Life White - Nothing To Prove

Lou Sinergy - Emib Bars

Phony Ppl - Statues

Richard Osborne - Just Leave

Disclosure - Settle

The wait is finally over and Disclosure have released their debut album, Settle.

Ever since I first heard 'Blue You' on BBC Radio 1, I knew these two were going to blow - and blow they have!

Two years later and the two brothers, Guy and Howard Lawrence from Reigate, Surrey have signed to Island Records and are now touring America.

I have to say, I'm impressed with this project and songs such as: When A Fire Starts To Burn, F For You, Defeated No More, Voices, and January. They stand out on the album like a sore thumb!

I absolutely love the summer vibes I get from this album, however I prefer the garage feel Disclosure bring on tracks such as: Flow, Tenderly, My Intention Is War and I Love... That You Know!

One of my biggest fears is that Disclosure will go toward a more mainstream crowed, rather than stay true to the music and the music that first got them noticed.

Disclosure have shown quite clearly what they're about, on EP's such as The Face, so when it comes down to it, I have no worries they have 'changed' in any way.

I can't wait to see what these two cook up in the future, and to this day I have no doubts that everything Disclosure touch turns to gold.

7/10

Kanye West - New Slaves

New track from Kanye's new album. I honestly didn't expect anything less when I heard about this being projected across 66 buildings in different locations, ranging from Chanel and and Millennium Park, Chicago.

You rarely get more than one opportunity in life to do something crazy, Kanye is making sure he gets everything out of life and educates the rest of us at the same time.

I can't wait for this album to drop, I know this is just a snippet of the level he's on right now.

All I can say is good luck, to every other artist not signed to G.O.O.D Music!

Kendrick Lamar - Bitch, Don't Kill My Vibe

Dope video from Kendrick Lamar - wouldn't expect anything less from this man at the moment!

A$AP Rocky stopped by Big Boy's Neighborhood and finds out he's got more in common than he first thought.

If you've been keeping up to date with Pretty Flacko you'd know about his background, his brother's death and also living in a homeless shelter with his mum, whilst still at school.

I have to say, I have a lot of respect for this man, mainly for keeping it real and not going down the typical path, selling drugs and getting in to gang activity as a career. After getting out of that he joined ASAP Mob and starting rapping.
I guess you could say he really did start from the bottom... now he's here!

Trinidad James Stops By Hot 97

So Trinidad James recently stopped by Hot 97 to speak to Angie Martinez about being a possible one-hit-wonder, Peter Rosenberg, how the fame is treating him and who he's dating.

I have to say, I became pleasantly surprised after watching this, mainly because of how smart he comes across, not only that, but also how wise he is!

I have to admit I have a lot more respect for the man after watching this and I'm excited to see what he's got coming up for the future.

That shirt is also crazy!

Busta Rhymes - Twerk It

So this is what music sounds like when Bussa Busss and The Neptunes join forces.

I can't wait to hear this in a club - I kind of wish I never sold my Beats Pro's now...

Nonetheless, this is an absolute monster!

What do you think? 

Skepta ft Kano - Lay Her Down

Brand new banger from Skepta's forth-coming album, 'Konnichiwa'.
Packed with Summer vibes, this track couldn't have come at a better time.

Although people were on Twitter the day it released saying how the track wasn't Skepta's best work, I can honestly say this is one of my favourite tracks right now.

I feel it's important for artists to experiment at times, like Lil Wayne dropping a rock album, or Snoop Dogg releasing a reggae album and changing his name to Snoop Lion - it works!

What are your thoughts on the track?

Pharrell opens up on his relationship, plus new music from Jay-Z, Beyonce and Busta Rhymes

'June Eighteen'

It's official - Kanye recently took to Twitter to tell the world there is a new album on the way, not only was it scheduled for a September release, he's moved it forward to June, 18th. 

Also, with Hov releasing an album this year, it looks like the game's about to change once again. 

In an interview at Hot 97, Pharrell Williams recently told Angie Martinez that 'The rain man is back!' 

It looks like 2013 is about to be a good year for hip hop, with also a Busta Rhymes album dropping. 

No date has been confirmed as of yet. 

Parv - I.D.K.W.T.C.T.M vol.2

New mixtape from the young Bar Staff spitter. 

The wait has definitely been worth it. I can really tell Parv has put his all in to this, not to mention with the help of Rockstar Energy drink! 

The beats have been chosen wisely and work immensely with the lyrics, tone and also the vibe. 

Parv goes deep in to his life and talks about finding out he was going to be a father for the first time on Got To Be Right, and also tells how his other half went through some struggles on Come Winter, which is a track that's got me amazed! 

I really like how Parv has used this mixtape as an opportunity to tell his story in a positive way, rather than trash-talk the whole way through, which is something we're unfortunately all used to within today's music industry. 

He really has shown what he's capable of and I'm far too exciting to see what the future holds for him and the rest of The Bar Staff.

Amazing project. 

3.5/5

Chance The Rapper - Acid Rap - NoDJ

New mixtape from Chance The Rapper!

Chance The Rapper - Acid Rap - NoDJ

Hold'em Denim 8

I'm in love with this White Gold Croc Tee by Hold'em Denim. 

After coming across the garments on a daily basis via Instagram, I've become fascinated by the designs and even the swag the young Hold'em Denim designer, Max, is flaunting!

Mixing street style with high fashion, it seems as if the young designer has hit the nail right on the head.

Setting up shop in Thailand, I would really love Hold'em Denim to blow up in Europe and also see stores around UK.

Shop Here

The Bar Staff - For The Kill

New single from Portsmouth's finest - The Bar Staff!

Giving sneak peeks in to their debut mixtape 'First Round', a lot of emcees better be ready for the bomb they're about to drop!

Shouts to Charlotte Regan for directing the video!

Also shouts to Parv, M.O.N.G.R.E.L, Asbo and Jai Blaze for doing their thing on this one! 

Big Sean - Family

I love these vlogs Sean keeps putting out. He always seems to release them just when I need them, too.

Big Sean is one of the most inspirational people out there, next to 50 Cent and Jay-Z. This guy is so humble, yet he enjoys the good life to the full.

Big Sean's latest album, Hall Of Fame, is set to release around June!

PARV FT M.O.N.G.R.E.L - LOVE IT

Second release from The Bar Staff's debut mixtape - First Round. Four words sum this track up - I fucking love it.

Eager to spread their vision, it's quite clear these guys want to get to the top and couldn't care less about those who were never there when they needed them the most.

Everything these guys release just gets bigger and better and I'm excited for them and their future.
Shooting the video in what looks like an abandoned house, this works excellently with the whole mood and vibe of the track, not to mention the beat!

For me The Bar Staff can do no wrong and coming from the same city, it's only right I give them my full support.
Big up Bar Staff!

French Kiwi Juice - Lying Together

Shouts to Bondax for putting me on to FKJ (French Kiwi Juice)! I love coming across great music by chance and this is one of those songs I can't stop listening to.
I love how relaxing it is, a track that makes a rainy day seem brighter.

Chance The Rapper

I first heard this track on DJ Semtex's radio show two weeks ago. I was blown away by this so much that I kept sneaking off to the toilet at work to listen to this over and over. I just love how powerful it is from the very start - it explodes with energy!

Chance is definitely one to watch out for!

Both G FrSH and Skepta went in on this one. Taken from G FrSH's latest mixtape 'Lego Man II' which is expected to drop on the 15th.

Notorious B.I.G.’s Childhood Apartment Retailing For $725K

This is crazy, Biggie's childhood home has been put up for sale for $725, 000. 

Located at 22 James St. in Brooklyn, The Clinton Hill condo features three bedrooms, an office and a den area – all products of renovations over the years.

I'm not sure who would buy this, especially with the renovations that have taken place over the years, it would just feel like a brand new home. 

“You must be kidding, I am [aware this was Biggie's apartment],” said listing agent Judith Lief. “I don’t really know yet what impact, if any, [Biggie's history] will have on the sale. I think it’ll be notable, but I don’t know if novelty translates to a purchase.”

Unsigned Talent

Just got an email come through from an aspiring rapper from Brooklyn, New York that goes by the name of JR (Just Real).

I always get scared to listen to tracks from unsigned artists, because most of the time they need a lot of work. I kept it just real with this dude and told him I'd listen, but if I'm not feeling it, I'll be honest, but help work with him nonetheless.

I have to say this dude's on the right path - with a good choice of beats, punch lines are on point and his flow is crazy. I really feel JR, real name Kamel Quamie, would shine a lot brighter with a better mic. Other than that I salute.

Check JR's SoundCloud Here

Lou Sinergy - Emib, Bars & Stuff - (Official Music Video)

New music from my man Lou Sinergy.

He definitely hit the nail on the head with this one - from the chilled out beat to his flow, and let's not forget those lyrics, which I will happily admit, I get my dictionary out every time I get sent a new track from him.

Personally I have no idea why he isn't signed yet, however it's clear he's hungry, and when he does get his big break, he's going to put a lot of emcees out of work.

I have A LOT of time and respect for people who put in an extraordinary amount of work to get to where they want to be in life, and Lou is one of them people.

Please, show your support and 'like' Lou's Facebook page and show your support:

Lou Sinergy Facebook

Chris Brown - Home (Official Music Video)

This is a huge song for me, It's a rare occasion these days for artists to talk about their feelings and things that are 'real' in their songs. I feel Chris went off track somewhat before and he's finally back on the right path. The video is also inspirational, showing clips of his life and how hectic it really is.

Chris recently took to Instagram ranting about his life and how all he wants to do is please his fans. I can now see the pressure he is constantly under, however the bad definitely ways out the good, just look at those cars!

50 Cent - We Up ft. Kendrick Lamar

I love this, 50 is definitely back. After entering the rap game with an explosion, there's been some ups and downs regarding ex G-Unit member, The Game, and also ex G-Unit member Young Buck.

50 then went away to focus on his acting career, featuring in films like: All Things Fall Apart, Setup and Dead Man Running, just to name a few. 50 then started up a headphone company called 'SMS Audio', followed by an energy shot called 'Streek King Energy', donation the profits to charity.

I knew Fif would one day come back, however I wasn't sure if his time was up - his new single We Up, featuring Kendrick Lamar proves he's still on top form, and maybe better.

Phony Ppl - I Wish I Was A Chair

Phony Ppl - Statues

Phony Ppl - Phonyland

Photo from SwaggerNewYork


Phony Ppl

For the past couple of months now I've been obsessed with this new collective from Brooklyn, New York, going by the name of Phony Ppl. Phony Ppl are a soul/rap collective of 9, including: Dyme-A-Duzin, Sheriff PJ, Elbee Thrie, Aja Grant, Bari Bass, Elijah Rawk, Ian Bakerwoman, Maff Yuu and Temi O.

With three album's released since November 2011, there's no doubt these guys are working hard to make their mark in the game - and so they should - I'm a huge fan already and with tracks such as: 4 The 1st Time, I Wish I Was A Chair, If This Is How Love Feels, Whamsz.com, Does He Really, morninG light, Good?, John Jay, Break It Off and Sometimes III Think About You (so basically the whole album) really proves their talent. There's tracks to satisfy your every mood which is also a huge factor about this album, and what these guys are about.

I can tell these guys will go far, it's clear they have the drive, knowledge and love of music, plus they have their own unique style which is also an amazing factor about Phony Ppl.

After listening to The Bar Staff’s ‘Stay Schemin’ freestyle, it is quite clear these guys are hungry, and they want you to know it. Going through some tough times, this five piece Hip Hop group made up of Jai BlaZe, Parv, ASBO, M.O.N.G.R.E.L, and also producer Arca Teck goes in with bar after bar which what can only be described as straight fire.

I feel any struggle in life has a positive outcome in one way or another, and these guys are showing it.

Urban music has been so quiet in Portsmouth over the years and for a group to come straight out of the bloom with a huge impact has put them in a great position.

                                        “I spent a summers eve tryna’ write a

                                                          Summary of what this cold world has

                                     done to me…anxiety” -M.O.N.G.R.E.L

Although the beat was from Rick Ross’s track ‘Stay Schemin’, I’m excited to see what these guys have to offer from their own beats and to also see how much of an impact they will have on the group and their audience.

Sway also recently took to Twitter to comment on the group saying:

“I like that u lot sounded raw, some solid flows, different personalities + nice lyrics there lads. Keep up the good work”.

The Bar Staff put a stamp on their own style regarding the contrast between singing and rapping, which worked really well and also showed what they’re about.

The video was shot with a hand held camera in black and white at an empty train station - this showed the nitty gritty side of them and put a bigger impact on the message they were trying to get across. This worked really well for the track. 

I would really like to hear something uplifting and 'sunny' from their debut mixtape dropping in the next couple of months.

These guys have really showed what they’re about in this freestyle and I’m excited to hear more in the very near future.

Phony Ppl - Does He Really

Coming from Phony Ppl's debut mixtape, 'Does He Really' has blown me away.
I love everything about this, how it's so chilled, how beautiful the vocals are and how the song and lyrics mean something, rather than most songs these days that are about an artist just wanting to make money.

I've had an amazing feeling about Phony Ppl ever since DJ Semtex blogged 'Statues'.

Phony Ppl are definitely ones to look out for, for the future!

This morning I woke up to the news that Rick Ross was the target of a drive-by shooting that happened in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, right after his 37th Birthday bash. 

Fortunately Rozay and his female occupant (most likely his girl friend, Shateria) were unharmed, however, his Rolls Royce was. 

After East and West Coast rap moguls, Tupac Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G were both killed in drive by shootings similar to this, it's good to see Rick live another day. 

Lou Sinergy - The Boy Who Cried Wolf [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

My boy Lou Sinergy is back, and in a big, big way!
After speaking to Lou for some time, I have to say this guy's got a lot of drive to succeed.
Coming from an area where there isn't much going on, there isn't much to look up to, however what ever Lou's doing, he's doing it very right.

Lou proved how crazy his lyrical content is in the last single 'Who The Fuck Is Lou Sinergy', and this takes it to a whole new level.

I personally feel sorry for other emcees at the moment, don't get me wrong there are some amazing emcees doing big things at the moment, but who's coming with lyrics and flows like this guy? Which then leads me to the biggest question, why is he not signed?

Mind fuck.

DYME-A-DUZIN "NEW BROOKLYN"

Brand new discovery, thanks to my man, Semtex!

Common - The Corner ft. The Last Poets

Miss this 'Ye. You can always tell when a beat was made by Kanye West, and as for Common, this was when rappers told a real story, rap at its best!

Common - The Corner ft. The Last Poets

Miss this 'Ye. You can always tell when a beat was made by Kanye West, and as for Common, this was when rappers told a real story, rap at its best!