I was fortunate enough to have been sent an advanced [and watermarked] copy of the new Grace Jones album and man, was I happy to receive it. I was really taken back when I heard and saw “Corporate Hannibal”, the album’s first single. Its callous beats, synthesized sounds and grimy bass line, combined with it’s dark and eerie video hit me like a ton of bricks.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FgMn2OJmx3w]

Her first album in 19 years, Grace Jones goes all out electro-dub on yo’ ass with “Hurricane”. The album’s opening number ”This Is” introduces the record perfectly and with lyrics like “This is my voice, my weapon of choice”, how could it not? Switching between her distinctive English and her native Jamaican accent, the song is dramatic and gripping.

The 9 cut LP goes from strength from strength. Songs like “Williams’ Blood” & “I’m Crying (Mother’s Tears)” allow a rare and personal insight into the extremely mysterious and often weird life of this enigmatic icon.

“Well Well Well” & “Love You to Life” takes the album into a different direction all together. Grimy, deep and brutal beats are replaced with reggae/ska fused instrumentation. It’s a seemingly random change, but it works.

Following this, Grace explains “I’ll be a hurricane, ripping out trees” on the album’s title track – delivering one of the dirtiest bass lines I’ve heard in a very long time! Violins, piano chords, keyboards, strange/odd sound effects and Grace Jones’ characteristic voice literally, “hits you like a hurricane”.

“Sunset Sunrise” and “Devil In My Life” both end this triumphant album brilliantly. The latter being one of my favourite tracks on the album. “Speak of the devil and he will appear” Jones delivers another contemporary, dub-infused track that leaves nothing to be desired.

“Hurricane” is complex and spontaneous. It’s dark, deep, eccentric and dramatic. It’s so Grace Jones. Beautifully produced, each track, with it’s many layers, demands your time, concentration and evaluation. With every fresh listen, something new is discovered. I’m in awe of this album. Jones’, at 60, has produced an album Bjork, Massive Attack and Co. [or anyone for that matter] would be extremely proud of.

She’s dope. I implore you to check this album out. Released: November 3rd.

Peace, Love & Grace Jones

Speeakz

Album cover and tracklisting after the jump!

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Oct 2008 30

Charles Hamilton Live @ The Levi's/Fader Fort + More

Posted In Video by Speeakz

Watch Charles Hamilton do his thing in LA at the Levi’s/FADER Fort…

[dailymotion id=x78146]

In other related news, after the jump check the cool art by Mr. Brainwash that decorated the Levi’s FADER Fort GO!

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Oct 2008 30

Ladyhawke – "My Delirium" [Video]

Posted In New Music,Video by Speeakz

…Do you know about Ladyhawke? It’s ok if you don’t, she hasn’t really had much exposure, which is a shame – I think? Anyways, this track was played NON-STOP when I first heard it in my old office and boi, it’s still fresh as hell to me…

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QN8HwUxFouM]

I think she’s dope. This tune rocks. Keep your eyes and ears out for this lady.

Peace, Love & Ladyhawke

Speeakz

Shouts to E-Rolzie. Reminds me of them daaaayz.

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Oct 2008 30