New Video: Doleboy Millionaire

Femfel ft Shola Ama

Film Review: Marley

Born in the 80’s to Rastafarian parents, it’s needless to exert how much relevance Bob Marley held within my household growing up. Whilst most parents declared Bob Marley as regimented listening on a Sunday afternoon, within mine it was all around the calendar and clock. The Sunday rule was only passed later in childhood within my household, as myself and brother started to explore dance, soul, hip-hop and other genres dubbed ‘Boof Boof Music’ by my mother. Slyly suggesting it was blasphemous to be played on a Sunday because it sent the wrong messages, as opposed to the peace, love and unity Bob Marley was an ambassador of.

Still as a child I idolised Bob Marley in the same way, if not greater than Michael Jackson. Whenever his music played within the home, it carried harmony, like that found within a sanctuary. Through my adoration, I learned about other factors of life, such as inter-racial relationships and I still remember to this present day the upset I felt within as I learned that Bob Marley had passed years before I was even conceived, let alone born. In a way, it made me love him and his music even more.

Digging deeper in exploration, I discovered music from ‘The Wailers’ Peter Tosh, Bunny Wailer and others, leading to the first concert I ever attended to be that of his son Ziggy Marley. But admittedly, there was still so much I didn’t know at the point I became more submerged into my ‘Boof Boof Music’ as I revelled within my adolescent years.

Marley – the docufilm – gives an insight into Robert Nestor Marley I would never had found through my own investigations. From his creation, we learn about his parents and the family life he was born into. The struggles he faced as a young man and how he found peace within Rastafarianism. The musical journey he travelled before and after the world knew his name, a journey that opened doors for many of musicians including those in the present day.

His humility when interacting with others, as well as the pain and suffering he overcame at various points of his life. Bob Marley was a man with characteristics many could benefit from if they were adopted. Yet while he is known for his masses of offspring, none of the women in his life had a bad word to say about his conduct with them or his relationships with his children.

But while I will state that this docu-film is about a decade overdue (if not longer), finding out more detail about his death and the cancer that eventually killed him, was quite an emotional yet informative experience. Knowing that a man who was present in Zimbabwe celebrating their independence, while also bringing peace to violent political warfare in his home country of Jamaica. As well as being prominent in the UK, US, Japan and anywhere else on the globe, can still be brought to an end by illness, magnifies that all of humanity is here by the grace of a higher power on borrowed time. Bob Marley died young, leaving a legacy greater than any achieved by his white family who disowned him. But his actions showed that purity of the heart can take us further than any amount of anger or bitterness. For that reason, I would recommend this film to not only those that love Bob Marley and/or his music, but to everyone!

New Music: My All

Kyla feat MC Neat (produced by Paleface)

Kyla has returned on another bassline track alongside MC Neat, known mostly due to his garage hits alongside DJ Luck. Covering Mariah Carey's My All, Kyla shows off her talents and vocal range.

Give it a listen....

Due for release July 2012

Film: Something From Nothing - The Art of Rap (Trailer)

SOMETHING FROM NOTHING: THE ART OF RAP is a feature length performance documentary film about the runaway juggernaut that is Rap music. At the wheel of this unstoppable beast is the film's director and interviewer Ice-T. Ice-T takes us on a deeply personal journey to uncover how this music of the street has grown to dominate the world. Along the way Ice-T meets some of the remarkable superstars of Rap, from Eminem to Dr Dre, to Snoop Dogg and Kanye West. He exposes the roots and history of Rap and then, through meeting most of it's most famous protagonists studies the living mechanism of the music to reveal The Art Of Rap. This film features unique performances from it's entire cast and does not use any archive material.

Still awaiting a UK release date, this one is highly anticipated... I'll do my best to keep you informed once a date has been confirmed.

New Video: On My Way

A Money feat Wyen Solo

You may remember when I introduced Wyen Solo last April and interviewed her last October... The young singer/songwriter has continued grafting in her bid to reach success, recently teaming up with rapper A Money to bring us this...

The mellowness is so calming alongside such a strong message of self-belief. I look forward to what will be coming from her next!

New Video: Rain

Marger

As time has gone by, I've liked Marger's work more and more.... I especially like the visual effects in this video.

Taken from the Cheeky EP available here

New Video: Breathe

Delilah

New Video: Only Human

Wiley & Cashtastic ft Tereza

Really like the vibe on this one...



The vocals tie it all together very nicely!

DVD Review: Showtime

The Heatwave presents… Showtime (A Rollo Jackson film)

Belonging to a family with tight connection to the reggae and dancehall movement in the early 80s and 90s, I’ve never been able to dispute the unity a good sound can bring. Growing up, watching recordings of the latest SunSplash or Sting was considered the norm for those who weren’t lucky enough to be present as the vibes took place on the sunny island of Jamaica, whilst also serving as a visual for those who were to reminisce.

During the same period, the reggae and dancehall sound broke it’s borders, finding an extended home in the UK via the likes of Aswad, Musical Youth, Tippa Irie and the late Smiley Culture. Through these artists and others, the music became an avenue of free creative expression that allowed evolution to take place continuously, bringing fruition of new genres within the UK.

This geographic and musical growth is the focus of Showtime; the brain child of Gabriel and Benjamin D at The Heatwave, bringing together members of the UK dancehall foundations and all the following genres which advanced from it. Welcoming music lovers who are newcomers unfamiliar with the dancehall pioneers to the connoisseurs, the blueprint for the night is “If you love the tune, go insane” states Benjamin D. The Heatwave have made Showtime a place to find education as well as entertainment, in the meantime giving homegrown artists an opportunity to try something new.

Throughout the Showtime DVD commentary from The Heatwave and various artists including Glamma Kid, Wiley, Stylo G, Stush, Lady Chann, Riko Dan and many others, brings together individual experiences of the music, depicting the formation of the inner passion seen exerted while performing on the stage. Filmed at Cargo in Shoreditch, East London on 15 June 2011 in memory of Smiley Culture (a pioneer within the evolution of the dancehall movement here in the UK), homage is paid to the inspiration he gave to many. Artists recollect their own personal memories of Smiley Culture and how they feel his influence presents itself within their music and the music being released throughout up to the present day. In addition the DVD includes a performance from Smiley Culture’s sparring partner Asher Senator which took place on the night of ‘Smiley Culture Character Reference’ adding a nice touch to the overall project.

The acts on the night were in abundance from the various genres; General Levy, Skibadee, Wiley, Lady Leshurr, Stylo G, Stush, Lady Chann, YT, Glamma Kid, Riko Dan, the list just simply goes on! To bring so many strong names under one roof, to perform alongside eachother on one stage is a strong amalgamation of homegrown talent which illustrates the musical unity Showtime and The Heatwave sound represent. I think it’ll be fair to say that the DVD captures a night when history was reformed. I’ll definitely be showing it to my parents!

To obtain your copy of the Showtime DVD go to: http://www.theheatwave.co.uk/showtime

Follow The Heatwave on Twitter @TheHeatwave

Video: Can't Say No

Conor Maynard

I don't know about anyone else out there, but I am absolutely loving this track to the max!! I didn't know who it was at first but kept hearing it on the radio... So glad I finally found out who it is.

Video spoils the track a little bit but nobody can tell me that Conor Maynard isn't better than Justin Bieber.... No Way!!

New Video: Take Care

Drake feat Rihanna

Events: Circo's Organisers Have Gone Loco

House music has seen an influx of new ravers and listeners in the recent year or so. While many have embraced the new crowd and welcomed them into the house music community, some have maintained that they are all on a hype and don't really enjoy the music. Either way, does it really matter to the event promoters? Apparently to some, it does....

It seems that there were too many ethnic urbanites present at the last Circo Loco because their 'regular' or 'Ibiza profile' customers complained or 'gave feedback' stating that they didn't feel safe and so the event organisers have inflicted this policy which I cannot deny may as well read as 'No Blacks, No Irish'.

Well let's see how many people travel to Birmingham to be disappointed on the door. Personally I wouldn't bother. You may as well just get your refund and go somewhere that us ethnic urbanites are appreciated.

For more from Circo Loco see here: Circo Loco E-Flyer

New Video: No Love

Ratlin feat Jah Vinci

I think I may have been encouraged to pay more attention to Ratlin with this track....



If like me, you're feeling this track, it's up for free download HERE!

Mixtape Review: Smiler – All I Know

His previous mixtape Clarity caused a major storm on the underground causing his name to leak over into the mainstream. Receiving recognition from Fearne Cotton on BBC Radio One and becoming one to watch as a current breakthrough artist, Smiler releases another mixtape titled All I Know.

Having mastered his craft along the way, Smiler’s flow comfortably rides over the beats, applied at a quality that those who have supported him during his climb will know this is Smiler at his finest thus far. In the meantime, Smiler makes it clear that he is happy with his progress, yet within ‘Feel It Coming’ shows that he is far from his coveted spot. This is understandable, considering the calibre of this project.

In addition to Smiler’s outward display to where he is at present, the mixtape sees features from other favoured artists and includes current favourite Delorean featuring Wretch 32 and boasts spectacular production with basslines and melodies capable of getting a pensioner who knows good music to simultaneously start banging their head along to the beats.

The only negative aspect of this mixtape is the length in entirety, or lack of it. 10 tracks and 35 minutes in total, it’s possible that I’m requesting too much from a mixtape. But hopefully, Smiler will take the comment in his stride and now he’s signed to Warner Music, there’s no reason why he can’t get in the studio and get recording his long awaited nice lengthy album!

Get your copy of the All I Know mixtape here!

New Video: Steam

Scrufizzer

Event Review: ILUVLIVE (Industry Special) – 12th March 2012

Time for another Industry Special edition of ILUVLIVE at XOYO in Old Street, London and there is a mellow vibe already within the atmosphere. Audience punctually present and mingling, small observation tells me that they’re ready to be entertained by the acts billed for the night; CHARLEE DREW, JOSH KUMRA, KAL LAVELLE, ENGLISH FRANK and MIC RIGHTEOUS.

First up Charlee Drew is welcomed back to the ILUVLIVE stage and once again the audience are hypnotized with his sharp tones. Within his last number titled ‘Did Me A Favour’ Charlee Drew hits notes that spur a grand applause from the audience as he makes way for Josh Kumra. Kicking off his set with ‘Don’t Go’ which he features alongside Wretch 32, Josh connects with his following numbers while also taking a picture of the audience so everyone can share the moment together.

Kal Lavelle steps to the stage armed with an acoustic guitar and without warning belts out piercing vocals strong enough to entrap the eardrums of those within the venue and out. The power within her second number ‘Disaster’ causes quiet throughout, allowing every word and melody to be soaked in. The talent held by Kal Lavelle will surely be remembered by everybody present tonight.

Ready to set the stage alight from the moment they’re under the spotlight, Big Cakes and English Frank give the audience food for thought within the first number and it’s clear to see the hype has been established as Big Cakes leaves the stage. Carrying on the momentum, English Frank shows off his talents once again for the ILUVLIVE audience, letting his sense of humour shine through while ordering a reload from the live band. Before leaving the stage, English Frank has everyone viciously bopping their heads until finally leaving to a rapture of cheers and applause.

Last act billed for the night Mic Righteous steps up and receives immediate interaction from the audience. The vibe within the venue is strongly prominent and infectious; many can be seen dancing and singing along with arms in the air. Following a heartfelt declaration about why he does what he does, Mic Righteous brings Kal Lavelle back to the stage for a last minute treat of goosebump inducing music to wrap up the night.

But before the show is over, the open mic competition takes place and it appears there is a lot of unearthed talent taking part tonight. But winning the crowd over with ‘Heard It All Before’ by Sunshine Anderson is Lauran, who will be back to open the show when ILUVLIVE returns on 2nd April 2012.

Event Review: Cut The Chat Live – 10 March 2012

Places on a first come first serve basis, there were more guests than seats available for yet another special live edition of the internet talk show Cut The Chat, showing that popularity continues to grow. Some of tonight’s guests have even travelled down from the Midlands! Common discussion topics on the show ranging from current affairs to what’s in the media and lifestyle with everything else in between, nobody wanted to be left out.

Taking place at The Roundhouse in Camden, London the Cut The Chat panel plus panel guest Smiler entertained and interacted with the audience discussing various topics such as public displays of affection and whether it is justified to monitor the social networking profiles of a love interest. The passion between opinions shone through amongst both panel members and audience, especially during the age old argument of whether it is possible for members of the opposite sex to be platonic friends. It would seem the majority believe not, however viable reasons were shared in favour of the opposite.

In addition to talk, the audience were treated to an endless supply of jokes from host Little Man and live performances from artists. On this occasion, this was my favourite part of the show. A young man from Birmingham was introduced to the stage as Jacob Banks and what came next was more than unexpected. It’s not everyday a performer you’ve never seen or heard warp you into their zone and make you feel every single part of the melody. Small observations revealed an endless supply of glazed over eyes and solemn faces showing the warped zone I had found myself in wasn’t an individual journey being travelled alone.

The entire event filmed for future transmission on Sky channel Vox Africa, all of the night’s talk and entertainment which also included a very powerful poem from Dean Atta can been seen by those who missed out at a later date. But until then, previous shows can be viewed on the Cut The Chat website and you can find out about any upcoming events by following the Cut The Chat Twitter @CutTheChat

In the meantime, here is a video of Jacob Banks that I found on YouTube...

New Video: 10 Steps Ahead

Marvell feat Dot Rotten

Video: Violin Climaxx

There's no mistake that Mr Adaggio is the man when it comes to turning your favourite track, into a string symphony filled with musical lust leading to melodic orgasm. That is exactly what he has done with my current 10x reload track Climaxx and it is undeniable heaven!

Just in case you wish to compare to see just how great it is, here is the official video of the original...

If you have a track you would like to be turned into an orgasmic string symphony, why not send a request to Mr Adaggio directly at @MrAdaggio1

Event Review: Redd Rooms - 4th March 2012

When was the last time you were offered a massage? What if they threw in some canapés and live entertainment? Is this starting to sound too good to be true? Well it is true… This is what went down at Redd Rooms at The Pipeline, Liverpool Street on the evening of Sunday 4th March.

Hosted by Remel London and Michael Levi (dubbed Mikey Fatz for the night), the show kicked off with acoustic rap from East Londoner Cynikal. Speaking true words applauded loudly by the audience before leaving the stage, the pace had already been set. Entering with exerted confidence, the mood is picked up comfortably by the next act Chale Boy the Poet.

Words drifting around the intimately dimmed room, clicks and laughter expel in short bursts from the audience, feeding into the relaxed mellow vibe. Following entertainment from Fizzie, Nathan Adams and Cheikh kept the mood flowing, showing them all to be unearthed talents with the required capabilities of providing to an audience. Many in the venue (both audience and acts) made references to their earlier massages throughout the night; it seems that anyone who never got one simply missed out.

Headliner Lola Godheld lit up the stage throughout her performance, making it clearly evident that she loves what she does. Her interaction with the audience was at a level very rarely witnessed from underground artists; her set had the calibre of the acts for the night sealed in the can.

Ending the evening with a specialist house set from DJ Sef Kombo, my summary of the night is as follows:  
Redd Rooms - the place to go for good treatment, good entertainment and overall winning hospitality. I’m glad I went!

For more info on Redd Rooms:
http://www.facebook.com/ReddRooms
http://www.twitter.com/ReddRooms