Filed under: Features, Interviews, Music, Music News, Must Listen, Must Read, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: Dancehall, Exclusive, Felicia Okoye, Hip Hop, Imperial Blaze, Interview, Sean Paul, So Fine, Trinity
The lip-licking, bicep flexing of LL Cool J are nothing compared to the innate charm of Dancehall superstud Sean “dutty eh” Paul. The Ladies love Sean Paul, or at least he loves himself a whole heap of women, and offers no apologies for this. Bursting into the dancehall scene in 1996 Sean Paul’s single “Baby Girl” was dedicated to…Yep, the ladies, a crooning, melodic, reggae ballad, advising women to step out of abuse relationships, [insert Ch-Rihanna reference gag here], from day one Sean’s music always struck a chord with the ‘gyal dem’. Sean affirms, “Some people DJ and talk about money ‘I’m he richest motherf***er’, some people talk about how they got all the guns. For me, it’s all the girls. Girls in my country choose my music, because they realise that the first thing I said to them was not “girl cock up your batty and ride…”.
And so began PinBoard’s chat with Mr Sean Paul on a sunny Wednesday in a swanky London hotel. Prior to meeting Sean-a-Paul one of his larger-than-life (literally) workers informed me that Sean was in particularly good spirits that day, attributable to ‘popcorn’. Whether that was literally or figuratively speaking remains to be confirmed. Either way, that fine day Mr. Paul was feeling particularly expressive, rather cheery, occasionally abrasive and ever charming.
Sean Paul’s career has spanned over 12 years and counting, with each of his albums propelling his popularity with his worldwide audience. With over 10 million albums sold off three alums: Stage One, Dutty Rock and The Trinity including a collaborative catalogue the size of a phone book, Sean Paul is one of the fair few dancehall artists that can boast international stardom.
International recognition, yes. Love from his wider Dancehall community in Jamaica? At first- not really. I recall a conversation I had with a tourism worker during a recent trip to Kingston, Jamaica in which I was told about the initial Sean Paul backlash. He was accused of not being Jamaican enough (his heritage of Jamaican, Chinese, Portuguese & Sephardic Jewish) not being ‘real’ enough (coming from privileged background young Sean played Water Polo for the Jamaica National team, not quite the rags to riches/ Rose out of concrete story that is often championed in the Dancehall circuit). And his music supposedly too commercial sounding to be appreciated by the underground Dancehall DJs.
It’s a bit of a sore subject, but one that Sean is anxious to get clear, I ask how he feels about often not being recognised by Jamaicans as one of the best Dancehall artists, to which he sharply responds, “Oh no for sure, neither was Bob Marley at the time, Shaggy, at certain times neither is Beenie Man even. In 1996 I was the latest artist and by 1999 I was old and Lexus was the new artist, so we have 10 times the number of artists that you do per land mass ‘pon here so. With the amount of artists you have there, there’s definitely a power battle. My step-up in the business has been exemplary to show people that competition sparks greatness. I know there’s no way everybody in the world would like me, but I know that everybody in my country respects me for what I’ve done and everybody feels good about where I’ve taken the music.”
Then, in a strange sequence, Sean Paul’s Press Officer, signals that there’s five minutes left of the interview. Clocking this, Sean playfully belts “Don’t ramp with me. I’m controlling this mate, got to get this out ‘cause she’s pissing me off with these questions. Facing me, he says calmly, “I have to get my story out to you tall girl, y’hear?”
…Stunned, I ask, ‘Am I really pissing you off?’
Filed under: Features, Gigs, Interviews, Music, Music News, Must Read, Reviews, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: Backstage, Erykah Badu, Exclusive, France, Gig, Hip Hop, Interview, Meets, Pictures, PinBoard, Q&A, Review, Soul
3 days ago, while in Paris, PinBoard had the distinct pleasure of meeting one of the most innovative and exciting artists around today. Erykah Badu’s style, creativity, vision and movement is unparalleled. And so, to have had the opportunity to not only see her live in Paris, but also to meet her, speak with her and gain insight into who she really is, as a person – was truly an honour.
I’ve seen Erykah Badu live many times, but her show in Paris topped them all. The location, the vibe, the excitement and her performance made it a truly special gig. One I won’t be forgetting in a hurry. Performing a vast selection of new and old material, spanning all her albums, Badu with all her might, sang “On & On”, “Didn’t Cha Know”, “Healer”, “Soldier”, “Orange Moon”, “Other side of the Game” & “Me”, ending perfectly with “The Light” and…”A Milli”. And shouts to all our Parisian readers out there: ya’ll sure know how to get down! The energy was palpable.
But it’s the randomness of all of this which still feels quite surreal. From discovering that day Erykah was playing Paris; to finding out that the only tickets left were €60 (a large chunk of our 4 day budget); deciding we’d try an alternative route i.e. the hookup; Sending a couple emails around; hearing back from a contact in Dallas, Texas informing us that we not only had tickets but also backstage passes; finding the venue (a minute outside of the centre of Paris); to realising that ‘backstage’ really meant an intimate Q&A with the lady herself! Er, surreal to say the least! Completely unprepared, we frusiouly tried to remain cool, calm and collected. After all, we were repping London hard that night! Haha!
We got a few solid questions in, recorded most of the session. The footage is dope, and the pictures we have are incredible. I’m planning to roll of all of this out, along side our Sean Paul interview and Marsha Ambrosius (video) interview in the coming week or so.
Trust me, you’re gonna love, love, love, love, love it!
Peace, Love & Erykah Badu
Speeakz & Crew
Shouts to Carla & Mike
Filed under: Features, Interviews, LDN Life, Music, Music News, Must Listen, Must Read, Must Watch, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: Banksy, Day N Night, Dilla, Exclusive, Interview, London, Melo-X, PinBoard, Treat Her Right (And I Know), Video
HERE IT IS PEOPLE!
I know, I’ve been promising it for tiiiime now, but it’s finally here!
The PinBoard crew had the pleasure of catching up with the incredibly talented Melo-X while he was over here in London on tour with Theophilus London. We shot on location in ‘Banksy’s Tunnel’ in the heart of London and got to know the man behind the music.
In this EXCLUSIVE interview, Melo-X talks about his influences, his album Mustafa’s Renaissance, Dilla, his favourite MC’s and much, much more. It’s a pretty dope and insightful interview, so sit back and kick it with Mr. Melo.
And so there you have it! We’ve been telling you about this man, if you don’t know by now – I don’t know where you’re living. His album Mustafa’s Renaissance is incredible, make sure you cop that. Also, hit up his myspace and show him some love. Aiight?
Peace, Love & Melo-X
Speeakz
Much thanks to Melo-X, Shan (Phearon Lightworks) & Shernay (Chocolate Bear Productions)!
Filed under: Features, Gigs, LDN Life, Music, Must Read, Reviews, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: Asher Roth, Footage, Gig, Hip Hop, London, Notting Hill, Pictures, Review, Tabernacle, Video
Last night Asher Roth made his London debut at Notting Hill’s Tabernacle. A venue I had never previously heard of or, let alone been to. So, I was pleasantly surprised when I rolled up and saw the mini-Round House-esque type venue. It was a real nice, intimate spot. The stage was about 2 foot off the ground.
After seeing a few friendly faces*, it was time to go back to “college” with Mr. Asher Roth. This is the dude everyone has been talking about – for better or for worse. The guy who’s album Asleep in the Bread Aisle was closely watched and examined by Hip Hop heads on both sides of the fence. It was time to see what Roth was made of and for me, this gig was the make or break moment. I’ve heard his album, I get what he’s about, now I needed to know how he rocked a crowd. More specifically, a London crowd.
To say Asher Roth was hyped would be an understatement. The dude didn’t keep still and his energy levels remained elevated throughout the [rather short] gig. Supported by a DJ, drummer and hype man, Roth, in his white T and jeans dropped tracks off his debut album quick and fast. Opening the show with the much loved “Lark in My Go-Kart”, he progressed by performing tracks like “Blunt Cruisin”, “By Myself” and of course, the now (in)famous “I Love Collage”. Love it or hate it, it was “College” that made Asher Roth the artist he is now – that was the jam that everyone was talking about. And love it or hate it – it’s a hype tune still (so much so that it inspired Mr Londoner & GK to rush the stage! Ha! Video evidence coming soon). I can’t lie though, I was peeved that he didn’t play “Lions Roar” – which is not only my favourite cut off the LP but is also the only track I really think displays his abilities as a rapper best. However, he made up for that with his throwback dance routine of Soul II Soul’s “Candy Rain” < Stupidly funny!
The gig was fun. Short, but fun. It wasn’t amazing, it wasn’t superb. I wasn’t blown away. BUT I had fun and I think, at the moment, that’s what Asher Roth represents. His album isn’t a deep, concious record and that’s cool. I always say music is about having a good time and I don’t believe you need to spit about world issues or political injustice to be taken serious as an emcee. Although Roth’s ‘freestyle’ about childhood obesity threw me a little – what was that about? There’s no doubt in my mind that this dude is talented or that he can rap, but I believe like all new artists he has room to grow and improve his art. I think Asleep in the Bread Aisle is a decent debut with some really great moments – is it a classic? I don’t think so. But, I’m excited to see Asher Roth develop and evolve because I really don’t think we’ve seen the best of him yet.
Peace, Love & Asher Roth
Speeakz
P.s I’m gonna post some footage of the gig in a bit too. Watch out for that. Update: Watch some PinBoard footage HERE
*Much love to Ma, Susan, Ginger Kid, Mr Londoner, Hattie, Shane, Erol & the Entire Island Family!
Filed under: Features, LDN Life, Music, Must Read, Reviews, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: A Tribe Called Quest, Gig, Hip Hop, Live, London, Q-Tip, Review, Roundhouse, The Renaissance
If you use any of the following pictures online please credit www.pinboardblog.com
As we waited for the show to begin at the Roundhouse in Camden Town last night, the homie James asked “what’s been your favourite Hip Hop gig to date?”, after mentally deliberating for a second, some said The Roots, others Nas, I said Jay-Z last year.
…That answer, for us all, completely changed after Q-Tip left the stage.
Having not performed on these shores for over 14 years, Q-Tip returned to LDN with full force. High energy, an electric atmosphere and the fact that the One we (Hip Hop lovers) look up to was right there, in front of us performing the soundtracks to our lives. My man was on point (Phife?). Q-Tip satisfied everyone with a solid set consisting of tracks from the new album The Renaissance including “We Fight/We Love”, “You”, “Move”, “Getting Up”, “Life is Better” – the latter resulting him ending up, literally, right in front of me/us AND moreover passing.the.mic.over.to.the.homie Pal Mal! W-H-A-T? LOL! One of the most surrealist moments I think I’ve ever experienced (another included Erykah Badu holding my hand while singing “Appletree” at Summerset House.). Q-Tip, in front of me? Singing “Life is Better”? Taking the piss bruvs! haha!
Before that grand finale though, Q-Tip made everyone ecstatically happy by performing claaaaaasic A Tribe Called Quest material including “Bonita Applebum”, “Electric Relaxation”, “Scenario” and “Award Tour” to name but a few. Witnessing Q-Tip performing these songs, for me, is something I really didn’t think I’d get to experience. As I said at the top, 14 years it’s taken him to get over here, so when my dude jumps pon the speakers in front of us and performs “Award Tour” it was completely necessary for someone to slap me the fu*k up haha!
“Vibrant Thing” went down crazy too. The only track I was waiting for that didn’t come up was “Breathe and Stop” but honestly, in the grand scheme of things – who the heck cares? The Roundhouse was the perfect location for last night. It’s a stunning venue with amazing acoustics. I have eternal gratitude to Giles Peterson (super safe dude) for putting it all together. He explained during the intro that it’s taken him a “very long time” to make this happen. So, from US to you: Thank You Mr Peterson.
Q-Tip only spoke briefly throughout the gig and at one point had some words to share about the very last conversation he had with Jay Dee aka J Dilla. He explained how the late, great producer urged him, after he took a break from beat making to “study music”, to begin producing again. Yet another reason we should be thankful for Dilla, huh? R.I.P Dilla Dawg.
I could really go one for another 2000 words on how amazingly brilliant last night was, but I won’t. Oh, but before I do end, lemme just say: the official Q-Tip After party in deep, dark Shoreditch killed it. It was “so Shoreditch” (lmao those who know, know!), but it was a jam – cannot be denied. Then Q-Tip got on the decks lol that “jam” turned into a straight up rave – killed.it.again. Damn man!
Easily the best Hip Hop gig I’ve ever attended and generally, one of the dopest nights I’ve had in London Town (that’s a big, but true statement). Respect to everyone who was there, was great to catch up with some ol’ peeps and meet those I’ve been chattin’ to on the Tinternets for a minute now! Sorry for those who I didn’t connect with, I was…’somewhere else’ lol!
Oh and also, big up to the other acts who were on before Q-Tip including Dorian Concept, Little Dragon, DJ Semtex (who suppled that ‘crack’ haha) and Benji B. Sorry for anyone I’ve forgotten.
Peace, Love & Q-Tip
Speeakz
Filed under: Features, Music, Must Listen, Must Read, Reviews, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: Anthony Hamilton, Comin' From Where I'm From, Cool, David Banner, Review, The Point of it All
It took me a minute to make my mind up about this album, and as I sit nodding my head on the third or fourth listening, I wonder how I didn’t get it earlier. The thing is, not many people are doing what Anthony Hamilton’s doing these days. The man has SOUL, plain and simple, and the voice to carry it off too. But then his voice has never been in doubt, from the very first time I heard Comin’ From Where I’m From I’ve been into him. There’s nobody out there right now who can put the feeling into their voice that Hamilton does. Its all about what he does with that talent, specifically, finding the right instrumentation to let him do his thing. On that score his first album rated a lot higher with me than the second. I’m sure there are people out there who’d disagree with me, arguing that the first album pushed too hard to try and find some R&B crossover appeal. Still, for me the heavy gospel tone of his second disc wasn’t matched by music that let the power of those lyrics shine through.
On The Point of It All Hamilton finds a sound that may satisfy both sides. The album is a mixture of slow piano rolls for Hamilton’s voice to float over and a few faster songs that take him along for the ride. Probably the highlight of the slower set is “Please Stay” with Hamilton’s voice rising up over some perfect old school horns (I’m a sucker for a good horn section). Talking about this album Hamilton said, “I want fans to see my growth…I don’t always want to be known as the sad cat”. Now those of us who’ve heard “Lucille” or any number of the other songs from his first two discs will know how well he does the sad cat vibe. Still it’s nice to see him trying to expand his range, because good soul albums have to show both sides of the coin. Those two sides are summed up nicely in “Prayin for You/Superman” which turns from call-and-response gospel energy into a slow bluesy number airing out the same girl he was praising just before. “Fallin’ in Love” has a funk-driven vibe that gets absolutely torn apart by the depth of his voice. The dope Salaam Remi produced “I Did It For Sho” stays just the right side of pop R&B (though he still namechecks Mr Chow’s like he was dining with Jigga), as does the David Banner cameo on “Cool”.
Anthony Hamilton Feat David Banner – “Cool”
I guess your reaction to this album will depend a little bit on personal taste. Certain songs off Comin’ From Where I’m From are just too hard to beat in my opinion (”Lucille”, “Comin’ From Where I’m From” etc). I really welcome when Hamilton uses his unique voice on more R&B/Hip Hop influenced beats, if only to show how much more soul he has than everyone else rocking the same territory. In the end though I recognise that sometimes his voice needs to stand alone. The Point of It All finds a solid balance between the two vibes and the up-tempo gospel songs are near perfect. As an album this new disc shows some good depth. Like all his sets it demands a few listens, but the rewards are definitely there. I can’t think of many other albums out there that touch so deeply on relationships while still leaving the graphic stuff unsaid.
Vocally and sonically Hamilton really is the descendant of an Al Green or a Bobby Womack at a time when the neo-soul artists that we all know and love are gunning for a pretty different vibe. Hamilton has guest spots coming up on new joints from among others Jeezy, Nappy Roots, Dre and the one you’ve all been waiting for….Fonsworth Bentley. If these kinds of artists use his talent wisely they are going to receive the hook of all hooks and I’m gonna get my fill of Anthony Hamilton over hip hop beats. With this album to stand alongside that, I’m a truly happy man.
Words by RWDN [contributing writer]
Filed under: Features, Music, Must Listen, Must Read, Must Watch, One To Watch, Reviews, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: Doomtree, Hip Hop, Never Better, P.O.S, Review, Rhymesayers
I’ve been listening to Never Better, the latest offering from Minneapolis native (and Doomtree member) P.O.S for a solid week now. During which I’ve been trying to figure out how best to review this incredibly complexe album without coming acorss a gushing fool (warning: that’s gonna happen). The only thing I really, really knew was that I loved this album.
It’s been a minute (two years actually) since P.O.S released his critically acclaimed Audition album and hey, if you’re gonna hold off delivering a follow up album you might as well do it with a bang, huh? Never Better does just that. It bangs. Hard. I mean this in the literal sense. The drums thoughout this album are just beyond! ‘Incredible’ doesn’t seem to cut it. Use the albums first single “Drumroll” as a demonstration of what to expect…
P.O.S – “Drumroll”
Never Better isn’t for the lighthearted. This album is hard. It’s straight up Punk Rock Hip Hop. Now, I know that might scare some people, but I urge you to trust in P.O.S. Trust that he knows what he’s doing and trust that as an mcee – he’s flawless. His flow, his melodies, his lyrical ability and his aptitude to switch sh*t up in a second will make any nay-sayer fix up. The influences on this album are far reaching. From his early days as a member in various Rock/Punk groups, to his progression into classic Hip Hop, P.O.S manages to bring these often mutually exclusive genres together onto one album with such excellence it kinda hurts your head a little.
Never Better isn’t an experiment. It isn’t self-indulgent nor is it a pretentious effort to stand out in an over saturated market; Instead it’s an authentic body which possesses substance and integrity from beginning to end. From politics, to his personal life experiences to funny witty one-liners, P.O.S covers all areas. 15 tracks deep Never Better never bores. In fact, I’ve found myself (on more than on occasion) going back/rewinding a track to hear that beat, that drum lick or that line.
Making over half the beats on the album himself, Never Better (especially on first listen) gives you the biggest mind-f*ck-audio-overload. It’s instant sound clash, loud and abrasive nature hits you like a ton of bricks, but you quickly get over that and realise that this is something rather brilliant.
As I said at the top of this review, this isn’t for the fainthearted. But if you give it a go, I’m confident that the majority of (real) Hip Hop heads will love this album as much as I do. My only recommendation for those who cop it is: TURN. IT. UP! Wait till you hear those damn drums!
P.O.S has delivered my favourite album of 09 and yea, we’re only in February but I guarantee you this will be in our “Best of 09″ list come December. Watch.
P.O.S – Never Better is out now!
Peace, Love & P.O.S
Speeakz
Filed under: Features, Interviews, Music, Must Read, One To Watch, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: Change, Daniel Merriweather, Exclusive, Hip Hop, Interview, Love & War, Mark Ronson, R&B, Stop Me, The Dap Kings, Wale
As this 26 year old frequent flyer (Melbourne to NYC to London and rotate) readies his Mark Ronson produced debut album, ‘Love & War’ on April 23rd and his debut single “Change” feat Wale today [February 2nd] PinBoard attempts to find out weather Sir Merriweather is a lover or fighter…
PinBoard: So how was your PA at YoYo last night? [interview conducted day after the gig]
Daniel: Sick crowd, it was packed. I’ve just put this 9 piece band together that I absolutely love and we managed to fit everyone together onto that stage except for percussionist Gareth who had to stand in front of the DJ booth. I did ‘Change’, ‘Stop Me’, ‘Cigarettes’, ‘Impossible’, ‘Could You’, it was fun man.
PinBoard: I’ve read that you started playing violin at 4 years old…?
Daniel: I learnt by ear, I got pretty good and by 13 I was playing Vivaldi concertos by memorising them. That was an interesting way to start music because it’s such a tough, technical instrument to play so I guess anything from there is a bit easier. But I couldn’t read music so I couldn’t really pursue the violin, so singing became my love around 10 or 11. I used to love singing ‘Guilty Pleasure’ by Boyz II Men [laughs], huge favourite and CoolieHighHarmony is still an amazing album.
PinBoard: When did you start writing songs?
Daniel: Everything sort of came together when I had a guitar in front of me and I was writing chords, putting melodies and lyrics together and realising that power to be able to create which is what I really value, it keeps me going.
PinBoard: Which artists were you listening to back then?
Daniel:I listened to everything as a kid, it’s probably the same for you, as the MTV generation we’ve had all types of music at our fingertips. For me it was like lisentening to everyone from Sam Cooke, Stevie Wonder, Otis Redding and Donnie Hathaway to Jeff Buckley and Radiohead to D’Angelo and A Tribe Called Quest.
PinBoard: Then who do you listen to you amongst your contemporaries?
Daniel: I love my Hip-Hop; I listen to Jay-Z all day. I also love MGMT and Hercules and The Love Affair, there’s a lot of good music out there . To be honest though, when I was making my album, I tended to block out things and not listen to a lot of contemporary music for two reasons: firstly I find learning from the greats of the past valuable, and secondly it can sometimes be confusing listening to current sounds when I want to be in the zone, put my head in the sand and write from a pure place.
PinBoard: When did you start writing for your debut album, ‘Love & War’?
Daniel: Within the last 6 months. But I had been working on stuff before that, I mean I’ve probably got near enough 350 songs sitting on a hard drive somewhere, from demos to anything that I started recording from when I was 18.
PinBoard: Having been recording for so long, has it been a struggle to gain recognition as an artist?
Daniel: I’m the kind of person, I don’t really make plans and I’m sort of disorganized. I was just so fortunate to get a record deal when I was 19 years old to this great independent record label in Melbourne. Though my focus wasn’t on getting recognition, it was on making the kind of music I love.
Filed under: 5 Questions With..., Features, Must Read, Random | Tags: 5 Questions With..., Art, Feature, Film, Graphics, Music, New Feature, PinBoard
PinBoard is and always will be a music website. It’s what we know and do best; Not to mention there are many dope lifestyle blogs out there (check the blogroll for the crème de la crème) already doing their thing. However we have been toying with the idea of opening it up a little and featuring/getting to know some people outside of music i.e film, art, fashion, design etc.
London is home to a vast array of talented and creative people and so it’s only natural (and right) we give them some spotlight too. Some of the guys we feature you might already know of and some you may not but in any case the fact they we’re featuring them means they’re doing something noteworthy.
We’ll get to know the folk we feature by asking 5 questions allowing you (and us) to get to know who they are, what they do, what they’re about and some other random (but interesting) stuff too!
If you’re someone you feel we should feature or have someone in mind you’d like to see on PinBoard send your entries/ideas to pinboard.blog@hotmail.co.uk*
Peace, Love & 5 Questions With…
Speeakz
*Like with everything else, we can’t feature everyone! Please bear that in mind!
Filed under: Download, Features, Mixtapes, Music, Music News, Must Listen, Must Read, Must Watch, One To Watch, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: Ayah, Download, Elzhi, Hip Hop, Mixtape, One To Watch, Problem Woman, R&B, Soul, The Leak
Hailing from Toronto, Ayah is a soul singer I was introduced to when Elzhi’s “The Leak” dropped on which she featured. After a quick google search, I discovered this amazing artist and her incredible (FREE) mixtape Problem Woman.
Ayah (Arabic word for sign or miracle) is a self taught singer/songwriter/composer who calls on her many influences to create her own musical style. Born in the Hip Hop generation, Ayah’s unique take on music fuses together Soul, Funk, R&B and Hip Hop which is perfectly demonstrated throughout Problem Woman.
Straight up, I cannot tell you how much I have rinsed this mixtape! Simply put, it’s dope! And with every listen I seem to love it more and more. It’s so, so fresh. Her melodies are ridiculous and her ability as songwriter and a vocalist will, I’m sure, blow your mind (as it has mine!).
Ayah Feat Tona - “Pusha Man”
Over the course of the 22 track mixtape, you really get a sense of who Ayah is. I’m not a big fan of interludes, but the ‘AyahLudes’ (snippets of an interview) are pretty cool. During these sound bites, she shares her opinions, influences and speaks about her Middle Eastern background and more; Which I think adds a real personal touch to the whole project.
As I listen to Problem Woman (as I am right now), I can’t help but think of Marsha Ambroious and even Jill Scott. Don’t get me wrong, Ayah most certainly has her own style, but I know anyone who likes those artists (as I do) will love, love, love this lady.
So I think I’ve gushed enough. I can’t say anymore on how much I love Problem Woman and how much respect I have for Ayah as an artist. I will be checkin’ this lady for a long time to come and I cannot wait for her full album to drop.
Make sure you download Ayah’s Problem Woman mixtape via her Myspace and of course, show her some crazy love while you’re over there!
Peace, Love & Ayah - one to watch.
Speeakz
Filed under: Features, Mixtapes, Music, Must Listen, Must Read, One To Watch, Reviews, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: Beat Tape, Björk, Dert, Dert Is Full of Love, Hip Hop, Producer, Talk Strange: A Beat Teape Inspired By Bjork
Click cover to download
Dert, a Los Angeles based Hip Hop producer and beat maker, has just released his latest beat tape entitled Talk Strange: A Beat Tape Inspired by Björk.
As the title suggests Dert was inspired by legendary Icelandic artist/visionary Björk. Such inspiration led him in creating this artist-themed beat tape, taking 17 of her dopest tracks and turning them into something truly unique.
The samples and beats on this tape will trip you out. He’s an amazing producer and one that clearly knows his sh*t. It’s easy to grab a bunch of tunes from a dope artist and re-work them, but he’s done this intelligently and as a real music lover. He’s clearly a fan of Björk.
Video: “Dert is Full of Love”
Talk Strange is my first introduction into Dert and after a trip to his Myspace I realised I’ve been asleep for a minute too long. He’s released a bunch of other beat tapes, which I obviously need to cop and be educated on asap. But when I fell upon Talk Strange [during a 4am Internet crawl] I was really intrigued to hear it not only because it was inspired by one of my favourite artists but also (and superficially) because the art work was so freakin dope! Dert is also a graphic designer. Once I downloaded it and got round to listening to it, I pretty much flipped out and desperately wanted to share it.
If you’re a Björk fan, you’ll love this. If you’re not, I still think you’ll really dig it. It’s just so dope. Download and give it a listen, I gaurentee it’ll blow your mind like it did mine.
Peace, Love & Dert
Speeakz
Filed under: Features, Music, Must Listen, Must Read, One To Watch, Reviews, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: EP, Iman Williams, One To Watch, Soul, The Long Journey Back to Reality
It’s been a while since we featured a new artist. An artist that we feel is doing something special and something we feel you need to be aware of.
This time, it’s all about Iman Williams.
Download: Iman Williams – The Long Journey Back to Reality Pt.1 EP
This singer, songwriter, pianist and all round music lover was born and raised in Montgomery, Alabama and posses all the soul which seems inherently native to her birth place. With influences ranging from Madonna, Lauryn Hill, Isaac Hayes, Curtis Mayfield, Dilla, The Pharcyde, Erykah Badu and Grace Jones (inspired by in large by her fathers mammoth funk record collection!) William’s musicality seemed as natural as it was effortless. Using these strong influences, Iman was able to find love in soul music and structure a “fresh, inviting and intimate” sound.
“The energy that I dispense from my music is coming directly from my soul. It’s my lyrics, my harmony that I put in my music that makes it soul music.”
The Long Journey Back to Reality Pt.1 albeit a little rough around the edges, displays her lyrical ability and musicality brilliantly. The important thing when debuting an EP is that the listener understands who you are as a musician and what you’re are about as an artist, this is something that is very clear while listening to The Long Journey Back to Reality Pt.1.
In the current ”do it yourself/bedroom studio” age, it’s hard to engage or grab attention, but Iman Williams does this by not just delivering solid, well structured songs, but by flexing her unique vocals. Her voice is soft and powerful but is also refined and delicate. It’s has a beautiful tone with a real clarity to it. It’s a voice you won’t forget quickly.
Like all new and emerging artists, Iman Williams has room to grow and develop, but as an introduction into her mind, heart and soul The Long Journey Back to Reality Pt.1works.
Her full LP Planetarium is set for a March release date…We’ll be waiting!
It’s hard to come across good soul music these days and so it’s important we support it when we do. Make sure you download her EP now and go show Iman Williams some love (and tell her who sent you!) via her myspace page.
Peace, Love & Iman Williams
Speeakz
P.s It’s also very easy to underestimate the work that goes into putting together an EP – time, money, blood, sweat and tears (especially when giving it away for free!). Appreciate (good) free music peeps!
Filed under: Features, Jokes, LDN Life, Must Read, Random, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: Facebook, Myspace, PinBoard, Social Network, The PinBoard Network, Twitter, Vimeo, YouTube
The PinBoard Network is expanding!
As if Facebook, Myspace and YouTube weren’t enough, PinBoard now has it’s very own Twitter and Vimeo page! So you can now interact with other PinBoard friends, coast with us on Myspace, watch what we get up to on YouTube and Vimeo and follow meeeeee/the crew on Twitter! It’s all about social networking baby!
So, click on the images below and join us, add us, subscribe to us and follow us…
Filed under: Features, Interviews, LDN Life, Music, Music News, Must Read, One To Watch, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: Cargo, Exclusive Interview, Hip Hop, Interview, London, Theophilus London
A fortnight ago, a young gent stepped off the plane, straight outta BK to EC1. His name is Theophilus London, rising rapper & renaissance man. We are PinBoard, burgeoning blog & purveyors of brilliance. Let us assess…
PinBoard: So, London comes to London huh?
Theophilus: Yeah, it’s my debut, I’m excited. I got alot of family out here, alot of fans. I’m actually known out here by a quite a few.
PinBoard: How does such a fame come about in a place so far away from your own domestic scene, without any major label exposure?
Theophilus: I think people can except real music out here- there’s just something in the air. And then of course, my last name is London. I was on the flight and the stewardess was like “London, your last name is London and you’re going to London!” But I’ve been doing my research and speaking to alot of great music guys out here, checking for beats.
PinBoard: It begs to be asked, but the moniker Theophilus London alone seems to generate a great deal of intrigue. But for the record, what really is your government name?
Theophilus: Well, I was actually born Theophilus Musa London II. The name originates from my Great Grandfather, but my middle name came from my Father who was Muslim because I’m half myself. When growing up though it sucked, I was kinda’ pissed, I used to get beats for not being able to write my name in scripture. I had to learn Theophilus at the age of three- which was not easy. I started getting people to call me Theo in high school and then I came up with the name Kapps because I used to pop caps and stuff and shoot people… nah I’m joking… Kapps came from the fact people used to say I had the ability to be captivating on stage.
PinBoard: Is it true that you got into Hip-Hop at a time you consider late in comparison to the rest of your peers?
Theophilus: I love my Mom, but I do blame my Mother for being the reason I got into Hip-Hop late. I first started getting into Hip-Hop when I moved from my Mother’s house when I was 10 years old, going from Brooklyn to Harlem to be with my cousins. They were all listening to Biggie and Tupac, I was still listening to Michael Jackson, The OJs, Garth Brooks and my pants were really high. My first real Hip-Hop record and I don’t care what anyone says, was ‘Notorious Thugs’ by Biggie & Bone Thugs around ‘97, it’s the first rap song I ever learnt properly. I had influence from other genres, but that started my influence in Hip-Hop.
Theophilus London Dance Moves X London Debut:
PinBoard: What was it like growing up in legendary Brooklyn? I’ve read in other interviews where you stated, “times were rough, and I was confused and vicious”. Why is that?
Theophilus: To me Brooklyn is like a big school, a big test and alot of guys get tested out there. Growing up in an atmosphere with with alot of poverty, people trying to get ahead, sometimes with the wrong things despite others trying to get ahead with the right things. A few times I had to take the subway to school myself from as early as 5 years old because my Mom had to juggle three jobs It was rough growing up, seeing alot of people get beat up and things of that nature but I was never into hurting nobody- at most I’d steal another kids toy but that’s about it. But now Brooklyn’s cool, the violence has calmed down and everyone is focused on getting money so it’s a very innovative time.
Filed under: Competitions, Features, Gigs, LDN Life, Music, Music News, Must Read, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: Camden, Competition, Hip Hop, Kentish Town, London, The Forum, The Game, Tickets, Win Tickets
People!
PinBoard is giving YOU the chance to attend The Game’s one off London gig at The Forum this Friday (19th)! The Compton rapper returns to the Forum after his sold out gig last year and we have 5 pairs of tickets to give away – all you gotta do is answer this very simple question:
What was the title of The Game’s debut album?
Send answers to pinboard.blog@hotmail.co.uk.
Competition ends Friday 19th December at 12pm!!
Peace, Love & The Game
Speeakz
This competition is open to all, but if you are based outside of London, you will have to make your own travel arrangements.
Filed under: Features, Gigs, LDN Life, Must Read, Must Watch, Reviews, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: Hip Hop, Live, London, The Forum, The Roots
Seeing the Roots live is pretty much like a right of passage for any Hip Hop head. If you haven’t experienced these guys live - you ain’t serious about this great art. You’re just a bystander. Standard.
Truth is, anyone who loves Hip Hop understands the importance of this great band and their impact over the past decade (and more). Witnessing them live is something special.
…And last night was definitely something special.
The Forum in Kentish Town (nice?) was packed out and ready to vibe out. The crowd were cool, the atmosphere was definitely on point. Everyone was ready.
Dead on 9pm the Roots came on stage and did what they do…
It was a killa set, with some crazy ass energy. The band were of course, incredible. From main man Black Thought, who can only be described as a beast on stage, to drummer extraordinaire ?uestlove, to ‘Tuba Gooding Jr’, who not only run around stage playing the fattest tuba, but also acted as a hype man throughout the gig - dunno how he does it, but I nearly fainted watching him! Everything about what they do live is perfect. The rhymes, the beats, the music, the mixes – everything is just so tight.
The guys went through some of their monster catalogue, effortlessly. You all know I’m sh*t at remembering tracklist (especially in order) but I know they did “Here I Come”, “Star/Pointro”, “The Seed”, “All in the Music”, “Proceed”, “Long Time” and one of my personal favourite tracks: ”You Got Me” [footage below].
PinBoard Footage: The Roots – “You Got Me” Live
^ Love that everyone sang the chorus.
After hearing that the legendary Roots crew are set to retire from touring for a while, catching them on Saturday was a no brainer. It had to be done. The Roots will stop touring from March 09 to accommatde their new night gig as the house band for Jimmy Fallon when he begins hosting the Late Night show. While this direction is obviously sad for fans, I think it’s a great thing for the band and hey, it doesn’t mean they won’t be releasing any new material!
Anyways, after the gig the Forum turned into a club night with both ?uestlove AND Ali Shaheed on decks! Yesssssirrr! What better way to end a Roots gig than having two legends on one stage doing their thing? Shiiiiit.
Truth is, we only stayed long enough to see ?uestlove rip the place to shreds [the man dropped some serious tunes!]. Around 12.30am we decided to dash – getting home from Kentish Town is no joke, add jet lag to that fact and you don’t have fun happy times! Boi.
The night was dope. The Roots continue to amaze me and continue to retain my utmost respect. Their talent, energy, movement, style and ethos has never failed me. They have consistently provided great Hip Hop and for that, I will be forever grateful. It’s a shame they’re taking a break from touring, but I’m sure, once their new gig is done and dusted, they’ll be back on the touring circuit – where their music really does come alive.
Peace, Love & The Roots
Speeakz
Shouts to Dominc & Shelly for hooking us up last night.
Filed under: Features, Gigs, LDN Life, Music, Music News, Must Read, Must Watch, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: After Party, Big Sean, Consequence, De La Soul, Exclusive, Glow In The Dark, Hop Hop, Inc, KanYe West, KiD KuDi, Mos Def, Nas, Pictures, Video, Will.I.Am
Oh. SNAP.
The PinBoard family were at the KanYe West afterparty/G.O.O.D Music Showcase last night @ Inc in The O2, where ’Ye celebrated TWO sold out shows…and oh shiiiiit was it an eventful evening!
On ONE stage we had; KanYe West, Nas, Mos Def, Will.I.Am, De La Soul, KiD KuDi, Consequence, and Big Sean!! LOL. Holy Mutha’fu*k!!!
Update: Straight up Semtex killed it with this footage:
On a level though, the phone camera didn’t do THAT bad?! LOL!
Check PinBoard’s EXCLUSIVE pictures AND video [taken off our mobile phone, so allow the quality! LOL]:
OH. Tell me PinBoard is not THE place to be at! Do we not keep you entertained? Do we not continue to provide you with all that is dope in this world? It’s cool, we feel the love back! This is what we doooo!
…But for real though, London has been poppin’ this past few weeks. Rock the Bells, Raphael Saadiq, KanYe West, NERD not to mention all the other dope things going down! Love this town.
Update #2: KanYe got arrested today in the UK for beating someone down and is on the front cover of the FADER this month, I haven’t posted it because to be honest, I’m all Ye’d out! The album listening party (Fantasticunt is yet to deliver you (yup, just called you out cuz)), the Glow in the Dark gig, this after party – yea, that’s enough. If you want information of this, not covered on PinBoard, hit the blogroll – someone there will be able to help you!
Peace, Love & KanYe West, Nas, Mos Def, Will.I.Am, De La Soul, KiD KuDi, Consquence, and Big Sean! [LOL!]
Speeakz & PB Family
Filed under: Features, Interviews, Music, Music News, Must Read, Things We're Diggin', Uncategorized | Tags: D'Angelo, Exclusive, Interview, Lucy Pearl, News, PinBoard, R&B, Raphael Saadiq, Soul, The Way I See It, Tony Toni Tone
PinBoard had the pleasure of interviewing a true musical pioneer. A legendary musician, producer and artist, Raphael Saadiq has been in the game for over 20 years. Sit back, relax and let Saadiq tell you the way he see’s it.
PinBoard:Mr. Saadiq, it’s an honour. Now, your new album The Way I See It has garnered unanimous critical acclaim and the people have finally heard your vision – how are things for you right now at this current juncture in your career?
Raphael: I think they’re pretty good. Right now I’m just trying to get around the World and get feelings from everybody on the record. It was a great attempt for me and I’m glad I chose the direction I went in. So I guess life’s being good. I’m also with a new company and amongst new people, so overall it’s like a whole new situation and I’m just thankful for every day.
PinBoard: The Way I See It has a very faithfully produced classic/vintage Soul sound reminiscent of the late ’60s and early ’70s. What were you trying to achieve by crafting such a nostalgic piece?
Raphael: I was just listening to my heart you know? It’s what I truly love. I didn’t want to mess people about and I didn’t want to go halfway. Anything less or a lack of work wouldn’t have been me being myself. I’m glad I’m out here as a global artist so I can show myself naturally. At the same time it wasn’t about being burdened by everybody else, because ultimately I’m making something I myself want to hear by spending time creating that sound for this very moment in my life.
PinBoard: I don’t think anybody is ignorant to the fact most artists suffer – to a degree – major label constraints. In wanting to create something that isn’t diluted, were there any difficulties getting the record made and released?
Raphael: Well, I feel very fortunate to be able to do what I’ve done my whole career. News of what I was attempting got out and people talked, but I kind of made the record without anybody hearing it. The label didn’t hear the record until it was finished and once it was finished I was like, well, this is who I am.
PinBoard: The album’s conducted with a very authentic consistency and doesn’t at all have the tackier texture of other recent, Retro-Soul records. Were you using more traditional as opposed to modern recording equipment?
Raphael:I used analogue aswell as using some state of art stuff. But it was more about a feeling more than what I used – because it’s not about what I use, it’s about what I know. There was a feeling in the sound that I grew up listening to more so than alot of what I’m currently hearing in music.
PinBoard: It begs to be asked, but what was it like working with the God Mr. Stevie Wonder on ‘Never Give You Up’?
Raphael: Everything you can imagine. A dream come true. Him walking into a room and pulling out his harmonica, that was something. I thought it fit so well as a production because I knew I would have to do so well as a producer. I wouldn’t just call Stevie Wonder if it didn’t fit, I had to make sure I had the right type of record. Still, the whole thing hasn’t fully hit me yet.
PinBoard: Talking of dreams, I read that you’d been playing instruments since the tender age of six. When you were growing up with this gift, did you feel destined for some prolific career as a musician, performer and producer?
Raphael: It’s in my blood. But from my earliest memories of being in love with music, I didn’t know I was destined to be a singer or producer or anything like that. In my household everybody had guitars, and everybody had keyboards. So from having so many instruments in the house I knew I was destined to enjoy myself playing music and that combined with love – that’s what led me to becoming an artist.
PinBoard: Do you think the present interest in Retro-Soul has enabled you to come into your element as this artist and really design the record you’ve always wanted to? Somewhat also a cathartic experience if you will…
Raphael: I guess what’s happened is that it’s all paying off for the things I like and enjoy. The things I enjoy happen to be things everybody loves right now. As an artist in this business, I’m always looking for something to make me grow so I don’t become stagnant. You don’t want to get pigeonholed. You don’t want to have to do just one thing. I didn’t want to get caught up in that and so I guess I would also say it’s the best time of my life.
Continuing reading the interview after the jump GO!
Filed under: Features, LDN Life, Music, Music News, Must Listen, Must Read, Must Watch, One To Watch, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: Atlantic Records, Funk, Laura Izibor, London, New Artist, New Music, Soul, The Ballroom, The Truth Be Told
Born in Ireland, Laura Izibor is no stranger to the music business. You may not know her name (yet), but this lady has done a lot in a really short amount of time. So far, she’s toured with Angie Stone, The Roots & James Brown, her music has appeared on the “Step Up 2:The Streets” soundtrack, Grey’s Anatomy, The Nanny Diaries and The Hills – not to mention written her entire debut album – “Let The Truth Be Told”. Oh, and she’s only 20.
Last week Atlantic Records invited the PinBoard crew to attend one of Laura’s London gigs in Central London; Not knowing too much about her we accepted the invitation and headed down to the Ballroom. Don’t know if you’ve ever been to the Ballroom, but while the surroundings may be a bit “glum” some serious gigs go down in that place. Anyways, we caught up with the usual people-dem, saw a few old faces and waited for Izibor to arrive on stage.
Once Laura and her 5 piece band found their places, she sat on her keyboard (never knew she played) and proceeded to pretty much blow us all away! Her music was soulful and funky, her voice was incredible and she had a certain…swagger about her. It all worked. Her band were tight too! I literally couldn’t keep my eyes off her [she's absolutely stunning in person too btw] and whats more, she can write great songs.
Check her “From My Heart To Yours” promo video
I thought she was really cool, really talented and really liked what she offered. Her performance was dope and she came across with a lot of personality – the odd joke/banter with the audience goes down well I think. She commanded the stage and all those in attendence and to be fair – when it’s an ‘industry thing’ as this was, that’s pretty hard to do.
It’s been a great, great year for British artists and in particular British Female artists and I can really see Laura Izibor continuing that trend. We have Estelle, Leona Lewis, Amy Winehouse, Duffy & Adele who have all done great things, but do we have a UK Jill Scott? Of course, she has a very long way to go to reach those credentials, she is after all, new artist and only 20. But I can’t lie, I saw glimses of that during this gig and really – do we have an artist in the UK like that? Well, we do now anyways.
Laura Izibor is most definitely one to watch. I can’t wait to get the album (Atlantic…?) and jam to it. I will most definitely be checking her out at her next London gig and highly recommend you do too.
Go visit Laura over at her Myspace, show her some love and tell her who sent you!
Peace, Love & Laura Izibor [One To Watch]
Speeakz
Filed under: Features, Music, Music News, Must Listen, Must Read, Must Watch, Reviews | Tags: Album, Dub, Grace Jones, Hurricane, Icon, Live, Review, Video
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.
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!
