Common is Back

One of the most honest and thought provoking lyricists in Hip-hop is Common. Serving the Hip-Hop community as an ambassador of truth, mind provoking story telling, and a the soul that makes Hip-hop a staple in the music industry, Common's newest album, "The Dream, The Believer" brings a refreshing taste into a Hip-Hop genre that has been easily exploited, and reduced to foolishness centered on "phat" rims, bling, and ignorance.

"The Dream, The Believer" kicks off with amazing soulful samples that sets the pace in motion for a truly inspiring story that only Common can deliver. Common's passion for truth encourages  remarkable collaborations with iconic underground Hip-hop legends and Neo-soul masters such as, Nas, Maya Angelou, and John Legend to bring forth the voice of the urban community.

While I was listening to "The Dream, The Believer", I couldn't help but feel myself transported to a time where soulful music moved the masses into action and paved the way for change and progress. There is passion hope and inspiration that is presented in this album. A true push for progression and movement forward is what this album is all about. Common is quick to provide a clear picture of triumph over struggle and pain throughout life's many adversities. No matter what your primary musical choice is, "The Dream, The Believer" is an impacting and great album.

If you are following The Down Beat and are interested in some of the artists that are showcased, be sure to log-onto Spotify to obtain access to some really amazing new material of your favorite artists. 

Classical Take on Some Modern Works.

So, the other day I was looking at my News Feed on Facebook, when I came across an interesting post displaying a parody of "Star Wars" theme music. Being the nerd that I am...

...I clicked on the video link and found myself transported to a place that I never in my wildest imagination thought I would see myself in.

The video was aptly titles "Cello Wars", and really showed some amazing musical creativity. The video displayed some cool production effects of this guy jamming on a cello playing a killer list of all the "Star Wars" themes backed by some cool techno loops. My eyes were transfixed on this little production and I became obsessed with learning more about this Classical Duo.

To my surprise, I was presented with the name ThePianoGuys, and was even more delighted to know that there were more modern interpretations of contemporary pop music done with a classical twist. This phenomenal duo is comprised of classical piano master Jon Schmidt, and a rocking Cellist, Steven Sharp Nelson. These two genius's approach to classical music with an edge is really worth taking a look at. As I continued to search for more information and videos on ThePianoGuys, I was presented with a killer modern interpretation of Mozart’s "Moonlight Sonata". The moment I heard, and saw this brilliant classical masterpiece revamped to a killer dubstep groove with a pianos and a "FREAKING CELLO", I lost it! I had to pick my jaw off the grown due to the incredible skill and sound that I was hearing.  It is in my opinion one of coolest things that I have discovered this year, and a great way to bring 2011 to a close.

ThePianoGuys have some singles available for download on iTunes and are in the process of completing their first LB displaying their mastery of classical music with a modern sound. If you find yourself as a excited as I was after watching this video, be sure to log onto http://www.thepianoguys.com/ to show your support.

It May Be a Good Time to Think Retirement Boys

After a dismal collaboration with Lue Reed, Metallica has released a 4 track Ep this morning on iTunes. This little piece is he Trash-Metal Bands way of attempting to redeem themselves for the flop of an album "Lu Lu.
 
"Beyond Magnetic is the title of the bands latest release, and I have to tell yah, "I'm not impressed." Dont get me wrong "Beyond Magnetic" is a step forward from this years past release, but I have to say that the guys are kinda coming off more like a stale fart that won't leave the room. "I mean what is the deal guys?" "After all you've done to Metal to make it cool, this is what we're left with?'

To me this is a sign that the boys may be in need of some serious creative interventions that will reinvigorate their heavy style that made Metallica legend. The band has been on an interesting plunge, since Lar's beef with Napster, and all their release after the famed self titled "Black Album". The metal monsters started making some strides with their two disc album "Garage Inc." featuring some killer covers, and their very euvongard classical fusion of their catalog "S&M". As time progressed-and unforeseen roster changes-Metallica has put nothing out that is remotely comparable to their early sound, which catapulted the band into Rock History.


This is a sad day in my opinion for Thrash-Metal. If you want to hear the latest EP check out Spotify for more details. 

Cranberries Are on The Move

After ten years of no newly release material. Ireland's Celtic Alternative masters, the Cranberries are in the process of releasing their 6th studio album "Roses". The albums has released on single on iTunes called "Tomorrow" and if you visit the band's Facebook page you will be provided with an opportunity to download another track for free.

The band maintains their sound that has made them a true force within Alternative music. There is no doubt that there is a maturity in the groups song writing approach. The Cranberries continue to maintain the integrity of their Irish Culture making "Roses" a much anticipated release for 2012. Be sure to look for the band's new LP in February 2012.  If you are interested in t getting your hands of their two singles, hit up the iTunes Store and go to the band's Facebook page and select the "Free Download Tab". You can also obtain some samples of two other tracks by viewing The Cranberries webpage at, www.cranberries.com. Be sure to take some time to listen to them for your self.

Best Week of Music Thus Far!

Today was one of those days, that I must say arrived with much excitement. The new releases of some awesome material by artists Robin Thicke, The Roots, The Black Keys, and the late Amy Winehouse truly set my day in motion for some musical consumption that really made today AMAZING! So let us begin, shall we?

The first album on the list is Robin Thicke's fifth record, "Love After War". The first track on the album is really poppie and has a great head bobbing groove while maintaining that soulful style that has defined Robin as a true R&B sensation. His duo with Lil' Wayne on "Pretty Lil' Heart" is the first single on the album that wets fan's appetite for this new masterpiece. "Love After War" really offers a relevant message that is focused on hope and perseverance in the midst of hard times. There is no doubt that Robin maintains the integrity of soul music. I my opinion Robin Thicke is the modern day Marvin Gay, bringing raw emotion, sensuality, and magnificent metaphorical storytelling that set R&B in motion. This is a must have album, so do yourself the favor and get it. Moving on...

...While driving to work yesterday I was informed by one of West Palm's local radio personalities, that The Black Keys were releasing another album. With a Grammy under the duo's belt for their third album "Brothers", the Black Keys managed to bring a fuller sound to their increasing Alternative Rock approach to music. "El Camino" encompasses strong blue-grass and classic rock influences that clearly distinguish the groups very eclectic approach to song writing. You can hear the intense Zeppelin influence in "Little Black Submarine" to heavy Stevie Ray Blues guitar riffs throughout the albums entirety.  For me I wish nothing but further success for these guys and hope that "El Camino" brings another Grammy their way this year. Another must for your collection.

The Roots have another album? YES AND IT IS AWESOME! ?uestlove, Black Thought and the gang are back and bringing their uncanny musical approach to Hip-Hop in full motion with their new release "Undun". I don't know if it is the guys time on Jimmy Fallon or what, but The Roots are on a roll and doing it well. This album (like all the other Roots LP's) maintains the true story telling approach that Hip-Hop was intended to provide listener with. There is no question that The Roots continue to offer a breath of fresh air in music. "Undun" offers a great fusion of neo-soul and old-school hip-hop that will make you begging for more. Another must for you collection in my opinion.

Finally, we remember the late great Amy Winehouse. The idea that she is no longer with us due to her own inner demons silenced by her addiction, has left the music world a little short. Comprised of unreleased material, "Hidden Treasures" offers a very clear vision of the late singer's appreciation for Soul, Reggae, and old school jazz vocal styles of legends like Ella Fitzgerald and many more. With the help of Winehouse's family, "Hidden Treasures" offers greater insight to the artist's desire for hope, perseverance, and progress so needed in recovery/life. This is how Amy should be remembered.

Unlike past posts, these selections were bought outright. I knew they would be great, however if you are following "The Down Beat" and are interested in hearing these amazing albums before investing in them yourself, be sure to connect with Spotify to get a taste. 

Deep Hip-Hop...

...I mean from the moment I hit the play button to the very end, "Watch The Throne" had me thinking. Hip-Hop giants, Jay-Z and Kanye West collaborated to bring forth one of the most amazing compilation within the Hip-Hop genre to date. This is what this Hip-hop was intended to sound like right from the beginning. "Watch The Throne" embodies the relevant story telling of legendary Hip-Hop groups such as Tribe Called Quest, and De-la Soul.

The intense provocativeness of this duo really get's you thinking of all the events that have impacted people over the course of these difficult times and how those who struggle can rise out of their difficult times. Jay-Z and Kanye really push the envelope with their opening track, "No Church In the Wild". The song challenges faith and theological concepts that bring about hope, and meaning. The two are quick to address how confrontation and chaotic existences, are easily masked with such beliefs simply masking certain unwanted truths while leading towards hypocrisy.


When I say that this is an intense album, I mean it. For the first time in a long time I am presented with a true piece of urban mastery. If you have not yet heard this album, be sure to hook-up with Spotify and get your taste of what I think is the best Hip-Hop album of the year.

Boy Bands Were Cool in the Mid 90's

So, just when you thought the boy band craze had vanished into mid air, some how they just keep popping up. The only difference is that they package them a little differently.

One such group is Pop-emo looking quartet Hot Chelle Rae. Long hair and tight fitting jeans are used to present a different package, but the reality is that they are just another boy band. Here is the thing...

...See I may come across critical, but I'm a musician and love hearing progression and evolution in music. This stuff is the same thing. The band's full length album "Whatever" is exactly what it is. It's teenie-pop centered on simple concepts. The most notable track on the album is "Tonight Tonight" which hit the Top-40 station several months back. The groups music is fun and will get you moving a bit. For me it is definitely lacking. If this is your sort of thing go for it. To me it's like listening to a Disney Channel Compilation of the Victorious Cast. I know you are asking yourself...
..."How does he know about the Victorious Cast?" Well I have a 3 year old niece and my roomie's little one loves the show too, so I'm around it more than I'd like to be.

The album is designed to capture the attention of a more younger audience, but has the potential of drawing in some grown-ups through the group's somewhat maturer content on some tracks.

If you are interested in listening to Hot Chelle Rae's album, be sure to check out Spotify and get an account. You can hear the guy's whole album along with many others.