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: LDN Life, Music, Must Read, Reviews, Things We're Diggin', Uncategorized | Tags: Film, Juno Bar, Live, London, Music, Review, Shoreditch, Spoken Word, Writers Block
Last Wednesday’s Writers Block put a right ol’ smile on my face.
The summer breeze was the perfect accompaniment to an evening of spoken word, acoustic music and the general creative splendor Writers Block provides. Writers Block has quickly become a staple night in London Town; the seemingly endless amounts of people who, as if by magic, cram into Juno Bar in Shoreditch is all the proof you need of it’s impact.
It’s quite easy to judge an event that celebrates artistic expression in the way Writers Block does. Many spoken word events are often regarded as pretentious and over the top. I can’t lie, I’m generally the guy who thinks that. However, what the Writers Block team have managed to create is something that has all together eliminated that element, and in it’s place produced an evening of great talent, cool vibes and good, good times!
With an impressive 10 act line up*, Wednesday’s event saw a multitude of spoken word artists, singers, rappers, movie makers, as well as 7 piece live Hip Hop band called the The Illersapiens (pictured above/my personal favourite) take to the tiny stage. No two acts were the same, but each delivered something fresh. All impressed.
…I think Wednesday’s event was their best one yet.
Don’t know if it was weather, or that the line up was just in sync, but whatever it was – it was truly a beautiful evening. Can’t lie though, the venue, albeit charming needs some serious air-con instalments. Raaaah! Heat on the stage is one thing, but man, that place gets hot!
But anyways, shouts to all the cool folk I met/chilled with, especially the ones I’ve been chatting to on Twitter for a minute now (lol). and to all those who performed – ya’ll rocked it. But most importantly, I gotta extend tons of love to the Writers Block organisers Felicia & Daniel for yet another gorgeous evening. Not forgetting their incredible hostess Miss TraceyD. Cannot wait for the next one!
Make sure you hit their website for info on the next event (*& entire line up info) and be sure to follow them on Twitter.
Peace, Love & Writers Block
Speeakz
Photography by Mark Ballot
Filed under: Movies, Must Read, Must Watch, Reviews, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: Exclusive, Film, London, Movie, Review, Screener, Screening, Transformers, Transformers II: Revenge of the Fallen
We’re back! After a weekend with no TinterNet, PinBoard is back online! I’m not gonna bother retracting what we’ve missed, but will pop up a few important things that dropped over the past couple days. However, I thought I’d start with a lil’ exclusive.
This morning PinBoard was invited to check out the brand new “Transformers II: Revenge of the Fallen” movie. To say I was excited is a bit of an understatement. In fact, very few films will have me at a cinema before 12pm! But, excitement aside, it was down to business: was the sequel going to out do the first movie?
…I think it did.
The opening sequence was mind blowing. The CGI in this film is flawless, I can’t think of another movie that has achieved what this has in terms of special effects. The graphics were clean cut, realistic and above all, amazing to watch. From the very on set the action does not let up. It’s pretty much non-stop all the way through. And just like the first one, this too had my jaw wide open.
The story, while not the most riveting, does entertain. It must be said however, that in parts, it gets a bit ‘complicated’ and rather played out, but generally – it doesn’t bore. My expectations this time round were pretty high, but as always, I knew this was an action film with heavy focus on the ‘franchise’, rather than the story. Therfore, it was no surprise that “Revenge of the Fallen” had those ‘must-have’ cheesy moments, and just like any sequel, they are bigger and even more annoying second time round. Not content with lines like “you’re a soldier now” in the first, this flick moves into an all together next realm of cringe. The love fest between Sam Witwicky (Shia LeBouf) and Mikaela Banes (Megan Fox) is at times, boring and dated. But the great thing is, they’re both grossly upstaged by the Autobots and Decepticons.
Which brings me nicely onto my next point: the Transformers. This movie has more of everything. More characters, more action scenes, more comedy, more explosions and most importantly more alien robots! The old crew is still very much the focus of the movie including the legendary Optimus Prime and the lovable Bumble Bee, as well as (a resurrected) Megatron and all them other baddies. But, this time round we have a whole host of new characters taking form as motorcycles, (bigger) trucks, various cars and animals – not to mention a few (really cool) surprises! Two of the most prominent new comers are Skid & Mudflap aka “The Twins” who were obviously incorporated to entertain and bring some humour to the screen. And yes, for the first 30 minutes they did, but after that they both got kinda…annoying! Not the greatest addition to the movies in my opinion, but fun nonetheless. Not to mention a huge increase in Decepticons – including the “fallen”.
The cast all put in a good effort, but as I mentioned before they were all undeniably upstaged by the animation and action. Shia LeBouf is in my opinion perfect for this role. The guy next door routine works with him and so, I think he does a pretty good job. Megan Fox is strictly eye candy. I don’t mean that in an insulting way, but her ‘role’ per-say isn’t very important and if being 100% truthful, isn’t needed at all. She doesn’t ‘do’ anything in this movie (unlike in the first where did did a lil’ ass). However, she is definitely, without any doubt, needed in the film (haha!). She’s a stunning girl, who really does (I hate to say it) light up the screen. I think I love her. The rest of the cast don’t really do much either really – they’re just there.
Michael Bay clearly understands blockbusters – he gets what is needed to tap into the imagination of people of all ages. Boys will love this, girls will love it and adults will love it too. If big-ass action films is what you’re after than “Transformers II: Revenge of the Fallen” will not disappoint. At times the movie was extremely cheesy (laughable in fact), but where it lacks in story-telling, it more than makes up in action, special effects and nostalgia. And while a little on the lengthy side (2½ hours), it rarely bores and greatly entertains.
I’ll be checking this out again at the IMAX for sure.
“Transformers II: Revenge of the Fallen” is out June 19th 2009.
Peace, Love & Transformers
Speeakz
P.s A ‘life sized’ Bumble Bee is currently sitting outside the Odeon Leicester Sq, hit the jump to check it out!
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: Gigs, LDN Life, Music, Must Read, Reviews, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: Gig, Indig02, Interview, Jazz Cafe, Live, London, Raphael Saadiq, Review, Soul, The Way I See It, UK
After the “Wolverine” screening, Fantastic**t and I headed to the Indig02 to catch Raphael Saadiq do his thang. I was at the Saadiq gig last year when he played two nights at the Jazz Cafe, but standardly – I could/would never turn down a chance to see himagain! Raphael Saadiq is, without question, one of the most talented and respected soul musicians of our time. His back catalogue spans more than a decade and his musical legancy speaks for itself. From his early days in Tony! Toni! Tone!, to his incredible solo albums (Instant Vintage, As Ray Ray, and most recently The Way I See It), and of course his incredible collaboration with Dawn Robinson (En Vogue) & Ali Shaheed Muhammad (A Tribe Called Quest) as Lucy Pearl.
Last year, we had the pleasure of interviewing Saadiq and got to know the man behind the music, but seeing him live is an all together different experience. His command of the stage and audience is something to behold. His voice, damn, his voice is surreal live – perfect almost. I can’t lie, the gig at the Jazz Cafe did have a better atmosphere, but that’ll always be the case with smaller venues I guess. But this is not to take distract from Saadiq and his band, who played together brilliantly. The show mainly comprised of new material from The Way I See It, also consisted of those classic joints like “Anniversary”, “Be Here”, “I Wanna Dance Tonight” and “Still Ray” (too big, that tune be!).
Last night was yet another dope experience of the greatness that is Mr. Raphael Saadiq. His talents are limitless and so to watch him and his band do their thing – will never tire or bore me. Til’ the next time I say!
I’m gonna upload some more pictures in a bit, so hol’ tight for that!
Peace, Love & Raphael Saadiq
Speeakz
Filed under: LDN Life, Movies, Must Read, Must Watch, Reviews, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: Huge Jackman, London, Review, Screening, UK, X Men Origins: Wolverine
I was invited to attend the screening of “X-Men Origins: Wolverine” in London’s Leicester Sq last night, which I was overly excited about. Having been a long time fan of the original X-Men comic books and the subsquent franchise, I was eager to see how they brought James Howlett aka Logan aka Wolverine’s story to the big screen.
…Thankfully, they did it brilliantly!
“XMO: Wolverine”, directed by Gavin Hood, stayed extremely true to the story of Marvel’s favourite super hero and explored areas that had until now, been left untouched by the other X-Men movies. Wolverine’s complex history of violence and betrayal was fully explored and explained. The film granted access to the reasons behind Wolverines inner demons, why he’s so filled with rage and for the very first time, explores why he and Sabretooth (played by Liev Schreiber) have an on-going feud. The latter story was what I found most compelling. I would love to divulge more into this, but I couldn’t do without ruining the movie. So I won’t
The special effects and the non-stop action lived up to my (high) expectations. The action sequences in this film are simply put, incredible. I couldn’t help feel like a kid again! Explosions, fight sequences, clever CGI and jaw dropping scenes often resulted in the auditorium clapping in amazement
The story was complex and generally speaking was acted out by the cast very well. Hugh Jackman embraces Wolverine’s character so convincingly, I couldn’t imagine anyone else in that role. As I mentioned, Liev Schreiber played Sabretooth and also put in a stellar performance. But if I’m being totally honest, I really didn’t understand the casting of Ryan Reynolds or Will.I.Am. Reynolds, who played the legendary Wade Wilson/Deadpool did a great job, but I just didn’t get why they chose him in particular. Personally, I would have liked to see him play a bigger role in the movie. And Will.I.Am – it was actually very hard to take him seriously. A very strange casting call in my humble opinion.
…Aside from this, I was very happy with the film. I was happy with the story, the way it was portrayed, the way the film stayed very true to the original series and how they kept it fresh but exploring new ideas and plot lines. The special effects, stunts and action sequences were brilliantly played out. Therefore, I would easily encourage fans of the franchise to go see it and anyone else who wants to have a fun couple hours. I think this movie will please anyone who enjoys big action films.
In all, I’d give the film a solid 8.5/10
Peace, Love & X-Men Origins: Wolverine
Speeakz
Filed under: Music, Music News, Must Listen, One To Watch, Reviews, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: Burial, Cooly G, DJ, Dub-Step, EP, Exclusive, Hyerdub, Ikonika, Kode 9, Label, Love Dub, Narst, One To Watch
Cooly G is the latest signing to the unstoppable force that is Kode 9’s Hyperdub label. Home to Burial, Samiyam and Kode 9 himself, Cooly G is the second lady of the beat and bass generation to join label, who alongside the wonder that is Ikonika are proving that it’s not only boys can make serious beats to blow out your speakers. And we mean SERIOUS.
Taking on the role of singer, producer and DJ, Cooly describes her sound as “deep dark sexy house/broken minimal tech and tribal” and her forthcoming EP shows off the two equally amazing sides to her sound. On the A-side you have “Narst” an epic six minute doomsday-esque track with dark basslines, soca beats and ‘chest tearing subass’, while the B-side is “Love Dub”, a mix of loose percussion, soft basslines and excellent example of her vocals.
Now we couldn’t introduce a new artist without giving you sample of their sound, so as standard here at PinBoard we have an EXCLUSIVE stream of the truly epic tune that is “Narst” below. We’ve been knocking heads to this beat for more than a mintue and suggest you turn those speakers up. Don’t say we never give you nothing…
Cooly G – “Narst”
…EPIC!
Cooly’s EP is due for release mid-May on Hyperdub but in the meantime, go check out further goodies from the lady herself on her myspace.
Zayns
Filed under: Gigs, LDN Life, Music, Music News, Must Listen, Must Read, Reviews, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: ARALE, Arale.tv, Are In Be, Ben Jones, EP, Hip Hop, Muhsinah, Music, Soul, Vula
Last night saw the launch of ARALE.tv, a brand new label and music platform which highlights exclusive music from key producers and musicians worldwide. Hosted by the ever talented home-grown songstress Tawiah, the night saw liveperformances from UK based producer Ben Jones and DC soul singer Muhsinah. The evening, which went down at the Lexington in Islington was an intimate affair, with not only good music, but also an extremely great vibe.
Ben Jones, who I hadn’t personally heard of before, performed with a 3-piece band but also brought up a couple guest singers including Basement Jaxx singer Vula – who by all accounts, totally blew me away!! Jones’ production style is real cool, his snyth sounds, combined with a certain…funk and Hip Hop influence pumped through the Lexington brilliantly. It seemed like everyone was diggin’ his vibe. Having no preconception of what he was about, I was definitely one of those impressed. I got some real cool footage of this guy doing his thing. Watch for that in the next hour or so!
After a short interval, it was Muhsinah’s turn. Her The Oscillations: Sine album has been in heavy rotation for the past 12 months, and I’m still yet to bore of it. Her mellow, eclectic style is fresh and unique and her voice? Her voice is simply sublime. Muhsinah is one of those singers who actually sound very different live than she does on record. Her voice last night (despite suffering from a cold this past week, which she rightly blamed on the British weather) was strong, sincere and well…Damn sexy!
The singer, songwriter, producer, composer and all round musician played along side a 6 piece band (keyboard, guitar, violinist and 3 back up singers *toot, toot to Rahel & Layla!*) – which she admitted was a rarity for her. The venue, perfect for such an event, was filled to the brim with enthusiastic and happy people, who came to admire the talents of this DC native. Tracks including “A.M”, “Construction”, “Wonders” and the song that appears on the exclusive ARALE EP “Are In Be” (which she had never performed to a live crowd before) were all performed. I got everything I expected from Mushinah. Her voice, her words, her quirky but real personality and above all her obvious love for making music and making people who she plays for happy. From DC to LDN Muhsinah translated perfectly. Can’t wait till her next visit
Photography by Shan Phearon
All in all, last nights launch was amazing. I can’t stress enough how much I enjoyed it. These types of events are exactly what this city needs more of. An intimate gig, with a live band and live music celebrating real talent – what more can you ask for?
Mucho love to Layla, Rahel and the entire ARALE team (big up Zayns) for putting such a beautiful night together! YOU DID IT! Can’t wait for the next one! And of course, crazy love to Muhsinah for the interview and…Everything! ‘Twas a pleasure. And to everyone else who performed: Ben Jones, the band etc!
…Footage of the evening coming in the next hour or so!
Peace, Love & ARALE
Speeakz
Shouts to the PMOI, Tribe & Soulcuture family! And standadly, Pal Mal & Mr Fantastic**t!
Last night a Homie (inside joke) and I took full advantage of Orange Wednesday’s and headed to our local cinema to catch the latest edition to the Fast & the Furious franchise, simply entitled “Fast & Furious”. Which, unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ll know features the original cast from the first movie: Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Michele Rodriguez and Jordana Brewster.
I’m a big fan of the first two movies (ignored the one with Bow Wow) and so, naturally, was anticipating this one. With the full original cast back on board, I was preparing for an all out no brainer smash. I was sadly wrong. Instead I was left disappointed at the laughable script, weak story line and general cheese fest the film ended up being. The only redeeming aspect of the movie was of course, those all important action scenes – which were tight (but not mind blowing).
Now, I’ love the action genre, so I don’t necessarily expect a riveting story, complex plot lines and/or a whole heap of intellectually challenging twists – however (and stupidly so), I do expect a certain standard. It was strange to witness a film with such little dialogue acted out so terribly. Pretty much the entire on screen cast failed to deliver a single line convincingly. But then, in fairness, they didn’t really have much to play around with. The story, despite one tiny little surprise, was incredibly flat and extremely predictable. Which again, in this genre, is somewhat bearable if only the action scenes are so big, so intense and so memorising that it makes up for everything else – nothing in “Fast & Furious” did that unfortunately.
I feel I’m being a little too harsh on this, but I think that’s only because I was pretty excited about seeing it. I really couldn’t recommend anyone go see this, but I know there will be those who love it (my sister being one of them!). So, I say cop it from your local DVD man or boi, just hit up your favourite torrent site. Don’t pay top dollar to see it.
I’d give it a 2 out of 5.
Peace, Love & “Fast & Furious”
Speeakz
Filed under: Gigs, LDN Life, Music News, Must Read, Must Watch, Reviews | Tags: Beats, Flying Lotus, FlyLo, Hip Hop, Kode9, London, Review, The LightBox, Vauxhall, Zomby
Flying Lotus, the master of beeps, blimps, beats and bass genre made a much welcomed return to London town last night, playing at the capitals most luminous venue The Lightbox.
Situated under Vauxhall’s station arches just over the bridge, the venue is exactly as the name suggests; think a black box, nice bar and a million LED lights. Truly spectacular. (Hit the jump, to see what we’re talking about). On the bill was Hyperdub label boss Kode 9, Flying Lotus & Zomby (who was sadly decided not to show up.)
Walking into the venue, taking care of the 1s and 2’s was king of the darkside, Kode 9. Warming up the 500 plus strong crowd with his deep dark bass and occasional funky tune, he made his way from the darkside to the light, treating us to some music his latest signing Cooly G, who’s Narst tune confused the crowd of beats heads, Blacksun by the man himself, Joker, Harmonic 313 and his final tune, an untitled track by Burial.
After he was done, the crowd were hyped and Mr Flying Lotus made his way to the decks. Throwing out CD’s to those lucky enough to be in the front (we decided to stay by the ventilation, gets hot with a million LEDs) to massive applause, appreciation and anticipation.
With a smile on his face, Fly-Lo got to work, on both the music and crowd, who lapped up every beat. Dropping tracks from his series of EP’s and LP’s RESET, 1983 and Los Angeles Part One & Two, as well as some brand new material. Other music came from Zomby (to which Fly-Lo graciously apologised for his absence), J-Dilla and the Brainfeeder family, Gaslamp Killer, Samiyam & Ras G all sounded fantastic on the KILLLLER sound system (the bass went right through us).
All in all a great night from Mr Flying Lotus and Kode 9, beats, bass and blimps galore. We strongly advise you to check out The Lightbox and get familiar with Flying Lotus if you have not already.
We’re already looking forward to London’s ‘09 Brainfeeder event this June (check out our review on last year’s here). Stay tuned.
Zayns
Filed under: Download, Mixtapes, Music, Music News, Must Listen, Must Read, One To Watch, Reviews, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: Download, EP, GFC, GFCNY, It's My Heart Cookie, Jade, Mickey Factz, New, New Artist, One To Watch, R&B, Soul
I first heard Jade when she featured on a track called “Naturally” by fellow GFC member Mickey Factz. Now, with the release of this new EP, I have been reintroduced to her and her art.
Armed with a voice way beyond her years, Jade, a Puerto Rican singer-songwriter from Brooklyn, has cleverly and creatively brought together elements of jazz, folk, R&B, pop and most definitively soul on her new EP It’s My Heart, Cookie.
No stranger to the music industry, after studying at the prestigious La Guardia High School for Performing Arts, she was quickly signed to Pharrell Williams’ ‘Star Trak’. However, the deal didn’t work out the way she had hoped, which instead left her feeling like a “benchwarmer”. So, like any true artist, Jade understood what had to be done and left, embarking on a new chapter in her life and career.
Playing gigs around New York City at legendary venues such as BB Kings, SOB’s and the Knitting Factory (to name a few), Jade began to make a name for herself. Opening for the likes of Lupe Fiasco and Slick Rick didn’t hurt her mission either.
That mission has now come full circle with the release of her new project. Calling on the talents of Precize (GFCNY), Inglish (The Cool Kids), J.Carmelli and Theophilus London, It’s My Heart, Cookie boasts 8 unyielding tracks which not only display her wonderful vocals, but also her heart.
Each track, quite easily mistaken as an extract from her diary, reveals moods, emotions, fears, thoughts, passions and vulnerabilities. Most strikingly though, especially on first listen, is the mix-mash of influences you hear. While every song, musically, offers something very different from the last, it is the brilliance of Jade’s voice that remains constant. It’s My Heart, Cookie doesn’t let up. Not one track calls for a fast-forward, in fact quite the contrary.
Jade is most certainly One to Watch and this EP couldn’t come more highly recommended. It’s a beautiful piece of work and I for one am excited about the future of this beautiful artist.
Download It’s My Heart, Cookie now.
Peace, Love & One to Watch: Jade
Speeakz
Shouts to Evan for sending over
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: LDN Life, Music, Must Read, Reviews | Tags: A Day in the Life Of, Eric Benét, Hurricane, Jazz Cafe, Live, London, Love & Life, R&B, Review, Soul
To a lot of people, Eric Benet will always be ‘Halle Berry’s ex husband’. But to us, he’s more than that. This Grammy nominated R&B/Soul singer has churned out material for over 10 years now and has at some point helped ’set the mood’ for most lovers of this genre – do I lie?
I was pretty keen on seeing Eric Benet live because I’ve been fan of his for a while. But, last night, while watching him perform at the Jazz Cafe in Camden, I realised something: I’m not exactly an Eric Benet fan per-say, but instead am a fan of one album of his. A Day in the Life still stands as one of my favourite R&B/Soul albums. It’s filled to brim with classic songs like “Loving Your Best Friend”, “Why You Follow Me”, “Georgy Porgy” and “When You Think of Me”. But unfortunately (for me at least), it was only the latter two off that album he performed.
PinBoard Footage: Eric Benet – “Georgy Porgy” (Finale)
Benet did a great job of serenading the ladies in attendance with sexy ballads, steamy mid-tempo’s and a whole host of ’suggestive dialogue’. Material from the new album Love & Life compiled most of the show with songs like “The Hunger”, “Don’t Let Go” and “Chocolate Legs” were played to great applause. Material from Hurricane and True to Myself were also lightly touched on.
Regardless of my personal opinions of his material post-A Day in the Life one thing was abundantly clear: Eric Benet can sing his ass off! Having no prior experience of hearing him live, I was quite taken aback by how great he was. The tone of his voice was amazing and his control over it was really impressive. In actual fact, whether I liked the songs he sang or not, I enjoyed listening to them because his vocals were so tight. Check the above video from the gig if you need convincing!
But I gotta say, the evening couldn’t have help the rumors of Eric’s sexual addiction. It was almost as if Benet had nothing else to take about other than sex. “I’m from Milwaukee, Wisconsin” he said “…where there ain’t but 3 things to do: drink beer, eat and make love”. He continued throughout the night in the same way. Personally for me, all that was a bit boring but I know for a fact I am not speaking for 99.9% of the middle-aged women that were up in that place who were, by my accounts, lapping it up.
I can’t say I loved the gig, but what I did enjoy was hearing how talented Eric Benet really is. If ever I needed convincing of how great his vocals were (I didn’t btw), last night was definitely proof.
Peace, Love & Eric Benet
Speeakz
Filed under: Movies, Reviews, Things We're Diggin' | Tags: Book, Comic, Film, Movie, Review, Screening, Watchmen
THIS.MOVIE.KICKS.ASS!!!!
I was lucky enough to catch the screening of “Watchmen” last night in London. I can’t say too much coz there’s some stupid embargo. But I will say (and pray I don’t get hunted), this movie is one bad-ass-no-holds-barred-ain’t-for-kids movie! It’s brutal, it’s dark, it’s funny (at times/and on purpose) and it’s maaaasive and importantly stays true (mostly) to the original story. The opening scene is crazy. I do wonder if people who haven’t read the comic/book will “get it” and I don’t mean that in the “understanding” type way (coz the film is pretty clear on what it’s about) but I mean, I’m not sure if they’ll enjoy it as much, as an independent movie. We’ll see. I think people will either completely love it or totally hate it.
That’s all I’m gonna say. I won’t even discuss the ending. At all. I really want to though! But I won’t. I’ve already said too much. The movie is out March 6th in the UK – so you ain’t got long to wait.
Peace, Love & “WATCHMEN”
Speeakz
Filed under: Gigs, LDN Life, Music News, Must Read, Reviews | Tags: Cargo, Dilla, DJ Spin Doctor, Hip Hop, J Dilla Changed My Life, LDN Life, London, Pictures, Review
Sunday saw the annual “J Dilla Changed My Life” event go down at East London’s hottest spot (and my personal favourite venue) Cargo. The night pays homage to the man that changed Hip Hop forever, it’s an evening where Dilla is played and remembered and a night where every Hip Hop head (and a few bait scensters) congregate to celebrate the greatness JayDee left behind. And most importantly, it’s a night where 100% of the proceeds go straight to charity (J Dilla Foundation & Lupus UK)
I’ve attended this event for the past three years and it’s safe to say every year it gets bigger and better – 2009 was no exception. The event most certainly got bigger, look at that queue! I mean, damn, we got there early, trying to be clever, expecting to waltz right in but naaaaah bruvz, people weren’t rampin, we queued and queued and queued…and queued, until a good, good friend hooked us up and got us in (Nay Nay, I see you!). I can’t lie, towards the end of our wait, when the cold set in, we started to get pissed off - straight up the door process could have been dealt with a lot better, but fu*k it – we should have brought tickets!
THAT SAID we finally got inside Cargo and prepped ourselves for a night of awesomeness and boi, we were not disappointed. After a couple drinks and a chill by the sofa’s, we got up, headed to the main floor and rocked out to nothing buy Dilla, Dilla, Dilla, Dilla Dawg! The DJ’s on the night (who all played for free) included: Shortee Blitz, Mr Thing & Harry Love, Marc Mac, Morgan SpaceK, DJ Rags, DJ Lok & of course DJ Spin Doctor, all of whom were on point and kept their game tight the entire night…
It was Cargo at it’s best. A ram packed floor (literally couldn’t move), Hip Hop lovin’ folks, madcrazycool vibes and some very safe peeps (with the exception of a few fools). It truly was a celebration. I was by the stage the whole night soaking it all up with the crew and man, from beginning to end the crowd did not let up. Word for word, beat for beat, folks were going mental – each track sending the atmosphere higher and higher. I had the phattest smile on my face the entire night, just because I couldn’t help but think: ‘what a great way to celebrate a persons life’.
It didn’t matter that a few tracks got replayed because tracks like “The Light”, “The Red” and “F*ck the Police” don’t get rinsed, they get better! Dilla’s entire catalogue was played. I ain’t even gonna attempt to name the tunes that were pumped. Just believe that it was done proper. I gotta give a MASSSSIVE hand to DJ Spin Doctor, without who this night wouldn’t have been possible and of course, have to pay respect to all the DJ’s, staff and crew who donated their time and services to put on such a heavi event. Your hard work has most certainly not gone unnoticed.
And last but most certainly not least, the utmost respect goes to J Dilla. Not much I can that hasn’t already been said, so I’ll keep it simple: Rest in Peace Dilla Dawg.
Oh and Spin just announced that the “J Dilla Changed My Life” event raised over £3,500! Amazing! Icing on the cake really!
We now await next year – where we’ve been told the event will be taken to a bigger venue…Wise choice folks. Wise choice!
Peace, Love & J Dilla Changed My Life
Speeakz
Photography By: Alicia Eyes
Filed under: Music, Must Read, Reviews, Uncategorized | Tags: Addiction, Album, Cassie, How It Was Supposed To Be, Making Of, Official Girl, Producer, R&B, Review, Ryan Leslie, Video
After a string of push backs Ryan Leslie’s self titled second album was released earlier this month. Many of the albums tracks had previously surfaced and a few (incredible) ”in the studio” videos had been released, giving us all a taste of what’s to come.
Unfortunately the few tracks that leaked (namely “Official Girl”, “Addiction” & “How It Was Supposed to Be”) are really the only major highlights this LP offers up. This album is good. But it’s not great. Production wise Ryan Leslie kills it. Each track is carefully crafted and brilliantly executed proving that as a producer he knows exactly what he’s doing…
Ryan Leslie – Making of “Addiction”
However, as an artist Leslie doesn’t really do much to inspire. The album is lack luster and at points bore. Songs like “I-R-I-N-A” and “Out of the Blue” do nothing to excite and are easily forgotten. The album’s theme is also very one dimensional. Women are obviously Leslie’s main musical inspiration which is fine, but as an artist you need to be able to switch it up a bit, not just stick to one constant theme.
I feel that this is a producers album, rather than an artists’ album. I find myself referencing the beats and music rather than the voice and songs. Which for a producer is great, but for an artist…not so much.
If I had to score Ryan Leslie’s album out of 10, I’d give it a 5. It’s a pleasurable listen but won’t inspire many rewinds.
Peace, Love & Ryan Leslie
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, 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: LDN Life, Reviews | Tags: Event, Hip Hop, Living Proof, London
…Was serious!
Living Proof killed it last night at Marketplace. Man. The Crew and I went buck wiled in that place. Mr Thing, DJ Khalil, Rags, Budgie - all of them brought their a-game. They continued to drop the biggest tunes the entire night – real Hip Hop man. Hip Hop heads were in heaven - I know we were! They also bumped some big Garage tunes, some real nice Soul and a cleverly selected bunch of Dancehall/Reggae tracks.
Twas a heavi evening. Fun times were had by all, without a doubt.
Respect to the Living Proof crew and if you haven’t been before, make sure you head to the next one [facebook group].
Peace, Love & Living Proof
Speeakz
