some type of ‘bookwormish’ supercilious attitude. Instead, it has street level hard knock life sensibilities. This is where the artist known as KOZ enters the game.

Every time an artist synthesizes urban experience with entertaining beats and lyrics, the world should applaud. Through the album, “Soul of a Souldier,” KOZ gives a true “welcome to my world” experience.

As he himself might say “F**K reality T.V.” Listeners will both see and feel more than the most risqué video clip just by popping his album in and pushing play. Contact UBO Magazine for more information about this artist, or check him out at http://www.cemuzik.com or his MySpace address: http://www.myspace.com/koz1.

Album Review: Goldee; Album: "Hustle High/Hat Low"

2007-06-08T13:44:00.000-07:00

Artist: Goldee
Album: “Hustle High/Hat Low”

By Kirk Parker
Staff Writer

The talented artist Goldee hails from Hammond, Louisiana. From a region best known for Jazz, Creole cuisine and Mardi Gras festivities.

Goldee delivers, what some call a ‘brutal truth.’ In his album titled, “Hustle High/Hat Low,” he covers a spectrum of musical influences from gangsta-rap to smooth R&B.

However, the blend of Lousiana flavored street life experience is what makes this a stand-out album. It hits an emotional high note in the song, “Sweet Mary,” which is a beautiful tribute to his mother who passed away of cancer when he was 12-years-old.

In remaining tracks like the title track, “Hustle High/Hat Low” and “Baby Gurl,” Goldee chronicles his triumphant emergence into manhood. The passion and intelligence experience has brought him are evident in every word. A closer listen is always required.

Even behind the most dance-worthy hook is a story waiting to be heard. As experience has taught us, when flood waters come and the pretty veneer is peeled back, brutal truth is revealed.

Yet what is born of brutality also breeds advantageousness. This self-evident fact is bumped up a notch with the club worthy hit titled, “Lousiana.”

The fact is, there is something for every listeners musical taste. Make sure you sample it. The album will go down smooth, like the best southern gumbo with hot buttered monkey bread.

The album is set for release May 8, ‘07 and the radio release of “Sweet Mary” debut at the second spot on the New Music Weekly Top 40 Most Added Radio Chart.

To get your own advanced listen, check out the Goldee’s MySpace website at http://myspace.com/goldee2reppa.

Album Review: E. Reece; Album: "Next Up"

2007-06-08T13:42:00.000-07:00

Review of album for E. Reece
By Kirk Parker
April 17, 2007

Lately, it’s been popular for some people to say that, hip-hop is dead. As if a musical genre so firmly rooted in the underground culture could go away easily with a bang or wimper.

The fact is that true hip-hop will never die.

True hip-hop heads will be happy to discover that its ‘recovery’ is solidly in the hands of new generation artist like lyricist, songwriter and poet, E. Reece.

His brand of musical medicine is Ayurvedic in its philosophy; meaning it relies on organic and holistic remedies rather than a ‘quick fix’ get rich theme.

On his most recent released album entitled, “Next Up,” he displays rich musical background and appreciation for genres in and out of hip-hop. His self-described message of love, respect, truth and honesty come through in all his words. These concepts are rarely delivered with more natural funk than on this album.

The artist known as E. Reece is a proud proponent of underground music. He understands that this is where the true funk lives and he continues to work hard to keep his name out there.

Check out his MySpace link at http://www.myspace.com/ereecemusic to learn more about his art and dedication towards true hip-hop and funk.